Articles tagged with Addiction
A new review suggests children of parents who drink heavily are at elevated risk of poor outcomes including mental health disorders, hospitalizations and criminal behavior. Register-based studies provide a fuller picture of the harm caused by family members' drinking.
A randomized clinical trial found that graphic warning labels on cigarette packaging changed the perception of US smokers, making them more likely to recognize the negative consequences of tobacco use and consider quitting. However, it did not significantly increase quit attempts or reduce nicotine addiction.
A systematic review found evidence that non-invasive brain stimulation can reduce smoking frequency in nicotine-dependent smokers. High-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) of the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex was associated with the greatest reduction in smoking frequency.
Researchers have developed a dual-drug therapy for alcohol use disorder by targeting the mTORC1 enzyme. Blocking this enzyme can halt cravings in mice engineered to have AUD, offering a promising alternative to current treatment options.
Research found nearly two thirds of vaping-related videos on TikTok portray e-cigarettes positively, viewed over 1.1 billion times. Tighter regulations are needed to curb teens' potential exposure, given the platform's popularity with this age group.
A clinical trial by Queen Mary University of London found that e-cigarettes are more effective than nicotine replacement treatments in achieving long-term smoking reduction and cessation. After six months, 27% of participants who used e-cigarettes had reduced their smoking by at least half, compared to 6% of those who used NRTs.
A recent study published in Neuron has identified the anterior cingulate cortex as a key brain region involved in linking actions to their outcomes. The finding sheds light on compulsive behaviors such as OCD and addiction, which are thought to result from impairments in this brain region.
A survey of 32,000 European adults found decreased alcohol consumption in most countries, with the largest declines seen in Albania, Finland, and others. Respondents experiencing financial distress reported less reduction in consumption.
A recent KAIST study revealed that the ventral striatum is a neural basis for our habitual seeking behavior, including addiction. The research found that long-term value memories are retained in the ventral striatum and guide automatic evaluations of objects based on positive values.
Researchers at Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology have developed a model to understand the brain mechanisms behind video game addiction. They found that games can be designed to promote healthy engagement, while also addressing addictive behavior.
Scientists have discovered a way to control brain circuits using a protein called parapinopsin, found in lamprey. This breakthrough could lead to new treatments for mood disorders and unwanted behaviors.
Interdisciplinary consultations support primary care physicians in managing complex pain and addiction. PCPs express needs for expertise, safe prescribing, and communication strategies to effectively care for patients with chronic pain and addiction.
A new study by the University of Georgia suggests that social media addiction is associated with an increased risk of cyberbullying behaviors among adolescents. Higher scores on social media addiction tests, more time spent online, and identifying as male were linked to a greater likelihood of perpetrating cyberbullying.
A new longitudinal study published in JAMA Open suggests that 80% of children with autism experience growth or proficiency in at least one developmental domain by mid childhood. The study also found that 23% of children are doing well in four or more domains, highlighting a strengths-based approach to autism assessment.
A survey of English smokers found that ethnic minority groups were less likely to use e-cigarettes as a means of reducing cigarette consumption or during temporary abstinence. This disparity may contribute to the higher risk of smoking-related diseases among these groups, highlighting the need for targeted interventions.
A longitudinal study by Anglia Ruskin University found that lockdowns to combat COVID-19 led to an increase in symptoms associated with eating disorders. Participants experienced higher levels of morbid eating behaviors such as anorexia and bulimia, but also increased exercise rates after the first lockdown.
The study describes four processes that lead to ideological obsession, including moral disengagement, hatred, network effects, and psychological reactance. It suggests focusing on individual psychological needs like meaning and belonging to steer people away from ideologically-motivated violence.
The article provides valuable insights into identifying signs of teen vaping, ways to prevent it, and strategies for supporting addicted teens. Parents can take proactive steps by understanding the warning signs and knowing how to approach their child about this growing concern.
A study of 1,750 Finnish adolescents found that loneliness is a significant risk factor for compulsive internet use. The study suggests that addressing loneliness can help prevent excessive internet use and its negative consequences, such as depression and poor academic performance.
A new study found that messages presenting e-cigarettes as a lower risk alternative to smoking can encourage about a third of smokers to try them. Meanwhile, messages highlighting the increased health risks of vaping strongly discourage non-smokers from taking up the habit.
