The cannabis plant and its derivatives have been subjects of much confusion and debate. Terms like hemp, cannabidiol (CBD), marijuana, and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are often used interchangeably, but they refer to different substances with distinct properties and legal statuses. As CBD products gain popularity, understanding the differences and implications is crucial. What is CBD? Cannabinoids...
The Five Biggest Gifts of Sobriety
For those feeling trapped in the grip of addiction, the idea of sobriety can seem like a distant dream. Addiction can wreak havoc on relationships, finances, and self-esteem, creating a painful cycle that’s hard to break. But amidst the darkness of addiction, there is hope. Sobriety brings with it numerous gifts that can transform lives,...
Navigating the Journey to Sobriety: 10 Steps to Overcoming Alcohol Dependency
Embarking on a journey to stop drinking alcohol can be daunting, particularly when alcohol has become a central part of socializing, unwinding, or coping with stress. However, understanding when the need to quit outweighs the reasons to continue is crucial. This guide provides a comprehensive, supportive pathway toward a sober life—a journey many have successfully...
Understanding Clonidine: Addiction Risks and Safe Use for Families in South Africa
Clonidine, sold under brand names like Catapres, is a prescription medication used to treat a variety of conditions, including high blood pressure, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anxiety disorders, migraines, menopausal flushing, diarrhea, and certain pain conditions. As a centrally-acting α2 adrenergic agonist, clonidine works by relaxing blood vessels, decreasing heart rate, and lowering blood...
Stigma Surrounding Cocaine Addiction
The weight of living with a cocaine addiction is heavy. But if you’re anything like me, the load isn’t just about the chemical dependence or the daily struggle to resist urges. It’s also about the judgmental glances, whispered comments, and sometimes outright discrimination. The stigma surrounding cocaine addiction in South Africa, and globally, can often...
Staying Strong In Opiate Addiction Recovery
Relapse. It’s a word that hangs heavy in the hearts of those of us who have fought the battle with opiate addiction. If you’ve been down this path, like me, you know that every day in recovery is a victory. But it’s also true that the road is seldom a straight line. South Africa’s unique...
Addiction Among Pregnant Women
When you think of addiction, pregnant women may not be the first demographic that comes to mind. But this is precisely why it’s an unseen epidemic, lurking in the shadows of societal stigmas and complex legal landscapes. In South Africa, where substance abuse is a critical issue, the impact on pregnant women is even more...
When Does a Healthy Habit Become an Addiction?
You wake up early every morning, strap on your running shoes, and take off for a refreshing jog around the block. This healthy habit of exercise is undoubtedly beneficial for your physical well-being, but when does this habit cross the line into the realm of addiction? A healthy habit turns into an addiction when it...
Are Big Alcohol Companies Targeting Kids with Sweet Flavored Drinks?
As a high school coach, I’ve witnessed firsthand the harm that alcohol can cause to young athletes. In recent years, a concerning trend has emerged: young people’s rising desire for alcoholic beverages with sweet flavors. This has caused some to question the motives of large alcohol makers. Is the objective of these sugary beverages to...