Addiction news covering opioids, alcohol, treatment access, harm reduction, overdose trends, and recovery policy.
Adam Kennedy argues that ketamine addiction has severe physical consequences, citing his own bedbound experience due to painful bladder issues. The piece highlights rising usage among young adults in England and Wales, positioning Kennedy’s recovery work as a response to this growing public health concern.
Fr Peter McVerry argues that referring first-time drug offenders to the HSE for treatment is laughable due to severe service delays. He contends that waiting times of five months or more render such referrals ineffective, undermining the policy's intent.
A new study reveals that over 19 million Americans are currently struggling with marijuana addiction, a figure rising annually since 2021. Marijuana use has increased by more than 65% over the past decade, while addiction rates have nearly quadrupled since 2015. Approximately one in three users develops an addiction.
CNET argues that excessive smartphone use is a widespread issue causing physical and mental health risks. The article cites data showing high daily usage rates and links device addiction to distracted driving fatalities, anxiety, and social isolation, suggesting awareness is the first step toward mitigation.
The commentary argues that Dublin is experiencing a severe crack cocaine epidemic comparable to the 1980s heroin crisis, disproportionately affecting homeless populations. It highlights the drug's low cost and high addictiveness, while featuring insights from Eddie Mullins on the societal impact and treatment challenges.
Officials in the West Midlands are preparing to tackle a crisis of over 600 drug-related fatalities between 2022 and 2024. Birmingham recorded the highest regional death rate at 10 per 100,000 people. The findings will be presented to the local scrutiny committee on Monday.
British Olympian Freddie Woodward argues that his personal struggle with pornography addiction, which developed alongside his elite diving career, illustrates a widespread issue. He contends that early exposure and subtle habituation can corrode life areas without immediate recognition, urging others to seek help for similar silent suffering.
Romi Butler and Herbert Harvey were arrested in Memphis after intercepting a mail package containing 2.6 pounds of fentanyl, equivalent to approximately 500,000 lethal doses. Butler faces aggravated assault charges after his vehicle struck a deputy's car during the stop, while Harvey was detained on foot nearby.
The article reports on a new mural in Byappanahalli, Bengaluru, created by the Rotary E-Club and artist Sayam Porey to raise awareness about drug abuse. It highlights the collaboration with local police and argues that visual art on public walls is more effective than traditional billboards for social messaging.
Slate's advice columnists argue that the writer must first address his alcohol use with a therapist before deciding whether to disclose his sexual encounter with his fiancée's brother. They contend that disclosure should be evaluated based on whether it serves honest repair or merely alleviates the writer's selfish guilt.