This Charter introduces a visionary plan for a global partnership focused on recovery advocacy. The Global Recovery Network (GRN) is a new international group supported by several organizations. It offers a platform where members can strengthen their recovery support through lifelong learning, build meaningful connections, and promote better understanding and practices of recovery worldwide. GRN brings together people in recovery from substance use disorders and Recovery Allies—those who support recovery through personal efforts, programs, or advocacy. Together, they work to promote a shared...

AI is helping improve addiction treatment in many ways. It creates personalized treatment plans based on a person’s history and needs, and can even detect early signs of risk before addiction develops. AI also analyzes large amounts of data to better understand addiction patterns and improve recovery methods. Tools like AI chatbots offer around-the-clock support and a safe space to talk, while remote monitoring through apps and wearables helps counsellors track progress and prevent relapse. Virtual reality therapy lets individuals practice coping skills in realistic situations, making recovery...

INTRODUCTION:

In the present article, we focused on the relationship between risk behaviour in adolescents, self-regulation, pro-sociality and anti-sociality. We work under the assumption that the development of the ability to self-regulate facilitates processes of internalisation, thereby strengthening the conscious effort toward prosocial behaviour and the reduction in antisocial tendencies. This creates suitable conditions for minimising risk behaviours typical for adolescence.

METHODS:

Our research sample consisted of 3,092 adolescents enrolled in upper secondary education (ISCED 3)...

INTRODUCTION:

Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is highly commorbid among individuals with opioid use disorder (OUD). PTSD among people with OUD is associated with severe opioid use, depression, and suicidality. Tanzania has seen a rise in opioid use over the past few years and the presence of PTSD among people with OUD predisposes patients to more negative impacts and impedes the recovery process. We aim to assess the prevalence and factors associated with PTSD among individuals with opioid use disorder (OUD) attending medication-assisted therapy (MAT) clinic in comparison to non-opioid...

INTRODUCTION: Third-party sperm donation represents the sole viable option for conception for a considerable number of infertile couples. The donation process is predicated on ensuring the high quality and safety of the donated cells. While screening for transmissible and genetic diseases is in place, there is an absence of uniform screening for substance use in potential donors.

AIM: The aim of this review is to provide summary information on national approaches to sperm donation and to highlight the lack of standardised screening protocols and a uniform approach to assessing dependency...

Background:
This article shares findings from a study that looked into how alcohol and other drugs (AOD) nurses in the UK view their current career opportunities and the challenges they face. It also explores how changes in health services have affected their roles.

Methods:
Researchers conducted interviews with twelve AOD nurses using a narrative approach to allow for open discussion and new insights. The interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed to identify common themes.

Key Findings:

• Nurses discussed the pros and cons of non-medical prescribing (NMP) and how it has...

The objective of the study was to compare the use of medical and dental services by seniors residing at a seniors-only living facility and in the general community. It was a quantitative study, among 50 residents of the living facility and 173 in the general community. The data were collected between November 2011 and February 2012 through a questionnaire, and subjected to statistical analysis. Performance of clinical exams and satisfaction with health services was greater among seniors living in the general community; however, physical therapy treatment was more common among those living in...

Abstract: 

While the traditional complications of diabetes mellitus—such as cardiovascular disease—are well recognized, advances in treatment and increased life expectancy have revealed a new set of lesser-known complications that are becoming more prominent.

As mortality from vascular disease declines, conditions like cancer and dementia have emerged as leading causes of death among people with diabetes in several countries. In addition, growing evidence shows strong associations between diabetes and a range of comorbidities, including:

• Cognitive decline

• Functional disability

• ...

Objective:
Understanding that diabetes is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD) may help increase diabetes screening and improve prevention efforts for CVD.

Overview:
The American Heart Association conducted an online survey across 50 countries to assess public awareness of the link between diabetes and CVD. The study looked at differences in awareness by sex, age, region, and country income level.

Key Findings:

• Out of 48,988 respondents, only 32.1% recognized diabetes as a major risk factor for CVD.

• Awareness was similar between men and women, but higher among older...

This brief examines the average alcohol consumption of people in Canada and where it falls within the risk zones outlined in Canada’s Guidance on Alcohol and Health (CGAH). The publication presents updated data on weekly drinking patterns by province, age, and sex, and assesses the extent to which people in Canada adhere to the CGAH guidelines. This report is intended to inform public health professionals, policy makers and researchers working to reduce alcohol-related harm.

Three Key Points You Will Find in the Document:

• People who drink alcohol in Canada consume an average of more than13...

CSUCH’s data visualisation tool can be used to estimate substance use trends across the country. The data helps inform programs, practices, and research to protect communities, save lives, and improve the well-being of people in Canada.

Spotlight: Top 3 causes of death due to substance use in Canada 

More than 200 people died each day due to substance use (SU) in 2020 (the latest year for which data are available). That works out to 73,994 deaths that year. The average age of death due to SU was 45 years. Tobacco use caused 63% (46,366) of SU-related deaths, followed by alcohol at 23%...