Neurogenesis and addiction
Neurogenesis – the process of making new nerve cells in the brain – is leading to a new theory on the role of the hippocampus – and implications for avoiding addiction and reducing relapses. Dr Inaba shares his perspective and insights.
DSM-5 draft released for comment
Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) was released for public comment recently. The bible of the mental health community – its used in defining what is a mental disorder by establishing criteria and terminology. The changes will have far reaching impacts -medical, legal, mental health treatment, research – with potentially billions of dollars at stake. And controversy is already swirling. Dr Inaba comments.
Children of Alcoholics Week and sweets, depression & alcoholism
Children of Alcoholics Awareness Week and a new study looking at the craving sweets, depression and the tendency toward alcoholism in children.
Treatment alternatives, the placebo effect and FDA approval process
Alternative treatment approach, such as the Buddhist 12-step program, “drunk-dreaming” and a new study highlighting the power of placebos. Dr Inaba comments.
Mental Health Parity Act still delayed; aging baby-boomers change the landscape of addictions
The Mental Health Parity Act should go into effect this summer, increasing the availability of addiction treatment, just as aging baby-boomers begin to need more treatment for the cumulative effects of addictions.
Menthol cigarettes more addicting? and more part-time smokers
Recent studies look at menthol cigarettes — whether they are more addicting and more hazardous; also the rise in numbers of part-time smokers.