In today’s fast-paced world, the demands of daily life can often feel overwhelming, leading to stress, anxiety, and depression. With mental health challenges on the rise, individuals and health professionals alike are continually searching for effective strategies to manage these conditions. Among the various approaches, mindfulness meditation has emerged as a particularly effective tool not only for managing stress, anxiety, and depression but also for enhancing overall mental well-being.

Mindfulness meditation involves the practice of intentionally focusing your attention on the present moment and accepting it without judgment. It is rooted in Buddhist traditions but has been adapted in Western cultures to be a non-sectarian, accessible practice that people of all backgrounds can use to foster better mental health.

Reducing Stress Through Mindfulness

Stress is a common response to the pressures of daily life. Chronic stress can lead to significant health issues, including heart disease, diabetes, and mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression. Mindfulness meditation helps reduce stress by promoting relaxation and enabling practitioners to manage their reactions to stressful situations more effectively. Studies have shown that mindfulness techniques can lower cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress, thereby reducing the overall stress experience.

Alleviating Anxiety with Mindfulness

Anxiety, characterized by persistent and excessive worry, can be debilitating. Mindfulness meditation helps alleviate anxiety by teaching practitioners to focus on the present, reducing the tendency to ruminate over potential future worries or past concerns. A meta-analysis of studies on mindfulness and anxiety has indicated that regular practice can significantly decrease symptoms of anxiety.

Combating Depression Through Mindful Practices

Depression is a serious mood disorder with symptoms that can include persistent sadness, low energy, and a loss of interest in daily activities. Mindfulness meditation contributes to the management of depression by breaking the cycle of negative thought patterns. It encourages a greater awareness of the moment-to-moment changes in mood, helping individuals recognize and distance themselves from depressive thoughts. Clinical trials have demonstrated that mindfulness-based interventions can reduce the recurrence of depression as effectively as antidepressant medications.

Beyond reducing stress, anxiety, and depression, mindfulness meditation offers extensive benefits for overall mental health, including improved attention, better cognitive flexibility, and enhanced emotional regulation. These benefits contribute to a more resilient mental state, enabling individuals to handle life’s challenges with greater ease.

Practical Tips for Incorporating Mindfulness Meditation

1. Start Small: Begin with short periods of meditation, such as five minutes per day, and gradually increase the duration as you become more comfortable with the practice.
2. Create a Routine: Try to meditate at the same time every day to establish a consistent routine that becomes a regular part of your life.
3. Find a Quiet Space: Choose a quiet place where you won’t be disturbed, helping to facilitate a deeper state of focus and relaxation.
4. Use Guided Meditations: For beginners, guided meditations provided through apps or online platforms can be very helpful in leading you through the meditation process.
5. Be Patient and Consistent: Mindfulness is a skill that takes time to develop. Regular practice is essential for reaping its mental health benefits.

As we continue to navigate the complexities of modern life, mindfulness meditation offers a powerful, accessible means to improve mental health. Whether dealing with daily stress, battling anxiety, or combating depression, mindfulness provides a path to not only manage these conditions but also to enhance overall life satisfaction. By incorporating mindfulness practices into your daily routine, you can open the door to a healthier and more balanced life.

Substance use disorders (SUDs) are among the most misunderstood and stigmatized conditions in society today. Despite advancements in our understanding of mental health, individuals with SUDs often face judgment and isolation, which can impede their recovery and access to needed care. Stigma surrounding substance use disorders manifests through stereotypes, discrimination, and social exclusion. Common misconceptions include viewing addiction as a moral failing or a matter of weak willpower, rather than as a complex medical condition. This stigma is perpetuated by media portrayals, societal attitudes, and sometimes even the language used by healthcare professionals, which can reinforce negative stereotypes.

Impact on Individuals: The consequences of stigma are profound and multifaceted. Fear of judgment may prevent individuals from admitting they have a problem and seeking the help they need. Stigma can exacerbate feelings of shame and low self-esteem, leading to increased isolation and depression, which can, in turn, fuel further substance use. Moreover, it can impact an individual’s opportunities for housing, employment, and social relationships, severely limiting their ability to lead a fulfilling life.

