Behavior Health and Wellness Blog

Individual Protective Factors

Cannabis Users Face Substantially Higher Risk of Heart Attack

As marijuana becomes legal in more places, new research raises concerns about its impact on heart health—even in young, otherwise healthy individuals. Two recent studies presented at the American College of Cardiology’s 2025 Annual Scientific Session found that cannabis users under 50 were significantly more likely to experience heart attacks, strokes, heart failure, and cardiovascular-related deaths compared to non-users. One retrospective study involving over 4.6 million people revealed a sixfold

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Menthol Tobacco Products

Menthol is a compound found naturally in peppermint and similar plants, but it can also be made synthetically. In tobacco products like cigarettes, menthol produces a cooling sensation in the throat and lungs, which reduces the harshness of the smoke and makes it easier to inhale—an effect that can increase the likelihood of addiction. Menthol is not limited to cigarettes; it’s also found in e-cigarettes, cigars, hookah, smokeless tobacco, nicotine

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Yes, Stress Really Can Make You Sick —Here’s Why

Can Stress Really Make Us Sick? Understanding the Mind-Body Connection Yes—chronic stress can absolutely impact your physical health. In fact, 60% to 80% of primary care visits involve stress-related concerns. Health psychologists like Dr. Julia Kogan and functional medicine specialists like Dr. Patricia Mills explain that prolonged stress elevates cortisol levels, which can weaken the immune system, trigger inflammation, and exacerbate chronic conditions like arthritis, IBS, and fibromyalgia. Chronic stress

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What Is Major Depressive Disorder?

Depression, also known as major depressive disorder (MDD), is a serious mood disorder that affects how a person thinks, feels, and functions in daily life. Unlike occasional sadness, depression is persistent and can lead to emotional, physical, and cognitive challenges, impacting work, relationships, and overall well-being. Symptoms include persistent feelings of hopelessness, loss of interest in activities, changes in sleep and appetite, and difficulty concentrating. While the exact causes vary,

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