Researcher

More teens are using steroids to bulk up — and many parents miss it. Learn the warning signs, the real health risks, and how to talk with your teen.
Teens are using AI chatbots like ChatGPT for mental health support. Learn the risks—privacy, harmful advice, and lack of oversight—and what parents can do instead.
The 2025–2030 U.S. alcohol guidelines removed daily drink limits and now say “drink less.” Here’s what changed and why it matters.
Kratom 7-OH (7-hydroxymitragynine) is a highly potent opioid linked to addiction, withdrawal and overdose risk. Learn how to spot it and stay safe.
Carleah Summers shares her journey from addiction to recovery and how her experience inspired her to open Andrea's House, a non-profit residential treatment program in Maryland where mothers can recover from substance use disorder without being separated from their children.
Lara Love Hardin discusses her journey from suburban soccer mom hiding a heroin addiction to bestselling author.
Jim Sonefeld, drummer for Hootie & the Blowfish, shares his powerful journey from concert tours fueled by alcohol to finding recovery at age 40.
After losing one son to overdose and watching another struggle with lifelong schizophrenia, neuroscientist Dr. Kristen Gilliland reveals what she wishes she'd known about today's ultra-potent marijuana and the developing brain.
William Perry shares his powerful journey from childhood trauma and opioid addiction to a 10-year prison sentence, and ultimately to co-founding This Must Be the Place, an organization that combines music, arts, and harm reduction.
Can GLP-1 medications like Ozempic help treat addiction? Elizabeth Vargas talks with Pat Aussem, Vice President of Consumer Clinical Content Development at Partnership to End Addiction, about the ongoing clinical trials and the science behind how these drugs work on the brain's reward system. Elizabeth Vargas talks with Pat Aussem, Vice President of Consumer Clinical Content Development at Partnership to End Addiction, about the ongoing clinical trials and the science behind how these drugs work on the brain's reward system.
Season 7 of Heart of the Matter kicks off with country pop star Walker Hayes, whose Grammy-nominated hit "Fancy Like" catapulted him to fame. Walker opens up about his journey from drinking at 13 to finding recovery at 35.
State and local governments are reaching settlements with companies in an effort to hold the companies responsible for their roles in fueling the opioid crisis.
Medications used to treat diabetes and obesity might also help people struggling with substance use disorder. Research is promising, but more studies are needed.
In the season finale of Heart of the Matter, Broadway star and American Idol finalist Constantine Maroulis opens up about his personal struggle with substance use.
Jackie Siegel, also known as “The Queen of Versailles,” joins Elizabeth Vargas to share the heartbreaking journey of her daughter Victoria, who struggled with addiction and ultimately passed away from an overdose at 18 years old, after years of hidden mental health challenges and substance use.
Elizabeth Vargas sits down with philanthropist and author Cammie Wolf Rice. Cammie shares the heartbreaking story of her son Christopher’s fatal overdose at age 32, following an opioid prescription that led to more than a decade of addiction.
You’ve likely seen a new substance called “pink cocaine” in the news recently. But what really is it?
Former U.S. Representative Patrick Kennedy discusses his book “Profiles in Mental Health Courage,” spotlighting a diverse group of people who have struggled with their mental health, and Tonie “Miss Tonie” Dreher, who is featured in this book, talks about her journey from struggling with substance use disorder.
Sports reporter and author Lauren Sisler opens up to Elizabeth Vargas this week on Heart of the Matter about her parents’ hidden struggles with addiction and the tragic loss that changed her life.
Author and comedian Stefanie Wilder-Taylor opens up to Elizabeth Vargas about her struggle with alcohol, which intensified after becoming a parent.
The former starting center for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers silently struggled with an addiction to prescription pills during his tenure.
Braunwyn talks about her long-term struggle with substance use disorder, what it was like to quit alcohol while being on TV, and how her family, friends, and partner help her maintain her recovery.
Medications for alcohol use disorder, such as Disulfiram, Naltrexone, and Acamprosate, can play an important role as part of a complete treatment plan.
People with schizophrenia have a significantly higher risk of developing substance use disorder. Here, we will explore the connection between substance use disorder and schizophrenia and how you can support a loved one experiencing both conditions.
An addiction hotline and an addiction helpline might sound similar, but they serve different purposes and offer unique forms of support when a loved one is using alcohol and other drugs. Understanding these differences can help you choose the best option for your situation.