Prevention Education

The World Health Organisation has made it crystal clear: there is no safe level of alcohol consumption. None. Zero. Not a single drop provides health benefits that outweigh the risks. Yet somehow, millions still believe the myth that a glass of wine is good for the heart or that moderate drinking has protective effects. This widespread belief is a result...

Governor Kay Ivey has signed legislation imposing strict Alabama hemp regulation measures, transferring oversight to the state’s Alcoholic Beverage Control Board whilst limiting where residents can purchase these products. The new law significantly restricts cannabis product control by removing hemp items from petrol stations and convenience stores across the state, requiring specialised licensing for retailers who wish to continue sales....

A shocking new analysis has revealed that San Francisco drug addiction affects an estimated 37,500 residents – more than four times the city’s homeless population – challenging common perceptions about where substance abuse problems truly lie. The comprehensive study by UCSF and the Department of Public Health exposes the hidden scale of drug addiction treatment needs across the city, with...

Alcohol advertising is big business in modern media, but how is it impacting young Australians? Recent research sheds light on a disturbing trend, revealing that a massive 70% of Australian kids aged 15–17 have been exposed to alcohol advertising within a single month. With risks such as illness, injury, and increased likelihood of developing alcohol use disorders, now is the...

The tragic death of Matthew Perry, the beloved actor best known for his role as Chandler Bing in the iconic TV series Friends, sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry and his legion of fans worldwide. However, as new developments in the Matthew Perry ketamine death case emerge, they reveal a troubling and complex sequence of events surrounding his use of ketamine....

For years, overdose deaths have been an alarming public health issue. However, a promising trend has emerged. According to the latest data from the CDC, the decline in overdose deaths has been significant, with 48 of the 50 US states reporting reductions. This marks a 26.9% decrease in overdose fatalities between 2023 and 2024, equivalent to about 81 fewer lives lost per...

Enjoying a drink on the weekend? You might want to think twice. New research has unveiled a startling connection between your favourite alcoholic beverages, like beer and spirits, and a significantly increased risk of pancreatic cancer. This revelation adds to the growing concern about alcohol’s role in various health risks, further emphasizing the link between Alcohol Linked to Cancer, as...

Alcohol consumption in the US has been a long-standing concern, but new research unveils a troubling escalation in the number of alcohol-related deaths. A group of leading physicians has sounded the alarm, revealing that deaths caused by alcohol-related liver disease have more than doubled over the past two decades. With significant increases during the Covid pandemic, the findings urge decisive...

A groundbreaking new paper is turning heads across the criminal justice world, challenging the popular push for drug decriminalisation with a bold alternative: diversion beats drug decriminalisation when it comes to real rehabilitation. Breaking the cycle isn’t about going soft on crime. It’s about getting smart with justice. The Problem with Going Easy Whilst decriminalisation sounds progressive, this eye-opening research...

It’s hard to imagine what life would be like next to a drug consumption room. For the residents of Glasgow’s East End, this has become their daily reality since the opening of The Thistle, the UK’s first drug consumption room, in January. While authorities argue that such facilities offer controlled environments for drug users and reduce health risks, locals are...

Vaping, once marketed as a healthier alternative to smoking, has quickly turned into a major addiction issue, often surpassing cigarettes in its hold over users. With vaping devices delivering nicotine in shockingly higher amounts than traditional cigarettes, the concern continues to grow. This shift has put a spotlight on the need for effective Vaping Addiction Treatment, as experts like Anne Penman...

The Liverpool parade incident turned celebrations into catastrophe during Liverpool’s Premier League victory parade when a vehicle ploughed through jubilant crowds, injuring 65 people, some critically. Authorities arrested a 53-year-old man from the West Derby area on suspicion of attempted murder, dangerous driving, and driving while unfit through drugs, heightening concerns about public safety at large-scale events. Tragedy Amid Celebration...

Drug detection dogs have long been a familiar sight at Australian music festivals, often forming part of the overall security strategy aimed at deterring drug use. While their presence is meant to promote safety, recent findings from the National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre (NDARC) raise serious questions about their effectiveness and the unintended consequences of their deployment. The latest...

Barry Keoghan, the acclaimed Irish actor known for standout performances in The Banshees of Inisherin, Dunkirk, and the upcoming Peaky Blinders film, The Immortal Man, has opened up about a deeply personal battle he faced off-screen. Speaking candidly, Keoghan shared his journey through drug addiction, a struggle that left him with physical scars but also taught him valuable lessons about...

