Medetomidine and xylazine are powerful veterinary sedatives that were never intended for human use, yet they are increasingly appearing in the illicit drug supply. Both drugs belong to a class of medications that slow the nervous system, producing deep sedation, reduced breathing, and lowered heart rate. Because they do not activate the brain’s reward system, … Read more
ADHD and substance abuse are closely linked to addiction through shared challenges in impulse control, emotional regulation, and brain reward functioning. Individuals with ADHD are more likely to experiment with substances early, use them to self-medicate symptoms, or struggle with managing stress and boredom, all of which increase addiction risk. Preventing this progression requires a … Read more
Early addiction treatment plays a vital role in improving recovery outcomes by addressing substance use before it develops into severe physical, emotional, and social harm. When individuals recognize early warning signs, manage triggers, and seek medical or behavioral support, they are more likely to begin treatment at a stage when recovery is safer, less overwhelming, … Read more
Reducing alcohol consumption and preventing drunk driving requires a coordinated approach that addresses individual behavior, family support, and broad community and government action. While self-management strategies—such as identifying triggers, setting drinking limits, improving coping skills, and using alternative transportation—help individuals protect themselves and others, families also play a powerful role by encouraging healthy routines, setting … Read more
Fetal abnormalities related to addiction develop when alcohol, drugs, or nicotine interfere with the delicate processes of fetal organ formation, brain development, and placental function during pregnancy. These substances cross the placenta and disrupt blood flow, oxygen delivery, and nutrient absorption, thereby impairing cell growth and tissue development. As a result, infants may face complications … Read more
When people talk about the most abused drug worldwide, alcohol always lands at the very top. It’s all around us. At parties, restaurants, family gatherings, sporting events, or even just relaxing at home. Because it’s legal and so common, many folks don’t see its risks until things get serious. I’m going to walk you through … Read more
If you’re curious about addiction or trying to understand it a bit better, knowing the two main forms is a pretty handy starting point. Addiction isn’t just about a lack of willpower or making poor choices; there’s real science behind it, and it actually shows up in a couple of different ways. Here, I’ll lay … Read more
The “5 A’s” of intervention—Ask, Advise, Assess, Assist, and Arrange—are one of my favorite frameworks for supporting behavior change. Whether you’re a health professional, a counselor, or simply someone who wants to help a friend quit smoking, these practical steps give you a structure that feels both approachable and easy to remember. I’m going to … Read more
Sobriety is often talked about in terms of what you lose: alcohol, hangovers, and that party scene. After my own ride into sobriety, I can say it’s a lot more about what you gain than what you leave behind. Sobriety brings plenty of gifts, and most of them are things I never expected or even … Read more
Addiction recovery is an adventure full of ups and downs, but checking out the four pillars of addiction can make a real difference in how someone approaches treatment and healing. These pillars are the main building blocks that support long-term recovery: Biological, Psychological, Social, and Spiritual. Each one targets a different side of addiction, but … Read more