Tech

Here’s how parents can prevent their teens from drinking too much

Published

1 year ago

April 22, 2023

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With experts warning of the health risks of consuming alcohol, parents searching for strategies to keep their teenagers from drinking excessively or at all have lots of options, according to a leading Canadian addiction specialist.

And because there’s a genetic component to alcoholism and substance-use disorder, this can be an important and reassuring message for families to hear.

“For some people it feels like the deck is stacked against them…. But there’s actually a lot people can do,” said Dr. Alexander Caudarella, CEO of the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction, the organization that led the initiative to update Canada’s Low-Risk Alcohol Drinking Guidelines.

“These might be things like if you can have a good relationship in your family, if you can have good communication, if you’re going to school and succeeding in school, if you have a good friend group around you, but also things like eating well, [and] sleeping well.”

Not everyone who has the genetic predisposition for developing an addiction will end up with one, he said.

Dr. Alexander Caudarella is CEO of the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction, the organization that led the initiative to update Canada’s Low-Risk Alcohol Drinking Guidelines. (Nadia Molinari)

But having a history of alcoholism in your family does increase your chances of passing it on to your children.

What are the risk factors for alcoholism and substance use disorder?

That’s something Jessica Lahey worried about with her own kids, who were 9 and 14 when she realized she was an alcoholic and stopped drinking in 2013.

“My first thought when I got sober was, OK, well, I’m the child of an alcoholic who was the child of an alcoholic … and then, same thing on my husband’s side of the family. And so immediately, I’m like, oh my gosh, how do I make this stop with me?” she said.

Lahey, a U.S.-based journalist and educator, set out to answer this question in her book The Addiction Inoculation: Raising Healthy Kids in a Culture of Dependence.

“Genetics is about 50 to 60 per cent of the risk picture,” she said.

But it’s also environmental factors such as the death of a parent, a family member being incarcerated, physical or sexual abuse, or divorce or separation, she said.

“We’re really talking about toxic stress, not like normal everyday stress, but toxic, ongoing chronic stress that causes cortisol levels to go up and just causes our bodies to go into lock into that sort of disaster mode for longer periods of time,” said Lahey.

While parents can’t shield their children from all forms of adversity, therapy, for example, can lessen the impact of that stress, she said.

And there are other strategies that families can use to reduce the chances a teenager will develop a drinking problem.

After confronting her own relationship with alcohol, author and journalist Jessica Lahey was concerned about her children’s risk for alcoholism. She explores the research around how parents can guard against substance-use disorder in her book The Addiction Inoculation: Raising Healthy Kids in a Culture of Dependence. (Sharona Jacobs)

Don’t allow underage drinking in the home

One tip she had for parents is to not allow any underage drinking at home.

“We know that parents that have a consistent and clear message of ‘no, not until it’s legal for you’ … have kids with far lower rates of substance-use disorder than parents who have a permissive stance on alcohol consumption or drug consumption under age.”

She also said that parents who give their children sips of beer or wine to teach them healthy drinking habits at an early age are on the wrong track.

And she’s not alone in this stance.

Dr. Caudarella said delaying that first drink might be a good idea, particularly if someone has a family history of substance-use disorder.

“If somebody would have started at the age of 15 and instead they try for the first time at the age of 17, their risk of developing problems with that is already significantly lower,” he said.

But keeping teenagers away from alcohol is not as simple as telling them not to drink.

Navigating Canada’s new alcohol guidance | The Breakdown

New Canadian health guidance drastically reduces the amount of alcohol consumption that’s considered safe. Oncologist Dr. Fawaad Iqbal and substance abuse researcher Tim Naimi help explain the research and why they believe it can save lives.

Make it a ‘morally neutral topic’

In fact, according to registered psychotherapist Louise Gleeson, that strategy might backfire.

Gleeson is the mother of four children between the ages of 13 and 21.