Introduction In the haze of cannabis legalization, the dominant narrative whispers reassurances: “It’s natural,” “It’s safer than alcohol,” “No one dies from marijuana.” Yet, these comforting mantras mask a growing body of evidence that demands a reckoning. Cannabis is not the benign substance its advocates claim. Beneath the green marketing lies a darker reality—one marked by sudden deaths, fatal neonatal...

San Francisco is taking a bold step forward in tackling drug addiction with its revised approach to addressing the widespread issue. With this new direction, the updated San Francisco drug policy prioritises treatment and recovery-oriented solutions. In a city plagued by a deadly drug epidemic, largely driven by fentanyl, this shift offers a glimmer of hope. Ultimately, the question remains:...

Rampage killings are on the rise, and with every harrowing news story, the world is left asking the same question – why? From university shootings to vehicular assaults, these acts of violence seem senseless. However, broadcaster Peter Hitchens offers a controversial perspective on Drugs and Rampage Killings that’s gaining attention. Speaking on the Alas Vine & Hitchens podcast, he suggested...

Getting behind the wheel too soon after using marijuana can lead to dangerous outcomes, according to new research from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. A survey revealed that many marijuana users underestimate how impaired they are after consumption, endangering themselves and others on the road. The survey found a troubling trend – 53% of cannabis users admitted to driving...

The rise of illicit nicotine pouches in the UK has become an urgent health and regulatory concern. Once hailed as a harmless alternative for smokers looking to quit, these unregulated pouches are now a growing menace, particularly among teenagers. With brightly coloured packaging and sweet flavours that appear to cater to the younger audience, these nicotine products are flooding UK...

Every year, road accidents claim 1.2 million lives worldwide and leave countless others injured. A significant contributor to these accidents is substance-impaired driving. Despite ongoing efforts to tackle the issue, impaired driving remains a critical public safety concern globally. The prevalence of substance use among injured drivers highlights significant concerns, focusing on alcohol, cannabis, stimulants, opioids, and depressants. Demographic and...

Tackling Scotland’s Rising Alcohol-Related Fatalities Alcohol-related deaths in Scotland have surged to their highest level since 2008, painting a stark picture of the health crisis linked to drinking. A coalition of 70 organisations, including charities and medical institutions, has called for urgent action from the Scottish Government to combat alcohol-related harm. Among their suggestions is a bold proposal to introduce...

Meth Prevention New Zealand: The Urgent Need for Action Bob Penel’s four decades in narcotics enforcement have given him a front-row seat to the evolving methamphetamine crisis and the urgent need for meth prevention. From 1987 to 2009, he raided countless meth labs across California’s Central Valley, witnessing the critical transition from local production by motorcycle gangs to sophisticated industrial...

The Native American opioid crisis continues to challenge communities across the United States, leaving behind devastating impacts. However, shining through this challenging landscape is a beacon of hope in the form of culturally relevant addiction solutions. Pulitzer Center grantee Elyse Wild has taken a closer look at this crisis, sharing her in-depth project, “Two Medicines”, with students and faculty at...

The New York K2 drug problem remains a pressing issue despite marijuana’s legalization in the state. Families and communities are witnessing devastating consequences as this synthetic substance continues to wreak havoc, thriving on the black market. With inexpensive prices and misleading labeling as “potpourri” or “incense,” K2 presents a dangerous challenge that persists amid evolving laws and regulations. The tragic...

Marijuana’s impact in Colorado continues to raise pressing concerns, especially as its use becomes more widespread since legalization. From public health risks to alarming teen statistics, the challenges tied to marijuana use are no laughing matter. Last Sunday, at Denver’s Civic Centre Park, a notable figure from the past emerged at the Mile High 420 Festival. Tommy Chong, famously known...

New data from the White House’s opioid overdose tracker reveals troubling statistics for this year. Two Virginia cities, Roanoke and Richmond, are listed among the locations with the highest nonfatal overdose rates in the United States. The state faces an escalating battle against opioid and stimulant usage, prompting broader conversations about education, awareness, and prevention. This blog post explores the...

