Addiction to substances such as tobacco, alcohol, stimulants, and opiates follows a predictable cycle. A study by experts Nora Volkow, George Koob, and Thomas McLellan outlines the phases that addiction takes hold: binge and intoxication, withdrawal and negative affect, and preoccupation and craving. Each stage corresponds to changes in brain systems, reinforcing addictive behaviors. The[…]

Four Reasons to Pay More Attention to Alcohol Abuse Alcohol is one of the most commonly misused substances worldwide, with serious consequences for individuals and communities. Here’s why it deserves more attention: 1. Alcohol Is Not Harmless Unlike cocaine or heroin, alcohol’s dangers are often downplayed. Binge drinking, while socially accepted in many circles, can[…]

Is ‘Chaos Addiction’ Another Term For ‘Workaholism’ or Something Different? Last year, three independent things happened that led me to write this article. Firstly, I received an email from one of my blog readers who wrote: “I’m a recovering addict. I still find that hard to admit even after time in therapy and the support of my[…]

Gambling is a fascinating psychological phenomenon, deeply rooted in human behavior. Extensive research has explored how psychological processes shape gambling habits, often revealing surprising insights. Below are five compelling facts about gambling and the psychology behind it. 1. Being in a Good Mood Leads to Increased Gambling Did you know that your mood can influence[…]

A Brief Look at Psychogenic Polydipsia, Hyponatraemia, And ‘Aquaholism’ In May 2015, I went to the cinema with my oldest son to watch Mad Max: Fury Road. The reason I mention this is because one of the characters in the film (who live in a world where water is a scarce commodity) tells someone else not[…]

Smartphones have evolved from being mere tools to essential components of our daily lives. From constant connectivity to fulfilling emotional needs, they’ve transitioned into devices we rely on for far more than convenience. However, this reliance often leads to smartphone addiction, a growing concern for people of all ages. But why are smartphones so addictive,[…]

Effective Strategies to Tackle Alcohol Abuse Among Students Binge drinking among college students is a serious issue, leading to problems like poor academic performance, strained social relationships, and health risks. While anti-smoking campaigns have seen great success, similar efforts targeting binge drinking could help reduce its impact. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse[…]

Unmanaged anger can deeply damage relationships. One of my patients, for instance, stopped all interactions with male colleagues because of her partner’s jealousy and anger. Even during simple lunches, he would overwhelm her with messages to the point where she gave in to avoid conflict. Over time, she realized the importance of setting healthier boundaries.[…]