Latest news with #addictive
New York Times
24-06-2025
- Entertainment
- New York Times
It's Fun to Watch Hot People Do Psychotic Things in This Novel
THE COMPOUND, by Aisling Rawle In the second season of Netflix's 'Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt' there's a running gag in which characters constantly reference minute details in the lives of the Kardashians. It happens unbidden: 'Like when Kourtney squirted her breast milk on Kim's psoriasis,' someone will say before wondering: 'How do I know about that?' The joke is: Whether you like it or not — and even if you were raised in a bunker like Kimmy herself — you can't escape the thrall of reality TV. Maybe that's why Aisling Rawle's smart and provocative debut novel, 'The Compound,' is so damn addictive. The story takes place inside a demented reality competition program that is basically musical chairs from hell. Twenty people — 10 men and 10 women — are selected to live in the titular desert house. The residence is grand, but it lies in utter disrepair, lacking even basic amenities like windows and doors. 'It looked a lot like the home of a billionaire, if the billionaire's staff had gone on strike,' our narrator, a contestant named Lily, notes. That's an issue because the environment outside is inhospitable at best and actively dangerous at worst. The game is simple: The person who lasts the longest at the compound wins. But, as in any good competition, there are rules and twists. Primarily: 'You stayed in the compound only if you woke in the morning next to someone of the opposite sex. If you slept alone, you would be gone by sunrise.' To earn food, tools and other supplies to not just survive in the compound but to turn the space into an idyllic resort, contestants must come together and complete communal tasks, some of which involve voting people out, disturbing the delicate balance of the group and unsettling the lifesaving partnerships. Meanwhile, contestants are also working to complete personal tasks to gain luxury goods, often emotionally manipulative assignments designed to force connections with other residents, but they can't reveal these side missions to the group, meaning nobody is ever sure if an action or gesture from a fellow contestant is genuine or just a play for individual profit. Lily knows roughly what to expect from watching previous seasons, but the trouble begins on hers almost immediately. When the men arrive after their long trek through the desert, there are only nine of them; one man didn't make it, though none of the guys will say exactly what happened to him. With uneven numbers, Lily needs to find a bedmate, fast. And just like that, the game is on. Want all of The Times? Subscribe.
Hindustan Times
09-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Hindustan Times
Aishwarya Rai dazzles, Aamir Khan disappoints? Rare clip of duo dancing to DDLJ song sparks reactions
Bollywood actor Aishwarya Rai has mesmerised audiences over the years with her graceful dance moves in songs like Nimbuda, Kajra Re, and more. Now, an old video of her dancing to Shah Rukh Khan's iconic track Tujhe Dekha To from Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, alongside Aamir Khan, has resurfaced online—and fans can't stop gushing over how good the duo looks together. (Also Read: We bet you haven't seen these vintage pics of Aishwarya Rai from 90s: 'God really was partial to her') The clip shows Aishwarya and Aamir dancing on stage, with Aishwarya dazzling in a pink lehenga-choli and Aamir sporting a jacket with denim jeans. The two are seen recreating the magic of the beloved romantic number Tujhe Dekha To from DDLJ with charming chemistry. The exact timeline of the event where the two performed together remains unclear. While some fans gushed about how good they looked together, others felt that Aishwarya carried the performance single-handedly, criticising Aamir's dancing skills. One of the comments read, 'They look so good together. Should've worked in a movie together.' Another said, 'The dress and the colour are so good! Also, all the ads they did for the soft drink brands—they looked dope and had very addictive chemistry. I wanted more of Aish with Aamir.' Criticising Aamir's dancing, one Reddit user wrote, 'He looks so awkward.' Another said, 'Aamir seems so uninterested.' A third commented, 'Aishwarya carrying the performance on her back,' while someone else remarked, 'Aamir is the second-worst dancer after Ajay among the '90s stars.' Another added, 'Damn, Aishwarya doing the mostest.' While Aishwarya has delivered hits with Shah Rukh Khan in Devdas, Mohabbatein, and with Salman Khan in Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam and Hum Tumhare Hain Sanam, she has never shared screen space with Aamir Khan. Aamir will next be seen in the film Sitaare Zameen Par, which also stars Genelia Deshmukh in the lead role. Directed by R.S. Prasanna, the film is a remake of the Spanish film Campeones and features Aamir as a basketball coach training a team of differently-abled children. The sports comedy-drama is scheduled for theatrical release on 20 June. Aishwarya, on the other hand, is yet to announce his new project after Ponniyin Selvan II.
