Behavioral addictions are similar to substance use addictions, except with behavioral addictions a person compulsively engages in a behavior or activity, rather than using a substance problematically. Like substance use disorder, the compulsion for behavioral addiction is driven by a dysfunction of the brain’s reward networks, especially the dopamine system. Read More

Cannabis use disorder (CUD) is a recognized medical condition in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Health Disorder, 5th edition (DSM-5). It describes cannabis use that causes harm or distress related to the inability to control or stop use.CUD is often misunderstood because it is seen as less severe… Read More

Substance use disorder (SUD) is a mental condition that causes a person to use substances even in the face of negative consequences. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, substance use disorder affects a person’s brain function and behavior, making them unable to control how they use substances (legal… Read More

Dopamine, often called the “feel-good” chemical, plays a central role in the brain’s reward system. It regulates pleasure, motivation, and the formation of habits. Drugs and alcohol artificially stimulate dopamine release and create an intense sense of reward, leading to compulsive use. Understanding dopamine’s role in addiction helps us see… Read More

Addiction is a chronic disease that affects the brain’s reward center. Understanding the neurobiological impacts of addiction in and on the brain helps make treatment more successful and reduces the stigma around the disease. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse’s Drugs, Brains, and Behavior: The Science of… Read More

Addiction is a chronic condition that can have serious negative impacts on individuals, families and society. Addiction can significantly impact your physical and mental health, relationships, and overall quality of life. It is a complex medical disorder, ultimately caused by a change in brain chemistry. Addiction falls into two categories:Substance… Read More

Understanding "Drinksgiving" and Its Impact on Holiday Travel as this unofficial holiday has become more popular. As the holiday season approaches, a significant trend known as "Drinksgiving" or "Blackout Wednesday" is emerging. This event occurs the day before Thanksgiving and has become a popular occasion for college students to reunite with hometown friends over drinks before spending time with family. Key Points: Holiday Travel Surge: This year is anticipated to be the busiest holiday travel season ever, with 80 million people traveling for Thanksgiving. Rise in Alcohol Consumption: On "Drinksgiving," alcohol sales have been reported to increase by 70% compared to other Wednesdays, highlighting its growing popularity. Safety Concerns: The increase in social drinking raises concerns about potential negative consequences such as driving under the influence, which remains a critical issue. The legal blood alcohol concentration limit is 0.08% in both Alabama and Georgia. Community Awareness: Experts like Sarah Church, CEO of Wholeview Wellness, emphasize the importance of enjoying social gatherings responsibly to avoid regrettable actions and ensure safety during the holiday celebrations. Conclusion While "Drinksgiving" offers an opportunity for socialization and reunion, it is crucial to prioritize safety and responsibility, particularly regarding drinking and driving. Enjoy the festivities but remain aware of the potential risks involved. Read More

This year, more people are leaving alcohol out of their holiday celebrations. After years of debate over the healthiness of drinking, overwhelming research suggests that less is more. That has doctors are recommending no drinking over drinking in moderation.Then, a bombshell cancer study came along. Dr. Sarah Church, who’s treated substance use for 20 years, says it debunks the myth of moderate drinking. “The heavier your alcohol use, the higher your cancer risk is and that’s for everything in the whole the digestive tract, so that’s everything from mouth and head and neck cancers to esophageal cancers, intestinal and colon cancer, all the way through,” Church said. “Breast cancer is actually associated with alcohol use, so that’s something people don’t necessarily know but it’s becoming more and more known throughout the research.” Read More