The Trauma Catch-22: PTSD & Alcohol Abuse

PTSD and Alcohol Addiction

At New Leaf, we understand that there are a number of complex struggles that individuals can face, including PTSD. Sadly, PTSD sufferers are also often linked with alcohol abuse, using this as a method of coping with their PTSD symptoms. Both conditions can have an impact on the individual’s life and those around them. It…

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How Anne Hathaway Found Happiness Through Alcohol Sobriety

Finding Happiness in Alcohol Sobriety

Addictions are not an issue just for ‘ordinary’ people. They can affect anyone, no matter your social status, your age, or whether you are famous or not!   Recently, Anne Hathaway shared in an interview in the New York Times, part of her alcohol journey and that she is sober for over 5 years now. “I…

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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.…

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Understanding the Role of Dopamine in Addiction

Dopamine & 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:…

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The Link Between Trauma and Addiction

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…

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Patterns and Signs of Alcohol Dependence

A woman sat despondent on the floor: patterns 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,…

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What Are the Differences in Addiction Between Women and Men?

Gender bias and differences in addiction

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?  …

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The Importance of Stress Awareness Month

Stress Awareness Week, April 2023

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…

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St. Patrick’s Day & Binge Drinking Culture

St 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…

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Anthony Hopkins Celebrates 47 Years Sober

Anthony Hopkins spreads message of hope in the actor's recovery from alcoholism

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…

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