Alcohol addiction, clinically referred to as Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), is a chronic and progressive condition that affects millions of people and their families globally. Alcoholism is characterised by a compulsive need to drink despite harmful consequences. AUD significantly impairs health, relationships, and overall quality of life. Understanding the signs, life impacts, and effective treatment […]
Find high quality, affordable rehab Johannesburg options that may be covered by medical aid to reduce financial strain and protect your privacy. Affordable rehab in Johannesburg is closer than most families think, especially once medical aid cover is on the table. At Changes Rehab, we know that cost is one of the biggest worries people […]
Some medications should never be stopped suddenly because they can cause severe withdrawal or health risks. These include antidepressants, anti-anxiety meds, antipsychotics, heart medications, seizure drugs, opioids, steroids, and hormone treatments. Stopping them too fast can lead to mood swings, seizures, high blood pressure, or other dangerous effects. What’s the hardest drug to quit? The […]
Q&A with addiction expert and founder of Changes Addiction Rehab, Sheryl Rahme Transcript Below: Why is December such a critical time for addicts and alcoholics in recovery? [00:09] I think Christmas time, December time, is very tricky because history says that it’s party time. It’s time to cut loose and let your hair down and […]
For some people, alcohol and anger go hand in hand. While some may find themselves more social or seeking closeness, others might experience heightened emotions, resulting in tears over matters that wouldn’t normally upset them. Aggressive behaviour, fuelled by alcohol consumption, can pose potential risks to both the individual and those around them. Minor provocations […]
Are alcohol and panic attacks related? The use of alcohol might seem like a quick fix to alleviate feelings of anxiety. Still, it can contribute to the occurrence of panic attacks and in turn, negatively impact health and overall wellbeing. Reaching out for professional help is a crucial move for those who find their panic attacks […]
Are Alcohol and Migraines Linked? Yes. Alcohol triggers migraines and headaches in around one in three migraine sufferers, and red wine, sparkling wine and dark spirits are the most common culprits. The mechanism involves dehydration, blood vessel dilation, histamine release and serotonin disruption. Some people get a headache within 30 minutes of drinking. Others get […]
South Africa has one of the highest per-drinker alcohol consumption rates in the world, despite roughly two-thirds of adults not drinking at all. The minority who do drink, drink heavily. South African drinkers consume around 64.6 grams of pure alcohol per day on average, equivalent to five or six standard drinks daily and the sixth-highest […]
Are you being sober shamed? Sober shaming is a social phenomenon where people face criticism or mockery for choosing not to drink alcohol. This behaviour can make non-drinkers feel uncomfortable or guilty about their personal choice to abstain. Some common forms of sober shaming include: • Pressuring others to drink • Making jokes about teetotallers […]
Alcohol detox at home is possible for mild dependence, but medically supervised detox is the safer choice for anyone who drinks heavily, or has a history of withdrawal complications. Alcohol is one of the few substances where stopping without medical support can cause death by seizures or delirium tremens (DTs). This guide breaks down when […]