Time Business News
04-06-2025
- Health
- Time Business News
Cannabis Use Disorder: Recognizing the Signs of Marijuana Addiction
Cannabis has undergone a dramatic transformation in the public eye—from stigmatized contraband to a widely accepted substance, often marketed as benign or even medicinal. While its therapeutic benefits for certain conditions are legitimate, a less discussed truth persists: cannabis can be addictive. Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD) is a recognized mental health diagnosis with real consequences for those affected. Awareness of its signs is the first step toward meaningful intervention. Understanding the Link Between Stimulants and Attention Disorders Some individuals with ADHD may experience temporary relief from symptoms when using stimulants, but it's important to understand the distinction between medical treatments and harmful substances. Methamphetamine is a powerful and highly addictive stimulant that affects the brain's dopamine system, similar to prescription medications like Adderall,does meth help with adhd which are used to treat ADHD. However, while prescription stimulants are carefully dosed and monitored, meth is illegal and dangerous. Although people may believe meth helps with ADHD, it often leads to severe side effects, addiction, and long-term cognitive damage, making it an unsafe and ineffective treatment option. Defining Cannabis Use Disorder Cannabis Use Disorder is not mere overindulgence. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), it is characterized by a cluster of behavioral, physical, and psychological symptoms reflecting impaired control over use. Individuals with CUD may persist in their consumption despite significant personal, social, or professional disruption. The line between recreational use and disorder is often subtle, obscured by normalization and denial. Dependence develops when the user experiences both tolerance and withdrawal. Tolerance demands higher doses to achieve the desired effect, while withdrawal manifests when cessation leads to discomfort or dysfunction. These signs, when coupled with continued use, form the clinical foundation of addiction. Behavioral and Psychological Signs of Cannabis Addiction The behavioral patterns of CUD frequently begin with increased frequency. What starts as occasional use may escalate to daily or near-daily consumption. Users may express intentions to reduce their intake, only to relapse repeatedly. This cycle of attempted restraint and resumed use signals a loss of control. Psychologically, the individual may exhibit blunted ambition—a phenomenon colloquially dubbed 'amotivational syndrome.' Tasks once pursued with vigor now seem burdensome. Apathy replaces curiosity. Emotionally, cannabis dependency often breeds irritability, anxiety, or even mild paranoia. Thoughts may feel foggy, attention drifts, and short-term memory deteriorates. These symptoms do not exist in isolation; they interact, compounding dysfunction. Physical Indicators of Chronic Cannabis Use Though often viewed as non-threatening, chronic marijuana use can leave a physiological imprint. Inhalation of cannabis—particularly when combusted—can inflame the lungs, leading to chronic bronchitis-like symptoms: persistent coughing, wheezing, and phlegm production. Sleep architecture is also affected. While cannabis may initially induce drowsiness, prolonged use disrupts REM cycles, resulting in non-restorative sleep or even insomnia. Appetite patterns may also become dysregulated. Some individuals experience excessive hunger (the classic 'munchies'), while others notice erratic food intake. Withdrawal from cannabis, though often milder than that of opioids or alcohol, is nonetheless significant. Users may report tremors, restlessness, irritability, intense cravings, or gastrointestinal distress within 24–72 hours of cessation. Impact on Daily Functioning and Relationships As dependence deepens, the effects on daily life become undeniable. Academic performance may slip as concentration wanes. Job responsibilities are neglected. Timeliness and reliability erode. In some cases, individuals abandon pursuits they once valued, such as hobbies or creative endeavors. Social relationships often bear the brunt. Users may withdraw from loved ones, preferring solitude or only associating with fellow users. Deception around use becomes common—hiding cannabis, minimizing quantity, or becoming defensive when questioned. Responsibilities—whether domestic, financial, or familial—are routinely postponed or disregarded altogether. Risk Factors for Developing Cannabis Use Disorder Not everyone who uses cannabis will develop CUD. Certain