#therapy for substance use disorders
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samarpanhealth · 2 years ago
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Samarpan emerge as a globally recognized and preferred Mental Health Center, scientifically addressing substance abuse and psychological issues to make more reliable diagnostic and treatment decisions. Samarpan offers therapy for a range of mental health disorders, including anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and personality disorders. We also offer therapy for addiction and substance abuse disorders.
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bpdcodone · 7 months ago
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Smoking a nice cigarette with some MDMA
I noticed MDMA makes us as a system switch and co-con alot lol why though?
•Janey
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carrotzcake · 1 year ago
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two weeks ago, I sat in therapy after a fulfilling, positive weekend. I felt hopeful, positive, settled, comfortable. last week, a complete 180 after a shitty weekend and going into the current weekend not feeling too motivated or hopeful. I am filled with such regret, shame and disgust for myself over the last two weeks. what happened? everything was going well. the fact that I legitimately don't know why i fell off the wagon, just let urges become behaviors and all of a sudden I'm back to square negative three thousand.
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between-the-margins · 2 months ago
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This is a graphic novel/comic book focused on providing emotional regulation skills to marginalized youth communities through the tool of mindfulness. I developed the idea by working at a youth agency during my practicum. The story is a jumble of the youth I encountered there and the issues that I came into contact with there. It's about 55 pages and is mostly black & white if you'd like to print it out. Click on the button above to download or click here!
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An image from Chapter 6 - Jett (our main character) exploring creating mandalas as part of her therapy.
This graphic novel was written for my capstone project for my Master's in Art Therapy in the fall 2023 to spring 2024. It has always been my intention to provide this work free of charge to anyone who might find it useful. It might be corny at times but, hey, I finished it and it's here.
If you are a therapist, counsellor or agency I hope that you can use this book to provide a visual companion to your work with young people!
If you are a youth, I hope that this graphic novel can be a tool you can use to help navigate your feelings and thoughts at this exciting and sometimes confusing time of your life. You might be going through a lot and I hope that you have someone in your life to talk to about it! If you think it might be helpful, consider reaching out to a youth agency in your area who may be able to hook you up with a therapist or counsellor. Just remember, that even though it might be hard to see right now, you bring an amazing splash of colour to the world just be being yourself in it. And the world would be a lot less bright without you here.
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tetedump · 7 months ago
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"It's crazy how fast my moods change," I say. "It's like from moment to moment I never know what I'm gonna feel. I just wanted to die, you know, but now I feel so grateful to be alive. I'm so grateful for you, Spencer. Thank you for helping me."
- Tweak: Growing up on Methamphetamines, Nic Sheff
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lukehapper28 · 8 months ago
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Comprehensive Treatment for Substance Use Disorder in Lexington, KY
Substance use disorder (SUD) is a serious and complex condition that affects many individuals and families in Lexington, KY. Fortunately, there are effective treatments available that can help people overcome addiction and lead healthier lives. New Vista offers a range of services, including residential treatment for substance use disorder in Lexington, KY, as well as various therapy options to support recovery.
Understanding Substance Use Disorder
Substance use disorder is characterized by an inability to control the use of substances such as drugs or alcohol, despite harmful consequences. It affects the brain's function and structure, leading to compulsive behaviors and a strong desire to use the substance. Treatment for SUD involves addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction.
Residential Treatment for Substance Use Disorder
Residential treatment programs provide a structured and supportive environment for individuals struggling with SUD. These programs are designed to offer intensive care and round-the-clock supervision, making them ideal for those who need a higher level of support. At New Vista, the residential treatment for substance use disorder in Lexington, KY includes comprehensive services such as detoxification, individual and group therapy, and medical care.
Key Components of Residential Treatment:
Detoxification: Medical detox helps manage withdrawal symptoms safely and comfortably under professional supervision.
Individual Therapy: One-on-one sessions with a therapist help address underlying issues and develop coping strategies.
Group Therapy: Peer support groups provide a sense of community and shared experiences, fostering mutual support.
Medical Care: Continuous medical monitoring ensures the health and safety of individuals during their recovery journey.
Therapy Options in Lexington, KY
Therapy is a critical component of recovery from substance use disorder. Various therapeutic approaches can help individuals understand the root causes of their addiction, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and build a foundation for lasting recovery. New Vista offers a range of therapy options in Lexington, KY to support individuals in their recovery journey.