She doesn’t drink and hasn’t for more than a decade, but she said she doesn’t impose any negative feelings she might have about alcohol on her kids.

Registered psychotherapist Louise Gleeson, who is also a mother of four children between the ages of 13 and 21, says it’s important for parents not to bring their own judgements about alcohol or drugs to the table when they discuss the topic with their kids. (Lisa Tullett)

Instead she said, it’s important for parents not to bring their own judgments about alcohol or drugs to the table.

Make it a “morally neutral topic,” otherwise you are going to “close that door so hard,” she said.

“We risk having our children have the perception about themselves, that if they choose to engage or get curious about using substances, they are viewed by their own parents as being bad. And when that happens, in order to keep the attachment with their parent, they will keep it secret.”

And you want your teenagers to be able to turn to you when their friends are doing things that make them uncomfortable or unsafe, she said.

Lahey’s new book The Addiction Inoculation: Raising Healthy Kids in a Culture of Dependence. (Harper)

Communication is key

Parenting skills like the ones Gleeson described may be key to helping families mitigate the risk that young people will develop a problem with alcohol or drugs, said Dr. Caudarella.

In fact, some of the best addiction prevention strategies don’t even involve talking about substances.

For example, there are programs that take children as young as seven, along with their parents, and teach them communication skills.

“When they look 10 years later, there can be as much as a 50 per cent reduction of the number of people initiated substance use by the time they’re Grade 12.”

Limiting kids’ exposure to alcohol advertising is also a good idea, he said.

Research from the U.K. compares the cancer risks between cigarettes and alcohol as equivalent to one drink per cigarette for men and double that for women. (New Africa/Shutterstock)

Don’t worry about ADHD meds

Dr. Caudarella says parents of kids who have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder often ask him if they should be especially concerned about their kids’ risk.

“People come in and say ‘you know what, my family is at risk of having substance use disorder issues. Is it safe for my kid to be on ADHD medications?” he said.

They worry that taking the stimulants are often prescribed for the disorder could lead to addiction.

But he said the opposite is true.

“What we know is that the kids who are properly diagnosed with ADHD and were put on those medications have a much less likely future of developing substance use disorders. And that’s because those medications are really effective at helping them do better in school and thrive and succeed.”

Ultimately, Caudarella said, the parents who know they have a family history of alcoholism and are aware of the risks are in the best position to deal with them head on.

“I actually think those kinds of parents can make the best parents because they’re so conscientious and careful about it.”

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Tech

How to Preorder the PlayStation 5 Pro in Canada

Published

2 days ago

September 10, 2024

Harry Miller

Sony has made it easy for Canadian consumers to preorder the PlayStation 5 Pro in Canada directly from PlayStation’s official website. Here’s how:

Visit the Official Website: Go to direct.playstation.com and navigate to the PS5 Pro section once preorders go live on September 26, 2024.
Create or Log in to Your PlayStation Account: If you don’t have a PlayStation account, you will need to create one. Existing users can simply log in to proceed.
Place Your Preorder: Once logged in, follow the instructions to preorder your PS5 Pro. Ensure you have a valid payment method ready and double-check your shipping information for accuracy.

Preorder Through Major Canadian Retailers

While preordering directly from PlayStation is a popular option, you can also secure your PS5 Pro through trusted Canadian retailers. These retailers are expected to offer preorders on or after September 26:

Best Buy Canada
Walmart Canada
EB Games (GameStop)
Amazon Canada
The Source

Steps to Preorder via Canadian Retailers:

Visit Retailer Websites: Search for “PlayStation 5 Pro” on the website of your preferred retailer starting on September 26.
Create or Log in to Your Account: If you’re shopping online, having an account with the retailer can speed up the preorder process.
Preorder in Store: For those who prefer in-person shopping, check with local stores regarding availability and preorder policies.

3. Sign Up for Notifications

Many retailers and websites offer the option to sign up for notifications when the preorder goes live. If you’re worried about missing out due to high demand, this can be a useful option.