factors, however, raise the risk. A family history of addiction suggests a genetic vulnerability. Co-occurring mental health conditions, particularly anxiety, depression, and attention disorders, increase susceptibility. The age of initial use plays a pivotal role. Adolescents and young adults are especially at risk, as their brains are still undergoing critical developmental changes. Additionally, today's cannabis strains, often cultivated to yield high THC concentrations, possess greater addictive potential than earlier iterations. Social environments that normalize or glamorize heavy use can reinforce unhealthy patterns. When to Seek Help and Available Treatment Options One of the most insidious aspects of CUD is the denial that often accompanies it. Users may dismiss their behavior as harmless or deny the extent of their dependency. However, once the patterns begin to interfere with quality of life, it is time to take action. Therapeutic interventions are available and effective. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is commonly used to address underlying thought patterns that drive compulsive use. Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET) helps increase internal drive toward recovery. In some cases, contingency management—offering rewards for sobriety—has shown promise. Long-term recovery may also involve group therapy, mindfulness practices, and lifestyle restructuring. The journey is rarely linear. Relapse can occur. But with proper support, lasting recovery is achievable. Understanding the Differences Between Two Dangerous Drugs While meth and crack are both powerful and highly addictive stimulants, they are not the same. Meth, short for methamphetamine, is a synthetic drug often found in pill or powder form, while crack is a smokable form of cocaine made by processing cocaine hydrochloride with baking soda or ammonia. Each affects the brain differently—meth releases large amounts of dopamine, causing long-lasting highs,are meth and crack the same whereas crack produces intense but short-lived euphoria. Although both substances are harmful, meth tends to cause more severe long-term neurological damage. Understanding the differences between meth and crack is essential for recognizing their unique risks. Conclusion Cannabis Use Disorder is a legitimate, clinically recognized condition that merits serious attention. It is not confined to stereotypes or extremes. It can affect high-functioning professionals, students, and creatives alike. Recognizing the signs early allows for timely intervention and more successful outcomes. With the right treatment and support, individuals struggling with CUD can regain clarity, motivation, and control over their lives. Compassion—not judgment—is the foundation of healing. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Yahoo
18-05-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
The U.S. Foreign Service is vital to safety and security
I served our country for 12 years as a commissioned Foreign Service officer and am dismayed by the ongoing efforts to reduce America's diplomatic and development capacity. Firings, hiring freezes, budget cuts and the dismantling of key agencies jeopardize our national security, our economic strength and our global leadership. Richland's own Gen. James Mattis once told Congress, '... if you don't fully fund the State Department, I'll need to buy more ammunition...' because our diplomatic and development professionals provide our best chance to avoid sending our troops into foreign conflicts. These cutbacks prevent our diplomats from opening export markets for U.S. businesses. They reduce America's influence and leave a vacuum that China and Russia will rush to fill. And they risk our government's ability to assist Americans in trouble overseas – when a passport is lost, a family member is injured or imprisoned or when natural disasters strike. My former colleagues perform difficult jobs in difficult places every day, serving under administrations of both parties. They took an oath to serve America and support the Constitution. They make America safer, stronger and more respected. They deserve our support, not disrespect, firings and budget cuts. Check out for more information. Ron Rhinehart, Kennewick I am writing to express my concern regarding the escalating issue of forever chemicals, specifically PFAS, in our Tri-Cities community. Recent reports highlighting the presence of these harmful pollutants in our water sources are deeply troubling and demand immediate action. The potential long-term health consequences associated with PFAS exposure, including cancer, immune system deficiencies and