Types of Therapy Available:
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors related to substance use.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): Focuses on teaching skills to manage stress, regulate emotions, and improve relationships.
Motivational Interviewing (MI): Enhances an individual's motivation to change their behavior and commit to the treatment process.
Family Therapy: Involves family members in the treatment process to address dynamics that may contribute to substance use and to strengthen support systems.
Integrated Approach to Treatment
An integrated approach to treating substance use disorder ensures that all aspects of an individual's health and well-being are addressed. This includes not only therapy and medical care but also support for co-occurring mental health disorders, such as depression or anxiety. By providing comprehensive care, New Vista helps individuals achieve a more balanced and sustainable recovery.
Community and Peer Support
Community and peer support play a crucial role in recovery from substance use disorder. Engaging with support groups and recovery communities can provide individuals with a sense of belonging and reduce feelings of isolation. New Vista offers various support groups and aftercare programs to help individuals maintain their sobriety and continue their personal growth after completing residential treatment.
Taking the First Step
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use disorder in Lexington, KY, taking the first step towards treatment is crucial. Reach out to New Vista for more information on their residential treatment for substance use disorder and therapy options in Lexington, KY. The journey to recovery begins with recognizing the problem and seeking the appropriate help and support.
Conclusion
Substance use disorder is a challenging condition, but with the right treatment and support, recovery is possible. New Vista provides comprehensive and compassionate care for individuals struggling with addiction in Lexington, KY. Through a combination of residential treatment, therapy, and community support, individuals can achieve lasting recovery and reclaim their lives. Don't wait to seek help. Explore the substance use disorder treatment options and therapy services available in Lexington, KY, and take the first step towards a healthier future today.
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emmanesson · 8 months ago
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"Addiction begins with the hope that something 'out there' can instantly fill up the emptiness inside." - Jean Kilbourne Totally agree to it!!🙌
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harmonyunitedgainesville · 10 months ago
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Mental Health Services For Adults in Altamonte Springs, Florida | Psychiatric Medication Management Near Me in Altamonte Springs, FL
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Mental Health Services For Adults in Altamonte Springs, Florida | Psychiatric Medication Management Near Me in Altamonte Springs, FL. Harmony United Psychiatric Care is a full-service mental health outpatient clinic that provides a range of services to individuals with mental health, substance abuse, and other cognitive disabilities. The clinic offers medication management, neuropsychological testing, online counseling, and telepsychiatry services. The clinic’s team of professionals includes psychologists and psychiatrists who specialize in treating conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, post-traumatic stress disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, schizophrenia, pre-surgical evaluation, memory problems, adjustment disorder, suicidal thoughts, emotional problems, and eating disorders. The clinic also offers individual therapy, substance abuse and addiction counseling, couples marriage counseling, family therapy, grief counseling, and trauma therapy. Appointments are typically available the same day or the next,and customer service is available 7 days a week from 7:15 a.m. to 6:45 p.m.  Visit : www.hupcfl.com Call us: +1 800 457 4573
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transitionsmobility144 · 1 year ago
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Comprehensive Substance Use Disorder Treatment and Therapy in Lexington, KY
In the heart of Lexington, Kentucky, individuals facing the challenges of substance use disorder can find hope and support through specialized treatment programs. New Vista offers comprehensive services, including residential treatment for substance use disorder (SUD) and therapy to help individuals on their path to recovery.
Understanding Substance Use Disorder
Substance use disorder, often referred to as addiction, is a complex condition that affects both the brain and behaviour. At New Vista, our dedicated team recognizes the unique needs of each and tailors treatment plans to address these specific challenges.
Residential Treatment for Substance Use Disorder
For those seeking a structured and supportive environment, New Vista's residential treatment program provides a holistic approach to recovery. Our state-of-the-art Lexington, KY facility is designed to offer a safe haven for individuals to focus on their healing journey.
Substance use disorder Lexington ky is a critical issue, but with the proper support, individuals can overcome the challenges associated with addiction. In our residential program, clients benefit from:
1.    Individualized Treatment Plans: Our experienced team conducts thorough assessments to create personalized treatment plans that address each individual's specific needs and circumstances.
2.    24/7 Support: A supportive and caring environment is crucial during the early stages of recovery. Our staff is available around the clock for assistance, encouragement, and guidance.
