Moderation Is the Favourite Bargaining Tool of Denial Moderation has become the default language people use when they do not want to confront the reality of harmful drinking. Families repeat it because it comforts them. Drinkers repeat it because it delays accountability. Friends repeat it because it prevents awkward confrontation. The phrase “he just needs […]
Alcohol withdrawal occurs when heavy drinkers reduce or cease alcohol intake, leading to mental and physical symptoms due to the brain’s adjustment to the absence of alcohol. The severity of symptoms varies based on the duration and intensity of alcohol consumption. Initially, mild symptoms such as anxiety, shaky hands, headache, nausea, vomiting, insomnia, and sweating […]
As you set foot into rehab, you might be battling a whirlwind of emotions. The very idea of recovery, especially in the unique cultural tapestry of South Africa, presents its challenges. But, intertwined with these challenges is a powerful tool that can be pivotal in your journey: the power of positive thinking. You’re not alone […]
Alcohol addiction can often feel like a treacherous storm that never ceases, especially in the buzzing urban life of Johannesburg. You’ve heard stories, seen lives change, or perhaps even felt the weight of it in your or a loved one’s life. But there’s hope in this storm, and it shines through innovative and evidence-based treatments […]
Based on David Sheff’s approach, which delves into the depth of familial struggles with addiction, understanding high functioning alcoholism, especially within the context of the workplace, can be both enlightening and daunting. It’s an unseen undercurrent in many professional settings, and its silence is deafening. In South Africa, the business culture is not isolated from […]
Navigating the complexities of addiction doesn’t solely impact the individual battling the addiction; it profoundly touches the lives of their families too. It’s a collective journey, and the intertwined emotional, psychological, and even physical effects can be overwhelming. As a holistic practitioner working closely with those affected, I’ve seen the transformative power of peer support […]
Each year, approximately 130,000 individuals in South Africa wake up and make the conscious decision to abstain from alcohol for an entire month. This initiative, known as Dry January, has been gaining traction over the past decade, led by Alcohol Change UK. It challenges participants to trade their cocktails for mocktails, with the aim of […]
As someone grappling with alcohol addiction, or watching a loved one struggle, you might think the real cost lies in broken relationships, job loss, or deteriorating health. But let’s talk about another cost that’s often overlooked: the financial aspect of treating addiction. When you or a loved one finally takes the step to seek treatment, […]
In the midst of a thriving craft beer scene, you might find yourself pondering the link between this trend and a rise in alcoholism. As a music and art therapist, I’ve witnessed the intersection between culture, lifestyle, and addiction first-hand. Let’s delve deeper to understand whether the popularity of craft beer could potentially be fuelling […]
If you’re familiar with the renowned author and former chain-smoker Allen Carr, you know that his innovative approach to understanding addiction has transformed countless lives. Carr believed that addiction is less about inherent dependency and more about the misconceptions we hold. Drawing from his insights, let’s delve into the significance of ongoing monitoring and evaluation […]
