For some years now the UK and most of Europe have managed to avoid the worst of the crisis in fentanyl use that has escalated in the USA since 2010, causing a huge increase in the number of deaths from overdose. There are signs that this North American public health emergency which when combined with […]
Addiction Resources
Substance Misuse & Dementia
Excessive use of alcohol and other substances can contribute to Alzheimer’s. Alternatively, any form of dementia (of which Alzheimer’s is the most common) can contribute to addiction. In cases where both are present, clinicians may question if rehab is then a suitable place for treatment. At Castle Craig Hospital, we have successfully treated patients with […]
Can Anxiety Cause Dizziness?
When Can Anxiety Cause Dizziness? When anxiety is intense and long-lasting it can become one of a number of recognised mental disorders that produce unpleasant symptoms in the mind and body. Dizziness is one such symptom. Substance misuse often exacerbates the condition. Proper diagnosis is essential so that suitable treatment can be provided. What Is […]
How Long Does MDMA Stay in Your System?
MDMA, often called ‘ecstasy’ or ‘molly’ is widely used as a party drug because it has both stimulant and hallucinogenic properties, producing feelings of euphoria and energy. It is sometimes thought of as a relatively safe drug to use, compared to other substances and people are often unaware of its effects, its potential for harm, […]
What Are Brain Zaps: The Strange Side Effects of Anti-depressants
If you are currently suffering from brain zaps, or are worried about experiencing them as you come off of SSRIs, this page will reassure you. In this article, we take a look at what a brain zap actually is and why it is only recently that the scientific community has recognised this side effect of […]
Cocaine Eyes: How Is Cocaine Affecting Your Eyes?
How Is Cocaine Used? Cocaine is a versatile and deadly drug that is usually snorted, smoked or injected. It can also be rubbed on the gums or taken orally (although this is not common because doing so will lessen the effect). Whatever the method of ingestion, it is highly addictive, and people tend to repeat […]
Alcohol-free Beer and Wine – Should I Drink Them?
The Increasing Popularity of Low and Zero-Alcohol Drinks Alcohol-free beer and wines are today more popular than they have ever been. Drinking habits have been slowly changing just as work habits and attitudes to health have changed. A UK Survey found that one in four UK adults drank an alcohol-free or low-alcohol product in 2021 […]
AI in Addiction Therapy. How Would You Feel if Your Therapist Was a Chatbot?
An Overview of Artificial Intelligence for Addiction Therapy Technology and Mental Healthcare Intelligent, talking robots used to be only found on Star Trek or Tomorrow’s World. Yet many of us talk to an Alexa regularly or have a satnav figure out for us the best route to the pizza parlour. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is already […]
Is it Safe to Mix Alcohol and Viagra?
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the inability to have and keep an erection firm enough for sex. Many men will experience ED at some point in their lifetime and isn’t necessarily a cause for concern. If ED becomes an ongoing health concern causing distress and relational difficulties, a doctor may prescribe Viagra to support sexual performance. […]
Am I Too Old For Rehab?
However old you are, there is a new, better life on the other side of alcoholism and drug addiction that you can grasp. It is never too late. Betty Ford, wife of US President Gerald Ford was 60 when she entered rehab – she went on to inspire millions with her recovery. There have been […]
What Does DMT Do To Your Brain?
DMT, also known as dimethyltryptamine, is a potent psychedelic that has been utilised for generations in the traditional shamanic traditions of South American indigenous communities. However, its use is not without controversy. It is a substance that occurs naturally and may be discovered in a variety of plants and animals, as well as being created […]
Hair Loss and Addiction – How Substance Misuse Damages Your Hair
Bad hair may appear less of a problem than some consequences of substance misuse, but severe follicle damage potentially leading to complete hair loss can cause low self-esteem and depression. Here is an outline of the potential dangers and what to do to lessen the risks. How Bad Are Alcohol and Drugs for Your Hair? […]