Illegal Drug Addiction
Beyond Shame: Why Seeking Help for Addiction is a Sign of Strength
With stems from misinformation and negative stereotypes surrounding addiction, many people struggle by carrying the burden of shame, making them hold back when it comes to seeking help. However, we must understand that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Often, movies and media paint addicts as flawed or irresponsible, but the truth…
Read MoreBeyond the Bulk: The Dark Side of Steroid Abuse
Over the last few years, the UK has seen a rise in the use of anabolic steroids across fitness enthusiasts and wider demographics. This is a growing trend amongst young men, highlighting concerns about the impact these steroids can have on health and society. According to research by UKAD in 2020, it is estimated that…
Read MoreElton John’s Story with Addiction
Sir Elton John is one of the music industries most renowned and influential artists of all time, starting his music career in 1969 at the age of 22 years old. In the decades since then, he has sold more than 300 million record globally, won 5 Grammy Awards and has had over 50 hits in…
Read MoreNavigating 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 MoreInternational Day Against Drug Abuse
International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking is an annual observance held on June 26th. It’s a day to raise awareness about the dangers of drug abuse and the importance of seeking help for addiction. For those in addiction recovery, it can be a reminder of the struggles they’ve faced and the progress they’ve…
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 MoreFirst Zombie Drug Death in the UK
A recent case of the Zombie drug and its deadly effects have been found in the UK, stirring worries about the drug being used widely. The tranquilliser Xylazine is used in veterinary practices to relax muscles and reduce pain in large animals, the use of it as a recreational drug has significantly increased and the…
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 MoreLena Dunham’s Addiction Recovery: Celebrating 5 Years of Sobriety
Lena Dunham is a well-known actress, writer, and director who has been open about her struggles with addiction. In her memoir, “Not That Kind of Girl,” she revealed that she had been addicted to prescription drugs, specifically Klonopin, for many years. Her journey to recovery has been a difficult one, but it has also been…
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? …
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