developmental problems, are simply unacceptable. Our local governments must prioritize the testing of all water sources and transparently share the findings with the public. This transparency is critical in building trust and ensuring informed decision-making. Furthermore, I urge our elected officials to explore and implement effective solutions for PFAS remediation, investing in advanced filtration technologies and exploring innovative solutions for contaminant removal. This isn't simply an environmental concern, it's a public health crisis requiring decisive and immediate action. We deserve clean water and a safe environment, and I believe the Tri-Cities community deserves and demands better. Natalie Lancheros, Kennewick I am respectfully writing to bring attention to the growing drug problem in our cities, especially near our schools. Every day, hundreds of teens are exposed to drugs. Dealers sell pills at very low prices to get kids dependent early, turning them into long-term customers. Many don't realize how dangerous these drugs are to their future. Street drugs are addictive and can seriously harm a child's future. They affect the brain in many ways. According to the National Library of Medicine (NLM), drugs like marijuana and heroin mimic natural brain chemicals but send abnormal signals. Others, like cocaine and amphetamines, release too much of certain chemicals or block their recycling, disrupting how the brain works. We want our community to be strong and drug-free. Drugs don't help our youth, they harm them. Studies by the NLM show that students who used drugs in the past year were more likely to skip school and have low grades, while those who never used reported greater confidence and stronger engagement in school. We must educate teens on how drugs impact their brains and futures. It's heartbreaking to see our generation trapped by substances that steal their potential. Yahaira Lopez, Kennewick 'Patriotism means to stand by the country. It does not mean to stand by the president or any other public official, save exactly to the degree in which he himself stands by the country. It is patriotic to support him insofar as he efficiently serves the country. It is unpatriotic not to oppose him to the exact extent that by inefficiency or otherwise he fails in his duty to stand by the country. In either event, it is unpatriotic not to tell the truth, whether about the president or anyone else.' — President Theodore Roosevelt Judith Loomis, Richland In response to Steve Gahn's op-ed in the Tri-City Herald, I am one of those Democrats who regularly helps elect Rep. Dan Newhouse to Congress as the more moderate and experienced choice. Newhouse is wise for signing a letter to the Ways and Means Committee to continue the energy tax credits to his district, and I thank him for it. Preserving the tax credits will allow billion-dollar clean energy projects to continue to be built in our district. We need the additional clean energy they will help produce for the growing demand of electricity for AI, electric vehicles and heat pumps, and in the necessary transition away from polluting fossil fuel energy. This transition is not happening quickly enough! I also ask Rep. Newhouse to use his experience to persuade other congressmen to protect these tax credits that will bring good paying and stable jobs and clean air to their districts. Please write to thank him and ask him to continue to publicly support the clean energy tax credits. Together, we can continue the progress to expand clean energy. 'The most important thing an individual can do, is join together with others in movements large enough to make change.' Bill McKibben, Richland I have repeatedly contacted Rep. Dan Newhouse's office about the administration's ongoing efforts to dismantle our democracy, to no avail. In an effort to get my message to him through a different platform, here's my latest letter: Dear Congressman Newhouse: It is way past time for you to stand up to the authoritarian regime in the White House. They are disappearing people from U.S. streets, holding them without due process and/or abducting them to foreign countries, punishing our allies (Afghans) by revoking protected status and giving refugee status to Afrikaners who created and perpetuated apartheid in South Africa. What kind of a country are we living in? Clearly not one that abides by the Constitution or our long-held position as a welcoming place for those at the margins who seek safety and opportunity. When will you stand up and stand against authoritarianism? I have contacted your office over and over on a variety of issues, and I never get a direct response or see anything