Individuals with clinical depression and addiction find themselves in a vicious cycle of using drugs and alcohol to cope with emotional pain. What starts as an unhealthy coping mechanism or attempt to self-medicate, in turn, exacerbates the symptoms of both conditions.

Cocaine use is associated with a range of health risks, such as heart attacks, strokes, overdose, addiction, and seizures. One of the lesser-known dangers of cocaine lies right on the surface—your skin. While cocaine's internal damage is significant and life-threatening, its effects on skin health and facial appearance are often overlooked. 

Medical marijuana is offered for its therapeutic benefits for treating chronic pain, anxiety, epilepsy, seizures, and Alzheimer's disease. While it is "medical" cannabis, it still holds the risk for misuse, dependence, and addiction. Approximately 3 in 10 people who use marijuana (cannabis) have cannabis use disorder (CUD).

Many people use alcohol as a coping mechanism for stress or emotional issues, which can lead to a dangerous emotional rollercoaster of highs and lows. Excessive alcohol use and depression are closely connected, as alcohol disrupts the serotonin and dopamine in the brain, causing low mood, sleep issues, and increased anxiety.

Mental health issues, including suicidal thoughts and behaviors, often co-occur with drug and alcohol use disorders. Studies show that individuals who abuse alcohol and drugs are at a greater risk of suicide compared with the general population.

We're well aware of the dangers of the illicit drug supply and counterfeit prescription pills, but a new addiction crisis is on the rise. Counterfeit alcohol is illicitly produced alcohol containing dangerous substances found in antifreeze, nail polish remover, hand sanitizers, and screen wash.

Valentine's Day is often associated with wine, tasty cocktails, and champagne, but a sober Valentine's Day can still ignite the sparks and romance between you and your partner. Sober dating can create a more meaningful and fulfilling experience, allowing for deeper emotional connections, minimal distractions, and improved physical and mental well-being.

National Hug an Addict or Alcoholic Day is a movement that is celebrated each year on February 7th to help reduce the stigma surrounding addiction. Substance use disorders (SUDs) and addiction are frequently misunderstood and seen as moral failures rather than complex brain disorders. Hug an Addict or Alcoholic Day was created to represent the healing power of a hug to inspire hope for those in active addiction or recovery.

Solo drinking isn't necessarily a sign of alcoholism, but frequently or excessively drinking alone can increase the risk. Evaluating your solo drinking habits requires you to ask yourself why you're drinking alone and recognize how often you do it. If drinking alone becomes a regular coping mechanism, it could indicate a deeper, underlying issue.

Sports tailgates and games are often synonymous with alcohol consumption, celebratory shots, and drinking games. If you're looking to enjoy the big game without alcohol, while it may seem uncommon, it offers numerous benefits, enhancing your game-day experience in unexpected ways. Whether you're in recovery from alcohol addiction, abstaining from alcohol for health purposes, or want a clear-headed experience, staying sober at sports events doesn't mean missing out on the fun.