Overdose Crisis: Policy Priority

The opioid crisis remains one of the most urgent public health challenges of our time, affecting individuals, families, healthcare systems, and entire communities. Addressing this crisis requires more than medical treatment alone; it demands sustained policy attention, government action, responsible use of social media, and supportive societal ideologies. When policymakers prioritize overdose prevention and treatment … Read more

The 13-Panel Drug Test Explained

If you’ve ever wondered what a 13-panel drug test looks for, you’re definitely not alone. These tests are often used in workplaces, rehab centers, and even legal settings. I’ve researched and broken down what you need to know about 13-panel drug screens, so if you’re browsing for info or just curious about what’s being checked, … Read more

America’s Highest Overdose Rate

West Virginia has stayed in the headlines for a tough reason: it currently has the highest overdose death rate in the United States. The opioid crisis has hit every corner of the country, but the impact in West Virginia is especially intense, touching families and communities in deep and lasting ways. I want to break … Read more

Rising Adult Substance Use

Substance use among adults is rising quickly as nicotine pouches, cannabis, vaping, and hallucinogens become more visible and accessible. This article examines the factors behind these changes and highlights important health considerations for anyone seeking clarity or guidance. How Substance Trends Are Changing Among Adults Nicotine pouches, cannabis, vaping, and hallucinogens all have unique histories, … Read more

Why Addiction Affects Millions

Substance use disorders touch millions of lives across the United States. With 48 million people living with a diagnosable substance use disorder (SUD), it’s an issue that’s woven deeply into the fabric of many communities. Understanding the reasons behind these numbers and what helps or hinders recovery sheds light on both the problem and the … Read more

Traits Linked to Substance Use

Understanding the link between personality traits and substance use disorder (SUD) gives some pretty valuable insight into why some people are more likely to struggle with addiction than others. Knowing which personality factors play a part isn’t about blame. It’s about getting a clearer picture of mental health and taking steps toward prevention, early support, … Read more

Helping Someone Get Sober

Supporting someone who wants to get off drugs can feel like a big responsibility. It’s an adventure with ups and downs, and every step truly matters. If you’ve never helped someone through recovery before, it’s normal to wonder what actually works versus what may make things more complicated. Drawing on years of experience in addiction … Read more

Talking About Addiction Together

Creating a safe space to talk about addiction is crucial for making real change possible in any community. Hard conversations can feel intimidating, but when people feel comfortable and heard, healing and help can actually happen. I’m excited to walk through what it takes to encourage open dialogue about addiction and how to turn these … Read more

Multiple Illicit Drug Addiction

Polydrug use—the mixing of substances like opioids, alcohol, or stimulants—dramatically increases the risk of overdose and addiction. Governments respond with interventions such as harm reduction programs, monitoring systems, and treatment expansion. However, people may still turn to polydrug use for relief, more potent effects, or due to tolerance and availability. Preventing escalation requires self-management skills, … Read more

Using Drug Rehab for Sobriety

Drug rehab centers play a vital role in supporting addiction recovery by combining medical supervision, therapy, and relapse prevention strategies. These services help individuals manage cravings, develop healthier coping skills, and build a structured path toward sobriety. The benefits can be life-changing, but challenges remain, including the high cost of treatment, disruption of work and … Read more