from you that indicates you are willing to stand for what is right. Shame on you. The Fourth District deserves better. Susan Dobkins, Richland Rep. Dan Newhouse is backing policies that could strip health coverage from thousands in our district. He supports adding work requirements to Medicaid — rules that sound reasonable but have been tried in states and failed. The result? People lose coverage not because they don't qualify, but because they can't keep up with confusing paperwork. The Congressional Budget Office estimates 8.6 million could lose benefits this way. Here in Washington's Fourth District, nearly 70% of children rely on Medicaid (Apple Health) for care. Many recipients are kids, people with disabilities or already working in low-wage jobs. The truth is (that) most who can work, already do. Still, Newhouse supports Speaker Mike Johnson's plan to cut Medicaid in order to pay for tax breaks that primarily benefit the wealthy. He called it 'a good path.' A good path — for whom? If you or others you know rely in medicaid benefits, your health is on the line. Let Rep. Newhouse know you oppose these harmful cuts. We deserve a representative who protects our care, not one who makes it harder to keep. Your voice matters. Call, write, and vote like your healthcare depends on it. Newhouse's Washington, D.C., Office can be reached at 202-225-5816. Cory Miller, Kennewick
Associated Press
14-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Associated Press
Scott Becker's 'Virgin Clueless' Aims for 1 Million Downloads — Free on Kindle May 23–24
A provocative reverse age-gap romance novel with forbidden attraction, pulse-pounding suspense, and a haunting psychic twist. 'An addictive, pulse-pounding romance thriller that hooks you from page one!'— Book Envy Reviews PROVIDENCE, RI, UNITED STATES, May 14, 2025 / / -- Male Romance Author Breaks Genre Boundaries with " Virgin Clueless " — Free on Kindle May 23–24 Fueled by forbidden attraction, a reverse age gap, and a haunting psychic twist — Scott Becker's provocative romance novel scorches Kindle free May 23–24. When Scott Becker launched Virgin Clueless — a provocative reverse age-gap romance novel with pulse-pounding suspense — he never imagined it would ignite global buzz. But that's exactly what happened. Within days of release, readers in Germany, India, France, the U.K., Canada, and across the U.S. began downloading Becker's debut novel, drawn in by its blend of off-limits desire, high-stakes drama, and soul-deep obsession. Now, Virgin Clueless returns for a second global run — free on Kindle May 23–24, just in time for summer. Becker expects a surge of downloads during the two-day giveaway, with eyes on a million-reader milestone. Readers can grab their free copy here: 'This isn't your mother's beach read,' says Becker. 'It's bold, it's raw, and it doesn't ask permission.' The novel centers on Zoey Leary, a 32-year-old divorce attorney and secret hacker, who becomes dangerously obsessed with 18-year-old Dillon Race — a brawn millionaire who saves her best friend Emma, a Connecticut State Trooper, during a routine traffic stop. What starts as curiosity spirals into passion, betrayal, and a psychic bond that defies logic and morality. Becker, a former engagement ring specialist who spent three decades hearing real-world love stories, says Virgin Clueless was born from a desire to challenge traditional romance tropes — especially around power, attraction, and boundaries. 'I wanted to explore what happens when the rules break — and we still want more,' he explains. 'The love, the obsession, the guilt — all of it.' Virgin Clueless blends reverse age-gap romance, forbidden attraction, pulse-pounding suspense, and paranormal twists. With steamy moments and emotionally charged tension, Becker positions the novel as this summer's must-read for bold romance fans. About the Book Virgin Clueless is a provocative, high-stakes romance novel packed with obsession, betrayal, pulse-pounding suspense, and a haunting psychic twist no one sees coming. Perfect for readers who crave forbidden attraction, intense chemistry, and page-turning drama. Kindle Promotion Virgin Clueless will be free globally on Amazon Kindle on May 23–24, 2025. Download link: Media Contact Scott Becker [email protected] TikTok: @ Instagram: Author Note Becker's dual life — part rule-breaking romantic, part boundary-pusher — defines his bold, disruptive brand of contemporary romance. Scott Becker Scott Becker, Author email us here Visit us on social media: Instagram TikTok Legal Disclaimer: EIN Presswire provides this news content 'as is' without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.
