Alcohol Awareness Month

Posted on April 2, 2026 by Patrick Hercules

April is Alcohol Awareness Month. It is an opportunity to raise awareness and understanding of alcohol use and misuse, and its impact on health.

Alcohol-related problems continue to take a heavy toll on individuals, families, and communities. Researchers estimate that each year there are more than 178,000 alcohol-related deaths, making alcohol a leading preventable cause of death in the United States. In addition, more than 200 diseases and injury-related conditions are associated with alcohol misuse.

The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD) started the Alcohol Awareness Month program in 1987. The program targets teenagers and college-aged youth, aiming to educate them on the dangers of heavy drinking and other harmful behaviors that can be common during these years.

Binge drinking and heavy drinking are two patterns of excessive alcohol use. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines binge drinking as consuming four or more drinks for women and five or more for men on a single occasion. Heavy drinking is defined as consuming eight or more drinks per week for women and 15 or more drinks per week for men.

There are several ways to support Alcohol Awareness Month, including:

Wear a red ribbon

Participate in an alcohol-free 72 hours

Host dry parties

Talk with kids and teens about alcohol

Talk with friends and family about alcohol

Reflect on your relationship with alcohol

Alcohol Awareness Month’s primary goal is to increase public awareness and education about alcohol and alcohol use disorder (AUD), formerly known as “alcoholism”.

If you or a loved one needs expert detox services, you can take the first step toward recovery by calling Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Addiction Services at 718-670-5693.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

National Drugs and Alcohol Facts Week

Posted on March 18, 2026 by Patrick Hercules

National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week takes place March 16th- 22nd.

National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week’s goal is to dispel myths about drug and alcohol use and to inform teens about the impact and risk of substance abuse as well as addiction.

According to research from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), two-thirds of U.S. students have tried alcohol by the 12th grade.

The average age at which children typically experiment with alcohol and drugs is 13 years old.

There are five signs of drug abuse among teens. They include:

Psychological changes such as trouble concentrating, memory issues, and random laughter

Changes in behavior, including bad grades, lack of respect for others, and poor eye contact

Suspicious behavior such as hiding drug paraphernalia, missing cash, or valuables

Health issues, including appetite changes, shakiness, excessive headaches, or frequent illness

Poor personal appearance, such as bad hygiene or bloodshot eyes

There is a lot of misinformation around drugs and alcohol. Many myths have been created and spread through our culture, especially among young people. Here are some myths about drugs and alcohol that have been debunked:

Myth #1- Marijuana addiction isn’t real

Although it is impossible to overdose on marijuana, habitual cannabis use can change the way the body works, create a tolerance, and cause withdrawal symptoms after stopping

Myth #2- It is okay to quit drinking alcohol and start smoking marijuana instead

Switching from one addictive behavior to another is common; however, it creates other addictive cycles

Myth #3- Prescription drugs can’t be addictive if prescribed by my doctor

Even doctor-prescribed drugs can have a tolerance built against them, which eventually causes an addiction. Especially painkillers such as opiates or benzodiazepines

Here are more facts about drugs, alcohol, and addiction:

Alcohol is the most abused substance in the U.S., and the third most common cause of death
Alcohol and drugs are involved in approximately 50% of deaths by suicide and are the cause of death of more than 50% of all violent crimes
80% of all domestic violence abuse reports show a relationship to alcohol or drugs

Although National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week is geared toward young people, people of any age are encouraged to participate and educate themselves so that they can make educated choices related to drugs and alcohol.

To learn more about our mental health services or to schedule a virtual appointment, call (718) 670-5316 to speak with our intake coordinator or (718) 670-5562 to reach the clinic.

Hepatitis B

Posted on January 28, 2026 by Patrick Hercules

Hepatitis B is a serious viral liver infection that is caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV).

The hepatitis B virus can be passed from person to person through various ways, including:

Sexual contact

Sharing of needles

Accidental needlesticks

Pregnant person to newborn

There are two types of hepatitis B: acute hepatitis B and chronic hepatitis B.

