Addiction isn’t a moral failure. It’s not a lack of discipline, or weak will, or bad character. It’s a brain disorder, one that hijacks survival instincts, rewires reward systems, and turns ordinary people into hostages of their own neurology. For decades, addiction was treated as a choice. But neuroscience has...
Learning Intimacy Without Losing Yourself
Love is one of the few things that can make recovery feel terrifying. After years of chaos, shame, and self-destruction, learning to be close to another person, sober, honest, and vulnerable, can feel like walking barefoot through glass. You’ve spent so long trying to fix, hide, manipulate, or escape love...
What to Do During an Opioid Overdose
Opioid abuse is a critical issue that can lead to addiction, overdose, and even death. Understanding the risks associated with opioid misuse, recognizing the signs of an overdose, and knowing how to respond can save lives. The first step in responding to an opioid overdose is to call emergency services...
The Power of Gratitude in Personal Growth and Recovery
Understanding the power of gratitude can significantly enhance one's mental, physical, and social well-being. It is particularly vital for individuals navigating the challenges of personal transformation, whether from substance use, coping with loss, or overcoming trauma. Gratitude isn't just a practice but a transformative mindset that fuels recovery and fosters...
Healing Invisible Wounds: Veterans, Trauma, and Addiction in South Africa
The Unique Challenges Faced by Veterans Veterans returning home from service encounter unique challenges that go beyond the physical injuries one might expect from combat environments. Invisible wounds, such as mental health issues, are far more common among returning soldiers. Conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety are...
The Importance Of Self-care In Heroin Addiction Recovery
Navigating the turbulent waters of heroin addiction, I've walked the challenging path many South Africans face today. I understand the sleepless nights, the silent battles, and the hope for a new dawn. Through my journey, I've come to realize that self-care isn't just a trendy phrase—it's a lifeline in the...
Coping With The Stigma Of Dual Diagnosis And Addiction
Coping with dual diagnosis and addiction is a complicated path that is sometimes exacerbated by societal stigma. This journey, your path, is special and one-of-a-kind to you. It is, nevertheless, a path shared by many South Africans, particularly in the bustling city of Johannesburg. This journey has a strong relationship...
Tackling Opioids: Should Big Pharma Pay for the Mess It Made?
Should Big Pharmaceutical companies be held liable for contributing to the opioid crisis? It's an issue I consider frequently as a public servant enforcing drug decriminalization laws. Everyone in South Africa who is in recovery or knows someone who is should be concerned about this issue. The aggressive advertising of...
The Role of Rehabilitation in Achieving Sustainable Recovery
As a life coach guiding individuals on their recovery journey, I can assure you that embarking on the path towards sobriety isn't just about letting go of the substance. It's about embracing a new way of life, a fulfilling life that redefines your relationship with yourself and the world around...