Environmental Addiction Triggers
The Healing Power of Nature in Addiction Recovery
As it’s the height of Summer, now is the perfect time to explore the therapeutic benefits of immersing yourself in nature during addiction recovery. From lush green trees to the fresh air, gentle walks, and the nurturing embrace of the sun, the natural world has a remarkable ability to support and enhance the healing process.…
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 MoreGiving Support Without Enabling Addiction
Watching a loved one struggle with addiction can be incredibly difficult, and it’s natural to want to help in any way possible. However, it’s essential to be mindful of the potential for co-dependency, a pattern of behaviour in which an individual becomes overly involved with their loved one’s addictive behaviours and loses sight of their…
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 MoreThe Importance of Nutrition in Addiction Recovery
Addiction is a complex disease that affects both the mind and body. While traditional addiction treatments such as therapy and support groups can address the psychological and emotional aspects of addiction, proper nutrition is often overlooked in the recovery process. However, the truth is that good nutrition is critical for recovery from addiction. A balanced…
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 MoreEaster, Excess, and Addiction
Easter is a time of celebration, renewal, and hope – a great time to commit to something like addiction recovery. However, for many people, it is also a time of excess, whether it be overeating, overdrinking, or overindulging in other ways. For individuals in addiction recovery, the holidays can be a challenging time and a…
Read MoreNavigating the Festive Season in Recovery
Alcohol consumption in the UK raises by 41% in December, making the festive season an extremely challenging time for many in addiction recovery. Excessive alcohol consumption is unfortunately embedded in UK culture, and all too often, especially during the festive season, many feel pressured to drink. This is not an ideal situation for those vulnerable…
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