For the fourth consecutive year, Virginia’s hopes for a legal retail marijuana market have been dashed. Governor Glenn Youngkin has once again vetoed a bill that would have opened the door to Virginia marijuana sales, closing off one of the state’s most anticipated legislative pathways. This decision keeps the issue of Virginia retail marijuana sales blocked, sparking debate on the...

The memoir Addict by Milton Schorr offers an honest, heart-wrenching account of drug recovery in South Africa. Through his gripping narrative, Schorr, a familiar face from major films like Resident Evil and Tomb Raider, shares the pivotal moments of his addiction as a teenager in Cape Town and his long road to recovery. This moving extract, set against the backdrop...

Philadelphia’s opioid market is changing rapidly, creating fresh challenges for those caring for people affected by drug misuse. New substances like medetomidine are being found in street opioids at record rates, posing unique risks that healthcare providers across the USA must now recognise and address. This blog explores what medetomidine is, how it compares to past adulterants like xylazine, and...

Cannabis use is on the rise, but new evidence highlights a crucial link between cannabis and heart disease. Understanding the impact of cannabis on cardiovascular health is essential, as more people incorporate cannabis into their lives for various reasons. This post explores what recent studies reveal about cannabis, the heart, and the associated risks, so you can make informed decisions...

Alcohol marketing in Australia and New Zealand faces strict regulation, yet many companies are finding ways to sidestep these rules. This article uncovers how alcohol companies breach the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code by making health and nutrition claims in their marketing.If you’re concerned about how alcohol marketers in Australia use misleading tactics, especially to target health-conscious individuals, you’ll...

Legalised marijuana in Colorado has driven a global conversation about drug policy, tax revenue, and the social ramifications that follow. But beyond the headlines on record sales, what are the actual costs, both financial and societal, of this new industry? Drawing on research commissioned by the Centennial Institute at Colorado Christian University, this post examines not just the economic benefits,...

Campaigners and grieving families are criticising drug reform in Northern Ireland as they highlight heartbreaking delays in addiction treatment in Derry. A Mother’s Grief Sparks a Call for Drug Reform Northern Ireland When Pauline Duddy’s daughter Jasmin passed away in February 2023 after taking pregabalin and other substances, Pauline’s world changed forever. A devoted mother from Derry, Pauline has channelled...

The relationship between cannabis and dementia has come under increasing scientific scrutiny as both the potency and use of cannabis have surged worldwide. With cannabis becoming more mainstream, questions have arisen about its long-term impact on cognitive health, memory, and the risk of dementia. Recent studies shed new light on these critical issues, challenging the common belief that cannabis is...

The UK stands at a pivotal moment in public health history with the introduction of the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, a landmark legislation that aims to create a smokefree generation. However, achieving a truly smokefree future requires more than just preventing new smokers—it demands a comprehensive strategy to help existing smokers quit and address the economic burden tobacco places on...

Cannabis vaping is making headlines worldwide, often promoted as a “safer” alternative to smoking. Meanwhile, Drug Trends data from Australia reveal that non-prescribed cannabis use remains high among people who regularly use drugs. But are wider permission models and positive propaganda about cannabis leading to greater engagement, especially among those most at risk? This article dives into Australian data from...

Nitazene overdose in Australia is sharply increasing, and fresh evidence shows these synthetic opioids are far more dangerous than previously believed. The Australia nitazene crisis is no longer a distant threat; it is here, causing serious harm, hospitalisations, and tragic loss of life. What Are Nitazenes? The New Wave of Potent Synthetic Opioids Nitazenes belong to a class of synthetic...

Children as young as 13 are being exposed to dangerous “zombie drug vapes”—vapes secretly mixed with the synthetic drug spice. This alarming trend is leaving parents and schools searching for answers and, more importantly, ways to keep young people safe. How is this happening, and what can be done to help children avoid the shadowy world of spice-laced vaping? What...

Homeless overdose rates highlight the growing mental health crisis across UK support services. But how does a talented musician end up dying from adulterated heroin in a hostel that promised strict safety and support? The story of Joe Black is both a personal tragedy and a damning case study of gaps in social care, covering issues of addiction, mental health,...

Scotland is facing a deeply challenging drug crisis, with 1,172 lives tragically lost to drug misuse in 2023. These are not just numbers; they represent individuals, families, and communities experiencing pain and loss. To address this crisis, proactive drug prevention strategies must come to the forefront. By tackling the causes of substance misuse, we can create stronger and more supportive...