Breaking the Cycle: To combat the stigma of substance use disorders, a multi-faceted approach is required:

1. Education: Increasing public and professional awareness about SUDs as legitimate medical conditions can challenge prevailing stereotypes. Educational programs should aim to demystify addiction, highlight the biological factors involved, and promote empathy.
2. Person-first Language: Language plays a crucial role in shaping perceptions. Using person-first language such as “person with a substance use disorder” instead of “addict” can help reduce stigma and emphasize the humanity of those affected.
3. Recovery Stories: Sharing success stories of individuals who have recovered from SUDs can provide hope and reduce stigma. These narratives highlight the possibility of recovery and the varied, individual paths people take to get there.
4. Policy Change: Advocating for policies that ensure equal treatment and protection for individuals with SUDs in healthcare, employment, and housing is essential. Policies should also focus on expanding access to comprehensive treatment options.

The stigma surrounding substance use disorders is an ingrained issue that requires persistent and informed efforts to eradicate. By educating the public, adjusting the way we speak about addiction, celebrating recovery, and advocating for equitable policies, we can begin to dismantle the barriers that stigma creates. This not only aids in the recovery of individuals but also enriches society by embracing compassion and understanding over judgment and exclusion. Understanding and addressing these hidden struggles is key to building a more inclusive and supportive community for all.

In today’s unpredictable world, children face a myriad of challenges that can impact their emotional well-being and resilience. From academic pressures to social dynamics and family stressors, navigating childhood can sometimes feel like an uphill battle. However, by equipping children with the necessary coping skills and emotional intelligence, we can empower them to bounce back from adversity and thrive in the face of life’s challenges.

Resilience is the ability to adapt and bounce back from adversity, trauma, or stress. It’s not about avoiding difficult situations altogether but rather about learning to navigate them effectively and emerge stronger on the other side. Resilience is a dynamic process that can be nurtured and cultivated over time, and it plays a crucial role in promoting mental health and well-being in children.

Building Coping Skills

One of the cornerstones of resilience is the development of effective coping skills. Coping skills are strategies and techniques that children can use to manage stress, regulate emotions, and cope with difficult situations. By teaching children healthy coping mechanisms, we can empower them to face challenges with confidence and resilience.

• Teach problem-solving skills: Encourage children to identify the problem, brainstorm possible solutions, and weigh the pros and cons of each option. This helps them develop critical thinking skills and a sense of agency over their circumstances.
• Foster a growth mindset: Encourage children to view challenges as opportunities for growth and learning rather than insurmountable obstacles. Emphasize the importance of perseverance and effort in achieving goals.
• Practice relaxation techniques: Teach children simple relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, mindfulness, or progressive muscle relaxation to help them calm their minds and bodies during times of stress.
• Encourage expression of feelings: Create a safe and supportive environment where children feel comfortable expressing their emotions openly and honestly. Encourage them to use words to describe how they’re feeling and validate their emotions.
• Promote healthy lifestyle habits: Encourage regular physical activity, adequate sleep, and a balanced diet, as these factors play a significant role in overall resilience and well-being.

Developing Emotional Intelligence

Emotional intelligence refers to the ability to recognize, understand, and manage one’s own emotions, as well as to empathize with the emotions of others. It is a key component of resilience and plays a crucial role in navigating social relationships and coping with adversity.

• Teach emotional awareness: Help children identify and label their emotions by teaching them to recognize physical sensations associated with different feelings (e.g., butterflies in the stomach when anxious, warmth in the chest when happy).
• Foster empathy: Encourage children to consider the perspectives and feelings of others by asking questions like, “How do you think your friend feels?” or “What would you do if you were in their shoes?”
• Model healthy emotional expression: Children learn by example, so be mindful of how you express and manage your own emotions. Model healthy coping strategies and demonstrate empathy and understanding in your interactions with others.
• Encourage problem-solving and conflict resolution: Teach children effective communication skills, such as active listening, assertiveness, and negotiation, to help them resolve conflicts and navigate social situations.
• Provide opportunities for social connection: Foster opportunities for children to develop and maintain positive relationships with peers, family members, and other supportive adults. Social support is a crucial protective factor in promoting resilience and well-being.

Cultivating resilience in children is a gradual and ongoing process that requires patience, encouragement, and support from caregivers and educators. By building coping skills and emotional intelligence, we can empower children to navigate life’s challenges with confidence, adaptability, and resilience. By fostering a resilient mindset from a young age, we lay the foundation for lifelong well-being and success.

