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Tag: findings

  • Using cannabis to cope with anxiety or depression? You may be at higher risk of paranoia, study says

    Using cannabis to cope with anxiety or depression? You may be at higher risk of paranoia, study says

    People who start using cannabis to self-medicate are more likely to be heavy users than those who use the drug socially or for fun, a study has found.

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    People who start using cannabis to cope with physical or mental health problems are more likely to experience severe paranoia, a new study has found.
    Many of these people also report depression and anxiety symptoms at levels that would normally see them referred to counselling, according to the study, which was published in the BMJ Mental Health journal.

    The findings indicate “the reason someone first starts using cannabis can dramatically impact their long-term health,” Dr Edoardo Spinazzola, one of the study’s authors and a researcher studying the link between cannabis and psychosis at King’s College London, said in a statement.
    Spinazzola’s team tracked nearly 3,400 UK adults’ average weekly consumption of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is the main psychoactive compound in cannabis that makes people feel “high”.
    The average respondent consumed 206 units of THC per week, equivalent to roughly 10 to 17 “joints,” the researchers said. But that level was much higher among people who started using cannabis to help manage anxiety or depression, to about 248 and 255 units, respectively.

    Related

    Cannabis use doubles the risk of dying from heart disease, researchers warn

    People who used cannabis to self-medicate also reported more paranoia symptoms than people who tried the drug for fun, curiosity, or with their friends.

    The findings are the latest to connect cannabis use to poor mental health.
    In another recent study using the same dataset, researchers found that people who had experienced physical or emotional abuse as children were more likely to be paranoid as adults – and that cannabis use made that link stronger.
    There is “a clear association between trauma and future paranoia,” Dr Giulia Trotta, a psychiatrist and researcher at King’s College London who worked on the study, said in a statement.
    The findings indicate “cannabis use can further exacerbate the effects of this, depending on what form the trauma takes,” Trotta added.

    Related

    CBD is becoming more popular. But even low doses may harm some people’s health, researchers warn

    Earlier this week, a separate study in the United States found that using highly potent cannabis products – such as edibles or concentrates for vapes – raises the risk of serious mental health conditions such as psychosis, schizophrenia, and addiction.
    The researchers behind the latest study said that doctors should ask their patients why they started using cannabis as a way to identify whether they could benefit from additional support. That could help prevent people from sliding into “potentially disabling” paranoia or mental health problems, they said.
    Dr Emily Finch, chair of the UK’s Royal College of Psychiatrists’ Addiction Faculty, said the findings underscore that “cannabis can have significant adverse effects on users’ mental health”. 
    “Society must be more aware of the substantial evidence on cannabis harms, and correct the widespread misapprehension that cannabis is not an addictive substance,” Finch, who was not involved with the study, said in a statement.

  • Europe’s Pristine Waters: The Cleanest Shores and Their Hidden Dangers

    The Mediterranean Takes the Crown

    Picture this: a swirly spreadsheet, a heap of numbers, and a triumphant Med in the middle. It’s not just a math puzzle—it’s the latest ranking of scenic hot spots, and the Mediterranean emerges as the undisputed champion.

    Why It’s a Big Deal

    • Heat & Humidity: Think endless sunshine, a relaxed vibe, and the island feel of a weekendcation.
    • Waters: Turquoise as far as the eye can see—perfect for that beach selfie that steals the show.
    • Culture: A lively mix of historic ruins, delicious fare, and colorful markets.

    Surprise Cameos

    While the coast of the Mediterranean was stealing the spotlight, there were a few unexpected plot twists:

    • Black Sea: The cold‑smart villain that pulled a fast one by ranking ahead of a few islands.
    • The Alps: Those snowy peaks flirted with surprise, showing off splashes of bright colors that somehow fit into the lineup.

    What It Means for You

    If you’re planning a getaway, your go-to destination now winks at you—summer vibes guaranteed. Yet, don’t overlook the Black Sea and the Alps; they’re quietly dazzling performers on the sidelines.