Researchers at the University of Kansas created virtual SMART Recovery groups to provide remote support to individuals struggling with addictions. The program has seen significant growth, with over 20 people attending online meetings and a new telephone service called SMARTline providing additional support.
A national group of pediatric addiction medicine experts developed six principles of care for young adults with substance use disorder, emphasizing compassion, therapeutic optimism, and social justice. The supplement aims to elevate national discussions on addressing these challenges and improve outcomes for this unique population.
Researchers found that work addiction risk is strongly associated with high job demands, but not job control. This can lead to depression, sleep disorders, and stress. Women are also more likely to experience work addiction risk than men.
Dr. Benjamin Arenkiel's research identified a convergent brain circuit that combines sensory perceptions and motivational state, linking basal forebrain circuits to behaviors such as anxiety, anorexia, addiction, and more. His work offers a new approach to treating severe eating disorders, obesity, and addictive behaviors by manipulati...
As telepsychiatry expands its services, patients in West Virginia show resilience in accessing care despite limited internet connections. The shift has enabled more accessible and convenient therapy sessions, potentially leading to better treatment outcomes.
The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the adoption of virtual therapy, allowing clinicians to transition outpatient behavioral-health visits to telepsychiatry. Despite initial concerns about connectivity issues, most patients adapted effectively, with only 10-15% experiencing problems. This expansion may become part of the new normal, ...
Over the past 50 years, cannabis strength has soared, with THC concentrations increasing by 14% in herbal cannabis and 24% in cannabis resin. This rise in potency is linked to an increased risk of problems such as addiction and psychotic disorders.
Treating opioid addiction with buprenorphine in primary care can be financially sustainable, according to a microsimulation model. Physician-led treatment and shared medical visits with nurse care managers yield the greatest net revenue gains.
A new study published in Addiction suggests that cannabis use does not substitute for non-medical opioids among adults with problem substance use. The longitudinal study of 211 participants found that opioid use was at least as high on days when cannabis was used as on days when it was not.
Researchers led by Dr. Alicia Allen will investigate how hormones influence postpartum opioid relapse and explore their potential use as a preventive measure. The goal is to identify protective hormones and develop a hormonally-based intervention to prevent postpartum opioid relapse.
A recent study published in the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry has found no connection between Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) and psychiatric problems in children. In contrast, children with IGD symptoms showed lower anxiety levels two years later, potentially due to social interactions or gaming as a distraction.
A Rutgers-led national survey found that 83% of doctors strongly believed nicotine contributed to heart disease, despite its primary risk being addiction. The study suggests physicians need better understanding of nicotine risks to assist patients addicted to tobacco products.
The University of Illinois Chicago has received a $2.5 million grant to improve the training of primary care physicians to treat substance use and mental health conditions in rural and urban underserved populations. The program will incorporate an interprofessional approach, enabling doctors to provide holistic care and address complex...
Researchers at Marshall University found that green apple vape flavor enhances nicotine reward by promoting high-sensitivity nAChRs. This could lead to heightened drug-seeking behavior and addiction risk, particularly among adolescents.
A new AI algorithm can identify environmental and psychological factors that contribute to substance abuse among homeless youth, allowing for personalized rehabilitation programs. The model, developed by Penn State researchers, found adverse childhood experiences and PTSD to be strong predictors of substance use disorder.
The expansion will train 48 fellows in addiction medicine or psychiatry to provide high-quality prevention and treatment services for vulnerable populations. This training aims to address access disparities and stigma, with a focus on community-based care.
Researchers at Flinders University warn that family members can be the first to detect early signs of a problem gambler. Chronic hypervigilance, relationship conflict, and exhaustion are common consequences for partners and families.
Experts argue that New Zealand's proposed cannabis legislation lacks clear criteria for minimum price and potency levels, posing challenges in reducing cannabis use over time and taxing products by THC potency. The bill needs strengthening to address these gaps and ensure a comprehensive regulatory framework.
Researchers discover how top leisure brands create 'sticky' customer experiences, using rapid entry, endless variation, and sparking new journeys. These chaotic experiences keep customers hooked, making them more eager for monthly subscriptions.
Researchers used noninvasive pulses of ultrasound waves to control macaque monkeys' choices in an experiment widely used to investigate choice behaviors. The technique successfully influenced which target the monkeys looked at, regardless of reward, suggesting its potential for studying addiction and compulsive behaviors.
