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…Read more

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…Read more

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…Read more

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…Read more

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,…Read more

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…Read more

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….Read more

Addiction is a devastating condition that can destroy lives, relationships, and futures. But how do drugs hijack the brain to such an extent? Research suggests that certain substances, such as amphetamines and opioids, alter brain structure and function, making users more impulsive and less capable of resisting cravings. This article explores how drugs manipulate the…Read more

Exploring the Impact of Excessive Internet Use The idea of Internet addiction was first proposed as a psychological disorder in the 1990s, but it wasn’t taken seriously at the time. However, with advancements in research, the understanding of excessive Internet use has significantly evolved. Today, numerous studies highlight that between 1-10% of individuals experience difficulties…Read more