Blog What is the Opioid Crisis, and what caused it? Since the 1990s, the US has seen significant increases in the rates of opioid abuse and opioid-related deaths. In fact, the issue has become so severe and prominent in the country, that many health organizations have categorized this crisis as a national emergency and an “Opioid Epidemic.” The Opioid Crisis describes the abuse of prescription opioids like oxycodone and non-prescribed opioids like heroin and fentanyl. During the 1990s, pharmaceutical companies began increasing their production of prescription medications. In order to sell the amount they were producing, these companies encouraged doctors … Continue reading →

Blog Substance Use Disorder Prevention during COVID-19 The COVID-19 pandemic is a difficult experience for everyone, especially students and young adults. Due to social restrictions created by the pandemic, students have less access to friends, family, and other support systems to help manage stress and anxiety. This may prompt students to begin turning to prescription medications or other substances to cope. With many help centers and facilities closed, it is even more difficult for students to get help. That is why students must learn and practice various staying relaxed, calm, and happy despite circumstances to prevent or decrease potential substance … Continue reading →

Blog Drug Abuse During the Holidays It is nearing the end of October, meaning the beginning of the holiday season! Halloween parties and events, celebrations with friends, and more time spent with family are the first things that come to mind. But along with all these wonderful aspects of the holidays, we must consider the increased danger of drug abuse in young adults. Why is this such a danger, though? Coming up most quickly is Halloween. It is a beautiful reason for students to meet with friends, but it also offers an excuse for parties and party culture, where students … Continue reading →

Blog The Dangers of Mixing Prescription Drugs with Alcohol As this blog and the facts on this website demonstrate, there are real health risks associated with prescription drug misuse. These dangers are due to how prescription drugs interact with our bodies, for example, by slowing down our breathing and heart rate. However, these chemical interactions can become even more dangerous and fast-acting when prescription drugs are used with alcohol.   Just as different prescription medications carry their risks, when these various types of prescription medications are mixed with alcohol, the effects will differ. For example, when painkillers like oxycodone are … Continue reading →