Do you prioritise work above everything else in your life? Have you ever worked to soothe feelings of guilt or anxiety? Do you ever work so hard that you neglect basic self-care such as getting enough sleep or exercise? If that sounds like you, or someone you know, you’re not alone. It’s believed that around […]
Addiction Resources
Can Hospital Medications Lead to Relapse? How Big Is the Risk?
Hospitals are places where people go to get better, but they often dispense powerful medications and anyone at risk from addiction should take precautions to protect themselves from situations that could lead to relapse. Hospital staff are well aware of the dangers inherent in the drugs they use (which are powerful because they need to […]
Does Harm Reduction Promote Drug Use?
Harm reduction programmes in relation to drug use have been controversial since they first came to prominence in the 1980s. They tended to be a response to the rise in HIV infections and growing unease at the criminalisation of drug use. Governments had begun to realise that prosecuting drug users simply filled up the prisons […]
Ten Signs Your Loved one is Struggling With Addiction
Many people struggling with addiction can maintain successful careers, relationships, and other responsibilities, appearing outwardly unaffected. However, over time, their dependence on substances will inevitably impact their health, finances, and mental well-being. At this point family and close friends may start to question whether their loved one has a problem with drug or alcohol misuse. […]
Coping with Addiction – 6 Dysfunctional Family Roles
Family dynamics are always important because children observe and learn behaviours there that they can keep for life. Families become dysfunctional for a number of reasons – bereavement, immoral behaviour and serious illness, especially addiction, are common causes. Understanding what happens within a family can be the key to making successful life changes later on. […]
I’ve Finished Rehab – How Do I Keep My Recovery on Track?
Understanding the Role of Social and Community Networks in Addiction Recovery Addiction produces many negative consequences. It often worsens a person’s behaviour resulting in damaged relationships and diminished social connections. Feelings of isolation and loneliness result. Successful long-term recovery comes from establishing a strong social support network so that new healthy habits become embedded. A […]
I Drink One Bottle of Wine a Day – Am I an Alcoholic?
Does Drinking a Bottle of Wine a Day Make You an Alcoholic? Drinking a daily bottle of something that brings misery to millions is never going to be a great idea, however, you try to justify it. But, does it make you an alcoholic? Well, it may not do so immediately, but the chances are […]
10 Key Coping Skills for Addiction Recovery
The road to addiction recovery is complex and requires time and effort. It will not happen all at once, and it’s crucial to have a plan for navigating the obstacles that will crop up along the way. Everyone’s journey to abstinence is unique, but some key coping skills can make the process easier during moments […]
Alcohol Tags: Doing More Harm Than Good?
Alcohol-related crimes are costly to society, both emotionally and economically. So it’s understandable why the government would seek to implement interventions aimed at reducing the burden of alcohol-related crimes. The latest idea? Alcohol tags for offenders found guilty of committing alcohol-related criminal behaviour. In this article, we take a look at the link between alcohol […]
How are Children Affected by Parental Drug Misuse?
Parental drug misuse is considered the chronic misuse of substances by a parent or carer in charge of a child. This could include people who are addicted or dependent on drugs, as well as those who use drugs regularly or excessively. In these circumstances, the parent or carer is no longer able to care for […]
Is Spirituality Necessary for Addiction Recovery?
The spiritual component of the 12 Step programme was formulated at the start of AA by co-founder Bill W and colleagues and owes much to input from eminent psychiatrist Carl Jung. Many consider it crucial to the movement’s success in helping people recover. However, people today are more likely to question the existence of God […]
Helping an Employee With an Alcohol or Drug Problem
Employee Alcohol Problem: Addiction in the workplace is a problem most employers will face at some point. Approaching someone about an alcohol or drug problem is daunting for any manager or colleague. However, the sooner the problem is addressed, the sooner help can be found. The following steps will make the process easier for both […]