While those with autism are less likely to use substances than those who are not on the autism spectrum, those who do are more likely to self-medicate for their mental health symptoms. Those with ASD who self-medicate report they do so to improve focus and attention and, in some cases, to mask ASD symptoms.
Analyzing previous studies, researchers have identified the effects of individual and environmental risk factors for suicide over a person's lifespan. The risk factors, researchers report, change throughout a person's lifetime.
From eroding the prefrontal cortex, an area of the brain critical for impulse control, to damaging the dopamine reward system, researchers evaluate the impact of viewing pornography on the brain.
Being in pain and taking illicit substances can lead to a vicious cycle that ultimately worsens and maintains both addiction and pain.
A new study reports the lasting effects of teen cannabis use can be observed on important cognitive function and appears to have a more pronounced effect than alcohol use on neurodevelopment.
People who are historically more reliant on the coal industry tend to have more negative personality traits, University of Cambridge researchers report. The researchers believe this could be a lasting effect of the Industrial Revolution.
Study finds a sex difference in a gene linked to substance abuse risk in adolescents.
A new study will test the power of oxytocin in combating PTSD.
Researchers report on an increase in rates of opioid prescriptions to people with mental health conditions.
A new study considers the extent to which social groups influence younger people to embark on gambling or substance use as a coping strategy.
A new study links higher resting blood pressure in younger men with later onset of OCD, schizophrenia and substance abuse problems.
Researchers report hereditary factors lie behind adults with ADHD that develop binge eating and alcohol dependencies.