    Stay Tuned!

    We’re just at the start of the season, and these rankings could flip like a coin tossed from a beach bar. Keep your eyes on the horizon—new surprises might pop up like jellyfish in a sea‑foam swirl.

    Europe’s Pristine Waters: The Cleanest Shores and Their Hidden Dangers

    Summer Sunny: Bulgaria’s Rising Star

    Have you heard about Bulgaria’s latest bragging rights? Yep – the country has been climbing the rankings like a mountain goat on vacation. This summer, Bulgaria leapt three places up the leaderboard and landed in second place with a dazzling 98% “excellence” score. That’s basically a 9.8 out of 10 where the “8” is shouting, “Wow!”

    Top‑Spot Sunshine

    • Aya Napa – the place where the waves are as gentle as a lullaby.
    • Nissi Beach – because beach vibes without the sand tickles.
    • Fig Tree Bay – the beach where figs grow, and maybe frogs hop.
    • Konnos Bay – a hidden gem for those who love breeze after breeze.

    Campers’ Retreats

    When you’re rolling up your tents on the Black Sea coastline, you’ve got a few chill spots to choose from:

    • Krapets Beach – the sort of sandy spot that makes you question whether you’d rather stay in bed.
    • Kara Dere – literally “green threshold,” perfect for those who like their surroundings greener than their social media.
    • Varvara – the secluded one where you can’t catch a speed‑of‑light tourist snapping selfies.

    So pack your sunscreen, bring your sense of adventure, and head to Bulgaria – it’s going to be a sunny, dank, and slightly comedic July.

    Aerial view of Nissi Beach, Cyprus

    Nissi Beach: Aerial A‑Ha!

    Imagine soaring above the turquoise waves of Nissi Beach, Cyprus, as if you were a playful puff of cloud on a sunny day. The view gives you a full‑length preview of the beach’s iconic golden sand, crystal‑clear waters, and the vibrant splash of turquoise that makes every Insta‑post look like a postcard.

    Why the aerial eye is worth your clicks

    • Full beach crew: From the tini‑tina dance floor of beach clubs to the slick surfboards lined up along the shore, the aerial view captures every ripple of style.
    • Hidden gems: Spot the little green pockets of trees that create a natural shade oasis—perfect for a sunset photo‑session.
    • Scenic jumps: See the transition from sparkling sea to the rocky backdrop along the cliffs that frame the shoreline.

    What’s in your “air‑cam” playlist?

    The pitch‑black starry sky? No, that would be in the night‑mood. Instead, we get a splash of blues, a hint of tropical vibes, and an invitation to skip the ordinary and enjoy the extraordinary.
    Ready to dive in? The aerial perspective not only shows how wide the beach stretches, but also sets the mood for a day filled with waves, sunshine, and that ever‑ideal beach vibe.

    On a path to improve water quality: Why does Albania rank last?

    Albania’s Coastal Waters: A Reality Check

    The latest EEA report paints a less rosy picture for Albania, a budding hotspot on Europe’s tourism map.
    Below are the key takeaways that you might not have seen in the glossy brochures:

    • Only 16% of the coastal spots are stamped as “Excellent” – that’s the lowest score in the region.
    • A whopping 23% of beaches are marked “Poor.”
    • Many towns with populations over 5,000 € had no wastewater treatment until recently, dumping untreated sewage straight into seas and rivers.

    One city that’s been in the spotlight for a while is Durrës. “The sewage system here has been a headache for locals and the ecosystem alike for years,” notes the European Journal of Environment & Earth Sciences.

    If you’re planning a beach getaway, it might be worth checking out the local water quality before packing your sunscreen. Albania’s getting the clean-up process in motion, but the journey to pristine shores will take a bit of time.

    Ships anchored in the port of Durrës, Albania

    Albania’s Plastic Puzzle—A Quick Dive

    Picture the sunny seaport of Durrës, where ships line up like a fleet ready for the next big adventure. Behind those gleaming windows, though, is a less glamorous story: a rising tide of plastic waste threatening the Mediterranean waters.