It’s easy to overlook the natural wonders that await us just beyond our doorstep. However, stepping outside into the great outdoors offers far more than just a breath of fresh air – it provides a multitude of benefits for our physical health, well-being, and overall quality of life. From invigorating hikes to peaceful strolls along forest trails, outdoor activities offer a wealth of opportunities to rejuvenate the body and nourish the soul.

One of the most notable benefits of spending time outdoors is the opportunity to soak up the sun’s rays and synthesize vitamin D. Exposure to sunlight stimulates the production of vitamin D in the skin, which plays a crucial role in maintaining strong bones, supporting immune function, and regulating mood. By engaging in outdoor activities, such as walking, running, or gardening, you can naturally boost your vitamin D levels and promote overall health and vitality.

Outdoor activities often involve physical movement and exertion, which can have a positive impact on cardiovascular health. Whether it’s cycling through scenic landscapes, kayaking along tranquil waters, or simply taking a brisk walk through the park, engaging in outdoor exercise helps strengthen the heart and improve circulation. Regular cardiovascular activity can lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of heart disease, and enhance overall cardiovascular fitness.

Spending time in nature has been shown to have profound effects on mental health and well-being. The tranquility and beauty of outdoor environments can help reduce stress, alleviate anxiety, and promote feelings of calmness and relaxation. Whether you’re immersing yourself in the serenity of a forest, listening to the soothing sounds of a babbling brook, or marveling at the vastness of the night sky, connecting with nature can provide a much-needed escape from the pressures of modern life.

Outdoor activities offer a diverse range of opportunities to engage in physical exercise and improve overall fitness levels. From hiking rugged terrain to swimming in pristine lakes, outdoor environments provide natural settings for cardiovascular workouts, strength training, and flexibility exercises. Whether you’re challenging yourself with a mountain climb or enjoying a leisurely bike ride through the countryside, outdoor activities offer endless possibilities for staying active and healthy.

Spending time outdoors exposes us to a wide variety of natural elements, including fresh air, sunlight, and beneficial microorganisms. These elements play a crucial role in supporting a healthy immune system and protecting against illness and infection. Research has shown that spending time in nature can strengthen the immune response, reduce inflammation, and enhance overall immune function. By embracing outdoor activities, you can fortify your body’s natural defenses and boost your resilience against common ailments.

The vastness and beauty of outdoor landscapes can inspire feelings of awe and wonder, fostering a sense of mental clarity and creativity. Whether you’re exploring rugged mountains, wandering through dense forests, or gazing out over expansive vistas, outdoor environments stimulate the mind and ignite the imagination. Studies have shown that spending time in nature can enhance cognitive function, improve concentration, and spark creativity. By immersing yourself in the natural world, you can tap into your inner creativity and unleash your full potential.

In conclusion, the benefits of outdoor activities for physical health are undeniable. From boosting vitamin D levels and improving cardiovascular health to enhancing mental well-being and fostering creativity, spending time in nature offers a myriad of advantages for body, mind, and soul. So, the next time you’re looking for a way to improve your health and vitality, step outside, breathe in the fresh air, and embrace the wonders of the great outdoors. Your body and mind will thank you for it.

Beyond mere companionship, our interactions with others play a profound role in shaping not only our emotional and mental well-being but also our physical health. In an age marked by digital connectivity and virtual relationships, understanding the importance of genuine social connections for our physical well-being has never been more crucial.

Studies have shown that individuals with strong social support networks are more likely to live longer, healthier lives compared to those who are socially isolated. The mechanisms underlying this correlation are multifaceted and complex, encompassing both physiological and psychological factors.

Strong social connections have been linked to a lower risk of developing chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disorders, hypertension, diabetes, and even certain types of cancer. Engaging in meaningful social interactions can help mitigate stress, regulate blood pressure, and bolster immune function, thereby reducing the risk of inflammatory conditions and promoting overall cardiovascular health.

Our immune system, the body’s natural defense mechanism against illness and infection, is intricately intertwined with our social interactions. Studies have demonstrated that individuals with robust social support networks exhibit stronger immune responses and faster recovery rates from illness compared to those who are socially isolated. Social connections stimulate the production of immune-boosting hormones such as oxytocin and reduce the levels of stress-related hormones like cortisol, creating an optimal environment for immune function.

The link between social connections and mental well-being is well-established, with social support serving as a buffer against depression, anxiety, and other psychological disorders. However, the benefits extend beyond the realm of mental health, influencing physical well-being as well. Positive social interactions stimulate the release of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin, which are associated with feelings of happiness and relaxation. This, in turn, can alleviate stress and promote relaxation, leading to improved sleep quality, reduced inflammation, and enhanced overall physical health.

