Sleep Disorders And Stimulant Use Most people do not start using stimulants because they want to party. They start because they cannot keep up. They are exhausted, behind, anxious, and running on a sleep debt that never gets paid back. In South Africa the pressure is not only work. It...
Cannabis, Anxiety, And Psychosis
People say “it’s just weed” the same way they say “it’s just a few drinks” or “it’s just stress.” It is a sentence designed to end the conversation, not tell the truth. In South Africa, cannabis has become normalised in a way that makes families hesitate to speak up, because...
The Addict’s Brain, Science, Survival, and the Possibility of Change
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...