Different issues during recovery
Drug withdrawal happens when someone dependent on a substance stops or reduces use, causing the brain’s chemistry—especially dopamine, GABA, and norepinephrine pathways—to become unbalanced. This leads to physical symptoms like nausea and muscle pain, and emotional symptoms such as anxiety and cravings. Treatment often includes medical detox, medication-assisted therapy, and behavioral support. Success is improved … Read more
Tideglusib, a GSK-3β inhibitor initially developed for neurodegenerative diseases, is now being explored as a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD). Early research suggests it may reduce chronic alcohol intake by targeting brain pathways linked to addiction. Potential advantages include reduced relapse risk and non-daily dosing. However, disadvantages include limited human trial data and possible … Read more
Integrating Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) treatment into primary care improves access by offering medications and support in a familiar, less stigmatized setting. Benefits include convenience and ongoing care, but challenges involve limited time, behavioral health resources, and provider discomfort. Ethical issues include balancing patient privacy and safety. Effective treatment combines self-management tools, family involvement, and … Read more
The International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking on June 26 raises global awareness about drug abuse and trafficking. The U.S. supports this through legislation, awareness campaigns, and international cooperation. Social media helps spread the message widely, while WHO focuses on evidence-based treatment, harm reduction, and education to promote public health. Together, these efforts … Read more
Emotion-oriented coping styles like avoidance, self-blame, and suppression can increase the risk of addiction by encouraging emotional escape. Preventing addiction involves teaching self-management strategies such as mindfulness and healthy expression, while also strengthening family support through open communication and emotional validation. Community resources—like mental health services and peer networks—further support emotional resilience. Together, these strategies … Read more
“Replacing one addiction with another” occurs when someone shifts addictive behaviors to satisfy the brain’s reward system. It involves dopamine and habit pathways. Prevention relies on self-management, healthy coping, family support, and access to treatment and peer resources for lasting recovery. From One Addiction to Another: The Hidden Trap in Recovery Replacing One Addiction with … Read more
Addiction prevention camps teach youth to avoid substance use through fun, evidence-based activities. They face access, stigma, and ethical concerns. Support from families and diverse funding strengthens impact. Empowering Youth: The Role of Addiction Prevention Summer Camps Addiction prevention summer camps for young people are specialized programs that educate, engage, and empower youth to make … Read more
Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) are essential in addiction recovery, offering services like food, housing, job training, and peer support. They are especially important in underserved areas and are funded through government grants, donations, and partnerships. Individuals can access help through walk-ins or referrals, while families support recovery by joining support groups and helping with intake. CBOs … Read more
Opvee (nalmefene) is a nasal spray used to reverse opioid overdoses by blocking mu-opioid receptors in the brain, restoring breathing and consciousness. It lasts longer than naloxone, making it useful for potent opioids like fentanyl. Side effects may include nausea, headache, and withdrawal symptoms. While effective, Opvee is currently more expensive and less widely available … Read more
Non-invasive neurostimulation devices like TMS and tDCS offer promising, safe ways to reduce addiction cravings by targeting brain activity without surgery. They provide benefits such as minimal side effects but face challenges like high costs and varied effectiveness. Ethical concerns include informed consent and fair access. Individuals can use self-management and healthcare consultations to decide … Read more