Drug addiction is a choice. While at first drug abuse may be a choice, it quickly develops into an addiction that alters the way in which the chemistry of the brain and body function. This change in functionality leaves individuals with intense cravings for their drug of choice and the urge to seek more extreme highs as their tolerance builds. Addiction is a side effect of substance abuse and is … [Read more...]
How Movies About Drugs Affect Today’s Teens
Drugs and alcohol have become common themes in today’s pop culture. From movies to music, from theater to TV, regular references to illicit substances are made. Sometimes the viewer is even unaware of these references, and they enter the audience’s minds subliminally. Approximately $25 billion is spent every year on advertising for alcohol, tobacco, and prescription drugs. TV shows and movies are … [Read more...]
Health Consequences of Intravenous Drug Use
Drug addiction can have many serious consequences, but some forms of drug abuse come with health risks that are undeniably tied to the form of intake. Intravenous drug abuse is accompanied by many dangerous side effects that are not associated with smoking, snorting, or oral ingestion. Many individuals who inject drugs never anticipate that they will come to use needles; however, as addiction … [Read more...]
The War On Drugs – Has It Worked?
The War on Drugs has been an ongoing struggle for many years, remaining an unsuccessful campaign with numerous consequences for individuals and societies alike. The term “War on Drugs” became popularized in 1971 when President Richard Nixon referred to drug abuse as “public enemy number one.” The term is applied to the national campaign that aims to prohibit drugs via legal policies. The military … [Read more...]
California Marijuana Laws: How have they changed in the last 10 years?
California’s laws regarding drug use, specifically marijuana, have undergone some recent changes, especially in the wake of the movement to legalize marijuana in several states. As the first state to legalize medicinal marijuana nearly two decades ago, California continues to garner national attention because of its changing laws surrounding drug use. The recent passing of Proposition 47, which … [Read more...]
U.S. Drug Statistics by State
Drug and alcohol abuse statistics by state are often influenced by factors such as geography, ease of access, and states’ laws. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) publishes a report detailing the top states for drug use, including marijuana, cocaine and alcohol. One contributing factor to substance abuse, especially alcoholism, is Seasonal Affective … [Read more...]
National Drug Overdose Deaths
Deaths due to drug overdose have steadily increased over the past two decades, becoming one of the leading causes of death in the United States. Between 1999 and 2012, overdose-related deaths increased by 117% with approximately 114 people a day dying as a result of drug overdose. In 2012, drug overdoses were responsible for more US deaths than traffic fatalities, homicides, and suicides. 79.9% … [Read more...]
5 Tips for Staying Sober During the Holidays
The holidays can be difficult for anyone. But they can be especially tough for an addict or an alcoholic thanks to elevated stress levels, increased temptations, and inconsiderate family members. As one who has struggled with recovery on multiple occasions, I can testify that the power of temptation never fully reveals itself until it is fully manifested in the moment. It’s always been much … [Read more...]
How Much Caffeine Powder Is Too Much?
Caffeine is found in many beverages consumed by young American adults including energy drinks, coffee, and soft drinks. It is not uncommon to find people who do not go a day without it. Recently, however, the FDA has warned consumers about the recent increased availability of powdered pure caffeine that is being marketed directly to consumers. Caffeine powder is being sold in bulk over the … [Read more...]