When people think of addiction, the image often conjured is one of recklessness or irresponsibility. Marc Lewis in "The Biology of Desire" explains that addiction rewires the brain’s circuitry, fostering a cycle of craving and compulsion. This means that the addicted brain doesn’t simply “want” substances—it feels as if it needs them for survival. Addiction fundamentally changes the brain’s reward system, making it increasingly difficult for individuals to make rational choices about their substance use.

One of the biggest obstacles to recovery is the stigma surrounding addiction. When society views addiction as a personal failure or a chosen habit, it creates barriers to seeking help. Russell Brand expresses in his book "Recovery: Freedom from Our Addictions", that addiction can take many forms beyond substances, including work, stress, and relationships. There is a universal human tendency to seek external sources of comfort when faced with internal pain. This perspective encourages a more compassionate approach to those suffering from addiction, recognizing that it is not just about the substance or behavior, but about the pain that drives it. The road to recovery is complex, but breaking the cycle is possible with the right tools. David Sheff stresses that understanding addiction as a disease, rather than a moral failing, is crucial to removing the stigma that often prevents people from seeking help.

There are significant and profound impacts addiction can have on individuals, families, and communities. A critical shift in understanding addiction is recognizing it not as a mere weakness, or a bad habit, but as a complex, chronic disease that affects both the brain and behavior. It is not just a matter of choice but a deeply complex disease rooted in brain chemistry, emotions, and social context. This perspective can radically change how we approach treatment, offering a more compassionate and scientifically grounded path to recovery. Understanding addiction as a disease opens doors to new treatment approaches, greater empathy, and more sustainable recovery.

In "Unbroken Brain", Maia Szalavitz reframes addiction as a learning disorder—an interaction between brain chemistry, life circumstances, and learned behaviors that lead to compulsive drug use. She asserts that addictive behaviors fall along a spectrum, much like traits in other neurological conditions, and should be understood as coping mechanisms for underlying issues rather than mere indulgences. It is merely a way to cope with emotional pain.

Addiction is so much more than a habit. Substances alter brain chemistry, particularly in the areas related to reward, motivation, and self-control. Recovery is not simply about choosing to quit.

Addiction hijacks the brain’s prefrontal cortex—the area responsible for decision-making, self-control, and judgment. As a result, people suffering from addiction are often unable to regulate their behavior, even when they want to.

The brain’s reward system reinforces substance use by releasing dopamine, the chemical associated with pleasure and reward. Over time, the brain becomes dependent on this chemical surge, leading to tolerance (needing more of the substance to feel the same effect) and withdrawal symptoms when the substance is not available.

Acknowledging addiction as a disease requires a holistic, multi-faceted approach to treatment—one that addresses the psychological, biological, and social factors that contribute to its onset and perpetuation. It is important to understand the emotional drivers and triggers behind addictive behaviors. Viewing addiction as a disease, rather than a habit, opens the door to more effective, compassionate, and comprehensive treatment.

It is important to challenge outdated narratives and promote a more nuanced understanding of addiction.

In practice, this means that treatment should extend beyond simply detoxifying the body from substances. It should encompass therapy that helps individuals understand the emotional and psychological reasons behind their addiction. Additionally, support systems—family, group therapy, or peer support groups—are critical in sustaining long-term recovery.

Apps like letsgethappi give people access to cognitive tools for managing cravings, stress, and emotional triggers. This kind of digital support is a game-changer, especially for those who may not have immediate access to in-person treatment or prefer more discreet care options.

Viewing addiction as a disease rather than a habit shifts the focus from blame to understanding. It encourages us to approach addiction with empathy, knowing that it is rooted in deep neurological and emotional mechanisms. When we break free from the idea that addiction is a mere choice, we open the door to more effective treatment and, ultimately, a healthier society.

Whether through innovative therapies, supportive apps, or community-based programs, the path to healing begins with understanding addiction for what it truly is—a chronic disease that requires care, patience, and resilience. Only by breaking this cycle can we offer those struggling with addiction the opportunity to reclaim their lives.

A major heat wave is currently affecting the central and eastern United States, with temperatures soaring above 100 degrees Fahrenheit. The US National Weather Service predicts a hotter-than-usual summer nationwide.