Visit Retailer Sites: Look for a “Notify Me” or “Email Alerts” option and enter your email to stay informed.
Use PlayStation Alerts: Sign up for notifications directly through Sony to be one of the first to know when preorders are available.

4. Prepare for High Demand

Preordering the PS5 Pro is expected to be competitive, with high demand likely to result in quick sellouts, just as with the initial release of the original PS5. To maximize your chances of securing a preorder:

Act Quickly: Be prepared to place your order as soon as preorders open. Timing is key, as stock can run out within minutes.
Double-Check Payment Information: Ensure your credit card or payment method is ready to go. Any delays during the checkout process could result in losing your spot.
Stay Informed: Monitor PlayStation and retailer websites for updates on restocks or additional preorder windows.

Final Thoughts

The PlayStation 5 Pro is set to take gaming to the next level with its enhanced performance, graphics, and new features. Canadian gamers should be ready to act fast when preorders open on September 26, 2024, to secure their console ahead of the holiday season. Whether you choose to preorder through PlayStation’s official website or your preferred retailer, following the steps outlined above will help ensure a smooth and successful preorder experience.

For more details on the PS5 Pro and to preorder, visit direct.playstation.com or stay tuned to updates from major Canadian retailers.

Tech

Introducing the PlayStation 5 Pro: The Next Evolution in Gaming

Published

2 days ago

September 10, 2024

Harry Miller

Since the PlayStation 5 (PS5) launched four years ago, PlayStation has continuously evolved to meet the demands of its players. Today, we are excited to announce the next step in this journey: the PlayStation 5 Pro. Designed for the most dedicated players and game creators, the PS5 Pro brings groundbreaking advancements in gaming hardware, raising the bar for what’s possible.

Key Features of the PS5 Pro

The PS5 Pro comes equipped with several key performance enhancements, addressing the requests of gamers for smoother, higher-quality graphics at a consistent 60 frames per second (FPS). The console’s standout features include:

Upgraded GPU: The PS5 Pro’s GPU boasts 67% more Compute Units than the current PS5, combined with 28% faster memory. This allows for up to 45% faster rendering speeds, ensuring a smoother gaming experience.
Advanced Ray Tracing: Ray tracing capabilities have been significantly enhanced, with reflections and refractions of light being processed at double or triple the speed of the current PS5, creating more dynamic visuals.
AI-Driven Upscaling: Introducing PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution, an AI-based upscaling technology that adds extraordinary detail to images, resulting in sharper image clarity.
Backward Compatibility & Game Boost: More than 8,500 PS4 games playable on PS5 Pro will benefit from PS5 Pro Game Boost, stabilizing or enhancing performance. PS4 games will also see improved resolution on select titles.
VRR & 8K Support: The PS5 Pro supports Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and 8K gaming for the ultimate visual experience, while also launching with the latest wireless technology, Wi-Fi 7, in supported regions.

Optimized Games & Patches

Game creators have quickly embraced the new technology that comes with the PS5 Pro. Many games will receive free updates to take full advantage of the console’s new features, labeled as PS5 Pro Enhanced. Some of the highly anticipated titles include:

Alan Wake 2
Assassin’s Creed: Shadows
Demon’s Souls
Dragon’s Dogma 2
Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth
Gran Turismo 7
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2
Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart
Horizon Forbidden West

These updates will allow players to experience their favorite games at a higher fidelity, taking full advantage of the console’s improved graphics and performance.

Design & Compatibility

Maintaining consistency within the PS5 family, the PS5 Pro retains the same height and width as the original PS5 model. Players will also have the option to add an Ultra HD Blu-ray Disc Drive or swap console covers when available.

Additionally, the PS5 Pro is fully compatible with all existing PS5 accessories, including the PlayStation VR2, DualSense Edge, Pulse Elite, and Access controller. This ensures seamless integration into your current gaming setup.

