NIDA for Teens: The Science Behind Drug Abuse
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Sara Bellum Blog

Sometimes it’s hard to know where to go for the facts about drugs. At NIDA, we learn from science—not from rumors or gossip. Ask the questions, look for the facts, and think hard about what you find out and what it means for you. Follow the journey with Sara.

girl looking at a cell phone

Are You Addicted to Your Cell Phone?


Sara Bellum
February 14, 2013

A phobia is a strong, irrational fear of something that poses little or no actual danger. Phobias can cause a lot of anxiety, panic, and even fainting. You may have heard of some phobias, such as arachnophobia (fear of spiders) or claustrophia (fear of confined spaces). Read More »

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Girl upset because she feels singled out

Fear of Stigma: Does It Hold You Back?

Sara Bellum
February 12, 2013

If you’re like most people, you may try to avoid revealing anything about yourself that will make people think differently or negatively about you. Basically, you’re avoiding stigma—which is being marked by shame or disgrace. But what if you have a drug problem and want to get help? Read More »

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poppy seed bagel

Drug Testing for…Poppy Seeds?

Jack Maypole, M.D., Director of Pediatrics, South End Community Health Center
February 07, 2013

Did you know that morphine, codeine, and heroin are produced from the seeds of certain kinds of poppy flowers? Morphine and codeine are often used as medications for treating pain, and all three—known as opiates—can be abused.  Read More »

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Tin of bath salts

Bath Salts: An Emerging Danger

Sara Bellum
February 05, 2013

Bath salts—the drug, not the perfumed crystals you put in bath water—showed up just a few years ago. Read More »

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Chart of Past-Year Teen Drug Abuse

During National Drug Facts Week: The Truth About Prescription Drugs

Dr. Nora D. Volkow, NIDA Director
February 01, 2013

Did you know that prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs are the most commonly abused substances by high school seniors (after marijuana and alcohol)? Read More »

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Teen head silhouette with Monitoring the Future title

Perception of Risk: Fewer Teens Believe Marijuana Is Harmful

Sara Bellum
January 31, 2013

Knowing the health risks that come with using or abusing drugs convinces most teens (and adults) to stay away from them. But what if you don’t think certain drugs are unsafe? Read More »

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