Straight Talk With The Doc

As COVID comes in waves and the vaccine continues to roll out, experts are looking at the impact COVID has had on people’s mental health. Those with mental health or substance use disorders are at an increased risk for danger.

The term California sober refers to those who avoid “hard drugs,” but still partake in the use of substances like alcohol and Marijuana. Some claim this is the new form of sobriety, but the dangers of abusing any substance are still present, concerning some experts.

Those with an Opioid use disorder and their loved ones know that it is not an easy drug to quit. There are a variety of treatment options that include therapy and treatment medications, but some may be concerned that those taking medications do not understand their potential effects. Dr. Bhatt, MD explains how they work and what you should know before taking them.

Healthy relationships can bring joy, love, and motivation to someone’s life, but when substance abuse is thrown into the mix, it can cause anger, sorrow, and feelings of betrayal. Research has demonstrated that substance abuse is one of the main “final straws” for couples that decide to divorce. Dr. Bhatt, MD talks about why this is, and what to do if your partner is abusing drugs or alcohol.

Drugs like cannabis have been used throughout history for a number of therapeutic and practical uses, but the laws surrounding them have changed over the years due to public opinion, political motives, and scientific research. Dr. Bhatt, MD explains what psylocibin, cannabis, and ketamine do to the body and mind, and how they can be used in both positive and negative ways.

When people lose the ability to determine that they need to seek treatment for a mental health or substance use disorder, involuntary or civil commitment comes into play. Dr. Bhatt, MD explains the criteria needed to enact a civil commitment and what that means for the patient

Social media can be used to connect with others, share our ideas, and get a laugh. However, when social media or internet usage begins interfering with life in a negative way, it is something that needs to be paid attention. Dr. Bhatt, MD explains how behavioral addictions work and how some research has demonstrated that excessive social media use can have a negative effect

Substance use disorders have a relapse rate of 40 to 60%, and some experts estimate that number to be much higher. Although frustrating, relapse is often just a part of the recovery process. Dr. Bhatt, MD explains why relapse happens, and what you can do to prepare.

Fentanyl is involved in a huge number of Opioid overdose deaths. A drug that was intended for hospital patients with severe pain has now made its way on to the street, taking lives with it. Dr. Bhatt, MD breaks down the drug that is 100 times more potent than Morphine.

The Opioid Epidemic has claimed the lives of almost 841,000 people since its start in 1999, and it is still going on to this day. Dr. Bhatt, MD breaks down the history of the Opioid Epidemic, what the factors were that sparked it, and where we’re at today.