NARCONON AUTHOR

Ren

After working in addiction treatment for several years, Ren now travels the country, studying drug trends and writing about addiction in our society. Ren is focused on using his skill as an author and counselor to promote recovery and effective solutions to the drug crisis. Connect with Ren on LinkedIn.

DRUG INFORMATION

Why You’re Not Yourself When You Drink, Part 3

Alcohol is a mind-altering substance that affects those who consume it in myriad ways. Because alcohol’s effects differ from person to person, it can be challenging to predict or isolate how alcohol will impact those who consume it. However, researchers at the University of Missouri-Columbia have found a direct relationship between alcohol and self-control.

DRUG INFORMATION

Why You’re Not Yourself When You Drink, Part 2

The idea that “you’re not yourself when you drink” has been around for decades. Alcohol is a mind-altering substance; when people drink it, it changes them mentally, emotionally, and physically. Alcohol affects everyone differently, and its effects...

DRUG INFORMATION

Why You’re Not Yourself When You Drink, Part 1

There are many aspects connected to alcohol consumption that may cause people to behave poorly. Alcohol is a mind-altering substance, and it affects people in different ways. However, new data shows alcohol consumption may affect all drinkers in at least...

STATISTICS & TRENDS

Illicit Use of Ketamine on the Rise

Ketamine has been used recreationally in the U.S. for some time, but only recently have usage rates increased significantly, and only recently has the drug become a major drug of concern. Law enforcement offices are reporting spikes in ketamine busts and...

DRUG INFORMATION

What Are Poppers?

It’s important to monitor new drug trends as they arise, as every trend brings new risks to addicts. While the usage of “poppers” is not new, this drug trend is making a bold comeback, posing risks to a new generation of drug users.

DRUG INFORMATION

What Is the Scope of Club Drug Experimentation Today?

Club drugs refer to a category of drugs often associated with nightclubs, dance parties, music festivals, and raves. The drugs became prominent in the 1990s, and the use of such substances is still quite common. Some studies report an increase in interest...

STATISTICS & TRENDS

CDC Reports U.S. Overdoses Reach New High

The CDC recently published its most current provisional data regarding total U.S. drug overdoses for the 12 months between May 2022 and April 2023. According to the new data, 112,024 people across the U.S. died from drug overdoses in that period, compared...

DRUG INFORMATION

Drug Use and Cardiac Complications Go Hand-in-Hand

A paper published by the European Society of Cardiology found a connection between drug use and serious heart complications requiring intensive cardiac care unit treatment. Further, the research indicated addicts might experience long-term health complications...

STATISTICS & TRENDS

Alcohol Liver Disease on the Rise Among Young Americans

A recent report broke the news that alcohol-related liver disease is rising among young Americans. The findings are a surprise because alcohol-related liver problems used to be unheard of among this age group.

DRUG INFORMATION

What Is the Scope of Fentanyl Use Today?

Fentanyl, the powerful synthetic opioid that is similar to morphine but is anywhere from 50–100 times more potent, has become the leading cause of drug overdose fatalities in the United States. Its widespread use is extremely grim because even as some...

STATISTICS & TRENDS

Opioid Users Are Overwhelmingly Exposed to Fentanyl

A survey out of New York City found something quite alarming. According to the survey, about 80% of IV drug users in New York City tested positive for fentanyl, but only 18% intended to use that specific drug. These findings showcase the harmful issues...

STATISTICS & TRENDS

New Research Data Shows Cannabis and Hallucinogen Usage Rates Continue to Rise Among Adults

While it’s common for certain drug use trends to come in and out of popularity, the trend of cannabis and hallucinogen use has been quite concerning in that usage of these drugs has steadily risen, uninterrupted, for several years. Further, interest...

ADDICTION

Commit to Getting Clean in 2024

The scope of drug addiction in America continues to expand, and annual deaths from drug-related causes continue to increase. 2024 can be the Year of Recovery, but the family members and loved ones of people who struggle with addiction will need to step...

STATISTICS & TRENDS

Drug Overdoses Climb During the Winter Months

Scientific studies have shown that there is an increased risk for fatal drug overdoses following cold weather, suggesting people with an addiction should seek help as soon as possible, lest they become just another statistic.

STATISTICS & TRENDS

Latest Findings Show Number of Addicts in America Doubled in Recent Years

According to the latest National Survey on Drug Use and Health, about 16.5% of people aged 12 or older in the U.S. in 2021 (46.3 million people) met the criteria for addiction and needed substance use treatment. This is significant news because, in years...

STATISTICS & TRENDS

Alcoholic Liver Disease Deaths are on the Rise

This article ties in recent data from a study on alcoholic liver disease with new data from the NIAAA on alcohol consumption in the U.S., showing how America’s increase in alcohol consumption directly affects lifespan and quality of life for millions...

STATISTICS & TRENDS

Michigan Healthcare Scheme Involved Opioids

A story broke in early 2023 that revealed a Detroit-area doctor had been sentenced to nearly 17 years in prison and was ordered to pay $30 million. The crime? Leading a scheme to bill Medicare and private insurers for unnecessary painkiller injections...

ADDICTION

Staying Clean and Preventing Relapse During the Holidays

The holidays are a time of celebration and joy, but they can also be a difficult season for those in recovery from drug and alcohol addiction. Stress, tense emotions, high expectations, social demands, year-end career targets, and other factors combine...

DRUG INFORMATION

Alcohol Consumption in One’s Youth Now Connected to Another Health Harm Later in Life

Findings from a UK study connected young adult alcohol use to frailty later in life, particularly as it pertains to losing muscle mass. According to the report, those examined in the study group with the lowest muscle mass drank about a bottle of wine...

STATISTICS & TRENDS

Data Now Suggests Home Delivery of Alcohol During Pandemic Created Permanent, Long-Term Harm

New business strategies sprung up during COVID-19 lockdowns. While many such ideas were innovative and helpful, some caused harm. For example, one strategy implemented by alcohol manufacturers involved delivering alcohol to the doorsteps of people who...