Addiction to methamphetamine starkly illustrates the intrinsically irrational and self-destructive nature of addiction. Risks outweigh rewards The “positive” experience of intense stimulation from injecting, smoking, or snorting methamphetamine is comparatively short term while the risk of getting hooked is significant. The long-term associated damage to body and mind is also considerable. There is mounting evidence […]
Learn moreBipolar disorder used to be known as manic depression. However, the extremes of clinical depression on the one hand and mania on the other, which justify use of the term bipolar, are still the defining symptoms of the disorder. If we were to think of a symbol to reflect the experience of bipolar disorder, a […]
Learn moreNarcissists tend to see everyone in their circle as somehow useful to bolstering their sense of self-importance. This will inevitably include their partners and children who are treated as mere extensions of the narcissist’s person rather than autonomous individuals with needs and interests of their own. The narcissist would almost certainly deny that that was […]
Learn moreThere remains some question as to whether marijuana or cannabis is truly addictive. However, there is no doubt that significant numbers of people do develop a problematic relationship with the drug, including dependence. As a consequence, the diagnostic term “marijuana use disorder” has been coined. The brain adapts to chronic use of marijuana As with […]
Learn moreSome people call on the assistance of substances like alcohol or mood-altering behaviours to make life more tolerable. Alcohol addiction at least offers the illusion of being in control of mood; for a time. Other people look to achieve this sense of control through close relationships. This is recognised as a form of co-dependency. Know how […]
Learn moreThere is, as yet, no scientific or clinical consensus internationally as to whether a diagnostic classification of Internet Addiction is fully justified. One area of contention is whether use of the internet per se can be addictive or whether it is simply the medium through which people access potentially addictive experiences like gambling, pornography, gaming or social networking. Increasing numbers […]
Learn moreAt the core of a Binge Eating Disorder is a vicious circle. Uncomfortable psychological states lead to a person seeking relief through binge eating which results in uncomfortable psychological states, to which binge eating is the now reflexive response. The emotional impact After a bingeing episode, people with Binge Eating Disorder often feel depressed, guilty, […]
Learn morePeople from religious backgrounds such as Christians, Muslims, Sikhs, Hindus and others are known to suffer from addictions and other related mental health disorders, indicating that religious beliefs, observance or practice does not guarantee immunity to addiction. However there is evidence to suggest it may offer some protection and may consequently be an important factor for some people to recover from […]
Learn moreSubstance abuse is generally defined as the use of any psychoactive substance to the extent that it severely affects physical health and well-being, social functioning, relationships, and personal responsibilities. It is widely thought that substance abuse refers to the consumption of illegal drugs. In fact legal drugs, either legally or illegally obtained, may feature in […]
Learn moreUpdated 2nd June 2025 InIntegrative holistic medicine merges conventional Western medicine with complementary therapies to address the well-being of the whole person – including physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual aspects. Patient participation is an important part of this holistic approach, along with individualized holistic care, ongoing prevention, and condition treatment. In this guide, we’ll explore […]
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