Addiction

Flavors do more than make vapes more addictive—they may also expose users to potentially harmful chemicals.

Phones and technology, so mundane in our lives, may be quietly robbing us of things we didn’t know we needed—until stepping away.

Evidence connects addiction to higher-potency products and recreational use of cannabis.

Shared meals may create space for connection, routine, and accountability—factors tied to lower substance use among teens.

Video games aren’t a neutral way to relax. Built to discourage stopping, they can become unhealthy for teens who rely on them to relieve stress.

The symptoms can be extreme and, at their worst, have been dubbed "scromiting," or screaming in pain while vomiting.

Weight-loss medications don’t address root causes of emotional eating, which can be complex.

Eighth graders are among the top users of the unregulated 'party drug.'

Benign cancerous growths in the salivary glands, while not life-threatening, can cause discomfort, swelling, and, in some cases, functional problems.

Experts call for more research as small sample size limits definitive conclusions.

Scientists have found a potential mechanism connecting cannabis use to psychosis risk: elevated dopamine levels in key brain regions.

The government announced plans to ban disposable vapes last January, with the measure coming into force on June 1.

Even moderate drinking increases the risk of brain vascular damage by 60 percent. 

Millions take benzodiazepines as prescribed, unaware that dependence can begin within weeks—trapping them between use and withdrawal.

Nonalcoholic drinks are rising in popularity and may offer a similar taste and social experience.

Although alcohol use among teens is decreasing, the use of drugs may be on the rise.

Gamers total 71 percent of the U.S. population and, on average, spend at least one month per year gaming. How does this affect emotions, cognition, and senses?

Using alcohol to cope with menstrual pain may lead to even more problems, experts warn.

Although not fully understood, cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome symptoms include nausea, cyclic vomiting, and abdominal pain.

Research has linked ultra-processed foods to mental health issues, prompting scientists to suggest strategies to discourage their consumption.

A 16-year Canadian study of 13.5 million people reveals significant increase in psychosis and schizophrenia cases among young cannabis users.

Research shows that up to 68 percent of regular users experience decreased brain activation, particularly affecting cognitive processing. 

Medical cannabis users aged 18–49 may face higher risks of cannabis use disorder compared to recreational users.

Learn about the complexities of food addiction, its relationship with ultra-processed foods, and emerging treatment approaches.

Drug poisoning, cardiometabolic conditions, and social factors drive death increases in people ages 25 to 44.

Gokushovirus—linked to serotonin and dopamine metabolism—was found in higher amounts in those who are obese and struggle with cravings.

Doomscrolling has been linked to existential anxiety, pessimism, and a grim outlook on one’s life and future.