We’ve covered what to do if you find out your friend is using drugs. But what do you do if you suspect drug use without being 100% sure? Perhaps you’ve seen pills in their backpack, heard rumors, or have noticed your friend acting differently. Whatever the reason, it’s a tricky spot to be in. Some signs of addiction overlap with symptoms of depression, medication side effects, or other ... Continue Reading »

When you think of the epicenter of a drug trade, skyscrapers, traffic, and bustling cities may come to mind. But research shows drug use may be just as high—or even higher—in less populated towns across America. In fact, among the many factors that increase likelihood of substance abuse, living in a rural area is one of them. Are there differences in urban and rural drug use, and what ... Continue Reading »

The COVID-19 pandemic altered the way we live and interact with those around us. For many, the changes that occurred between 2019 and 2020 mark the separation of two different worlds. As the pandemic continues, the one we live in now includes higher rates of drug use, relapses, and overdose deaths than ever before. How did it happen? Let’s take a look at what the current research is telling us, and ... Continue Reading »

If you or a loved one is in the depths of addiction and ready to get help, congratulations. Acknowledging a problem is the first step in solving it. No matter the role addiction has played in your life, there’s hope on the other side. You or your friend have several options once you’re ready to take the first step towards recovery. Not sure which path to take? Let’... Continue Reading »

Pain can severely impact quality of life. Whether your pain is temporary or chronic, managing it allows you to accomplish daily tasks and live a life you enjoy. And while your pain symptoms may have you considering prescription pain medication, it’s important to explore all options—especially ones less dangerous and addictive than opioids. Why Should I Consider Non-Opioid Pain Treatment? At the surface, taking a pill to manage ... Continue Reading »

Picture this. You’re at a party where the host offers you and your friends drugs. As you decline, two of your friends agree to try an opioid pill for the first time. While the first moves on from the experience, deciding it’s not for them, your other friend tries it a second time. That second time becomes a third, and then a fourth. Within weeks, your friend is ... Continue Reading »

Peer pressure can be powerful. Whether it is wearing the coolest clothes or listening to the latest music, it is natural to want to fit in. But, sometimes, that peer pressure can be deadly – like when it comes to opioids. If you are with a group of people who offer you drugs, you might feel pressured to try them even if you do not want to. After all, just one ... Continue Reading »

Sports and exercise keep your body healthy and strong. So why is it that many healthy, strong athletes have such a high risk for substance abuse disorder— particularly with opioids (1)? In all age groups, from youth sports to professional leagues, we see many athletes and fitness lovers succumb to substance abuse and opioid addiction. What are the risks involved in exercising while taking opioids? And what are some precautions to ... Continue Reading »

Some negative side effects of opioid use are invisible. A failing heart or weakened immune system, for example, aren’t seen by the naked eye. Others, however, are hard to miss— like sore, red, or damaged skin. Your skin is a vital organ. Much of your skin health depends on genetics, but environment and lifestyle behaviors impact it greatly. Your skin can tell a story of hydration, self-care, and good ... Continue Reading »