Downer drugs, also known as CNS depressant drugs, are commonly prescribed for anxiety, panic attacks, sleep disorders, or seizures. Chronic use of downer drugs can have severe effects on the brain and body, including cognitive impairments, mental health disorders, physical health complications, and addiction.

Going on vacation while in recovery or actively struggling with drug or alcohol abuse can present significant challenges and stressors. While vacations are intended to be a time of relaxation, those battling substance abuse may experience heightened emotions and exposure to new temptations and triggers.

During the summer months, drug and alcohol abuse sees an increase as a result of physiological stress, mental health issues, social events, and isolation. Extreme temperatures can lead to substance abuse to cope with heat-related stress or discomfort, leading to increased psychological and physiological health issues.

As a Schedule II drug under the Controlled Substances Act, methylphenidate has a high potential for abuse and severe physical and psychological dependence. Similar to the effects of other CNS stimulants like Adderall, methylphenidate abuse and addiction have continued to rise among young individuals in today's society.

As a prescription drug, the abuse of clonidine might not seem as ordinary as other prescription medications as it isn't a medication with high abuse potential. However, clonidine is an antihypertensive medication that can lead to severe physiological and psychological effects, withdrawal symptoms, and addiction when abused.

Whippet abuse refers to the recreational use of nitrous oxide from a whipped cream charger. Adolescents and young adults inhale nitrous oxide from steel whip cream canisters to experience temporary euphoria and disorientation. While whippets may seem harmless, they can pose severe risks to both physical and mental health in the short and long term.

As a family member or close friend of someone with an addiction, it's instinctive to want to offer your help and support. However, certain behaviors can enable a loved one and make it more difficult for them to get help. By identifying the common signs of enabling behaviors in addiction, you can better support yourself and an addicted loved one in recovery.

Nitazenes, a class of synthetic opioid analgesics found in the illicit drug supply, have been implicated in overdose deaths due to their high potency. As schedule 1 substances, these new synthetic opioids have a high potential for abuse, dependence, and addiction.

Drug and alcohol addiction is a chronic brain disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. The emotional and physical toll of substance abuse is widely discussed, while the financial side of addiction often goes unrecognized.

Studies have shown that approximately 50% of adolescents and adults with substance use disorders (SUDs) have a lifetime diagnosis of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The link between ADHD and addiction is rather complex, influenced by genetic and neurobiological factors and similar personality traits associated with both conditions.