Unfortunately, extreme heat significantly increases the risk of dangerous heat illnesses, especially for older adults. Research shows that people over 60 account for most heat-related deaths in the U.S. The World Health Organization reports an 85% rise in heat-related deaths among people older than 65 between 2000 and 2021.

This isn't a coincidence; the aging process and extreme heat simply don't mix well, experts say. Here’s why, and what older people can do to stay safe as temperatures soar.

Why Heat Is More Risky As You Get Older

Even if you're very healthy, getting older makes you more likely to get sick from the heat. This includes conditions like heat exhaustion, where your body struggles to cool down, or heat stroke, which can be life-threatening.

As we age, our bodies naturally lose some of their ability to cool off. Experts explain that older people tend to hold onto more heat than younger people and have to work harder to keep their body temperature steady. Here are three main reasons for this change:

Blood doesn't move as well

When it's hot, your body tries to cool down by sending more blood to your skin and making blood vessels wider to help you sweat. According to a 2020 study published in the Journal of Physiology as you get older, changes in your heart and blood vessels make it harder for your body to move blood efficiently. This makes it tougher to control your temperature.

You sweat less

MedlinePlus explains that as you age, your body also sweats less, which is how it naturally cools down. This happens because your skin gets thinner, and the tiny tubes that carry sweat move closer to the surface. Plus, you lose a protein called collagen, which can squeeze these tubes, making it harder for sweat to get out.

Easier to get dehydrated

The feeling of being thirsty, and the urge to drink, gets weaker over time. Also, your kidneys become less good at keeping your fluids balanced. Studies show that kidney function can start to drop around age 40, meaning older adults are more likely to get dehydrated. On top of that, older people often take medicines, like water pills or sedatives, that can cause dehydration or make it harder to sweat.

Signs to Watch For

Heat illness often starts with a headache. Some people might also experience:

• Dry mouth
• Dizziness
• Feeling very tired
• Confusion
• Heart fluttering

Tips To Avoid Overheating As Older Adults

If you must go out on hot days, make sure you protect yourself from heat and avoid heat illness. Here are some tips according to the National Institute of Aging,

Stay in air-conditioned places

Older adults should try to stay in air-conditioned buildings as much as possible. Closing your blinds or curtains during the day can also stop your house from getting too hot.

Find cooling shelters

If you don't have AC, call your local health department to find nearby cooling centers. Fans can help, but sometimes they're not enough to beat the heat at home.

Drink plenty of fluids

Drink more water than usual to help keep your body cool and hydrated. Drinks with electrolytes, like sports drinks and vegetable or fruit juices, can replace minerals you lose when you sweat. Remember, if you feel thirsty, you're already dehydrated.

Dress lightly and rest

Wear loose, light, and light-colored clothes. Take cool showers or baths if you feel warm. Try not to do anything too strenuous, and get lots of rest until the heat passes.

Once primarily linked to heavy alcohol consumption, liver cirrhosis is now increasingly affecting people who have never had a drink. Experts are warning of a silent but growing health crisis driven by unhealthy lifestyles.

A Global Health Concern

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), liver cirrhosis is responsible for more than 1.3 million deaths annually, making it one of the leading causes of death worldwide. In the U.S., data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows that cirrhosis-related deaths have surged by over 65% in the past 20 years. The biggest driver behind this rise? A condition known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

The Lifestyle Connection

NAFLD is caused by fat buildup in the liver unrelated to alcohol use. It's now one of the fastest-growing causes of liver damage across the world. Poor diets, sedentary lifestyles, rising obesity, and increasing rates of diabetes have all contributed to its spread. Studies estimate that nearly 30% of adults globally have NAFLD, and its more severe form—non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH)—is rising especially among younger adults.

What Is Cirrhosis?

Cirrhosis occurs when healthy liver tissue is replaced by scar tissue. This scarring impairs blood flow and limits the liver’s ability to perform its key functions: detoxifying the blood, aiding digestion, regulating hormones, and storing essential nutrients. If left untreated, cirrhosis can lead to liver failure or liver cancer.

Why Are Non-Drinkers Getting It?

