Addiction Archive

There are many health-related requirements for living independently in older age. For example, one needs sharp thinking skills in order to manage medications, pay bills, choose clothes for the day, and select and buy groceries; and one needs strength, balance, and flexibility in order to get up from a chair, cook, or clean. People with weakening aspects of health should talk to a doctor for potential solutions to improve or cope with health challenges in order to continue living independently.

Loneliness boosts risk for many health problems, and can even contribute to an early death. Many people find it hard to reach out to make new friends, but there are strategies that can help.

A 2026 study suggests that people who engage in spiritual practices and communities are significantly less likely than non-practitioners to misuse alcohol, tobacco, marijuana, and illicit drugs and better able to recover from substance abuse.

A 2026 study suggests that people who take GLP-1 drugs—prescribed for diabetes and weight loss—are less likely to develop a substance use disorder. Among people who already have addiction, use of a GLP-1 was linked with fewer complications such as overdose and death.

Burnout - whatever the cause - can lead to depression and anxiety, and affect your relationships and ability to function. But it's possible to replenish your energy and enjoyment of life.

Women who experience severe premenstrual symptoms may have a condition called premenstrual dysphoric disorder. Antidepressants may relieve these symptoms and, depending on the person, can be taken intermittently instead of daily.

Automatic negative thoughts are reactions that compel people to interpret many situations in unbalanced, upsetting ways. But with practice, people can learn to recognize and disarm distorted thinking.