A quiet threat is growing in Philadelphia. It’s sold in bright packages and marketed as a harmless herbal pick-me-up. Behind its “natural” image lies a drug that can be just as dangerous as opioids. Kratom is a plant-based substance that has been making its way into smoke shops, wellness stores, and even convenience counters across Philadelphia. Marketed as a “natural” energy booster or pain reliever, kratom acts on the brain’s opioid receptors, meaning it can be addictive and dangerous despite its legal status. Lately, kratom has captured headlines, including extensive [...]

For those in recovery, the word high can carry heavy weight. But there’s a different kind of high called runner’s high, and for some people in recovery, it can be a source of peace and clarity. What is a High? A "high" is a brain event that happens when the "reward circuit" overacts. This overaction is experienced as relaxation, or heightened sensory perception, or euphoria. A high is a normal brain response to life experiences, such as seeing a loved-one, having fun with friends, or enjoying physical activity. Highs can [...]