Dependence vs. Addiction: What’s the Difference?
Due to the widespread use and general social acceptance of drugs and alcohol, many people are confused regarding dependence vs. addiction: what’s the difference? Unfortunately, individuals who are not familiar with the complexities of substance use will typically turn to ‘addiction’ as a catch-all term. The lack of accurate terminology can lead to confusion, misunderstandings, […]
Drug Use in Teens | Normal or Cause for Concern? | Latest Research
Introduction to Teen Drug Use Teens go through a lot of change, both physically and mentally, as they begin their transition to early adulthood. As they begin to socialize less with family and more with peers, they are faced with many important decisions, including whether or not to use drugs and alcohol. And while the […]
Teen Alcohol Abuse: How Worried Should Parents Be?
Parents of teens know how challenging it is to protect their children from danger while allowing them to maintain a healthy sense of autonomy. This balance between allowing them to make (and hopefully learn from) their own mistakes and guiding them toward a successful future often leaves parents questioning their decisions. One of the most […]
How Does Ecstasy Affect You Socially?
3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine, or MDMA and ecstasy for short, is a recreational drug that’s often used in social and party settings. It can increase the activity of at most three neurotransmitters, serotonin (dopamine), and norepinephrine. Ecstasy, like other stimulants, increases the neurotransmitter release and blocks their reuptake. This allows them to flood the brain. These effects can […]
Caffeine and Weed: What Happens When They’re Mixed?
Mixing weed and caffeine is a popular choice for many people, with some interesting results. There is a lot to be said about mixing cannabis and energy drinks or other caffeinated beverages, especially since many companies now produce products that include both. Before cannabis became mainstream, cannabis enthusiasts would come up with creative ways to […]
Myths & Facts About Heroin
Heroin, an opioid drug, is made from morphine which is naturally derived from the poppy plant. To get immediate results, addicts may inject, snort or smoke heroin. Because heroin reduces pain and produces feelings of euphoric pleasure, it is easy to become addicted. However, users may also experience side effects like itching, nausea, and constipation. […]
Family History and Alcohol Addiction: Is Alcoholism Genetic?
Alcoholism (more formally known as alcohol use disorder) is a disease that affects millions across the country. Some of those who struggle with alcohol addiction have a family history of similar problems, while others do not. Similarly, many who have parents or other family members with an alcohol problem seem to have normal and healthy […]
Pete Davidson Opens Up About BPD and Marijuana
The comedian and SNL (Saturday Night Live) star, Pete Davidson, discussed how borderline personality disorder (BPD) affects his life during an interview with Marc Maron on WTF. The disorder causes mood and behavior instability. Additionally, it can affect a person’s ability to build and manage strong relationships with others. As evidenced by his success, Pete […]
What are Upper and Downer Drugs?
Drugs of abuse are often categorized by the effect that they produce in the user. Informally, stimulants (drugs that increase energy, alertness, and mood) are called uppers and depressants (drugs that reduce energy and alertness and produce relaxation) are called downers. Typically, uppers increase the activity of the central nervous system while downers sedate that […]
Dangerous Drug Combinations
Although medication can be very helpful, not all medications work in harmony. Prescription drugs can be powerful and have severe side effects when taken with alcohol or other drugs. If you take prescription drugs and also take illicit drugs or drink alcohol, keep reading to find out if the combination is dangerous. Mixing alcohol and […]
