Science is littered with shining new discoveries which became somewhat tarnished as accumulating data forced a reappraisal. In substance misuse, ‘normative education’ retains some of its shine, but what seemed the great hope for school- and college-based prevention now seems a tactic of limited application and with inconsistent impacts. The approach relies on the common overestimation by pupils and students of how many of their peers use substances and how much they use and/or (less commonly) overestimation of the acceptability of substance use among their peers. Corrective survey data is expected to reduce substance use because...

Mindfulness Meditation What is Mindfulness Meditation? Mindfulness is a type of meditation that essentially involves focusing on your mind on the present. To be mindful is to be aware of your thoughts and actions in the present, without judging yourself. Research suggests that mindfulness meditation may improve mood, decrease stress, and boost immune function.   1. Find a quiet and comfortable place. Sit in a chair or on the floor with your head, neck and back straight but not stiff. 2. Try to put aside all thoughts of the past and the future and stay in the present. 3. Become aware of your breathing, focusing on the sensation...