Psychedelic magic mushrooms have been used for centuries for social, religious and medicinal purposes. They are commonly called “magic mushrooms” due to their hallucinogenic properties. When ingested, users can experience a wide variety of effects. Researchers have been studying the effects of these mushrooms and believe that they can be used as a potential therapeutic option for a variety of … [Read more...]

For those who struggle with alcohol or have loved ones that do, the idea of any consumption of alcohol can produce strong responses. Family members and loved ones may strongly oppose any alcohol consumption regardless of the circumstances, while someone who has struggled with it may battle the idea of “just having one” versus none at all. After struggling with alcohol abuse and dependency, the … [Read more...]

Addiction is a disease that can affect anyone regardless of age, gender, race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status. There are numerous factors that play a role in the development of addiction including environment, genetic predisposition, family history, and mental health issues. In pop culture and mainstream media, addiction is often painted as an affliction that primarily affects people of color … [Read more...]

College is a time for exploration, development, and independence, but it is also frequently associated with alcohol consumption, partying, and experimentation. Many college students drink alcohol, using it as a way to have fun, connect with others, or relax. However, alcohol can easily become a crutch and many rely on it to the point of dependency and addiction. Many students in college jump at … [Read more...]

It has long been debated whether or not addiction is hereditary. The “nature versus nurture” argument has circulated for years with many questioning why some people get addicted to drugs and alcohol while others do not. Although the term “nurture” does not necessarily apply to adults who live apart from their families, it can be used to describe the environmental factors that influence the … [Read more...]

Drug addiction is often discussed during presidential campaigns. It is a polarizing topic with different opinions across the board. Each of the potential candidates has a unique platform and proposal for handling drug addiction in the United States. Addiction in the United States has long been treated as a crime and is often stigmatized. Many do not seek help for addiction due to lack of … [Read more...]

Drug addiction takes a dramatic toll on addicts as well as those around them. Addiction can manifest in many forms, and whether it is gambling, cigarettes, alcohol, drugs, or shopping, it comes with its own set of negative consequences. Addiction can have a profound, long-lasting effect on anyone, taking everything from the addict and their loved ones with nothing positive returned. Even when an … [Read more...]

In a recent study published by the University of Michigan, rates of substance abuse among teens have shown positive changes in rates of abuse among certain drugs. Use of several substances including ecstasy (MDMA), heroin, and synthetic marijuana has declined, and alcohol and cigarette use has reached new lows. Although these are promising trends, rates of prescription drug abuse and marijuana … [Read more...]

Electronic cigarettes have substantially grown in popularity over the past few years. Marketed as a safe alternative to actual cigarettes, many are putting down traditional cigarettes in favor of the high-tech devices. Although there is not yet enough research available on the safety of the devices, their popularity has not been tempered. It is estimated that the number of teens and adolescents … [Read more...]