Is Anxiety Genetic?
Anxiety often runs in families, but does that mean it’s in your DNA? While scientists haven’t pinpointed a single “anxiety gene,” research shows that having a close family member with an anxiety disorder increases your risk by two to six times. Twin studies and genetic research support a hereditary link, but genes are only one […]
Does smoking marijuana increase the risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease?
As marijuana use continues to rise, so do concerns about its long-term effects on lung health—particularly its link to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). While marijuana is the second most commonly smoked substance in the world after tobacco, its health risks remain less defined. Marijuana smoke shares many of the same harmful components as tobacco […]
Smoking and Heart Disease, Stroke, and Peripheral Artery Disease
Heart disease—including coronary artery disease, stroke, and peripheral artery disease (PAD)—remains the leading cause of death in the U.S., and smoking is a major driver behind it. Plaque buildup in the arteries can lead to chest pain, heart attacks, heart failure, and strokes, while PAD often causes pain and weakness in the limbs. Smoking and […]
How can we prevent tobacco use?
Tobacco use continues to be one of the leading preventable causes of death, not only due to direct smoking but also through secondhand exposure. Since the landmark 1964 Surgeon General’s Report, tobacco control efforts have made major strides—researchers estimate they’ve helped avert 8 million premature deaths and added 2.3 years to male and 1.6 years […]
7 Foods to Help You Get a Great Night’s Sleep
A restful night isn’t just about white noise machines and blackout curtains—it could start right on your plate. More and more sleep researchers are confirming that the foods we eat, especially in the hours before bedtime, play a major role in how quickly we fall asleep and how deeply we rest. Sleep-promoting nutrients such as […]
What Are the 5 Top Stressors in Life?
Stress is an inevitable part of being human, but certain life events can throw us off balance more than others. The five top stressors—the death of a loved one, divorce or separation, moving, long-term illness, and job loss—can each have lasting emotional and physical impacts. These events often come with a rollercoaster of emotions: grief, […]
How to Be More Confident: 9 Tips That Work
Confidence isn’t about being perfect—it’s about believing in your ability to try, fail, learn, and keep going. According to the American Psychological Association, self-confidence is the belief in one’s capability to succeed in specific situations or accomplish tasks, and it plays a vital role in psychological health and well-being. Whether it’s saying no, setting realistic […]
Preventing Exposure to Secondhand Smoke in the Home
Secondhand smoke poses serious health risks to both children and adults, and there is no safe level of exposure. The home remains the leading source of secondhand smoke exposure, especially for children. To protect your loved ones, make your home and car completely smoke-free, and encourage family members who smoke to seek help quitting. Smoking […]
Cannabis Facts and Stats
As cannabis use becomes increasingly common and widely discussed across the United States, it’s crucial to understand its health impacts, especially among youth and vulnerable populations. Cannabis remains the most widely used federally illegal drug, with over 52 million Americans reporting use in 2021. Of concern, about 3 in 10 cannabis users may develop cannabis […]
26 Quotes About Letting Go
When life feels overwhelming or your heart is burdened with grief, a well-chosen inspirational quote can act as a powerful grounding force. Though often overlooked, quotes have the ability to gently interrupt toxic thought spirals and offer perspective during life’s most difficult moments. Mental health professionals like Jessi Gholami, LCSW, emphasize that these are not […]