Cocaine is a powerfully addictive stimulant that creates an energetic euphoria. When people take cocaine, they may feel more alert, talkative and sensitive to stimuli like sound and light. The drug creates these effects by flooding the brain with a neurotransmitter called dopamine. Dopamine is a natural chemical messenger that...
With all the colorful marketing and social acceptability surrounding alcohol, we tend to forget it is an addictive and dangerous drug. And, like any drug, alcohol can cause an overdose if people drink more than their bodies can process. Alcohol poisoning is a severe, potentially fatal consequence of drinking...
Your hair is an integral part of your identity and self-esteem. When you start noticing hair loss, it can change the way you feel about yourself. Many factors can cause balding and thinning, including stress. With a condition known as telogen effluvium, significant stress causes hair follicles to enter...
The United States’ widespread prescription drug epidemic leads to thousands of accidental overdoses and deaths every year. One reason for this pervasive public health problem is that many people assume the doctor-prescribed medications they use to manage conditions like anxiety and chronic pain are always safe to use. Unfortunately, it’s...
Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, is one of the most frequently diagnosed mental disorders in children, but adult diagnoses are becoming more common. With the increase of information available online and recent social media trends about this disorder, more people are asking the question, “Do I have ADHD?” While...
If you’ve recently decided to pursue therapy or treatment, congratulations! This first step is often the most difficult. Many people go their whole lives without seeking the help they need. However, you may now be feeling overwhelmed by the number of options available and unsure of where to go...
If you have a codependent personality, you probably lack confidence in yourself and feel compelled to seek self-worth from other people. Codependency isn’t a diagnosable mental illness, but it is a prevalent problem often called “relationship addiction.” Though the urge to help and support loved ones is natural, codependency...
When you’re busy, stressed out or overwhelmed, you might get so caught up in your daily responsibilities that you forget to be compassionate toward others. Still, don’t forget that you can play a role in uplifting people and sharing the kindness you have to offer. With that in mind,...
