Behavior Health and Wellness Blog

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 […]

8 Ways to Cope With Your Election Anxiety

As election season approaches, it’s normal to feel a wave of anxiety wash over you. The pressure to make informed choices, the fear of potential consequences, and the overwhelming influx of information can create a perfect storm of stress. It’s crucial to acknowledge this anxiety and prioritize your mental health during this time. Remember, your […]

Marijuana linked to heart disease; supplement may mitigate risk, study reports

A large study led by Stanford Medicine researchers reveals that marijuana users face an elevated risk of heart disease and heart attacks. The study found that THC, the psychoactive component of marijuana, promotes inflammation in endothelial cells lining blood vessels and causes atherosclerosis in laboratory mice. However, the inflammation and atherosclerosis can be countered by […]

The Psychological Toll of Repeat Hurricane Exposure Should Not Be Overlooked

A 2022 study revealed that frequent exposure to hurricanes can have harmful impacts on mental health. This includes not only being directly affected by the storms but also experiencing indirect effects, such as hearing about hurricanes through the media or knowing someone personally affected by them. The research, conducted by a team at the University […]

Marijuana Use Dramatically Increases Risk of Heart Problems, Stroke

Regular marijuana use can significantly raise the risk of heart attack, heart failure, and stroke, according to two new studies set to be presented at the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions 2023. One study found that daily marijuana users have a 34% higher risk of heart failure compared to non-users. Researchers from Medstar Health analyzed […]

Youth Tobacco Product Use at a 25-Year Low, Yet Disparities Persist

Current tobacco use among U.S. middle and high school students has reached its lowest level in 25 years, according to the 2024 National Youth Tobacco Survey (NYTS). Over the past year, at least 500,000 fewer students reported using tobacco products, with 2.25 million students in 2024 compared to 2.80 million in 2023. This decline is […]

75 Ways to Boost Your Mood Right This Very Second

Stress is an inevitable part of life, but how it’s managed makes all the difference. When stress hits, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, but trying new “pick-me-ups” can be a game changer. Whether it’s a short meditation session, a cup of herbal tea, or even playing a few soothing notes on the Guzheng, these small […]

Diabetes and Smoking

Smoking significantly increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Smokers have a 30% to 40% higher chance of getting diabetes compared to non-smokers, with the risk rising the more you smoke. Nicotine in tobacco raises blood sugar levels, while the harmful chemicals in cigarettes cause inflammation, making it harder for the body to regulate […]