Dealing with stigma begins by mindfully choosing to understand what is actually going on and this starts in the language we use. Terms like “addict”, “junkie”, “druggie” and “alcoholic” simply ignore the science behind helping a person through a substance use disorder and distorts their personal transformation process by creating unnecessary stigma and undue shame.…
Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome (WKS) is a type of brain damage caused by chronic alcoholism. Wernicke’s encephalopathy and Korsakoff’s syndrome are two separate conditions that are frequently found together. Wernicke’s encephalopathy is a potentially fatal acute condition, whereas Korsakoff’s syndrome is a chronic and long-term condition that can severely impair a person’s ability to function in daily…
Making the decision to seek treatment for a drug or alcohol addiction is a life-changing one. When a loved one requires help, you must decide which rehab centre is best suited to help him or her overcome the addiction. Choosing the right rehabilitation centre is critical because a clinic that does not provide comprehensive treatment…
The Game of Thrones as a series has some brilliant castings in its own right, however, one particular performance in the portrayal of “Tyrion Lannister” (the “high functioning alcoholic” dwarf) by the incredible actor Peter Dinklage, makes this series truly outstanding in the realms of complex trauma and alcohol use disorders. Throughout the series “Tyrion”…
Gastritis is a condition in which the lining of the stomach becomes inflamed, causing abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. Abuse of alcohol is a common cause of gastritis, and it can have long-term effects on the digestive system. If left untreated, alcohol-induced gastritis can result in severe complications such as stomach ulcers and bleeding. However,…
A dangerous medical condition known as alcoholic ketoacidosis (also abbreviated as AKA) is brought on by drinking excessive amounts of alcohol, which can lead to an accumulation of ketones in the body as well as other complications that could be fatal. The outlook for someone with alcoholic ketoacidosis is favorable so long as they get…
Treatment for alcoholism Many people with alcohol use disorder fear they will not enjoy life if they give up alcohol, but above all they dread the possibility that they will suffer painful withdrawals when they stop. They are deeply suspicious of assurances that the detox process can be done painlessly, even though modern techniques and…
What is Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS)? FAS or Fetal Alcohol Syndrome is a condition in which alcohol causes growth problems, brain damage, behavioural problems and developmental issues in unborn babies. This condition occurs when a woman consumes an excessive amount of alcohol while she is pregnant. What is Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) FASD is…
Does someone you know spend a lot of time obtaining, using or thinking about alcohol? Do they not know when to stop and keep drinking until drunk? Do they hide bottles of alcohol because they fear others may take it away? These are just a few signs which indicate that alcohol use has escalated into…
When you are in a relationship with someone who has an alcohol use disorder, it can be challenging to know how to best support them while also taking care of yourself. Here are some do’s and don’ts for partners of people with alcohol use disorders: Advice for the partners of people struggling with alcohol use…