3.    Therapeutic Interventions: Evidence-based therapies, including cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing, form the core of our treatment approach. These therapies help individuals develop coping mechanisms and address underlying issues contributing to substance use.
Therapy in Lexington, KY
In addition to residential treatment, therapy in Lexington, KY plays a pivotal role in the continuum of care offered by New Vista. Therapy is a fundamental component of the recovery process, providing ongoing support and tools for long-term success.
Types of Therapy Offered:
1.    Individual Counseling: One-on-one sessions with experienced therapists allow individuals to explore personal challenges, set goals, and work towards sustained recovery.
2.    Group Therapy: Connecting with peers with similar experiences fosters community and understanding. Group therapy provides a supportive environment where individuals can share insights and learn from others.
3.    Family Therapy: Substance use disorder affects not only the individual but also their loved ones. Family therapy sessions aim to improve communication, rebuild trust, and strengthen the support system for lasting recovery.
Conclusion
New Vista's commitment to providing top-notch substance use disorder treatment in Lexington, KY and comprehensive therapy services empowers individuals to reclaim their lives from the grips of addiction. Focusing on personalized care, evidence-based practices, and a supportive community, our programs pave the way for a brighter, substance-free future. If you or a loved one is seeking help, contact us today to embark on the journey to recovery.
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wsccinci · 1 year ago
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Decoding Addiction Treatment: Exploring Drug Rehab and Treatment
Meta-description: The labyrinth of Addiction Treatment can be confounding. Our meticulous exploration illuminates all components of therapy, imparting invaluable wisdom and pragmatic resources. Foreword Embarking on the path of recuperation from substance misuse can seem formidable. This composition, “Decoding Addiction Treatment,” endeavors to navigate you through each phase of this…
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sagecounselingandcoaching · 2 years ago
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apathtorecovery · 2 years ago
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clarksam923 · 2 years ago
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The root cause of addiction and the best therapy Lexington KY
Understanding more about substance abuse Lexington KY and addiction to find its root causes is always going to help you find a solution for it. Remember, this is a real, complex ailment that can influence your behavior and thought process. Addictions can certainly take their toll on your body, mind, and spirit.
Controlling the cause
This is the reason why seeking the help of substance abuse Lexington KY therapists who are dedicated and sincere about offering treatment to the affected individuals, is vital. The underlying causes of addiction and substance abuse are the same. Long-term addictions can be brought under control if you identify the underlying cause and fix the problem once and for all.
Figure out the Factors
Proper counseling is essential, and complete cooperation and willingness from the patient are also most important for successful results to be achieved. Stress is a major reason for addiction. If there is a family history of trauma and mental illness, then that can also lead to addiction. During a counseling session, when substance abuse Lexington KY therapists interact with the affected individual, they learn about how these factors can ultimately lead to chronic substance abuse in individuals.
Figure out the therapy
The point is that what you are noting down during the counseling session will indicate the type of therapy Lexington KY procedures required for further cutting down the risk. Addiction is simply nothing but your inability to stop using alcohol or drugs of any other kind that can be detrimental to your survival. Despite being aware of the risks, compulsory drug use can cause damage to brain function that can be detrimental to your survival.
Despite being aware of the risks, compulsory drug use can cause damage to brain function. Regular drug and alcohol use alters the structure of the central nervous system, particularly the brain. This in turn affects the thought process and behavioral pattern of the affected individual.
The biology behind addiction
Whenever you are using any type of drug, the brain releases the neurotransmitter dopamine. This is responsible for the sense of feeling pleasure. The brain's memory records this feeling. There is a separate learning center in a section of the brain. This learning center will form a permanent connection between pleasure and habitual alcohol or drug use. Environmental cues will also trigger the percent to recall the emotion and engage in the activity.
Over some time, this link between the brain and pleasure gains strength, which may lead to a strong craving. This mechanism is just like our temptation to eat some good food items. This affects the way we behave and think.
It is for this reason that we can justify our use of alcohol and drugs. It becomes easier for you to find excuses for this addiction. You have a strong desire to be dishonest and do immoral things. At this stage, if you are not treated properly by the therapy Lexington KY experts, things can get worse. Holistic cure is what they need and that is possible in the rehab.
