Research News
Neuroscientists Discover Why Alcohol Causes “Blackouts”
The July 6, 2011, issue of The Journal of Neuroscience reported that exposure to large amounts of alcohol causes “blackouts” by interfering with the production of brain steriods that are required to lay down short-term memory. During “blackouts,” people aren’t unconscious. They’re unable to remember because overindulgence interferes with the memory-making process. Click here for more details.
Meditation Benefits the Brain
A Yale brain imaging study shows that people who regularly practice meditation are able to switch off areas of the brain linked to anxiety. Click here for more details.
Helping Others Is Good for Teens in Recovery
Teens in treatment for substance abuse can support their recovery by helping other, according to a recent study by Case Western Reserve University’s School of Medicine. Participating in service to others in 12-Step programs reduced the teen’s cravings, making relapse less likely. Click here for more details.
Good Parenting Can Offset Genetic Risk of Addiction
The genetic risk for addiction can be neutralized by involved and supportive parenting. “We found that involved and supportive parenting can completely override the effects of a genetic risk for substance abuse,” says study co-author Gene Brody, a professor at the University of Georgia. “It’s a very encouraging finding that shows the power of parenting.” Click here for more details.
For a broader description of what scientific researchers have discovered about addiction, click on Addiction Science Intro/Menu.