Behavior Health and Wellness Blog

How to Be Less Stressed

Stress is a powerful force in our lives, often acting as both a motivator and a disruptor. In small doses, stress can help us focus, push through challenges, or react quickly in emergencies. However, when stress becomes a constant presence, it begins to take a toll on our mental, emotional, and physical health. Chronic stress […]

Health Effects of Cigarettes: Cardiovascular Disease

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) encompass conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels, including heart disease, stroke, and peripheral artery disease (PAD). In the U.S., coronary heart disease (CHD), caused by plaque buildup in the arteries that supply blood to the heart, is the most common form of heart disease. This plaque, made up of cholesterol and […]

Why Am I So Lonely All The Time?

Loneliness is more than just being alone—it’s a quiet epidemic that’s affecting millions, even as we live in a world where we’re constantly connected online. In 2023, the U.S. Surgeon General called attention to this growing issue, labeling loneliness as a new, insidious epidemic in America. This isn’t just about people not having friends; it’s […]

Marijuana use linked to higher risk of heart attack and stroke

New research suggests that using cannabis, whether by smoking, eating, or vaping, may increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes. The study, published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, found that cannabis users had a higher risk of cardiovascular issues regardless of tobacco use or other risk factors. Lead author Dr. Abra […]

Healthy Coping Skills for Uncomfortable Emotions

When life throws you a curveball—whether it’s the sting of a breakup or a stressful day at work—having healthy coping skills is like having a life raft in stormy seas. These skills aren’t just about survival; they’re about thriving. They help you navigate through rough patches, allowing you to stay grounded and balanced when everything […]

Cannabis-Involved Emergency Department Visits Among Persons Aged <25 Years Before and During the COVID-19 Pandemic 

Emergency department (ED) visits involving cannabis increased among youths aged 0–14 years before 2019, coinciding with the expansion of cannabis legalization across the United States. During the COVID-19 pandemic, cannabis-involved ED visits were higher than in 2019, with significant increases observed among children aged 10 years and younger, as well as those aged 11–14 years. […]

Smoking, Gum Disease, and Tooth Loss

Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a serious infection of the gums that can impact the bone structure supporting your teeth, potentially leading to tooth loss in severe cases. Smoking is a major contributor to severe gum disease in the U.S. The condition begins with bacteria on your teeth that can slip beneath the gums, […]

Tobacco Use and Oral Health Facts

If you’re a smoker or know someone who is, you’ve probably heard all the usual warnings about lung health, but smoking’s impact on your oral health doesn’t get talked about as much. Your mouth is the gateway to your body, and smoking can wreak havoc on it in ways that might surprise you. From stained […]

About Cannabis

Cannabis, also known as marijuana, weed, pot, or bud, is derived from the dried flowers, leaves, stems, and seeds of the cannabis plant. This plant contains over 100 compounds called cannabinoids, each with unique effects. Among these, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the most well-known for its mind-altering properties, leading to the “high” associated with cannabis use. […]

Why Self-Preservation Is Key to Protecting Your Peace Every Day

Carving out time for yourself each day is essential for sustaining both mental and physical peace. In the midst of life’s demands and responsibilities, it’s easy to neglect personal space, but these moments of solitude are crucial for recharging. Whether it’s a quiet cup of tea, a walk in nature, or simply sitting in silence, […]