Urine Drug Screens (UDS) are commonly used in probation and parole. However, UDS can be unreliable due to false positives, false negatives, and short detection windows. Confirmatory tests—GC-MS, LC-MS/MS, hair, blood, and lab-based oral fluid analysis—offer more accurate evidence. Combining initial screening with confirmatory testing and behavioral monitoring allows probation systems to assess compliance fairly … Read more
Telemedicine has expanded access to opioid use disorder (OUD) treatment, but barriers remain, including technology gaps, regulatory hurdles, and stigma. Pharmacies add challenges such as reluctance to dispense medications, limited buprenorphine stocking, and insurance restrictions. Solutions like pharmacist training, stronger provider–pharmacy collaboration, and patient support networks can ease these barriers. Government efforts—through regulatory reforms, funding, … Read more
Overdose deaths among women have risen sharply, driven by factors like opioid use, mental health struggles, trauma, and stigma. In response, governments have expanded naloxone access, funded gender-focused treatment, and promoted trauma-informed care. Women can reduce risk through self-management strategies such as safe medication use and relapse prevention. Families support recovery by fostering open communication … Read more
Addiction can be a tricky thing to spot, especially when it’s happening to someone you care about. It’s easy to miss the early warning signs, thinking they’re having a rough patch or going through a stressful time. The reality is, catching addiction early makes a big difference in how quickly that person can get support … Read more
Deciding to quit drinking cold turkey is a big step that can come with a lot of changes, both physically and emotionally. The idea of stopping suddenly, without weaning off, sounds simple on paper, but the real experience is often more complicated than expected. I know the process can be challenging, especially if you’ve been … Read more
Stem cell research has long captured attention, especially in areas like injury repair, degenerative diseases, and regenerative medicine. Recently, the potential for stem cells to support addiction recovery is gaining traction among scientists, clinicians, and the general public. Addiction to drugs and alcohol is a complex challenge, and researchers are constantly exploring new ways to … Read more
Addiction and guilt are closely connected for many people struggling with substance use. Even while making progress in recovery, feelings of guilt can linger, weighing on self-esteem, motivation, and emotional well-being. This guilt often stems from past mistakes, broken relationships, or perceived failures, making recovery even more challenging. In this article, I’ll explain why guilt … Read more
Preventing addiction in kids is something I care deeply about, both as a parent and as someone who’s seen the impact of substance misuse on families. It’s not just about saying “no”—it’s about understanding how addiction starts, what influences kids’ choices, and how daily interactions shape their coping skills. In this article, I’ll share guidance, … Read more
If you’ve been thinking about quitting vaping, you might wonder what actually happens to your body and mind over a full 30 days. I remember facing some questions myself. Will cravings get worse? Will my lungs actually feel better? Can I expect any changes in my appetite or mood? Here’s a close look at the … Read more
Supporting a friend through addiction can feel overwhelming. You want to help but may worry about saying something wrong or damaging the friendship. I’ve been there and learned that the way you approach matters as much as your intent. You can make a real difference with compassion and a few practical steps. Here are five … Read more