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 vs Rehab
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 […]
Types of Therapy
Addiction treatment is a complex process that addresses the interactions between an individual’s psychology, biology, and social environment. For individuals suffering from substance use disorders, different types of therapy are adapted to address both the behaviour and the physiological elements of addiction. Each therapy type is designed and tailored to help an individual achieve the […]
Dependence is Not Addiction
Addiction and physical dependence are distinct phenomena with different implications for treatment and recovery. Addiction involves changes in the brain’s wiring, affecting behaviour and decision-making. On the other hand, physical dependence refers to how the body adapts to and relies on a substance. Understanding these differences is not just helpful; it’s vital for those grappling […]