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3liza · 2 months ago
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Apart from the prescription of transcutaneous nicotine application as a substitute for weaning smokers, the transcutaneous application of this substance has been investigated in clinical trials evaluating its therapeutic effects on neurologic or gastrointestinal disorders in non-smoking patients; these investigations showed no substantial side effects (Newhouse et al. 2012; Sandborn 1997; Pullan et al. 1994). Using very high dosages of nicotine (up to 107 mg/day), however, led nearly every patient with more than 90 mg/day to present with frequent nausea and vomiting (Villafane et al. 2007). Nonetheless, all individuals in a trial investigating the ameliorative effects of nicotine on Parkinson’s disease (PD) showed improved motor scores under reduced dopaminergic treatment (Villafane et al. 2007). In contrast to the well-known addictive potential linked to the chronic inhalation of nicotine, none of the trials could show a nicotine dependency after the withdrawal of transcutaneous nicotine application at the end of the investigations (Newhouse et al. 2012; Sandborn 1997; Pullan et al. 1994; Villafane et al. 2007).
Furthermore, among the severe and fatal cases of COVID-19, the proportion of nicotine consumers was significantly lower than non-consumers of nicotine (Miyara, et al. 2020).
CIGARETTES CONFIRMED FOR HEALTHY. CIGARETTES CURE LONG COVID im kidding but nicotine therapy is actually showing a lot of promise check it out
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bozers · 4 months ago
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Random Mk character headcanons Pt.1 THE MENFOLK
Raiden
Sweaty. Sweats like a mf even when he isn't working. Has to wear undershirts to combat the waterfall coming off him.
Never struggled with anger issues until becoming a champion and getting the amulet.
Secretly a bit freaky. Is down for pretty much anything eye emoji
Reiko
Has a mild ED. Was worse when he was younger, but he's getting better about it. Used to hoard food. Struggles with body dysmorphia due to unrealistic expectations, comparing himself to Shao ( a completely different species...)
Allergic to cats.
Loves the ocean. Dreams of one day owning his own boat to take out sailing whenever he wants.
Kung Lao
Weirdly enough? Introvert. Raiden is one of very few people who doesn't deplete his social battery.
Struggles with bouts of depression. Self medicates with Marijuana.
He is incredibly secure in himself and none of his confidence is an act. That doesn't mean he can't get discouraged sometimes, but he won't try and hide disappointment behind false smiles.
MOAR BELOW vvvvv
Johnny Cage
Struggled with contamination OCD tendencies all his life and coped using substances. His lifestyle is in direct conflict with his illness and it acts like immersion therapy in a way.
Cancer runs in his family so he is vigilant about getting screened once a year.
Life in Hollywood almost crushed him into an apathetic cynic, but somehow, he has managed to stay hopeful if not a bit delusional at times. His hunger for recognition rivaled only by his boundless curiosity.
Smoke
He had a tongue ring for many years and wants to eventually get a tattoo but can't settle on a design.
Can "Slav Squat" and isn't shy about showing off to friends.
Struggles with unhealthy attachment styles.
Rain
Is actually an extrovert. He may think himself above others, but he still requires validation and gets sad if he doesn't get to talk to those close to him.
Iron deficient
If he had never been appointed as High Mage, he would have gone on to teach magic theory at the academy.
Geras
He may be immortal, but that doesn't mean he just sits in a room all day. Geras is endlessly curious, as this is a core part of his very being. Observing and learning new things is both his primary function and an endless font of joy.
He knows how lonely Liu Kang is. Knows that even he can't fill the void left in his masters heart. Time for him is just a function, whereas for Liu Kang, it is and endless road of isolation
Will search up humans in funny situations on the hourglass to watch. It's like his version of FAILARMY.
Liu Kang
Is and has been incredibly lonely for eons. He really thought he would fill the void after reuniting with his old friends, but the feeling isn't the same. They don't know him. Not really.
Once he found a way to connect to his Titan friends, he visits them often. Being able to talk with Lord Raiden again alleviated the strain on his heart tenfold. Reuniting with Kung Lao, (his boy, his bro!!) has also helped give him hope for the next few eons. Same goes for Kitana. (She was the one to find him again after the dust settled.)
His brother is alive in his timeline. Of course they have no relationship, Liu choosing not to intervene due to fears of drawing danger to him. Instead of becoming a shaolin monk, Chan lives happily in the united states as an Ice Road Trucker.
Shang Stung
Has BPD and narcissistic personality disorder. This severely impacted his ability to live peacefully in society and pushed him to grifting. Taking advantage of others was less exhausting than pretending to be a friendly employee to some shopkeeper.