A recent six-year study on video game addiction found that about 90% of gamers do not play in a way that is harmful or causes negative long-term consequences. However, a significant minority can become truly addicted to video games, suffering mentally and socially. The study identified predictors such as being male and having low level...
A study published in Advances in Preventive Medicine found that Canadians with a history of cannabis dependence are more likely to have some form of mental illness or substance dependence. Social support and being older were also associated with better mental health outcomes.
Researchers at Ohio State University will investigate the short- and long-term effects of e-cigarettes on youth, including their impact on brain, lungs, and heart. The project aims to provide answers on effective regulations and cessation methods to help youth quit vaping.
A study by CAMH and ICES found that only 2-3% of patients with urgent mental health needs can access publicly-funded psychotherapist physicians. The authors suggest allowing non-physician clinicians to provide CBT as a solution to improve access.
A new study by Case Western Reserve University found that nearly 94% of defendants in Cuyahoga County drug court have been exposed to trauma, with many suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms. The research suggests a need for increased trauma-informed care and possibly specialized, gender-specific support.
Anna Stöckl, a renowned biologist, has been appointed to the Young Academy for her exceptional research on insect visual recognition and processing. Her work focuses on understanding how hummingbird hawk-moths navigate through colorful patterns.
The University of Tennessee Extension is launching a new effort to address the opioid crisis in rural Tennessee through the PROMPT TN program. The project aims to develop opioid-specific resources and train community members to prevent addiction, focusing on underlying causes and risk factors.
A new study suggests that moral and religious beliefs may exacerbate concerns about porn addiction. Researchers found that individuals who morally disapproved of pornography were more likely to report addiction, even with low or average porn use. The findings highlight the need for clinicians to consider these factors when diagnosing c...
A recent study found that leading smart device conversational agents, such as Siri and Alexa, are unable to provide meaningful help for quitting substances like opioids, alcohol, and tobacco. However, researchers suggest that updating these devices to promote resources like helplines could prove highly effective in addressing the natio...
A new study led by Anglia Ruskin University found exercise addiction is nearly four times more common amongst people with an eating disorder. The research highlights the importance of monitoring exercise levels in individuals with eating disorders, as excessive exercise can lead to serious medical conditions.
Researchers found that motivational interviewing skills increased detainee engagement and information gain, while approaches antithetical to MI had a negative impact. The study suggests creating an environment of personal control and autonomy can encourage cooperation.
Research at Swansea University and the University of Milan found that students with high levels of internet addiction are less motivated to engage in studies, more anxious about tests, and experience increased loneliness. This excessive internet use impairs study skills and motivation.
A new study estimates that daily cannabis users in Australia accounted for over 80% of total cannabis consumption between 2007 and 2016. Prevalence of past cannabis use increased from 8.9% to 10.5% during this period, with 1 in 6 past year users being daily users.
Researchers at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health have identified a protein complex elevated in PTSD patients, which could serve as a blood-based biomarker for diagnosis and treatment. A developed peptide has been shown to prevent recall or encoding of fear memories, suggesting potential for symptom prevention or treatment.
A recent study published in Addiction found that eight percent of Chinese men are problem drinkers, with higher rates among men from lower socio-economic status and rural areas. Problem drinking is associated with increased risk of physical and mental health problems, as well as premature death.
A 2018-2019 survey of rural US adults highlighted health care costs and access as major concerns. The study also found a growing addiction to opioids in the region.
A 10-year study found that smokers in England have become less dependent on cigarettes but are less inclined to try to stop smoking. The proportion of smokers trying to quit has declined from 37% to 29.9%, while the number of cigarettes consumed per day has decreased.
A new study finds that 80% of medical students experience a low sense of personal achievement, while 17% report high levels of depersonalization. The study's lead author attributes this to the unique stresses and pressures of each year of medical school.
Four studies involving over 12,000 participants reveal a nuanced link between negative emotion and tobacco use. Sadness is reliably associated with current smoking and relapse rates, as well as impatience and puff volume.
The study found that cannabis use was approximately twice as common among those with depression in 2017 compared to those without. The prevalence of past 30-day cannabis use among those with depression was significantly higher, especially among young adults.