Causes and Risk Factors of Depression
Depression is a prevalent mental disorder in the United States, affecting individuals across various age groups. Its exact causes are often unclear, but they can include genetics, brain chemistry, life events, medical conditions, and lifestyle factors. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 1 in 5 U.S. adults have been diagnosed with […]
Are Some Ways of Using Cannabis Safer Than Others?
Cannabis products containing tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) pose health risks regardless of consumption method due to THC’s impairing effects on memory, attention, decision-making, and risk-taking. Each method of use carries distinct health and safety risks, and current scientific evidence does not confirm the safety of one method over another. For example, smoking cannabis can expose users and […]
Marijuana and Pregnancy
Using marijuana during pregnancy can be detrimental to a baby’s health, potentially leading to severe complications such as stillbirth, premature birth, and developmental issues. Marijuana is the most commonly used illegal drug among pregnant women in the U.S., with its use increasing across all adult age groups, both genders, and among expectant mothers. Despite some […]
Mental Health Awareness Month
Mental Health Awareness Month was established in 1949 to highlight the significance of mental health and wellness in the lives of Americans and to celebrate recovery from mental illness. For over 20 years, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has observed this month every May to raise awareness about the crucial role […]
The Surgeon General’s Warning on Marijuana
Marijuana use poses significant public health challenges in the United States. Over the past two decades, its use has skyrocketed, with more than a quarter of Americans having tried it. Alarmingly, the age of first use has dropped to the junior high school years. Despite a recent decline from nearly 11% to 7% among high […]
7 Tips for Finding Your Purpose in Life
Uncovering the meaning in your life is essential for gaining a sense of control, satisfaction, and overall happiness. Recognizing that your efforts matter is a key element of a fulfilling life, although this significance differs for everyone. Finding your purpose can lead to increased motivation and resilience, helping you face daily challenges with a clearer […]
20 Defense Mechanisms We Use to Protect Ourselves
Defense mechanisms, which are unconscious psychological strategies that protect individuals from anxiety, threats to self-esteem, and uncomfortable thoughts or situations, have become embedded in everyday language. For instance, you might describe someone as being “in denial” about a problem they face, or say they are “regressing” to an earlier stage of development when they revert […]
Smoking and COPD
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a collection of conditions that obstruct airflow and lead to breathing difficulties. COPD encompasses diseases such as emphysema and chronic bronchitis. With COPD, reduced airflow occurs through the airways, which are the tubes responsible for carrying air in and out of your lungs due to one or more of […]
How to Cope With Extreme Anxiety
While occasional worry is a natural aspect of life, if your anxiety feels unmanageable or overpowering, it may indicate a mental health disorder—fortunately, anxiety-based issues are often highly treatable. Discover the distinction between normal anxiety and an anxiety disorder, and explore steps to address severe anxiety if it’s adversely affecting your well-being, offering avenues toward […]
Mental Health and Marijuana
Frequent and high-dose marijuana consumption, particularly on a daily or near-daily basis, can lead to disorientation and induce feelings of anxiety and paranoia. Those who engage in marijuana use are at an increased risk of experiencing temporary psychosis, characterized by hallucinations, paranoia, and a detachment from reality, as well as enduring mental health conditions such […]