Addiction

The Consequences of Mixing Alcohol and Parenting

In the media today, it’s common for the stressed mother to be depicted as the drinking mother, one who is not stable without a drink in her hand. The trend was the topic of discussion in this recent blog in the Washington Post as the writer recounted a recent mom’s group event. Full Story

The Relationship Between Alcohol and Mortality Rates

When compared with the general population, a study in Italy revealed those who drink heavily have a higher likelihood of both cancer and general mortality rates. Heavy alcohol consumption is responsible for about five percent of all global illnesses. Full Story

Stress Causes Descendents of Alcoholic Parents to Drink

Individuals with a family history of alcoholism are known to be genetically predisposed to the disorder themselves, but researchers at University of Gothenburg, Sweden have identified a possible variable that can increase their susceptibility to drinking. When stressed, children of alcoholic parents may be inclined to consume more alcohol as a way to help them cope with their emotions. Full Story

Alcohol Abuse Silently Rising in the Older Population

A recent study reported that elders are more at risk for alcohol abuse than those from a younger generation. In this study of Australians, older and younger generations were reported to binge drink for very different reasons and at different rates, and the former group has to consider complications with alcohol intake that the younger set does not. Full Story

Excessive Drinking Harms Function of Serotonin in the Brain

A recent Swedish study shows that serotonin, a vital brain neurotransmitter, has a role in developing and curing depression and chronic anxiety. While the neurotransmitter is empowered to regulate impulses and human abilities to sleep or to stay awake, it has been found that excessive drinking harms the function of serotonin in the brain in a short amount of time. Full Story

The Risk of Mental Health Problems Is Often Ignored by Alcohol Abusers

In an effort to curtail the increasing number of youths suffering from alcohol abuse, the Salvation Army has released findings of a study to help raise awareness about the link between alcohol abuse and mental health problems. Full Story

Substance Abuse Among Teens

Substance abuse during the teenage years is especially dangerous. Not only are there immediate dangers, risk of injury and poor decisions, but there are ongoing problems. Many individuals who begin using drugs or alcohol during adolescence continue using the substances into adulthood. This results in the body being exposed to the substance longer, with an increased risk of certain cancers and liver disease with alcohol use and various problems with drug exposure. Full Story

Nicotine as a Gateway Drug for Cocaine

Have you ever thought that the nicotine in cigarettes could lead to addiction to another drug? According to recent studies, nicotine is actually boosting the chances of becoming addicted to cocaine. Full Story

Scientists Trying to Identify Why Certain People Become Alcoholics

People who have below-normal responses to alcohol are more likely to become alcoholics, according to a new study from the University of California at San Diego. Full Story

Baby Boomers and Women Drinking More Alcohol

Baby boomers and women of all ages are drinking more alcohol, according to a major study from Columbia University. Full Story