APA Blogs
21 Results
How to Help Those with Opioid Use Disorder in Jails & Prisons
- By Anthony Tamburello, M.D., DFAPA, CCHP
By now we all know that opioids like heroin, prescription painkillers, and fentanyl are deadly. What doesn’t get as much attention is the wider damage done by problem use of these substances, including losses of relationships and jobs, declining health, and financial strain. These concerns affect not only the individual but also every person close to them.
Clinicians Resources Roundup: Opioid Use Disorder
The American Psychiatric Association (APA) is launching a public education effort this fall on addictions and opioid use disorder (OUD). More information and resources for the public are available here in English, and in Spanish. The APA also has free and/or low-cost education for clinicians and APA members on OUD, available in various formats.
The Opioid Crisis: Impact, Challenges, and Paths to Recovery
- By John A. Fromson, M.D.
Opioids are a class of drugs that include prescription painkillers like oxycodone and hydrocodone, illegal drugs like heroin, and synthetic opioids such as fentanyl. These substances bind to opioid receptors in the brain, producing pain relief and euphoria. Prolonged use can lead to tolerance, dependence, and addiction, characteristic of opioid use disorder (OUD). Fentanyl, due to its potency, has played a particularly lethal role in the opioid crisis.
Vaping is Unhealthy. Tips and Resources to Help Quit.
- By John A. Fromson, M.D.
Electronic (e-) cigarettes, or vaping devices, were first introduced to adults in the early 2000s as a potential smoking cessation aid. They gained popularity due to their perceived reduced harm compared to traditional cigarettes. The devices often resemble traditional tobacco cigarettes (cig-a-likes), cigars, or pipes, as well as pens and USB memory sticks. Users inhale an aerosol (vapor), containing nicotine or marijuana/THC, flavorings, and other chemicals. E-cigarettes have evolved over time, with newer devices offering higher nicotine concentrations and customizable flavors.
Gambling Disorder Screening Day: What You Should Know
Over the past couple of years, there has been a tremendous increase in the availability and easy access to gambling, especially sports betting, across the country. It would have been hard to miss the recent barrage of advertising around sports betting. Online and mobile phone access also increases the potential for individuals to develop problems with gambling.