Cannabis and Other Drugs
Researchers disagree on whether cannabis acts as a “gateway drug,” leading to the use of more dangerous substances like cocaine or heroin. While evidence linking cannabis use to an increased risk of using other drugs is limited, frequent or early cannabis use may raise the likelihood of dependence or addiction to other substances, including alcohol […]
Understanding Stress and Neck Pain
Neck pain and stress are closely interconnected, forming a cycle where one often exacerbates the other. Stress triggers the release of hormones like cortisol, which can lead to muscle tension, particularly in the neck and shoulders, as the body reacts to perceived threats. This tension may cause stiffness, discomfort, or even chronic pain. Conversely, persistent […]
Tobacco-Related Mortality
Overall, mortality rates among smokers in the United States are about three times higher than those of non-smokers, primarily due to smoking-related diseases such as cancer, respiratory conditions, and vascular diseases. Smokeless tobacco also poses significant health risks, being a known cause of cancer and potentially increasing the risk of sudden death due to heart […]
How to Cope With Depression and Anxiety at the Same Time
Coping with depression and anxiety simultaneously can feel like being pulled in two conflicting directions, each vying for control. Depression might whisper that you’re too exhausted to move, urging you to stay in bed and disengage, while anxiety pushes you toward overthinking and constant activity, making rest seem impossible. Studies suggest that between 20% and […]
Cannabis and Driving
Studies have shown a link between acute cannabis use and car crashes, though further research is needed. It is challenging to directly connect the presence of cannabis or the concentration of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound responsible for cannabis’s “high,” to driving impairment in individuals. Additionally, research indicates that using multiple substances, like cannabis and […]
Current Cigarette Smoking Among Adults in the United States
Cigarette smoking among adults has decreased over recent decades. Most adult tobacco users continue to use combustible products, with cigarettes remaining the most widely used type. E-cigarettes are the second most commonly used tobacco product, and their use among adults rose between 2019 and 2022. Certain population groups favor specific types of tobacco products more […]
Can You Have a Delayed Reaction to Grief?
Delayed grief occurs when the emotional response to a loss is postponed, sometimes by months or even years, instead of arising immediately. This can happen for various reasons, such as the need to stay strong for others, the shock of the loss, or life circumstances that don’t allow space for mourning. Hallmarks of delayed grief […]
This Is Your Brain on Exercise
Exercise is not only a path to physical fitness but also a powerful boost for mental health. Regular movement, whether it’s running, lifting weights, or dancing, releases endorphins that elevate mood and energy levels, while reducing stress, anxiety, and even symptoms of depression. The benefits go beyond just feeling good; exercise can also enhance mental […]
Does Conventional Wisdom Hinder Creative Thinking?
Conventional wisdom refers to widely accepted beliefs and ideas, often upheld by the majority and by expert consensus in particular fields. This shared knowledge offers the benefit of helping people quickly grasp popular viewpoints and make decisions in line with common consensus. However, it can also limit creative thinking, making it harder to explore alternative […]
Game Changers: How Sports Teams Can Lead the Fight Against Tobacco
Sports teams have a broad, dedicated fan base that spans diverse demographics, making them ideal advocates for tobacco control, as their messages can quickly gain widespread attention. Athletes, admired and emulated especially by young people, can influence public attitudes toward tobacco use. Advocating for tobacco control aligns with the health-centric image of sports, enhancing the […]