Social connections exert a significant influence on our health behaviors and lifestyle choices. Whether it’s participating in group exercise classes, sharing healthy meals with friends, or receiving encouragement from loved ones to prioritize self-care, social interactions can motivate us to adopt and maintain healthier habits. Additionally, the sense of accountability and camaraderie fostered by social connections can help sustain long-term adherence to health-promoting behaviors, leading to better outcomes for physical well-being.

Strategies for Cultivating Meaningful Social Connections:

In a world marked by digital distractions and superficial interactions, nurturing genuine social connections requires intentionality and effort. Here are some strategies to cultivate meaningful social connections for enhanced physical well-being:

1. Prioritize face-to-face interactions: Make time for in-person gatherings with friends, family, and community members to foster deeper connections and strengthen social bonds.
2. Engage in shared activities: Participate in group activities or hobbies that align with your interests and values, allowing for opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals and forge meaningful relationships.
3. Practice active listening: Be present and attentive during conversations, showing genuine interest in others’ experiences and perspectives. Empathetic listening fosters trust and deepens interpersonal connections.
4. Seek support when needed: Don’t hesitate to reach out to friends, family, or support groups during challenging times. Sharing burdens and seeking emotional support can alleviate stress and promote resilience.
5. Volunteer and give back: Engage in community service or volunteer activities that provide opportunities to connect with others while making a positive impact on society. Acts of kindness and altruism strengthen social ties and enhance well-being.

As we navigate the complexities of modern life, let us not underestimate the profound impact of social connections on our physical well-being. Cultivating meaningful relationships, nurturing supportive networks, and prioritizing genuine human connection are not just niceties but essential components of a healthy and fulfilling life. Let us cherish the bonds that unite us, for in fostering strong social connections, we not only enrich our lives but also safeguard our physical health and well-being for generations to come.

Recovering from substance use disorders is a challenging journey that often involves more than just achieving sobriety. While overcoming addiction is a significant milestone, it is equally important for individuals to focus on rebuilding their lives and creating a sense of fulfillment beyond the confines of substance use. In this article, we explore the various aspects of building a fulfilling life after overcoming substance use disorders.

Finding Purpose and Meaning: One of the key components of building a fulfilling life after substance use disorders is discovering a sense of purpose and meaning. This may involve exploring interests, hobbies, and activities that bring joy and fulfillment. Whether it’s pursuing a new career path, volunteering for a cause, or engaging in creative endeavors, finding purpose can provide a sense of direction and motivation for the future.

Reconnecting with Relationships: Substance use disorders can often strain relationships with family and friends. Rebuilding and strengthening these connections is essential for creating a fulfilling life in recovery. This may involve seeking forgiveness, rebuilding trust, and fostering open communication. Healthy relationships provide support, encouragement, and a sense of belonging, which are vital for long-term recovery.

Prioritizing Physical and Mental Health: Maintaining physical and mental well-being is crucial for building a fulfilling life after overcoming substance use disorders. This includes adopting healthy lifestyle habits such as regular exercise, nutritious eating, and adequate sleep. Additionally, prioritizing mental health through therapy, support groups, and self-care practices can help individuals navigate the challenges of recovery and enhance their overall quality of life.

Setting Goals and Pursuing Growth: Setting goals and working towards personal growth is an essential part of building a fulfilling life after substance use disorders. This may involve setting small, achievable goals initially and gradually expanding to more significant milestones. Whether it’s furthering education, pursuing career advancement, or achieving personal aspirations, setting goals provides a sense of purpose and accomplishment.

Cultivating Gratitude and Mindfulness: Practicing gratitude and mindfulness can greatly enhance the journey of recovery and contribute to a fulfilling life. Taking time to appreciate the present moment and the progress made in recovery can foster a sense of contentment and satisfaction. Additionally, mindfulness practices such as meditation, deep breathing, and mindfulness exercises can help individuals cope with stress and cravings, promoting overall well-being.

Embracing a Life of Sobriety: While sobriety is a foundational aspect of recovery, embracing a life of sobriety goes beyond mere abstinence from substances. It involves adopting a positive mindset, making healthy choices, and embracing new opportunities for growth and fulfillment. Sobriety provides the freedom to pursue meaningful experiences, form authentic connections, and live life to the fullest.