The main culprit is the lifestyle we are all leading today. Diets high in sugar, fats, and processed foods, paired with physical inactivity, are leading to fat accumulation in the liver. Over time, this triggers inflammation, liver cell damage, and scarring—ultimately leading to cirrhosis. What makes this more dangerous is that NAFLD often develops silently, with symptoms appearing only in the later stages.

Warning Signs to Watch Out For

While NAFLD and cirrhosis can be symptom-free in early stages, some warning signs include:

• Persistent fatigue or low energy
• Swelling in the legs or abdomen
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
• Sudden or unexplained weight loss
• Loss of appetite

Doctors recommend regular liver function tests, ultrasounds, and check-ups—especially for those with obesity, diabetes, or high blood pressure.

Everyday Habits That Harm the Liver

Certain lifestyle choices can accelerate liver damage, such as:

• Overeating processed or fried foods
• High sugar intake (soft drinks, sweets, desserts)
• Physical inactivity or prolonged sitting
• Ignoring health issues like diabetes or hypertension
• Crash dieting or taking unprescribed supplements

Can It Be Reversed?

Yes—if caught early. Doctors say NAFLD can be reversed through manageable lifestyle changes:

Eat a balanced diet with vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean protein

Engage in at least 30 minutes of exercise daily

Stay hydrated to help the liver flush out toxins

Avoid self-medication and unnecessary pills

Get routine health screenings

Good sleep is one of the foundational traits of good health, and our activities, thoughts as well as what we eat, has an effect on it. What many people do not know is that certain foods have been associated with insomnia as well, for example alcohol can alter the circadian clock and worsen our sleep quality as well as spicy and hot foods have been associated with insomnia. So, what about foods that promote good sleep?

A doctor suggests a simple, natural solution: chia seeds. Dr. Alan Mandell, a chiropractor known as "Motivationaldoc" on social media, claims that just one tablespoon of this superfood before bed could help you fall asleep faster and wake up feeling completely refreshed.

Sleep-Boosting Power of Chia Seeds

According to Dr. Mandell, chia seeds are a powerhouse when it comes to improving sleep quality. Here's why:

Tryptophan for Sleep Hormones

Chia seeds have something called tryptophan. This helps your body make serotonin, which calms you, and melatonin, which tells your body it's time to sleep. This means you can fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.

Magnesium for Relaxation

These tiny seeds are full of magnesium. This important mineral helps calm your nerves, reducing stress. If you're restless before bed, magnesium can help you get deeper, more restful sleep.

Omega-3s and Hydration

Chia seeds contain omega-3s, which can reduce inflammation, or swelling, that sometimes makes it hard to sleep. Also, when mixed with water, they form a gel that keeps you hydrated all night, stopping sleep problems caused by being thirsty.

Fiber for Satiety

The high amount of fiber in chia seeds makes you feel full. This can stop those late-night snack cravings that often interrupt your sleep.

Other Benefit of Chia Seeds

Beyond their sleep-enhancing properties, chia seeds offer a wealth of health advantages:

Nutrient-Dense: These little seeds are packed with good stuff! They're a great source of fiber, protein, healthy fats like omega-3s, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and antioxidants. They help your body work well.

Heart Health: The omega-3s and fiber in chia seeds are excellent for your heart. They help lower your blood pressure, bad cholesterol, and other fats, which significantly cuts down your risk of heart disease.

Blood Sugar Management: The impressive fiber in chia seeds helps keep your blood sugar levels steady. This is super helpful for people with diabetes, as it prevents big ups and downs in blood sugar.

Digestive Health: Because they're so high in fiber, chia seeds are wonderful for your gut. They help your digestion run smoothly, ensuring regular bowel movements and keeping your stomach comfortable.

Weight Management: The fiber in chia seeds also makes you feel full. This means you're less likely to overeat, which can really help you with your weight loss goals in a healthy way.

Complete Protein Source: Amazingly, chia seeds contain all nine essential amino acids your body needs. This makes them a complete protein, which is especially great if you're vegetarian or vegan.

Antioxidant Power: Chia seeds are rich in powerful antioxidants. These help protect your body's cells from damage, contributing to your long-term health.