    Guilty Numbers

    • Three kilos of plastic per person per year—a staggering figure that puts Albania just behind Montenegro and North Macedonia.
    • The data? A 2020 study from the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) that calls for a change in every small, plastic‑laced day.

    It’s not just the port of Durrës feeling the crunch; the whole Gulf of Albania is in danger.

    Turning the Tide—What’s Being Done

    • Thanks to the European Union and the World Bank, Albania is rolling out a major infrastructure overhaul to upgrade its water treatment plants.
    • New projects will tackle river basin management in key hotspots: Divjakë, Kavajë, Ksamil, Lezha, Orikum, Saranda, Spille, Velipoja, Vlorë, and even the picturesque port of Durrës.
    • Millions of euros are being poured into the effort, signaling a bold push against micro‑plastic pollution.

    Disposal or recycling? It’s all about building cleaner canals and smarter sewage. The goal? A healthier marine ecosystem and a more sustainable future.

    A Bright Horizon

    With the help of EU funds and a world‑bank-backed plan, Albania is not just acknowledging the problem—it’s actively crafting its own sweep‑up strategy. From boosted water treatment to a stronger river stewardship, the country is ready to dive headfirst into a cleaner tomorrow.

    And hopefully, those bright ships at Durrës will soon sail on a truly blue horizon—free of plastic debris.

    Banning bathing? Areas of France, Italy and Spain under scrutiny

    Water Woes Across Europe: The Shocking High‑Rate of Poor Quality at Popular Swim Spots

    Heads up, beach lovers! The European Environment Agency (EEA) just released a pretty eye‑opening map that shows a sudden spike in poor‑quality water in parts of the EU. From the Mediterranean vibes of Mallorca to the rolling coastlines of southern France and Italy, the nation’s shores are not as friendly as they seem.

    Major Hot‑spots: Where the Water Is Near‑Deadly

    • France & Corsica – The southern‑central regions are plagued with danger spots.
    • Italy – The south leads the pack: just north of Reggio Calabria and right near Naples & Salerno.
    • Spain – It turns out Mallorca’s chill waters are not all sunshine and rainbows. Playa Tamarells, Playa de Albercuix, and Cala Egos are flagged as poor.

    Rounding Out the Numbers

    Between 2019 and 2023, a staggering 58 spots across the EU were consistently rated as “poor.” The split:

    • 30 – Italy
    • 20 – France
    • 2 – Denmark, Netherlands, Sweden
    • 1 – Estonia and Spain

    Only a Few Flip the Script

    The EEA notes that five of those spots have actually improved to at least “sufficient” by 2024. That’s a win, but a tiny one.

    The Rules In A Nutshell

    Under the EU’s Bathing Water Directive, any location that stays “poor” for five straight years has the option of either a permanent bathing ban or a firmly worded advisory that tells swimmers, “Not today, not ever.”

    So, next time you’re planning that day‑long dip, check the latest EEA rating—your safety and peace of mind might just hinge on it!

    What to watch out for when choosing your bathing spot?

    Keep Your Swimmer’s Paradise Safe from Sneaky Germs

    Every time you dive into a pool or lake, you’re not just enjoying the splash—you’re also hoping the water is clean. Two major culprits that can ruin the fun are

    1. Faecal Bacteria: E. coli and Intestinal Enterococci

    • Where they come from: Sewage, farm manure, and even that rushed bathroom over the water.
    • What they’re doing: Sneaking in, causing your stomach to go on a wild ride.
    • Symptoms to watch out for:
      • Diarrhea
      • Stomach cramps that feel like a free‑style workout
      • Urinary tract infections (yes, even the water can make you cough at the toilet)
      • Other minor illnesses that turn a day at the beach into an overnight stay

    2. Cyanobacterial Blooms (Blue‑Green “Algae”)

    • What’s the deal? They’re not real algae, just a fancy name for certain microbes that love the sun.
    • Why you should care:
      • They’re a clear sign that the water’s quality has gone down the drain.
      • They can release toxins that make you feel like you’ve swallowed a tiny monster.
      • Think of them as the annoying guest who never leaves the party.
    • Spotting them:
      • Look for bright green or blue‑green patches on the surface.
      • There might be a skimpy layer of foam or a fishy smell that screams, “Stay away!”