He is half human. Shang's mother traveled to outworld during the last tournament 100 years ago. She was a servant to Liu Kang's champions but ended up running away with a disgraced Edenian.
Doesn't identify as a specific gender, especially after learning shapeshifting. Will often times swap between whatever he feels like that day.
Syzoth
Double jointed and hyper flexible. Shang Stung had to find a way to control him other than shackles, cuz he could always slip out no matter how tight they were.
He is very at ease around children, and falls back into dad mode immediately. Is also a purveyor of terrible dad jokes.
Has Gilberts Syndrome. His species use of bile/acid attacks puts a lot of strain on his liver. Due to his rough living, he didn't get adequate nutrition and now his body struggles to keep balanced out humors.
Only needs to eat once a week, but will happily snack if something tasty comes across his path.
Shao
Has no biological children. Despite his family's standing and pressure to continue the prestigious line, Shao has never taken a wife. Multiple concubines and bastards, but no wife or suitable heirs.
He doesn't view any of the young men and women he mentors as children, just tools. Even though he saw himself in young Reiko, his affection is entirely dependent on his loyalty. Reiko is more of an extension of himself, a way to overcompensate for what he lacks.
Has IBS.
Kuai Liang
He left the Lin Kuei a few years after Tomas was adopted. At odds with his father at the time, he left to go live with their allied clan: the Syrai Ryu. He was born a cryomancer like Bi Han, but chose to pursue pyromancy to distance himself from his lineage. Though able to wield fire, he is still weak to it. When he finally returned home, his father welcomes him back like the prodigal son he was. Bi han deeply, deeply resented this.
Got his tattoo in Hong Kong while he was totally plastered (not a reputable place. They even got the tattoo wrong lol)
Unreadable poker face. DO NOT play cards against this man.
Kenshi
Was forced to drop out of high school to support his family when his older brother was killed, and subsequently got wrapped up in yakuza shit. Has since taken his high school equivalency test (GED) and passed with flying colors
Is addicted to caffeine.
LOVES holidays! Especially Christmas. He may not get all his friends gifts, but the ones he does give are very well thought out and personal.
Bi Han
Doesn't take care of himself or maintain his appearance very well. But he basically won the genetic lottery so it's not that noticeable.
Has a type A personality and is a perfectionist. But he is actually a very gracious person at heart, and will silently shoulder the brunt of responsibility to spare his brothers.
Was happy to mentor Tomas when he first arrived, even though Kuai and Tomas had the stronger friendship. His attitude changed, however, when Tomas choose to stay after Kuai ran off. Instead of seeing the loyalty of Tomas's decision, he saw it as a shallow way to win his fathers favor.
(he couldn't see it was actually jealously. That Kuai could have a choice to leave but he didn't. Tomas had an actual valid reason to want to leave, but he is the one remaining? Bi Han has big feelings and does not process them well )
Quan Chi
Once he started losing his hair, he decided to go bald.
Much prefers to spend his time in the Netherrealm. His dominion there is near absolute, and he would much rather be in the company of those subservient to him. He doesn't see anything wrong with this dynamic, believing this the superior to mutual friendship. (this is laughably hypocritical given his relationship to Shang mf Tsung)
Indulges in all kinds of delicious foods. Sweets, fine drink, rare cuts of meat- the works. Even if he dislikes it, he will eat it anyway just for the sake of it. He made himself ill by eating an entire box of chocolate once.
Havik
Was born in secret to slave parents. They hid him from the government for as long as they could, and so he was able to live a relatively carefree childhood. Other's his age, and of unsanctioned birth, would be seized by the state and put to work as soon as possible.
Fierce passion aside, Havik is very introspective. When not fighting, he often sits in silent contemplation for hours at a time. Before his mind begins to degrade from the blood magic use, he would sit and scrutinize every action he took.
Unlike Quan Chi, Havik cannot bring himself to indulge in luxuries. He feels tremendous guilt given how many of his people are still unable to enjoy even the barest bit of comfort.
He leaves his dick and balls at home for safe keeping.
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feminist-space · 2 months ago
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"Most of what “public health” does for Americans is taken for granted. Before the Covid pandemic, most people probably didn’t think about it at all. Yet the fact that, in most places in the United States, we can count on the water we drink to be safe, that the food we buy is not contaminated with e-coli or listeria, and that we don’t have to deal with dreaded childhood diseases that ripped through our communities only a few decades ago, is a testament to the tireless work of many, unheralded, often unknown heroes. This invisible safety net has been built up over the years, always underfunded and understaffed, always not-enough, but it’s all we’ve got.
