Alcohol Addiction
Navigating Early Addiction Recovery
Embarking on the path to recovery from addiction can be both challenging and rewarding. Early recovery is a critical phase where individuals establish the foundation for their long-term sobriety. It’s a time filled with hope, but it can also be overwhelming. Setting realistic goals and managing expectations are essential elements in navigating this transformative journey.…
Read MoreUnderstanding the Role of Dopamine in Addiction
Addiction is a complex neurological process that is driven by the brain’s reward system, specifically the neurotransmitter dopamine. Dopamine plays a crucial role in the development and maintenance of addiction, making it challenging to quit without professional help and support. When we think about addiction, we often focus on the negative consequences of drug use:…
Read MoreThe Link Between Trauma and Addiction
Addiction is a complex and multifaceted issue, often rooted in a person’s past experiences and emotional state. Trauma is one such experience that has been found to be closely linked to addiction. Trauma can cause a variety of emotional, psychological, and physical symptoms that may lead to self-medicating behaviours, including substance abuse. Research shows that…
Read MorePatterns and Signs of Alcohol Dependence
Alcohol dependence is a serious condition that affects millions of people around the world. It is characterised by a strong and often uncontrollable desire to drink alcohol, even when it causes harm to one’s health, relationships, and overall life. If left untreated, alcohol dependence can lead to a range of negative consequences, including liver damage,…
Read MoreWhat Are the Differences in Addiction Between Women and Men?
Addiction affects each individual person differently, dependent on a variety of circumstances and factors, including but not limited to, family history, environment, mental health issues, or even genetics! This week on the New Leaf Recovery blog, we’re unpicking the relationship between gender and addiction. How exactly is addiction different between men and women, and why? …
Read MoreThe Importance of Stress Awareness Month
Stress is a common trigger for addiction relapse, making it crucial to develop healthy coping mechanisms for managing stress during addiction recovery. That’s why we’re highlighting the importance of stress awareness during the month of April: National Stress Awareness Month. This Year’s Theme: ACT NOW This year’s theme takes a slightly different approach to previous…
Read MoreSt. Patrick’s Day & Binge Drinking Culture
St. Patrick’s Day is a holiday celebrated annually on March 17th to honour the patron saint of Ireland. It’s a time for parades, green beer, and merriment. However, for many people, St. Patrick’s Day has become synonymous with binge drinking and excessive alcohol consumption. For individuals in addiction recovery, St. Patrick’s Day and its associated…
Read MoreAnthony Hopkins Celebrates 47 Years Sober
Oscar-winning actor Sir Anthony Hopkins (CBE) has taken to social media to celebrate 47 years of sobriety. Speaking out for those struggling with alcoholism or any other addiction, his heartfelt and powerful message has reached over 1.5 million across Hopkin’s social platforms. As one of Britain’s most well-known actors on the screen and stage, Hopkins…
Read MoreRecord Alcohol Deaths From Pandemic Drinking: How to Overcome Addiction
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on the way we live our lives. From lockdowns and social distancing measures to job losses and other stressors, the past few years have been a difficult and uncertain time for many people. Unfortunately, some have turned to alcohol as a coping mechanism, leading to a record…
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