While substance abuse’s widespread effects are well-known and heartbreaking, behavioral addictions can have an equally destructive impact on your health, relationships and responsibilities. For example, compulsive gambling, eating, shopping, video gaming, social media and pornography use stem from an urge to engage in rewarding activities despite adverse consequences. Common Types...
Healthy mental habits are crucial in addiction recovery. Viewing the world, yourself and your experiences in extremes of “always good” or “always bad” can derail your progress and exacerbate your challenges. Understanding the implications of this cognitive pattern and learning to reframe your thoughts can significantly improve your resilience...
Understanding and treating trauma is one of the most intricate mental health challenges. Trauma goes beyond lingering unpleasant memories. It can fundamentally alter the brain, especially in the regions that govern memory, decision-making and emotions. These changes can create a state of constant hypervigilance and fear, where the world...
Long-term, heavy drinking causes your body to become accustomed to the presence of alcohol. Abruptly quitting or significantly reducing your consumption can trigger a range of withdrawal symptoms that can vary widely in their intensity and duration, from well-known severe complications like delirium tremens to lesser-known but equally distressing...
In the fast-paced rhythm of modern life, sleep often falls by the wayside, considered a luxury rather than a necessity. However, National Sleep Awareness Month is a crucial reminder of the importance of restful sleep. Adults need between seven to nine hours of sleep each night to maintain optimal...
Fibromyalgia is a complex and often misunderstood condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue and tenderness in localized areas. It affects millions of people worldwide, predominantly women, and can significantly impact quality of life. While the exact cause of fibromyalgia remains unclear, research suggests a combination of genetic, environmental...
Menopause causes dramatic physical and emotional changes, including hot flashes, night sweats, insomnia and unpredictable mood swings. Some pre- and post-menopausal women may find themselves turning to alcohol for relief, unaware of the potential risks of this coping mechanism. Alcohol and Menopause Symptoms Approximately 75% of women experience hot flashes and...
A new class of lab-made opioids known as nitazenes has recently emerged, complicating the already dire overdose crisis gripping the U.S. and North America. Nitazenes, which can reportedly be more potent than fentanyl, are a growing concern for public health and law enforcement officials. Let’s explore what nitazenes are,...
