Education & Awareness

This article discusses the significant challenges veterans face during their transition from military to civilian life, including mental health issues like veteran PTSD, depression, and anxiety, as well as substance abuse problems. It highlights the complexities of co-occurring disorders, barriers to treatment such as stigma and access, and offers hope and resources for recovery through […]

This guide helps veterans navigate a 2025 government shutdown by detailing which VA services remain operational, such as compensation checks and medical care, and which may be affected, like regional offices and some GI Bill payments. It also provides crucial information on alternative financial, mental health, education, career, and housing resources available through credit unions, […]

Phenibut, a GABA analog synthesized in the Soviet Union, is marketed as a nootropic for anxiety reduction and focus enhancement, despite not being FDA-approved and being illegal for marketing as a dietary supplement in the U.S. Phenibut abuse carries significant risks, including severe side effects, a high potential for addiction, and dangerous withdrawal symptoms. While […]

Adopted children and teenagers face a significantly higher risk of developing substance use disorders due to a complex interplay of genetic predisposition, early life trauma, attachment issues, and challenges in identity formation. Recognizing these factors and understanding the warning signs are crucial for adoptive parents to provide proactive support. Specialized treatment programs that combine evidence-based […]

The LGBTQIA+ community faces significant barriers to addiction treatment, including higher rates of substance use due to minority stress, systemic roadblocks within the healthcare system, and pervasive stigma and discrimination. These challenges are compounded by a lack of culturally competent care, issues within traditional recovery support, and financial and geographic limitations. Despite these obstacles, there […]

Cocaine use is on the rise globally due to increased production and supply, economic factors like affordability, and the normalization of drug use through social media and pop culture. Demographic shifts show higher use among young adults and those with less education, while pandemic-related stress and improved cocaine purity also contribute to this trend. Understanding […]

The article discusses “hippie flipping,” the practice of mixing MDMA and psilocybin mushrooms, and warns of the significant risks involved, including increased anxiety, physical health problems, and potential long-term psychological effects. It highlights the unpredictable interactions between the two substances and emphasizes the importance of seeking help if someone experiences negative consequences. Ultimately, the article […]

This guide provides nine actionable tips for reducing alcohol consumption, emphasizing that it’s about reclaiming control and fostering a healthier lifestyle rather than deprivation. Key strategies include setting clear goals, tracking consumption, identifying triggers, exploring alcohol-free alternatives, practicing mindful drinking, building a support network, managing cravings with nutrition, taking breaks to reset tolerance, and leveraging […]

Collegiate Recovery Programs (CRPs) offer a highly effective student success model, boasting significantly higher graduation rates (nearly 90%) and GPAs (3.6) for students in recovery compared to institutional averages. These programs build social capital through peer support, mentorship, and leadership opportunities, addressing academic, career, and mental health needs holistically. Universities can learn from CRPs’ integrated […]

This article explains what happens during an Adolescent Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), which provides structured support for teens dealing with substance abuse while allowing them to maintain their daily routines. The program includes assessments, group and individual therapy, family involvement, educational components, skill-building activities, and ongoing progress monitoring. IOPs aim to help adolescents develop coping […]

This article discusses the dangers of online gaming addiction, including mental and physical health issues, strained relationships, and academic/career impacts. It also explores the role of social media in exacerbating these issues and the intersection of substance use and gaming. The article concludes by offering strategies for finding balance, such as setting limits, engaging in […]

Key Takeaways: This article explains the key differences between THC and CBD, both compounds derived from cannabis. THC is psychoactive, causing a “high” and carrying potential risks like addiction and anxiety, while CBD is non-psychoactive and offers therapeutic benefits such as pain relief and anxiety management. The legal status of THC and CBD varies, and […]