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Substance Abuse
Hometown Health Blog
Tailoring substance use recovery for LGBTQ+ people
Substance abuse poses unique challenges for the LGBTQ+ community, with higher rates of substance misuse and addiction. Learn how tailored treatment can help, and get tips for finding an inclusive support group.
Help your teen navigate celebrations substance-free
It can be tough to talk with your teen about drugs and alcohol. It's essential to have these conversations long before events, such as graduations and weddings. These tips can get you started.
Binge drinking and your body
While there are some benefits of moderate alcohol use, there are no health benefits for heavy or binge drinking. Here's how it affects your body, including your brain, immune system and liver.
How youth marijuana, alcohol use impacts life
Talking early with your children about the risks of marijuana and alcohol use may prevent the first use. Get tips to start a conversation about avoiding substance use.
What effect does alcohol have on your health — and your liver?
During the COVID-19 pandemic, national alcohol sales have increased more than 50%. Learn about the serious effects alcohol has on your well-being and body.
Recognizing, addressing loved ones' alcohol use
Alcohol is the most used substance for youth and adults. During Alcohol Awareness Month, learn the signs that alcohol is an issue with loved ones, and get tips for providing support for recovery.
Have you talked to your children about alcohol use?
Caring adults in children's lives have the power of influence. Get tips to help you talk with your children about the dangers of alcohol — it could save a life.
Managing substance abuse disorders during the COVID-19 pandemic
COVID-19 has interrupted daily routines and caused many people to feel uncertain, stressed or isolated. While this is a difficult time for many, it can be especially challenging for those with underlying substance use disorder. Learn why, and get coping strategies.
Finding happiness, gratitude in sobriety
Addiction changes the brain in a way that limits your ability to feel happy. In time, and with sobriety, the brain heals and learns to send the right cues again.
Second chance: A new beginning after years of addiction
It was an ordinary trip for Randy Gruhlke to the store to fix his cellphone, when the clerk smelled his breath and was concerned by his behavior.
One woman's addiction journey
Suzanne first tried alcohol as a teenager and did not like the taste. As a college student, she enjoyed the way it made her feel. And, as a married adult with children, it became a problematic situation.
The problem with kids and cannabis
Young people receive a mixed message about how safe it is for them to use cannabis (marijuana). Cannabis has been legalized for medical or recreational purposes in 23 states and the District of Columbia. The federal government has ended its ban on medical marijuana. New Mexico has authorized the use of medical marijuana without age stipulations. So what's the problem with kids using cannabis?