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 Hidden Struggle of TV Presenter Richard Osman: Overcoming Food Addiction

Food Addiction - Richard Osman's Story

Richard Osman is a well-known TV presenter and, more recently, best-selling author of The Thursday Murder Club.   Even though he’s been appearing on our TVs since 2009 on BBC’s Pointless, Osman has only spoken about his struggles with food in recent years.  It’s a daily struggle to deal with a food addiction for Richard Osman,…

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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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Leaning on Others: Building a Support System for Addiction Recovery

Building a support system in addiction recovery

Building a strong support system is an essential part of addiction recovery. The journey to overcome addiction can be difficult and challenging, and having a supportive network of people can make a significant difference in your ability to stay on track and achieve long-term recovery. Steps for Building a Support System: Identifying Supportive People in…

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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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Grief, Loss & Addiction: Navigating Triggers on Mother’s Day

addiction triggers caused by grief on mothers day

Mother’s Day is a time to celebrate and honour the women who have played an important role in our lives. However, for individuals who have experienced loss, whether through death, estrangement, or other means, Mother’s Day can be a difficult and triggering time. The Complexities of Grief and Loss Grief and loss can be complex…

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Understanding the Connection Between Eating Disorders & Addiction

Understanding the connection between eating disorders and addiction

Eating Disorders Awareness Week is an opportunity to raise awareness about the serious and often misunderstood mental health conditions that affect millions of people globally. At the same time, it highlights the link between eating disorders and addiction, as both can have devastating effects on a person’s physical, mental, and emotional health. What Are Eating…

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Why Is Self-Care Important to Addiction Recovery?

Self care in addiction recovery

What Is Self-Care? Self-care is the practice of taking action to maintain or improve your physical, mental, and emotional health. It encompasses a wide range of activities, from basic self-maintenance tasks such as getting enough sleep and eating a healthy diet to more intentional practices such as meditation and therapy. The Importance of Self-Care in…

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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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Airing Our Dirty Sheets: 8 Common Signs of Sexual Addiction

valentines day love and sex addiction

Sex is a perfectly normal and healthy part of human nature. Indeed, an active libido can often be considered a positive sign of sound mental health. There is, however, a critical point where your sexual desires can overtake healthy levels and be classified as a behavioural addiction. Whilst most people enjoy a healthy, active sex…

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