Addiction and Recovery Blog.

“Galaxy Gas,” a flavored nitrous oxide product, is gaining popularity as a recreational drug, especially among teens, raising concerns about its health risks and the potential for addiction.

A study suggests that adolescents with certain brain differences may be at higher risk for early substance use and developing substance use disorders.

While overall teen substance use has declined, there’s a concerning rise in the use of more dangerous drugs, such as synthetic opioids like fentanyl, leading to increased overdose deaths among adolescents.

Research highlights the significant health risks of alcohol, including its link to cancer, prompting experts to debunk the myth of any protective health benefits.

Recognizing the link between mental health and addiction allows for treatment approaches that offer lasting change, not just temporary fixes.

Alcohol-related deaths are increasing, yet alcohol addiction remains underrecognized and undertreated in the U.S.

A recent study suggests that GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic, primarily used for diabetes and weight loss, may also help reduce opioid overdoses and alcohol intoxication.

Alcohol consumption and related deaths in the U.S. have significantly increased during the COVID-19 pandemic, with the rise persisting even as life returns to normal.

A recent survey indicates that most Americans are uncertain about how to assist someone experiencing an opioid overdose, highlighting a critical gap in public knowledge.

Teens are inhaling “Galaxy Gas,” a flavored nitrous oxide product, leading to severe health issues like tremors, limb weakness, and loss of bowel control.

The “sober curious” movement encourages individuals to reevaluate their relationship with alcohol, promoting reduced consumption or abstinence for health and well-being.

A study found that addiction to short videos like those on TikTok may lead to brain changes in areas related to emotional regulation and reward processing, linked to traits like envy and genetic factors.

High-risk drug use among adolescents—including prescription drug misuse, use of illegal drugs like cocaine and heroin, and injection drug use—can lead to serious health and social consequences.

Psychologists are using innovative methods, including behavioral health integration and technology, to address substance use.

An increasing number of pets in the United States are unintentionally ingesting cocaine and methamphetamine found in their owners’ homes, leading to a rise in overdose cases among dogs and cats.

Adolescent substance use in the United States has continued to decline or remain stable in 2024, maintaining the unprecedented decreases first observed during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Wildfires in Southern California have increased mental health crisis calls, with experts urging support through therapy or community networks to cope with fear and grief.

In a recent interview, Lamar Odom reiterated his belief that drugs were surreptitiously added to his drink at a Nevada brothel in 2015, leading to his near-fatal overdose.

In January 2025, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) released updated guidance to enhance behavioral health crisis care across the United States.

Substance misuse among older adults, particularly alcohol and cannabis use, is rising, necessitating tailored prevention and treatment strategies to address unique age-related factors.

January 2025 marks SAMHSA’s inaugural Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Treatment Month, encouraging individuals to seek treatment and support for SUDs.

A recent study found that recreational drug users are three times more likely to experience recurrent heart emergencies within a year compared to non-users.

A study from the University of Barcelona found that light to moderate wine consumption—up to one glass per day, consumed with meals—is associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular complications, while higher intake negates this benefit.

In 2025, approximately 33% of employers plan to increase financial support for substance use disorder treatment, while 57% intend to maintain current funding levels.

Engaging in open and honest conversations with your child about alcohol and other drugs is crucial, as it significantly influences their decisions and helps prevent early substance use.

Self-help groups, such as Narcotics Anonymous and SMART Recovery, offer mutual support and structured programs to assist individuals in overcoming opioid addiction.

Youth substance use, including prescription drug misuse and illicit drug use, can lead to severe health risks like HIV and hepatitis.

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs provides resources and specialized care for veterans with substance use disorders.

The article discusses the rise of flavored nitrous oxide, particularly blue raspberry, as a recreational drug, highlighting its increasing popularity and associated health risks.