Cannabis-related schizophrenia is on the rise in Ontario, Canada, according to a new study published in JAMA Network Open. Researchers have identified a significant increase in schizophrenia cases connected to cannabis use disorder (CUD), with proportions jumping from 3.7% before marijuana legalisation to 10.3% afterward. Canada’s relaxed marijuana regulations have raised concerns about its mental health impacts. The study highlights that...

Understanding the Growing Threat The issue of fentanyl poisoning in children and adolescents has reached alarming levels and deserves urgent attention. Recent research reveals that from 2015 to 2023, the number of nonfatal fentanyl poisoning cases involving children increased dramatically by more than 1,000 percent. Even more concerning, nearly half of reported cases in 2023 were life-threatening. This blog aims...

Tianeptine is an atypical antidepressant with unique properties that set it apart from other medications in its class. While it was originally developed for managing depression, its significant risks and potential for misuse have raised concerns worldwide. What is Tianeptine? Tianeptine is classified as an atypical tricyclic antidepressant. Despite its initial use as a treatment for depression in various countries,...

A groundbreaking study, published in Neurology, reveals alarming findings about the effects of heavy alcohol consumption on brain health. The research highlights a strong association between heavy drinking and conditions such as brain lesions, cognitive decline, and vascular damage. This study further demonstrates the close link between alcohol and brain damage. Researchers from Brazil’s University of Sao Paulo Medical School analysed...

Synthetic opioids may sound like something out of a medical textbook, but their relevance in today’s world is deeply significant. These laboratory-made substances mimic the effects of natural opioids, such as morphine and codeine. However, their potency and the risks they carry have raised alarm bells globally. This article explores synthetic opioids, shedding light on their origin, uses, effects, and...

Steroid use is a controversial and complex topic that has garnered significant attention over the years. Commonly misused for muscle growth, enhanced performance, or physical appearance, anabolic steroids are synthetic variants of the hormone testosterone. However, behind their appeal lies a range of serious side effects that impact both the mind and body. This article explores everything you need to...

Stimulant drugs, known for their ability to energise and stimulate the body, are a class of substances that function by speeding up the body’s internal systems. However, understanding their origins, effects, and risks is crucial for informed decision-making. This article takes a detailed yet approachable look at stimulants, their uses, and the dangers associated with their misuse. Stimulant drugs, commonly...

Salvia Divinorum has increasingly drawn attention for its potent hallucinogenic effects and cultural significance. Often compared to other psychoactive plants, its unique properties make it a distinctive substance well worth understanding. This article provides an educational overview of its origin, uses, and effects on the mind and body while emphasising the need for awareness surrounding this plant. What is Salvia...

Rohypnol, commonly known as a “date rape” drug, has gained infamy for its misuse in criminal activities. This synthetic drug belongs to the benzodiazepine family, similar to widely prescribed medications like Valium and Xanax. However, unlike those medications, Rohypnol is not approved for medical use in the United States by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Outside the U.S., it...

Psilocybin mushrooms, often referred to as “shrooms” or “magic mushrooms,” have long fascinated cultures worldwide. Derived from specific types of fungi, these mushrooms contain psilocybin, a compound that produces hallucinogenic effects upon consumption. But there’s much more to know about them than their reputation in pop culture. This article aims to educate readers on what psilocybin mushrooms are, their effects,...

Peyote and mescaline are substances known for their hallucinogenic effects. Known through centuries of indigenous use, their impacts on the body and mind can be profound, as can the risks associated with their use. What Are Peyote and Mescaline? Peyote is a small, button-shaped cactus native to northern Mexico and the southwestern United States. Its active ingredient, mescaline, is a...

Oxycodone, a powerful narcotic analgesic, is widely known for its pain-relieving properties. However, its misuse and associated risks highlight the need for greater awareness about its effects and dangers. What Is Oxycodone? Oxycodone is a semi-synthetic drug derived from thebaine, a substance found in the poppy plant. Used medically to manage moderate to severe pain, this narcotic analgesic is available...

Opium, one of the most well-known natural narcotics, has a complex history and a profoundly impactful presence in our world today. This article sheds light on everything you need to know about opium, from its origin and effects to its usage and legal status. Whether you’re curious about its history, form, or the risks associated with it, this educational post...

