With the continuing state of crisis in the world at large, the American Psychiatric Association (APA) is taking steps to recognize those who have experienced long-term emotional responses to loss. The COVID-19 pandemic, war, natural disasters, and gun violence have all contributed to the overwhelming feeling of despair. To...
If you have a drinking or drug problem, admitting that truth to yourself and others is the first step in changing your life for the better. The next is deciding to quit. However, achieving and maintaining sustained sobriety is a challenge you shouldn’t face alone, especially in the earliest...
To many people, alcohol is just another beverage. Fewer than 15 percent of the U.S. population are complete teetotalers, and many “social drinkers” suffer no significant ill effects. However, this is just one of many alcohol abuse statistics that paint a full picture of America's drinking problem. The reality...
Do you have medications in your cabinet that were prescribed ages ago, but for some reason never used up? These are a potential tragedy waiting to happen. The Dangers of Unused Prescription Drugs Since 1979, all drugs have been labeled with expiration dates. After a medication passes that date, its chemical...
Oxycodone, a type of opioid, is a highly addictive substance available only through obtaining a prescription. Because of the addictive qualities of this medication, there are limits placed on how much of the substance a person can be prescribed, along with other safeguards to help prevent individuals from abusing...
One of the most frustrating feelings is lying in bed and not being able to fall asleep. You have tried all the tricks, from counting sheep to sound machines, but nothing seems to work. But what is it that actually causes insomnia? Let’s take a look at some potential...
What is Ecstasy? Ecstasy, also known as MDMA or molly, is a mind-altering drug that affects a person’s perception of reality. It has a similar structure to stimulants and hallucinogens, so taking the drug can change a person’s level of energy and often distorts a person’s sense of time and...
The human body has over 7 trillion nerves, many designed to recognize physical sensations such as pain. Nociceptive pain, which everyone recognizes, goes off when some outside intrusion triggers physical injury or illness. Unpleasant as it can be, nociceptive pain serves an invaluable purpose by warning when something needs...