Building a fulfilling life after overcoming substance use disorders is a journey that requires dedication, perseverance, and self-discovery. By finding purpose and meaning, reconnecting with relationships, prioritizing physical and mental health, setting goals, cultivating gratitude and mindfulness, and embracing a life of sobriety, individuals can create a life that is rich in fulfillment and meaning beyond sobriety. Remember, recovery is not just about overcoming addiction; it’s about creating a life worth living.

Biphasic Sleep Pattern is a pattern in which a person divides their sleep into main segments in a day. This can be difficult as experienced by Alexa young man trying to balance work and social activities.

As the city buzzed with the rhythmic hum of nightlife, Alex found himself caught in the relentless whirlwind of deadlines and social obligations. Despite his best efforts to balance work, study, and social life, exhaustion crept upon him like a stealthy predator. One fateful evening, after a particularly demanding day at the office followed by a late-night study session, Alex collapsed onto his bed in a state of utter exhaustion.

Hours later, as the first rays of dawn filtered through his window, Alex awoke feeling surprisingly refreshed. Bewildered by his sudden burst of energy, he checked the time, only to realize that he had slept for merely three hours. Confused yet invigorated, Alex embarked on his day with renewed vigour, embracing the unexpected gift of energy bestowed upon him by his brief slumber.

This episode marked Alex’s introduction to biphasic sleep, a sleep pattern characterized by two distinct periods of sleep separated by a period of wakefulness. Intrigued by his experience, Alex delved deeper into the phenomenon, eager to uncover the secrets behind its rejuvenating effects.

 The Power of Biphasic Sleep

Biphasic sleep has been practiced by various cultures throughout history, from the siesta-loving Spaniards to the polyphasic sleep patterns of ancient civilizations. Unlike the monophasic sleep pattern commonly observed in modern society, which consists of a single block of sleep lasting 7-9 hours, biphasic sleep divides the sleep cycle into two distinct phases:

1. Core Sleep: The first phase, known as core sleep, typically occurs during the night and comprises the majority of deep, restorative sleep. This period allows the body to undergo essential physiological processes, such as tissue repair, hormone regulation, and memory consolidation.

2. Nap: The second phase, or nap, occurs during the day and consists of a shorter period of light sleep. While not as deep as core sleep, napping provides a quick recharge and boosts alertness, making it an ideal solution for combating midday fatigue.

 The Effects of Biphasic Sleep on Health and Productivity

The benefits of biphasic sleep extend far beyond the realm of mere rest and relaxation. By harnessing the power of dual slumber, individuals can experience a myriad of positive effects on both their physical and mental well-being:

1. Enhanced Alertness:  Incorporating a nap into one’s daily routine can significantly improve alertness, cognitive function, and reaction time. This boost in mental acuity can be particularly beneficial for individuals engaged in intellectually demanding tasks or those facing the afternoon slump.

• Improved Mood: Adequate sleep, including both core sleep and napping, plays a crucial role in regulating mood and emotional stability. By ensuring sufficient rest, individuals can better cope with stress, anxiety, and mood disorders, promoting overall mental wellness and resilience.

• Increased Productivity: Contrary to conventional wisdom, taking a nap during the day can actually enhance productivity and performance. By allowing the brain to recharge and consolidate information, napping can boost creativity, problem-solving abilities, and decision-making skills, leading to greater efficiency and effectiveness in daily tasks.

• Optimized Health: Biphasic sleep has been associated with numerous health benefits, including reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, improved immune function, and enhanced metabolic health. By prioritizing quality sleep, individuals can safeguard their long-term well-being and reduce the likelihood of chronic health conditions.

Embracing Biphasic Sleep: Practical Tips and Considerations

Incorporating biphasic sleep into one’s lifestyle requires careful planning and consideration. Here are some practical tips for adopting this sleep pattern effectively:

1. Establish a Consistent Schedule: Maintain a regular sleep-wake schedule, ensuring that both core sleep and napping occur at the same time each day. Consistency is key to optimizing the body’s circadian rhythm and promoting restorative sleep.

• Create a Sleep-Conducive Environment: Designate a quiet, comfortable space for both core sleep and napping, free from distractions and external stimuli. Invest in supportive bedding, such as a quality mattress and pillows, to enhance sleep quality and comfort.

• Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to your body’s natural rhythms and adjust your sleep schedule accordingly. Experiment with different nap durations and timings to find what works best for you, taking into account individual preferences and lifestyle factors.

