MJ and Boomers, Driving and as a Teen Brain Stunter
Recent marijuana stories look at the increase in use (or return to use) of pot by the boomer generation. New laws regarding marijuana use and driving are considered. And a recent study shows that using marijuana as a teen can permanently damage the brain structure and lead to mental illness. PODCAST.
Celebrity death highlights combining alcohol with downers
The death of celebrites drives home facts about addiction – like the dangers of combining downer drugs with alcohol. The recent death of Corey Monteith is an example. Corey was recently in treatment recently – highlighting the importance of treatment followup and aftercare. When someone relapses and returns to his drug of choice at the same dosage level as before, they are at a high risk for OD. We chat about the 12-Step program, in the context of treatment, and new research in brain functions and addiction. PODCAST.
Smoking, Advertising and Stress, Addiction to Technology, Online Treatment
New rules on cigarette packaging are making cigarettes taste not as good, smokers are saying. And the related issue of the rise in smoking right after 9/11, and other effects of stress in America. Also, a recent editorial suggested the recent San Francisco airliner crash may have been partly over-dependence on technology. And the idea of offering vets addiction treatment via the internet is being weighed. PODCAST.
Marijuana is amotivational? and UN World Report 2013
New research using PET scans shows long-term a-motivational syndrome in pot smokers. Also the new yearly UN drug report – showing cocaine and meth use flat, and skyrocketing use of new synthetics: spice, bath salts, etc. PODCAST.
Ritalin to treat coke? Pot drawing venture capitalists
The ADHD drug Ritalin may be useful in breaking the hold of cocaine addiction, according to a recent study Also a look at the rather astounding amount of money being poured by venture capitalists into marijuana oriented websites, and business prospects. PODCAST.
Harm Reduction and E-Cigarettes
We consider the growing popularity of e-cigarettes from the perspective of harm reduction – the nicotine addiction continues, but the e-cig doesnt have all the tars, resins and carbon monoxide of smoking tobacco. Also some thoughts on harm reduction through substitutions – like excessive exercise, obsessive 12-Step meetings, etc. PODCAST.