Synthetic cannabinoids, often marketed as “legal highs” or “herbal incense,” have gained popularity in recent years as an alternative to natural cannabis. These lab-produced compounds are designed to mimic the effects of THC, the active ingredient in marijuana, but their chemical structures can vary significantly.  Due to their unpredictable nature, synthetic cannabinoids are associated with … Read more

Cannabis, often viewed as a recreational substance or a medical aid, has grown in popularity over the years due to its legalization in several regions and its widespread use for pain management.  While some individuals use cannabis without experiencing negative consequences, others may develop cannabis use disorder (CUD), a condition that can significantly impact mental … Read more

Alcohol withdrawal is a challenging and often dangerous process that occurs when a person who has been drinking heavily or regularly stops or significantly reduces their alcohol consumption.  The symptoms of alcohol withdrawal can range from mild discomfort to severe physical and psychological reactions, and understanding these symptoms is crucial for managing the process safely. … Read more

Alcoholic hallucinosis is a psychiatric condition that involves hallucinations occurring during or shortly after heavy alcohol consumption.  Hallucinations are sensory experiences that appear real but are created by the mind. Unlike delirium tremens (DTs), which often present with more severe symptoms such as confusion and seizures, alcoholic hallucinosis is marked primarily by vivid auditory, visual, … Read more

Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) is a chronic condition that affects millions of individuals worldwide. It is characterized by an inability to control alcohol consumption despite negative consequences, which can lead to significant physical, emotional, and social problems.  While moderate alcohol consumption is common in many cultures, AUD occurs when drinking escalates beyond control and results … Read more

Substance dependence, commonly known as addiction, is a chronic condition marked by the compulsive use of a substance despite its negative consequences. It involves both psychological and physical components, where an individual develops tolerance, experiences withdrawal symptoms, and feels an overwhelming urge to continue using the substance.  Over time, substance dependence can significantly impair a … Read more

Substance withdrawal occurs when an individual reduces or stops the use of a substance they have become physically dependent on. This condition can arise from the abrupt cessation or reduction of alcohol, drugs, or prescription medications.  The symptoms and severity of withdrawal vary depending on the substance, the duration of use, and the individual’s health. … Read more

Substance intoxication and withdrawal are central elements in the discussion of substance use disorders, representing two distinct stages of a person’s interaction with a substance. Intoxication occurs when a person consumes a substance to the point where it interferes with normal brain function, resulting in altered behavior, mood, or physical state.  Withdrawal, on the other … Read more

Substance-induced disorders encompass a wide range of psychological and physical effects resulting from the use of alcohol, drugs, or other substances. These disorders can significantly impact mental health, leading to a complex interaction between substance use and underlying mental health conditions.  Substance abuse is often a coping mechanism for individuals struggling with mental health issues, … Read more

Amnesia, often associated with memory loss, is a complex condition that disrupts an individual’s ability to recall past experiences or form new memories. It affects not only the person experiencing it but also their loved ones and caregivers, as memory plays a crucial role in shaping our identities and managing daily life.  While the term … Read more