Acute hepatitis B is a short-term illness that occurs within the first six months after being exposed to the hepatitis B virus.

Chronic hepatitis B is a longer-term illness that lasts more than six months after exposure.

Most adults who develop hepatitis B will make a full recovery even if they have severe symptoms. However, infants and children are more likely to develop chronic hepatitis B infection.

Hepatitis B symptoms can range from mild to serious and usually start about one to four months after being infected with the hepatitis B virus, but can be noticeable as early as two weeks after the initial infection. Symptoms of hepatitis B include:

Abdominal pain

Dark urine

Fever

Joint pain

Nausea and vomiting

Fatigue and weakness

Loss of appetite

Jaundice

Although anyone can get hepatitis B, certain people have an increased risk of infection if they:

Have sexually transmitted diseases such as HIV

Take immunosuppressants that keep the immune system from mistakenly attacking healthy tissue

Are currently receiving dialysis treatment

Have another type of liver disease

An acute and chronic hepatitis B infection can cause several complications, including:

Acute liver failure

Chronic liver failure

Cirrhosis of the liver

Liver cancer

Reactivated hepatitis B

Hepatitis D

A healthcare provider can diagnose hepatitis B by asking about your symptoms and performing a physical exam. They will also ask if there is any family history of liver disease. They may ask:

If your work exposes you to the virus

If you use any intravenous (IV) drugs

If you have unprotected sex with anyone who may have hepatitis B

A healthcare provider may also perform tests to help diagnose hepatitis B, including:

Blood tests

Imaging tests such as an elastography

Liver biopsy

Treatment for hepatitis B is dependent on your situation. A healthcare provider may prescribe prophylactic treatment, which is medication to prevent a disease, if you were exposed to the virus within the past 24 hours. Medications for prophylactic treatment include:

Hepatitis B vaccination

Hepatitis B immune globulin (HBIG)

Acute hepatitis does not have a specific treatment. A healthcare provider may prescribe IV fluids to prevent dehydration if you have been vomiting or experiencing diarrhea.

Treatment for chronic hepatitis B varies, as it depends on your symptoms and overall health. Treatment options can include:

Monitoring your overall health

Medications such as antiviral drugs or immunomodulators

Surgery to remove part of your liver if hepatitis B causes cancer, or a liver transplant if your whole liver must be removed

The best way to reduce the risk of or prevent a hepatitis B infection is to get vaccinated. It takes three doses of the hepatitis B vaccine, administered over six months, to achieve complete protection from infection. You can also reduce your risk by practicing safe sex and needle use and not sharing personal items.

If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms associated with hepatitis B, you can receive treatment from a physician at Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center. To schedule an appointment, please call (718) 670-5486.

What is Dry January?

Posted on January 9, 2026 by Patrick Hercules

New Year’s has come and gone, and we are all trying to stick to the resolutions we made. For some, a common resolution is giving up alcohol.

Heavy social drinking can often be considered binge drinking. Binge drinking is when a man drinks five or more drinks and a woman drinks four or more drinks in one sitting.

This is why many people commit to Dry January, which is when a person gives up drinking alcohol for the entire month.

Dry January has become a very popular New Year’s resolution over the past few years. Recent research indicates that younger Americans are generally drinking less than previous generations. According to a poll released last summer, conducted by the analytics company Gallup, the percentage of Americans who said they drink fell to a record low of 54%. This is one percentage point lower than the previous record low in 1958.