Narcotics, also known as opioids, have played a significant role in medicine and society for centuries. Derived from the Greek word for “stupor,” narcotics are substances widely used to relieve pain and induce relaxation. However, these drugs have a complex duality—they are vital in medical treatments but also pose significant risks when misused. Whether in the form of prescription medication...

Morphine is a powerful opiate painkiller, known for its ability to relieve severe pain but also infamous for its high potential for misuse. This article explores everything you need to know about morphine, from its origins and uses to its effects on the body and legal status. Whether you’re seeking to understand its role in medical treatments or its potential...

Methamphetamine—commonly referred to as meth—is a powerful and highly addictive stimulant that affects the central nervous system. Known for its ability to produce a fast and intense high, meth has grown into one of the most dangerous and widely abused drugs across the globe. This blog explores everything you need to know about methamphetamine, from what it is and where...

Methadone has played a significant role in medicine, yet it remains a widely misunderstood substance. Whether used under professional supervision or misused, methadone is a complex drug that demands careful handling. But what exactly is methadone, where did it come from, and what are its risks? This educational blog outlines all you need to know about methadone, including its origins,...

LSD, also known as lysergic acid diethylamide, is a potent hallucinogen with a storied history and significant effects on the mind and body. Despite its high potential for misuse, its allure remains prevalent due to its profound mind-altering experiences. However, understanding LSD—what it is, how it affects individuals, and its legal status—can provide critical insights into this powerful substance. What...

A tropical tree native to Southeast Asia, kratom has garnered widespread attention in recent years, especially in the United States. Known for its ability to act as a stimulant in smaller doses and a sedative in larger ones, it has sparked both fascination and debate. But what exactly is this plant, how is it used, and what impacts does it...

Khat has been a subject of growing curiosity and debate in recent years. This flowering evergreen shrub is native to East Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, where it is deeply ingrained in cultural and social traditions. Known for its stimulant-like effects, khat is used in various forms, often sparking questions about its impact on the mind, body, and legality. This...

The rise of vaping and marijuana concentrates has introduced new ways to consume cannabis, accompanied by plenty of questions and concerns. While these highly potent substances promise a stronger effect than traditional marijuana, they also come with risks that are worth exploring. What Are Marijuana Concentrates? A marijuana concentrate refers to a highly potent form of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol)—the psychoactive component...

A Trading Standards investigation revealed a shocking finding—13% of supposedly “nicotine-free” vapes sold in the UK actually contained nicotine. This startling finding forms part of a larger report from Operation Joseph, a Department of Health and Social Care-backed initiative aimed at monitoring the sale of illicit vapes and ensuring compliance with regulations. If you’re concerned about what you’re inhaling when...

The Home Office Wastewater Analysis Programme (WWAP) provides critical insights into drug consumption patterns across England and Scotland. By analysing wastewater, experts are gaining new understanding of illicit substance use, which can inform policies and initiatives aimed at addressing drug misuse. This article explores how the WWAP operates, its findings, and the limitations of this innovative approach. How Wastewater Analysis Tracks Drug...

The years between 2006 and 2024 saw dramatic shifts in smoking prevalence across England. A major driver of positive change has been tobacco control, an essential public health measure. However, despite progress, regional inequalities and socio-economic disparities in smoking persist, with the North of England showing remarkable improvements while the South lags in certain areas. This blog examines the trends...

Mike Campbell, guitarist for Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, shared a candid account of Tom Petty’s heroin addiction and its profound impact on the legendary musician’s life. Speaking in interviews and recounting his story in his memoir, Heartbreaker, Campbell revealed efforts to confront Petty about his drug use during the 1990s would have ended in failure. Petty’s strong-willed nature, Campbell explained, meant he...

The first randomised controlled trial on microdosing LSD for ADHD has revealed that the approach does not significantly improve symptoms when compared to a placebo. The findings challenge popular beliefs surrounding the effectiveness of LSD microdosing for ADHD treatment in managing attention and focus issues. The study, conducted by Matthias Liechti and his colleagues at the University of Basel in Switzerland, involved 53 adult...

The Serious Link Between Cannabis Use and Heart Attacks Recent studies have revealed alarming data about cannabis use and heart health risks. For individuals under 50, cannabis users are more than six times as likely to suffer a heart attack compared to non-users. This raises important concerns for millions of people, especially since 1 in 5 adults report using cannabis....

