While there has been a great deal of discussion about the dangers of opiates, other drugs that are just as deadly have been linked to an increase in overdose deaths. Xylazine, a non-opioid veterinary tranquilizer, is knowingly or unknowingly being used in combination with other drugs. Xylazine, also known as “tranq,” rivals fentanyl as a […]
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There are no set criteria that confirm if you have a substance use disorder. If you are concerned about your own use of substances or that of a loved one, talk to a professional and express your worries. Outlined below is a definition of what substance use disorder is, and how it is sometimes classified. […]
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Substance use is represented everywhere. Drugs and alcohol are mentioned in music, movies, TV shows, and on social media. Though some substance use in media is meant to be educational, often, casual appearances of substances can glorify substance use. Can seeing substances in movies, TV, or music videos actually impact substance use amongst our population? […]
Substance use can affect people of any age, race, gender, or socioeconomic class. Though there are factors that can contribute to prevalence amongst certain groups, it does not discriminate. Law enforcement officers are not immune to Substance Use Disorder. Given the availability of substances coupled with the high levels of stress associated with that line […]
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Medication-Assisted Treatment, or MAT, refers to combining counseling and behavioral therapy with the use of FDA-approved medicines to treat substance use disorders. This approach is extremely tailored to the individual and can be an effective way to achieve sustained recovery and prevent opioid overdose. MAT is often used for recovery from opioids, like heroin or […]
There are a number of different terms associated with substance use and substance use disorder. Distinguishing between substance use, substance misuse, and substance abuse can be a key component to education. Substance use is as simple as it sounds: using drugs and alcohol. This would include any kind of alcohol, marijuana, heroin, prescription opiates, or […]
Talking to your children about drugs and alcohol early and often is a key part of prevention. One conversation isn’t enough. Parents and guardians should create a safe space where children feel free to be open and honest, and have small frequent conversations about substances. Children can be intimidated by a formal, sit-down talk at […]
Approximately one in ten veterans have been diagnosed with a substance use disorder, which is slightly higher than the general population. This can be because this particular population is often more directly affected by issues such as PTSD, long-lasting or chronic pain, suicidal ideation, and homelessness – which can all directly correlate to increased substance […]
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, 26.6% of high school seniors vaped nicotine in the past year. Vaping devices or e-cigarettes are the most commonly used form of nicotine among youth in the U.S. Commonly referred to as vapes, the devices are appealing to young people because of their convenience, size, and the […]
What is naloxone? Naloxone is a medication used to reverse the effects of opioid overdose, most popularly known by the name brand Narcan. Specifically, naloxone allows an overdose victim to breathe normally. It is not addictive and cannot be abused. When do you need naloxone? Naloxone should be administered to anyone who may be overdosing […]
What Is 988? 988 is an emergency hotline for all mental health crises. A mental health crisis can be anything from thoughts of suicide, to problems with substance abuse, to mental health issues like anxiety and depression. 988 phone operators are not required to give your personal data or information to any protective services. Your […]
Substance use treatment is most effective when tailored to the individual receiving it. Knowing that, it is important to note that gender plays a role in finding maximally effective treatment and that substance use disorders in women may progress differently than for men, often moving more quickly from first use to a substance use disorder. […]
If someone you love has Substance Use Disorder, you’re probably experiencing a variety of emotions. Confusion, concern, and heartbreak are all a normal part of supporting a friend or family member through SUD. Though challenging, your support is useful and necessary, and will provide a greater chance of recovery for the person you love. What […]
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Using substances during pregnancy poses health risks for both the pregnant mother and the unborn child in the long and short term. The majority of substances (including opioids and stimulants) have proven to be harmful by possibly increasing the risk of miscarriage or causing migraines, seizures, or high blood pressure to the mother, which can […]