Pricing & Availability

The PS5 Pro will be available starting November 7, 2024, at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of:

$699.99 USD
$949.99 CAD
£699.99 GBP
€799.99 EUR
¥119,980 JPY

Each PS5 Pro comes with a 2TB SSD, a DualSense wireless controller, and a copy of Astro’s Playroom pre-installed. Pre-orders begin on September 26, 2024, and the console will be available at participating retailers and directly from PlayStation via direct.playstation.com.

The launch of the PS5 Pro marks a new chapter in PlayStation’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge gaming experiences. Whether players choose the standard PS5 or the PS5 Pro, PlayStation aims to provide the best possible gaming experience for everyone.

Preorder your PS5 Pro and step into the next generation of gaming this holiday season.

Tech

Google Unveils AI-Powered Pixel 9 Lineup Ahead of Apple’s iPhone 16 Release

Published

1 month ago

August 13, 2024

Harry Miller

Google has launched its next generation of Pixel phones, setting the stage for a head-to-head competition with Apple as both tech giants aim to integrate more advanced artificial intelligence (AI) features into their flagship devices. The unveiling took place near Google’s Mountain View headquarters, marking an early debut for the Pixel 9 lineup, which is designed to showcase the latest advancements in AI technology.

The Pixel 9 series, although a minor player in global smartphone sales, is a crucial platform for Google to demonstrate the cutting-edge capabilities of its Android operating system. With AI at the core of its strategy, Google is positioning the Pixel 9 phones as vessels for the transformative potential of AI, a trend that is expected to revolutionize the way people interact with technology.

Rick Osterloh, Google’s senior vice president overseeing the Pixel phones, emphasized the company’s commitment to AI, stating, “We are obsessed with the idea that AI can make life easier and more productive for people.” This echoes the narrative Apple is likely to push when it unveils its iPhone 16, which is also expected to feature advanced AI capabilities.

The Pixel 9 lineup will be the first to fully integrate Google’s Gemini AI technology, designed to enhance user experience through more natural, conversational interactions. The Gemini assistant, which features 10 different human-like voices, can perform a wide array of tasks, particularly if users allow access to their emails and documents.

In an on-stage demonstration, the Gemini assistant showcased its ability to generate creative ideas and even analyze images, although it did experience some hiccups when asked to identify a concert poster for singer Sabrina Carpenter.

To support these AI-driven features, Google has equipped the Pixel 9 with a special chip that enables many AI processes to be handled directly on the device. This not only improves performance but also enhances user privacy and security by reducing the need to send data to remote servers.

Google’s aggressive push into AI with the Pixel 9 comes as Apple prepares to unveil its iPhone 16, which is expected to feature its own AI advancements. However, Google’s decision to offer a one-year free subscription to its advanced Gemini Assistant, valued at $240, may pressure Apple to reconsider any plans to charge for its AI services.

The standard Pixel 9 will be priced at $800, a $100 increase from last year, while the Pixel 9 Pro will range between $1,000 and $1,100, depending on the model. Google also announced the next iteration of its foldable Pixel phone, priced at $1,800.

In addition to the new Pixel phones, Google also revealed updates to its Pixel Watch and wireless earbuds, directly challenging Apple’s dominance in the wearable tech market. These products, like the Pixel 9, are designed to integrate seamlessly with Google’s AI-driven ecosystem.

Google’s event took place against the backdrop of a significant legal challenge, with a judge recently ruling that its search engine constitutes an illegal monopoly. This ruling could lead to further court proceedings that may force Google to make significant changes to its business practices, potentially impacting its Android software or other key components of its $2 trillion empire.

Despite these legal hurdles, Google is pressing forward with its vision of an AI-powered future, using its latest devices to showcase what it believes will be the next big leap in technology. As the battle for AI supremacy heats up, consumers can expect both Google and Apple to push the boundaries of what their devices can do, making the choice between them more compelling than ever.