Addiction is known to be a primary, chronic issue that occurs in the brain. It is a condition that causes a person to engage in behaviours or the use of a substance for which the rewarding effects provide a compelling incentive to repeatedly pursue the behaviour, despite detrimental resulting consequences. There is scientific evidence that the addictive substances and behaviours share a key neurobiological feature—they intensely activate brain pathways of reward and reinforcement, many of which involve the neurotransmitter dopamine. Some studies show that there are possible genetic factors, making some people more susceptible to addiction. Are you or someone you love suffering from addiction and looking for help?

According to the World Health Organization, more than one billion 12 to 35-year-olds, risk irreversible hearing loss from exposure to loud sounds such as music played on their smartphone. To prevent noise-induced hearing loss and related conditions such as tinnitus – commonly experienced as a ringing sound inside the ear – monitor how loud, and for how long, you listen to music. Sound is measured in units called decibels or dBA. Music through headphones at maximum volume measure 94-110 dBA. Sounds at or above 85 dBA can cause hearing loss. Test your hearing today at NexGen Hearing!

Recovering from a brain injury, which includes stroke, is a full-time job. Doing errands, chores, and everyday tasks can be done within the boundaries of safety and in ways that promote recovery. It can be beneficial to take the stairs or walk to the store. Putting away silverware is a good way to work on repetitive practice of grasp and release of the hand. Folding clothes is an excellent way to incorporate bilateral training which is using the arm and hand at the same time. Doing simple tasks while focusing on the affected extremities will help improve overall coordination, strength and functional ability.

Your pharmacist offers solutions that can help you manage multiple medications. *Synchronized Refill Dates. The quantities of your medication may be adjusted to coordinate refill dates. All medications can be refilled at one time reducing the number of visits to the pharmacy. *Blister packaging to arrange your medications in a weekly or monthly schedule. *Extension of Expired Refills. Sometimes a prescription expires before you can see your doctor. Following an assessment, your pharmacist may be able to renew your prescription.

Trauma and grief often go hand-in-hand, and learning how to mourn can be a crucial part of healing. Grief is the reactions that we must mourn through to shift to an active, shared response instead of a passive, isolated one. Six ways to help active mourning include: 1) Acknowledging the loss is real. 2) Interacting with the pain instead of avoiding it. 3) Honouring what you loved about who/what you are mourning. 4) Discovering the new you in the context of loss. 5) Finding meaning and purpose beyond what happened. 6) Getting ongoing support and talking with loved ones and/or a professional.

When someone close to you has untreated hearing loss, it’s natural to want to help them. Here are seven ways to urge them to have their hearing checked: 1. Point out that annual hearing tests are recommended for everyone. 2. Explain what they risk by waiting. 3. Prepare for common objections. 4. Let them know they’re not alone. 5. Go with them and have your hearing tested too. 6. Don’t be the only voice that speaks up. 7. Call your local hearing professional and ask for their advice.