• Prioritize Sleep Hygiene: Practice good sleep hygiene habits, such as limiting screen time before bed, avoiding caffeine and stimulating activities close to bedtime, and creating a relaxing bedtime routine to signal to your body that it’s time to wind down.

Conclusion

As Alex discovered firsthand, biphasic sleep offers a compelling alternative to traditional sleep patterns, unlocking a wealth of benefits for health and productivity. By embracing the power of dual slumber and incorporating core sleep and napping into their daily routine, individuals can harness the rejuvenating effects of quality sleep and embark on each day with renewed vitality and vigour. So, why settle for a single bout of sleep when you can experience the revitalizing benefits of biphasic sleep? It’s time to seize the opportunity to optimize your sleep and elevate your well-being to new heights.

Kadiri, the Medical Director of Pinnacle Medical Services gave the advice in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria in Lagos.

According to her, sex is not just to nourish a woman’s body, it is also beneficial for her mental health.

“As women, there is need for us to make our spouses our best friends if we want to be mentally healthy.

“Studies have shown that women who have more active sex and are in long-term relationships are less likely to be depressed than women who go without sex.

“So, more sex is important and essential. It is a remedy for persistent headache in women.

“Low sexual drive, which leads to depression, should be looked into. A woman can be depressed when her sexual drive drops.

“Frequent sex can play a role in women’s sense of well being and quality of life,’’ Kadiri said.

She explained that sex was not just for procreation, adding that it could create bonding, good companionship and sound sleep.

Kadiri, popularly called ‘celebrity shrink’, urged women dealing with depression to frequently indulge in sex, as it  boosts their self-esteem.

She also advised women who are over-weight to consider having an active sexual life, as it boosts their endorphins levels. Endorphins are happy hormones.

“The happy hormones will make them lose some calories as well as sleep better.

”Orgasms trigger the release of endorphins which are happy hormones secreted by the brain that act as effective painkillers,’’ she said.

(NAN)

In her statement, The death of Kate Spade and Anthony Bourdain (both died from suicide) this week just goes to show that there is NO immunity against having depression or any other mental illness.

No matter the level of your success, wealth and the happy faces seen on the web/social media, we are all facing different life challenges.

It’s high time to normalize mental health and mental illnesses. The moment has come that we have to drop the “what will people say syndrome”. .

The time has also come that we have to reach out to one another deliberately and truly show love and care. .

We have to begin to live intentionally.. Cultivate, own and nurture healthy support systems.. Speak out when we are going through challenges that are taking a toll on our mental health.

Encourage help seeking behavior when we know of someone going through issues to prevent more premature deaths… In all, hold on to your God and when you are faced with matters like this, see your doctor and pray to get better.
.
Remember, two good heads are better than one.. Be reminded that depression cuts across all communities, races, gender, religion, etc.. No one is immune and no vaccine yet. Depression is a silent killer.

Speakout and get help from the right people, right places and right time… and that time is NOW.

May their souls Rest In Peace. 
May God be with us all, Amen

Acknowledging the national drugs and Alcohol facts week, with the theme “shatter the myths” a drug abuse awareness campaign aimed to shatter the myths that teens get from the internet, social media, TV, movies, music, or from friends by linking teens to science based facts on drugs, Dr Kadiri spoke on the effect of drug abuse, how it affect students’ intelligence and the structure of the brain leading to brain damage.

In her words, drugs can cause the brain to send the wrong signals to the body. This can make a person stop breathing, have a heart attack or go into a coma. This can happen the first time the drug is used and Marijuana smoke has more cancer causing chemicals than tobacco and, smoking marijuana as a teen cause loss of IQ points that you may never get back.

Speaking on the myths and facts on drugs, Dr kadiri noted that many Nigerian youths actually believed If you smoked pot on the weekend, you’d be fine by Monday; but the fact is that the effects of the pot (marijuana) can last for up to 3 days, it will impair memory, reflexes, and coordination.

Addiction can happen at any age, even unborn children can get addicted because of their mothers’ drug use and you cannot tell if marijuana, weed or other substances are added to your food, so everyone must be careful of the company he or she keeps.

She promised enough materials will be provided to the school which will enable the students to read more on drugs abuse and the implications.

The students represented by Boluwatife Omolayo and Samuel Solarin appreciated Dr. Kadiri’s for the lecture and also admonished other students to stop drugs use and know that it affects the body system