...
By now, we’ve heard Kennedy’s views on everything from fluoride in drinking water to childhood vaccines, to threats to recreate the NIH and FDA in the image of his own quackery. Let’s be clear: Kennedy’s views are not “alternative” to orthodoxy, meant to shake up the system—they are verifiably false. They are nonsense.
Let’s take his claims on fluoride as an example. RFK Jr. wrote on X in early November: “Fluoride is an industrial waste associated with arthritis, bone fractures, bone cancer, IQ loss, neurodevelopmental disorders, and thyroid disease.” Um—no. In high doses over prolonged periods of time—as with many other substances (even water and oxygen!)—exposure to fluoride can be a problem, but not in the small concentrations we see in drinking water. Lest we forget: Fluoride has been a bugaboo of the far right since the 1950s, when fluoridation was supposed to be part of a communist plot to take over America.
And since conspiracy theories know no borders, we can also look at a natural experiment up in Calgary, Canada, for further evidence. In 2011, Calgary’s’s city council banned fluoridation, and now is set to reintroduce it next year. Why? Because since fluoridation ended, cavities in children’s teeth have become more numerous and larger, often requiring treatment under general anesthesia and/or intravenous antibiotic therapy to fight infections associated with tooth decay. As one researcher at the University of Calgary has said, the decision to ban fluoridation had a clear result: It was a source of “avoidable and potentially life-threatening disease, pain, suffering, misery and expense…especially [for] very young children and their families.”
As for vaccination, Kennedy’s views are long-standing and well-known. He has suggested that “there is no vaccine that is safe and effective,” and he still clings to the long-debunked idea that vaccines cause autism. More recently, during the Covid pandemic, he created a multimillion-dollar anti-vaccine juggernaut to dissuade people from getting vaccinated against SARS-CoV-2.
There is no person right now more vital to the anti-vaccine movement than RFK Jr., and his impact has been deadly. By convincing people to forgo routine pediatric vaccinations, he has endangered the lives of thousands of kids, stoked fear in families with autistic children, and in at least once instance was partially responsible for a devastating outbreak of measles. In 2019, 83 people, mostly children, died of the preventable disease in Samoa. While Kennedy has denied that his words and actions were responsible for the outbreak, he has supported anti-vaccination efforts on the islands, written to the nation’s prime minister about the dangers of vaccines, and visited Samoa to meet with anti-vaxxers and subsequently praised them for their work. As Derek Lowe, a columnist from the United States’ leading scientific journal, Science, has said: “Kennedy’s views on science and medicine are not only wrong, they are actively harmful and destructive. He has used them to make a great deal of money, and he has lied about them to interviewers and reporters whenever he finds it convenient.”
...
RFK Jr. is the poster boy for the new Trump administration, a rich man who never has had to worry about a thing in his life, putting the lives of ordinary Americans in jeopardy because he thinks he knows better than scientists. In fact, the man who thought it was a good idea to stage a hit-and-run with a dead baby bear and a bicycle in Central Park has shown a lack of judgment across the board for a long while. But he is part of an emerging kakistocracy-in-waiting that will be run by plutocrats and zealots. Our public health system in America is fragile and shouldn’t be a plaything. Once he’s done with his games, all the king’s horses and all the king’s men may not be able to put our public health infrastructure back together again. The damage may be lasting and profound.
But we are not powerless. So much of public health happens locally—and we can protect this precious national resource by speaking up and speaking out, at our city or town council meetings, calling and writing our state representatives, our mayors and our governors. This is going to be necessary work. As my Yale colleague Timothy Snyder has said: “Defend institutions.… Institutions do not protect themselves. So choose an institution you care about and take its side.” This may be your local public health department or Planned Parenthood clinic, a mental health clinic or needle exchange program, or services for LGBTQ+ or immigrant populations in your neighborhood.
These are all part of what makes public health happen day in and day out in our communities. Deprive RFK Jr. and Donald Trump of their power; take it away from them with focus and tenacity. Chip away at their campaign to destroy public health in America. These kinds of small acts will add up and will make a difference. If these men are the disease, let us be the cure."
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