Category: Addictions

Researchers identify circuit in brain that keeps impulsivity in check

From the University of Southern California press release: A national team of scientists has identified a circuit in the brain that appears to be associated with psychiatric disorders ranging from… Read more »

Study suggests brain size may affect risk for heavier alcohol consumption

From the Washington University in St. Louis press release: For years, researchers have observed that alcohol consumption is associated with reduced brain volume and concluded that drinking can literally shrink… Read more »

Study suggests years of education may impact drinking behavior and risk of alcohol dependence

From the Springer press release: Higher educational attainment — spending more years in education — may impact people’s drinking behaviour and reduce their risk of alcohol dependence, according to a… Read more »

Study identifies the cells behind nicotine aversion in the mouse brain

From the University of Toronto press release: If you have ever smoked, or know someone who has – they might tell you that smoking a cigarette probably felt disgusting at… Read more »

Study suggests that mindfulness may help decrease brain’s response to opioid-related cues

From the University of Utah press release: New research shows that a specific mind-body therapy, Mindfulness-Oriented Recovery Enhancement (MORE), increases the brain’s response to natural, healthy rewards while also decreasing… Read more »

Study suggests evidence of behavioral, biological similarities between compulsive overeating and addiction

From the Boston University School of Medicine press release: Does yo-yo dieting drive compulsive eating? There may be a connection. According to Boston University School of Medicine (BUSM) researchers the… Read more »

Study suggests siblings of problem gamblers also impulsive, prone to risk-taking

From the University of British Columbia press release: Biological siblings of people with gambling disorder also display markers of increased impulsivity and risk-taking, according to a new UBC psychology study…. Read more »

Study looks at what comes first, smartphone dependency or depression?

From the University of Arizona press release: Young people who are hooked on their smartphones may be at an increased risk for depression and loneliness, according to a new study… Read more »

Study suggests escapism as a powerful predictor of internet gaming disorder among video gamers

From the Elsevier press release: A new study in Comprehensive Psychiatry, published by Elsevier, is the first to compare professional electronic sport (esport) players with recreational video game players and explores… Read more »