Narconon Blog

New research out of Great Britain connects rising cocaine use trends to permanent damage in the nasal passages, such that cocaine users lose their sense of smell and may even experience serious infections and tissue loss in their nasal passages.

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When someone you love is dealing with addiction, the truth can be hard to face. You’re not alone in having a hard time dealing with the personality and behavior changes of the one you love. The list of the most common behaviors below is provided to help you separate fact from the fiction offered by the person with the addiction. Once you know what’s going on, you can make better decisions and take the right actions.

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1. Marijuana smoke contains carcinogens, 2. Smoking marijuana can cause lung damage, 3. Marijuana use is addictive, 4. Weed can damage ambition and motivation, 5. Marijuana depletes the body’s natural reserves, 6. Marijuana use is hard on your heart and blood vessels, 7. Weed use impairs mental abilities, 8. Heavy marijuana use is associated with psychotic episodes, 9. Use of marijuana is also associated with suicides, 10. High potency marijuana use can change human dna.

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You might not think of an alcoholic beverage as a drug, but it actually is. The active ingredient in alcoholic beverages is a drug called ethanol, also known as ethyl alcohol. What makes alcohol different from substances like heroin or cocaine is primarily this: it is not an illegal substance. In America alone, there are more than 600,000 bars, restaurants, and nightclubs where you can get a drink.

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California faces a surge in overdoses from combined fentanyl and methamphetamine use, marking the “fourth wave of the opioid crisis.” With cartels targeting the state and polydrug abuse on the rise, more than ten thousand lives are lost each year, highlighting the urgent need for prevention and recovery efforts.

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Oregon has reversed its drug decriminalization law after three years, as rising homelessness, overdoses, and the influx of powerful synthetic drugs like fentanyl and xylazine threatened to overwhelm the state. The new law recriminalizes most drugs and aims to push users into treatment or impose penalties, signaling a shift in policy to address the growing crisis.

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Fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid, has driven overdose deaths up nearly 3,200% from 2002 to 2023, impacting all age groups, especially men and adults aged 25–44. Despite its deadly toll, media coverage has diminished. Largely produced in illegal labs using chemicals from overseas, fentanyl continues to spread through illicit markets, threatening families and military readiness. Urgent action is needed to combat this crisis.

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Avoiding drug use during pregnancy reduces the risk of stillbirth. Substances like cocaine, meth, marijuana, opioids, and alcohol can harm fetal development, leading to complications and preventable losses. Early intervention and support are crucial for healthier outcomes for both mother and baby.

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Awareness of adolescent overdose deaths is crucial to save young lives. Despite a decline in drug use among teens, overdose deaths have more than doubled due to the millions of counterfeit pills laced with lethal doses of fentanyl. Parents, teachers, and communities must work together to educate and protect youth from the dangers of illicit drugs and ensure safe prescription practices.

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This article explores the crucial role of life skills training in preventing relapse among individuals recovering from substance abuse. Drawing on recommendations from international bodies like the World Health Organization, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, and the National Institute on Drug Abuse, the article highlights key skills such as decision-making, communication, and stress management. It underscores the importance of evaluating rehab programs based on their effectiveness in teaching these skills, emphasizing that strong life skills are essential for maintaining long-term sobriety in the face of everyday challenges.

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