Alcohol and Migraines: Why Drinking Triggers Headaches and When to Take It Seriously
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 […]
Drinking Culture in South Africa: A Public Health Look at Why We Drink the Way We Do
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?
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 It Safe? Risks & Getting Help
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 […]
Alcohol And Blood Pressure
Alcohol raises blood pressure. Regular drinking, even in moderate amounts, increases your risk of hypertension. It also raises your risk of heart disease and stroke. Cutting back or stopping lowers your blood pressure, and in many cases brings it back to a normal range. Global estimates suggest that 16% of all hypertensive disease is attributable […]
Alcohol and Stomach Pain
The Impact of Alcohol on the Stomach Alcohol and stomach pain is a common occurrence. It irritates the stomach lining, leading to inflammation called gastritis. This can cause pain and nausea, along with vomiting. Alcohol also increases stomach acid production, which may worsen acid reflux symptoms. The digestive system’s ability to break down food is […]
Meth Is Not a Life Sentence Real Recovery From Tik Is Possible
Methamphetamine goes by many names in South Africa: Tik, crystal, “ice.” It doesn’t just disrupt a life, it rewires it. It speeds up the mind and burns through sleep. It hollows out appetite and leaves people swinging between frantic energy and emotional collapse. But here’s the part families rarely hear: Tik addiction is treatable. The […]
Addiction Relapse Triggers
Understanding Addiction Relapse Addiction relapse is a complex process that often occurs in stages. Recognising the signs and understanding how relapse unfolds can help people in recovery take steps to prevent it. The Process of Relapse Relapse doesn’t happen suddenly. It’s a gradual process that can begin weeks or months before a person actually uses […]
Take a Self-Assessment
If you have begun to question your drug or alcohol usage, then you might need to evaluate your situation. It can be a confusing experience to know whether or not you have a severe problem with drugs or alcohol. With some individuals, the progression of their addiction happens rapidly, while with others, it happens over […]
Alcohol And Drug Addiction Support Groups
Support groups for those affected by drug and alcohol addiction provide a safe and empathetic space for shared understanding and mutual aid. The act of sharing within a community helps alleviate the feeling of isolation, which is accompanied by addiction. These support groups offer a common ground and a platform for connection and empower individuals […]