If you've ever wondered where the oft light-heartedly used phrase "drinking the Kool-Aid" came from, it's a dark reference to the 1978 Jonestown tragedy, in which hundreds of cult members were convinced by their leader to commit suicide. However, the story of cult leader Jim Jones begins long before this tragedy. Jim ... Read More
What are the Effects of Toxic Relationships on Mental Health?
If you repeatedly feel more stressed, anxious, or irritable after spending time with someone, this may be a sign that the relationship is toxic. A toxic relationship can occur with anyone, whether it be a family member, a friend, or a romantic partner. Talking to or being around this person may feel like a burden and ... Read More
“I Can’t Meditate” and Overcoming Common Barriers to Quieting Your Mind
Meditation has long been a popular way to maintain a peaceful mind and deal with issues plaguing your mental well-being. However, achieving a meditative state isn't always easy. Obstacles to meditation come in many forms, and many people struggle with achieving the correct state of mind. In this article, we provide ... Read More
Poor Hygeine and Insomnia – Signs of Drug Abuse
What substances interfere with sleep or hygiene? Poor hygiene is a common characteristic when people struggle with substance abuse. Insomnia that results from certain drugs can contribute to this effect. If you notice either of these issues with a friend, colleague, loved one or family member, you may be unsure about ... Read More
What Does It Mean to Focus on Mindfulness?
Mindfulness is a hot topic in the mental wellness space, but what is mindfulness? Learning to live in the moment can be difficult when you struggle with mental illness. Anxiety tends to keep the mind in the future, worrying about what's to come. On the other hand, depression tends to keep the mind in the past, with no ... Read More
Sudden Legal and Employment Issues: Signs of Drug Abuse
Trouble at work or with the law may be one of the first signs that someone you know is struggling with a substance use disorder (SUD). However, signs of an alcoholic employee may not be clearly visible. Often, people who abuse addictive substances create elaborate stories to hide their behavior. With this in mind, ... Read More
The “Napoleon Complex”— Are There Mental Health Implications?
Introduced by Charles Darwin in his 1871 work The Descent of Man, the theory of sexual selection suggests the primary reason for men being taller and stronger than women involves, as Darwin wrote, the "struggle for life." In other words, men who presented characteristics such as tallness, health and aggressiveness were ... Read More
Bloodshot Eyes or Dilated Pupils: A Sign of Drug Abuse
Our bodies are affected by drugs in more ways than we may realize. When someone uses substances, it can change how they walk, talk, and act. Still, one of the biggest "giveaways" someone is under the influence of drugs is the eyes. Drugs and dilated pupils go hand in hand. In this article, we take a look at what ... Read More
