Director's Letter: April Alcohol Awareness Month | |
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Dear Friends,
April marks Alcohol Awareness Month, a crucial time to shed light on the profound effects of excessive alcohol consumption on individuals, families, and communities. As the predominant psychoactive substance in the United States, alcohol misuse poses a significant public health challenge, affecting people across all demographics and age groups.
This month provides a valuable opportunity for self-reflection on the role of alcohol in our lives. While initiatives like Dry January and Sober October have garnered attention for their effectiveness in reducing alcohol intake, it's important to recognize that cutting back on alcohol consumption can yield significant health benefits at any time.
In line with this, every Friday throughout April, we will be sharing enlightening Friday Facts about Alcohol on both our website and Michigan Medicine’s Facebook page. This educational endeavor is designed to enhance our understanding of how alcohol influences our health and holistic well-being, while also offering valuable resources for continued learning and support.
If you or someone you know is grappling with alcohol-related issues, I urge you to seek support. Our dedicated team of medical professionals at U-M Addiction Treatment Services (UMATS) (UMATS) offers personalized, evidence-based care with compassion for individuals of all ages. Additionally, we have curated a range of resources to assist you on your path to recovery and wellness. Don't hesitate to reach out – help is available, and you're not alone in this journey.
Sincerely,
Frederic C. Blow, Ph.D.
Professor & Director, U-M Addiction Center
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For Surgery Patients, AI Could Help Reduce Alcohol-Related Risks
A study led by Anne Fernandez, Ph.D. shows scanning patients’ records for signs of risky drinking could identify those without an alcohol-related diagnosis who might want to cut back, alone or with help.
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Young Adults’ Views on the Risks of Different Methods of Cannabis Consumption
Research led by T-32 Post-Doctoral Fellow Autumn Rae Florimbio, Ph.D. is the first study in the US that assessed how young people consider the risks of the variety of cannabis products that are available in today’s legal market.
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Women’s Problem Drinking Is Catching Up to Men’s
G. Scott Winder, M.D. talks about the growing incidence of alcohol-related liver problems among women in their 20s and 30s, driven by biological factors and heightened alcohol consumption, which has become particularly noticeable during the pandemic.
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1 in 8 Older Adults Use Cannabis Products, Suggesting Need to Screen for Risks
Research led by Anne Fernandez, Ph.D. found increased use of cannabis by people over 50 post-pandemic, especially in those who also engage in unsafe levels of alcohol use.
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High Rate of Mental Health Problems and Political Extremism Found in Those who Bought Firearms During COVID Pandemic
Survey led by Brian Hicks, Ph.D. raises concern about high risk for suicide and violence toward others.
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New Professorships Announcements | |
Congratulations to Drs. Erin Bonar and Maureen Walton on the recent announcement of their new professorships! Through the tremendous generosity of donors Toby and Kathy Brzoznowski and their family, we have been able to establish two new professorships in the Department of Psychiatry. | |
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The Toby Brzoznowski Research Professorship in Behavioral Health Technology Innovations
Maureen Walton, Ph.D., MPH is the inaugural Toby Brzoznowski Research Professor effective March 1, 2024.
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The Kathy Fant Brzoznowski Research Professorship in Behavioral Health Technology Innovations
Erin Bonar, Ph.D., is the inaugural Kathy Fant Brzoznowski Research Professor, effective March 1, 2024.
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T-32 Post-Doctoral Fellow Spotlight | |
Fiona Molloy, Ph.D.
Fiona Molloy is a T-32 Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the University of Michigan Addiction Center in the Department of Psychiatry. Her research focuses on links between neural connectivity, brain activity, and behavior, using computational modeling to predict how these components contribute to individual and clinical differences in humans. Read more
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May
7
7:00 PM - 8:30 PM EST
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Mind Matters: Bipolar Disorder and Addiction: Insights from Experts and Inspirations from Experience
Register here
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Friday Facts about Alcohol
April is Alcohol Awareness month. Learn the latest research-based information to support you in making healthy choices!
Learn more
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Mind Matters - Teen Substance Use: The Latest Research, Personal Stories, & Tips for Parents/Caregivers
Webinar highlights the factors that lead to adolescent substance use, its effects on brain development, and advice for parents and caregivers.
Watch here
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Embarking on the Journey to Substance Use Disorder Recovery
The path to substance use disorder recovery is both intricate and transformative. Recovery transcends the mere conquest of alcohol and drug addiction; it involves reclaiming lives, reconstructing relationships, and embracing the promise of a brighter future.
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Mind Matters - Addiction Treatment Medications: The Science & Personal Stories
Webinar highlights medications for treating substance use disorders and personal stories of recovery.
Watch here
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Addiction Resources
The U-M Addiction Center resource guide includes free online support groups, 24-hour helplines, and other important recovery and mental health-related resources.
Learn more
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University of Michigan Addiction Center | Department of Psychiatry, 4250 Plymouth Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48109 | | | | |