    Below are some quick rules of thumb to keep your swims safe:

    Safety Checklist

    • Test the water regularly—especially after heavy rains.
    • Keep swim areas separate from sewage and farm runoff.
    • Educate the whole family on not swallowing water.
    • Watch the water’s colour and any strange smells—they’re your first alarm flags.

    Bottom line: Clean, carefree water is all about keeping these bacteria and those pesky cyanobacterial “blooms” away. With a little vigilance and some good old‑fashioned monitoring, you’ll stay refreshed, not sick!

    A fisherman in a rubber boat is surrounded by rotting cyanobacteria in the Kyiv Water Reservoir near Kyiv, Ukraine

    A Splash of Trouble: Typhoon-Style Cyanobacteria in Kyiv’s Reservoir

    The Unexpected Guests in the Water

    Picture a fisherman bobbing in a rubber dinghy, eyes wide as he spots a floating grayish-green sludge that tastes… well, it never tastes good. Those are the rotting cyanobacteria that have taken over Kyiv’s Water Reservoir.

    Why Paddling Around Might Be a Bad Idea

    • Natural but Not Nutritious: Cyanobacteria live happily in both salty and fresh water, but the larvae are like the exotic cousin who brings trouble around.
    • Fun toxins? More like nasty: Too much of these micro-dudes release toxins that can leave you with nausea, muscle cramps, skin rashes, and in extreme cases, death of unsuspecting creatures via inhalation or even skin contact.
    • Odoriferous Odors: They’re the culprits behind that pungent “pea soup” smell and the murky, murky murk that turns water into an opaque soup.

    What’s Making Them Inflated?

    Cyanobacteria thrive on excess nutrients—think of it as a buffet of agricultural runoff and wastewater. That’s why a good sewage system is crucial; it keeps the nutrient bar from overstuffing those algae.

    When the Water Looks Fine but Isn’t

    Detecting poor water quality isn’t always a visual task. For example:

    • Mercury Menace: Chemical pollutants like mercury are invisible to the naked eye but can break legal limits without being noticed.
    • Monitoring Misses: The European Environment Agency warns that these hidden dangers slip through bathing water tests.

    Bottom Line: Do Your Homework Before Hitting the Waves

    Don’t just rely on the surface look. Research the spot you plan to visit and double‑check the quality reports—your safety (and the safety of local animals) depends on it.

    Sea, rivers or lakes: Where can swimmers find the best water quality?

    EU Waters – The Reality Check

    It turns out that the seas are browsing cleaner pages than many of our rivers and lakes. Let’s break down the numbers that make this story feel a lot like a friendly, slightly nostalgic conversation.

    Coastal Waters: The Picture‑Perfect Squad

    • Excellent quality? 81 % – 89 % in the last 15 years.
    • Current share? 88.8 % – a dazzling performance that keeps the spillway of good vibes flowing.

    In short, if the seas were a team, they’re the ones that always show up punctual and sparkling, shining brighter than a disco ball on a sunny day.

    Rivers & Lakes: The “We’re Still Working on It” Crew

    • They’ve historically held a quality range of 60 % – 82 %.
    • But the tempo has been dropping a bit since 2022.
    • Present percentage? 78.3 % – a respectable score, but one that says, “Hey guys, we’re getting better so keep it up!”

    These waters have the classic “It’s not perfect, but it’s getting there” vibe. Quite like a student who keeps perfecting their essay after each feedback round.

    In Essence

    Coastal waters are still flexing their clean muscles, while rivers and lakes are treading water, slowly but surely aiming to beat the lowest averages. The road ahead: a place where even the foulest of rivers might get a chance to sparkle.