Understanding the Ten Risk Factors for Addiction

Addiction is a complex and multifaceted issue that can impact individuals from all walks of life. It’s not solely a matter of weak willpower; rather, addiction arises from a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. By understanding the risk factors associated with addiction, we can take proactive steps to prevent its development and provide better support to those who may be at risk. Look at the ten key ... Continue Reading »

The Digital Dilemma: Internet Addiction and the Prevalence of Substance Abuse Disorders among Teens

In today’s hyper-connected world, we are more plugged in than ever before. While the internet has brought us countless opportunities and conveniences, it has also given rise to some concerning trends, one of which is internet addiction. In this article we aim to shed light on the issue of internet addiction among teenagers and its link to the prevalence of mental health disorders and substance abuse. The Digital Generation ... Continue Reading »

Healthy Body, Healthy Mind

My name is Olivia Tennant and I am an upcoming senior at Clay-Battelle Middle/ High School. Being a GameChanger Peer Leader has been such an amazing experience. Each member on our team pledged to stay away from all substances and to support our school to do the same. The idea behind our Peer Leadership Team is to be healthy role models and show students and the community that a life ... Continue Reading »

Staying Healthy By Staying Active

By Logan Miller, Clay-Battelle Middle/High School My name is Logan Miller. I am a Junior at Clay-Battelle Middle/High School in Monongalia County, West Virginia. I am part of the Game Changer Student Non-Use Peer Leadership Team at my school. On our Team, I am one of a group of other teenagers making the healthy choice to not use alcohol, nicotine, or other drugs; including the misuse of opioids ... Continue Reading »

Addiction by Age Group: A Breakdown

Addiction can happen at any stage of life. Regardless of age, sex, or background, substance abuse disorders do not discriminate. There are, however, certain age groups at higher risk of developing addiction. Let’s break down addiction by age group and the risks factors involved for each.

Youths

Between 2016 and 2022, drug use among 8th graders climbed more than 60 percent (1). And while the numbers aren’t as ... Continue Reading »

The Link Between Trauma and Addiction

Genetics, environment, and upbringing can all play a role in a person’s chances of developing addiction. But for nearly two-thirds of those with current substance abuse disorders, there’s one common link—trauma (1). What exactly is trauma, and why is it so closely linked with future substance abuse disorders? Let’s take a closer look.

What is Trauma?

Trauma is much more than a difficult ... Continue Reading »

3 Common Mental Health Myths Surrounding Addiction

Myths about mental health and addiction are everywhere. Often, they prevent young people from getting the help when they need it most. Let’s learn about how poor mental health and addiction go hand in hand, and three common myths surrounding them.

Myth #1: Mental health issues are rare.

FACT: In 2019, the World Health Organization reported 1 in every 8 people—around 970 million worldwide—were living with a mental ... Continue Reading »

3 Key Differences in How Addiction Affects Women

May kicks off National Women’s Health Month. Data shows women make up 65 percent of total opioids prescriptions, and younger ages are not immune to opioid addiction with or without a prescription, either (1). As GameChangers, it’s a perfect opportunity to look at how substance abuse affects girls, teens, and women. Let’s explore key differences and how they affect those struggling with addiction.

3 Key Differences in ... Continue Reading »

6 signs you could benefit from talk therapy

At GameChanger, we believe prevention and early intervention are keys to curbing the opioid crisis. Considering youths and teens struggling with mental health illnesses are twice as likely to develop addiction, prevention often starts with reaching out for professional help (1). But how can you tell if you need it— and where do you find it? Let’s discuss six signs you could benefit from talk therapy and where to start ... Continue Reading »

Is Addiction Hereditary?

Research suggests as much as half of a person’s risk for developing addiction depends on genetics (1). If nearly 50 percent of addiction risk boils down to biology, does this mean addiction is hereditary and unpreventable? Not entirely. Let’s explore “addiction genes,” why substance use is more than your DNA, and what you can do to prevent it.

Are there Addiction Genes?

When scientists refer to “... Continue Reading »

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