There are several health benefits to participating in Dry January, including:

Increased energy levels

Lower blood pressure and heart rate

A decrease in liver inflammation

Clearer skin and decreased facial puffiness and bloating

A decrease in calorie consumption

It helps shift your perspective and understanding of your relationship with alcohol

There are many tips to help you succeed during Dry January, including:

Reduce your alcohol consumption by half before you start

Write down the goals you want to achieve and document your progress

Abstain from drinking alcohol longer if you can

Ease back into drinking alcohol if you choose to go back to drinking, and drink in moderation

Surround yourself with supportive friends and family

Be mindful of withdrawal symptoms. Symptoms of withdrawal include:

- Abdominal cramping

- Anxiety

- Dizziness

- Headaches

- Nausea

- Shaking

- Sweating

- Vomiting

Avoid any situations that may tempt you to drink

Participate in hobbies and other interests that don’t involve drinking alcohol

Seek out extra help and resources if you need them

At Flushing Hospital Medical Center, our Psychiatry Department features a Division of Addiction Services where you or your loved one can receive comprehensive assessments and treatment for alcohol and chemical dependency. For more details about our unit, contact us at (718) 670-5693 or (718) 670-5540, or for additional information about our Reflections treatment program, please get in touch with us at (718) 670-5078.

Marijuana Addiction

Posted on December 12, 2025 by Patrick Hercules

Marijuana addiction, or cannabis use disorder (CUD), is a complex mental health condition that involves a problematic pattern of cannabis use.

Cannabis refers to all products that come from the Cannabis sativa plant. This includes its dried flowers, leaves, stems, and seeds. The plant itself contains over 500 chemical substances.

Cannabis use disorder mainly involves THC-containing substances, such as marijuana.

Marijuana is part of, or products from, the Cannabis sativa plant that contain substantial amounts of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is the chemical that creates the “high” feeling.

CUD is a spectrum, which can be mild, moderate, or severe, typically involving an overpowering desire to use cannabis, increased tolerance to cannabis, and/or withdrawal symptoms when it is stopped being taken.

CUD can significantly impact a person’s health, relationships, and overall quality of life.

Cannabis use disorder can be mild or moderate, with the most severe form being marijuana addiction. This is due to continued marijuana use despite negative consequences. Marijuana addiction occurs when the reward system in the brain takes over, increasing compulsive marijuana-seeking.

CUD is common. Researchers in 2021 estimated that 5.8%, or about 16.3 million people, in the U.S. 12 years or older have a cannabis use disorder in the previous 12 months.

According to the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), the signs of cannabis use disorder include:

Taking cannabis in larger amounts and for a longer period than you intended

Having a strong desire or urge to use cannabis

Having unsuccessful efforts to cut down on or control cannabis use

Spending a lot of time getting or using cannabis or recovering from its effects

Having issues fulfilling responsibilities at work, school, or home due to cannabis use

Continuing to use cannabis even when it causes problems in relationships

Giving up social, occupational, or recreational activities because of cannabis use

Using cannabis repeatedly, even when it puts you in danger

Continuing cannabis use despite an ongoing physical or psychological problem that cannabis is likely causing or making worse

Developing tolerance, which is the need for increased amounts of cannabis to get the same effect

Experiencing cannabis withdrawal symptoms, which you can relieve by taking more of it

It is essential to seek medical care as soon as you have signs of cannabis use disorder.

There are other symptoms and behaviors of cannabis use disorder. They include:

Memory issues, such as confusion

Difficulty learning

Hallucinations and/or delusions

Sudden changes in your mood and behavior, such as withdrawing from friends and family

Hostility or denial when someone confronts you about your excessive cannabis use

No longer caring about your physical appearance as much as you used to

Secretive behavior, such as hiding your cannabis use

There is a progression to cannabis use disorder that often follows a pattern that includes:

Experimental use

Occasional use

Heavy use

Substance use disorder

The progression of cannabis use disorder is complex, and several factors can contribute to the development of substance use disorder, including:

THC’s effect on brain chemistry: marijuana sends massive surges of dopamine, the neurotransmitter and “feel good” hormone, through the brain, causing the user to seek out experiences that reward them with good feelings

Genetics: studies show that genetic factors are responsible for 40%-60% of the vulnerability to any substance use disorder

Mental health conditions: about half of people who experience a mental health condition will also experience a substance use disorder, such as CUD, and vice versa, which is known as a dual diagnosis. Substance use disorders and other mental health conditions happen because of overlapping factors such as:

Genetic vulnerabilities

Issues with similar areas of the brain

Environmental influence

Access and exposure to cannabis: having access to cannabis is a major environmental factor that can increase the extent of exposure and the opportunity. Other factors can include:

Use of cannabis by a member of your household

Use of cannabis by your peers

Having a medical marijuana certificate in states where it is legal

Certain factors may increase your risk of developing CUD, including:

Age: People who begin using cannabis before the age of 18 are four to seven times more likely to develop CUD than adults

The potency of marijuana: Using marijuana with a higher potency may increase your risk for CUD. In addition, some methods of using marijuana, such as dabbing or vaping concentrates, may deliver very high levels of THC to your body

Frequency of use: In one study, 17% of people who used cannabis weekly and 18.8% of people who used cannabis daily met the criteria for cannabis dependence

Depression: Having depression may increase your risk of developing CUD

Sex: males are more likely to develop CUD

Other substance use: using or misusing other substances such as alcohol, nicotine, or hallucinogens may increase your risk of CUD

Cannabis use disorder can’t be diagnosed with a single test. Healthcare providers instead rely on a thorough evaluation of your medical history and behaviors surrounding cannabis use. They may also order drug tests.

A healthcare provider will also ask about your mental health history, as it is common to have CUD and some type of mental health condition.

Treatment for cannabis use disorder depends on the severity of the disorder and is highly individualized, and you may need different types of treatment at different times.

Treatment for CUD often requires continuing care to be effective because it is a chronic condition with the potential for both recovery and relapse.

People with CUD often have co-occurring mental health conditions, and it is generally better to treat them together rather than separately.

There are two main forms of treatment for CUD. They include:

Detoxification

Cognitive and behavioral therapies

To find out more about our mental health services or to schedule a virtual appointment, call (718) 670-5316 to speak with our intake coordinator or call (718) 670-5562 to reach the clinic.

Nitazenes

Posted on October 14, 2025 by Xavia Malcolm

Researchers believe the use of benzimidazole opioids, also known as nitazene opioids or nitazenes, is on the rise.

Nitazenes are a class of highly potent (powerful) synthetic opioids that were developed over 60 years ago, in the 1950s, as an alternative to morphine. However, they were never approved for medical use in the United States due to their high risk of dangerous side effects and overdose.

According to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), nitazenes are often abused for their psychoactive effects. These effects may include feelings of euphoria, pain relief, reduced stress, sleepiness, relaxation, or sedation. Other potential effects include nausea, vomiting, fever, itchiness, slow breathing, and a slow heart rate.

The Inter-American Drug Abuse Control Commission (CICAD) states that nitazenes are distributed in pure form or mixed with other drugs. They can be made into sprays, pills, or powders, which can be inhaled, swallowed, taken sublingually, or injected. Nitazenes are sometimes used unintentionally because people are unaware that other illicit drugs are laced with it.

Nitazenes, which can be far more powerful than fentanyl and other opioids, present an increased risk of overdose. Taking a high dose of nitazene may result in the following symptoms of an opioid overdose:

Discolored skin (Blue or gray skin, lips, or nails)
Losing consciousness
Weak or limp limbs
Unresponsiveness
Pin-point pupils
Vomiting
Gurgling or snoring sounds
Coma
Death

If someone you know is displaying these signs, act quickly by calling 911 and administering Naloxone or other opioid overdose reversal drugs, if available.

If you have a loved one struggling with substance abuse, it’s natural to feel confused and helpless. Fortunately, you don’t have to navigate the path to recovery and healing alone.

At Flushing Hospital Medical Center, our Psychiatry Department has a Division of Addiction Services where your loved one can receive comprehensive assessments and treatment for alcohol and drug dependency. These services are available through our outpatient Reflections Treatment Program.

For more information about our Reflections treatment program, please contact us at (718) 670-5078.

Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Department of Psychiatry and Addiction Services Chemical Dependence Unit Offers Treatment for Opioid Addiction

Posted on May 12, 2025 by Patrick Hercules

Opioid overdose deaths are a major public health problem in America. More than 107,000 people lost their lives to a drug overdose in 2023, with 70% of those deaths attributed to opioids such as fentanyl.

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is 50 times more deadly than heroin. One gram of fentanyl, which is equivalent to the size of a sugar packet, has the potential to kill up to five hundred people.

There was a 14.5% decrease in opioid overdose deaths in 2024 due to public health measures.

Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Department of Psychiatry and Addiction Services provides care and support to help people recover from opioid addiction. The department has the only medically managed detoxification unit in Queens County.

The unit, called the Chemical Dependence Unit, is a 30-bed medically managed detoxification unit that helps people safely withdraw from opioids, alcohol, and benzodiazepines. Under the direction of the Medical Director for Addiction Services and Unit Chief, staff includes physicians board-certified in addiction medicine, physician assistants, nurses, addiction counselors, psychotherapists, and creative arts therapists.

In addition to medical treatment such as Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) for opioid addiction, the unit provides nursing care, individual and group counseling, creative arts therapy, self-help groups, and, very importantly, discharge and aftercare planning to help people continue their Recovery Journey, with follow-up calls after discharge.

For additional admission information, please call the Addiction Treatment Unit at 718-670-4524.

Alcohol Awareness Month

Posted on April 8, 2025 by Patrick Hercules

April is Alcohol Awareness Month. It is an opportunity to raise awareness and understanding of alcohol use and misuse, and its impact on health.

There are several ways to support Alcohol Awareness Month, including:

Wear a red ribbon
Participate in an alcohol-free 72 hours
Host dry parties
Talk with kids and teens about alcohol
Talk with friends and family about alcohol
Reflect on your relationship with alcohol

Alcohol Awareness Month’s primary goal is to increase public awareness and education about alcohol and alcohol use disorder (AUD), formerly known as “alcoholism”.

National Drug & Alcohol Facts Week

Posted on March 21, 2025 by Patrick Hercules

National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week or NDAFW is an annual, week-long health observance that inspires dialogue about the science of drug use and addiction among youth. It provides an opportunity to bring together scientists, students, educators, healthcare providers, and community partners to help advance science and address youth drug and alcohol use in communities nationwide.

Launched in 2010 by scientists at the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week, stimulates educational events in communities so teens can learn what science has taught us about drug use and addiction. In 2016, the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism became a partner, and alcohol was added as a topic area for the week. NIDA and NIAAA are part of the National Institutes of Health and work with leading organizations, media outlets, and other Government agencies to spread the word about NDAFW.

National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week looks to empower youth to make informed choices about their health and learn lifesaving skills focused on overdose awareness and response. Make an impact and inspire others to join the NDAFW observance.

Alcohol Addiction during the Holidays

Posted on December 17, 2024 by Patrick Hercules

There are plenty of occasions during the holidays to celebrate with an alcoholic beverage. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), there is a noticeable increase in alcohol consumption during the holidays, such as Christmas and New Year’s.

Studies suggest that there is a significant gender disparity when it comes to holiday drinking as men are more likely to engage in risky behaviors and consume larger quantities of alcohol during the holidays. On the other hand, women may be at a greater risk of adverse health effects due to their typically lower tolerance for alcohol.

Binge drinking is also a significant concern during the holidays as individuals may consume excessive amounts of alcohol in a short time. This can lead to alcohol poisoning, accidents, and impaired decision-making.

Maintaining sobriety during the holidays can be challenging. Some helpful tips to help you abstain from drinking alcohol include:

Plan ahead
Seek support
Avoid Triggers
Focus on non-alcoholic options
Practice self-care
Develop coping strategies
Communicate with loved ones
Lend a helping hand

If you are experiencing an alcohol use disorder, Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Division of Addiction Services can help. To learn more about our Chemical Dependence Unit, a safe place to experience alcohol withdrawal, please call (718) 670-5693 or (718) 670-5540. To learn more about our Reflections addiction treatment program, please call (718) 670-5078.