Blackburn with Darwen Council has bolstered its fight against addiction by awarding four-year contracts valued at £243,246 annually. These commitments fund trusted providers delivering residential drug and alcohol rehabilitation services across 13 The Council funds comprehensive recovery programmes by allocating £214,817 per year for detoxification services. Esteemed organisations like Adferiad Recovery and Turning Point Services deliver this crucial first step...

What Are Nicotine Pouches? Nicotine pouches are small, tobacco-free sachets placed between the gum and lip, releasing nicotine into the body. These products have gained popularity in the UK since their introduction in 2019, with brands like ZYN, Velo, and Nordic Spirit leading the market. Marketing campaigns present pouches as a discreet, convenient alternative to smoking or vaping, available in...

New Measures to Combat Drug Networks France is taking decisive steps to confront the rise in drug trafficking and related violence. Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin and Justice Minister Bruno Retailleau have introduced new legislation targeting drug networks as part of an intensified “France drug policy.” The government aims to dismantle trafficking organisations through tougher law enforcement and the creation of...

The Drug and Alcohol Treatment and Recovery Workforce Capability Framework aims to revolutionise the treatment and recovery sector, adapting it to the evolving needs of society. Rooted in the insights from Professor Dame Carol Black’s Independent Review of Drugs, the framework addresses the gaps left by the outdated Drug and Alcohol National Occupational Standards (DANOS). This article dives into the...

Drug overdose deaths in the United States saw a notable decline between 2022 and 2023, dropping 4.0%. New figures show the age-adjusted mortality rate decreased from 32.6 deaths per 100,000 to 31.3. Despite this progress, drug poisoning fatalities remain a critical public health concern, contributing significantly to unintentional injuries, the fourth leading cause of death in the country. West Virginia...

The relationship between alcohol consumption and cholesterol levels has been a topic of intrigue among researchers and health professionals for decades. While some studies suggest that moderate alcohol consumption may lead to healthier cholesterol levels, the risks tied to excessive drinking cast a significant shadow. A recent study conducted in Japan sheds new light on the long-term impact of alcohol...

Fentanyl addiction continues to devastate lives across the United States, with survivors and their families confronting immense challenges. This gripping reality shines through the experiences of four women who have battled opioid dependency, as they fight for recovery and the hope of a brighter future. Crystal Quigley’s Struggles with Fentanyl Addiction Crystal Quigley, a 39-year-old mother, reveals how fentanyl addiction upended her life. Despite...

The Hartlepool drug and alcohol service will temporarily relocate. This is part of a £3.6 million redevelopment plan for its current Whitby Street centre. The service provides vital support to individuals facing substance misuse. It will move to Bevan House on Avenue Road in April. Council authorities declared the existing facility unfit for purpose, prompting the need for the upcoming...

Illicit substance abuse is a prevalent issue among adults experiencing homelessness. The misuse of drugs continues to impact health, wellbeing, and efforts to achieve stability for those affected. Recent research offers a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by this vulnerable group in seeking support to overcome addiction. The Scope of Illicit Substance Abuse A recent study revealed that 37%...

Opioid use after surgery is a topic of increasing concern worldwide, especially in the context of the opioid epidemic. New persistent opioid use (NPOU), defined as continued opioid use three to six months after surgery beyond the typical recovery period, presents significant challenges for healthcare systems and patients alike. While much research has focused on the United States and the...

Silicon Valley has long been known for pushing boundaries, whether in tech innovation or in self-improvement methods. One increasingly controversial trend is the rise of ketamine-fueled ‘psychedelic slumber parties,’ marketed as elite off-site retreats for executives. But beneath the promises of breakthrough insights and newfound clarity lie significant risks, both physical and psychological. These off-sites, orchestrated with stuffed animals, rose...

Suicide is a devastating public health challenge impacting individuals, families, and communities worldwide. One often overlooked factor that plays a significant role in increasing suicide risk is acute alcohol use (AAU)—the consumption of alcohol shortly before an attempt. Research shows that AAU not only amplifies impulsivity and psychological distress but also influences the methods individuals choose when attempting suicide. By...

The Pacific Ocean might seem like an endless and untouched expanse of water, but beneath its shimmering waves lies a growing problem—an expansive drug trade route dubbed the Pacific Drug Highway. Connecting Latin America to Oceania, this trafficking route is reshaping the global narcotics trade and leaving a devastating impact on the Pacific Islands, New Zealand, and Australia. This blog...