Alcoholism

Can you overdose on Barbiturates
Akansha Sahay
September 22, 2023
Marilyn Monroe died of a barbiturate overdose in 1962, as did famous Indian Mathematician C P Ramanujam in 1974.  Barbiturates are a type of sedative-hypnotic drug that slow down the brain and body. They are often used in antiepileptics. Sleeping pills, and for inducing anaesthesia. In some states, barbiturates are also used for physician-assisted suicide and capital punishment by lethal…

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Is there a link between perfectionism & addiction
Akansha Sahay
October 6, 2022
Gaurav had always been an overachiever. He was an academic genius in school and college, as well as a sports enthusiast. By the age of 32, he was the youngest CEO of the international technology company he worked for. So, it came as a shock when news reached his friends and colleagues about his admission to a drug rehab centre.…

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Ayurvedic treatment for addiction
Akansha Sahay
October 7, 2022
When it comes to drug addiction treatment, one would think of treatment methods like medically assisted detoxification, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, 12-step programs and so on. Very rarely do we hear about ayurvedic treatment for addiction problems. Maybe it is because we assume addiction to be a western disease and hence western treatments. However, drugs and alcohol were available even in…

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What is medication-assisted treatment for drug addiction
Akansha Sahay
November 13, 2022
Substance use disorder (SUD) can be termed as a chronic relapsing medical illness with relapses and remissions and a strong genetic component. Long-term chronic drug addiction requires a holistic treatment that includes pharmacotherapy, psychotherapy, and to an extent, exercise and diet. How does pharmacotherapy for addiction work? In simple terms, pharmacotherapy (pharmacology) is the treatment of a disorder/disease/health condition with…

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Celebrities who spoke about their battle with mental health and addiction
Akansha Sahay
December 15, 2022
Mental illnesses and addiction issues are some of the most serious problems that affect human society. However, harmful stereotypes around it make it impossible for people to talk about it, let alone ask for help. Thankfully, in the last few years, conversations around mental health and addiction are moving from the private space to the public domain. With more and…

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How to educate your children about drugs and addiction
Akansha Sahay
Children are precious and innocent, and we want to shield them from bad influences that they may come across in their lives. However, as they grow up, they will be exposed to many things, both good and bad. So, wouldn’t it be better if we start having conversations about things like cigarettes, alcohol, and drugs while they still look up…

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All About Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Akansha Sahay
January 23, 2023
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, or CBT, is one of the most popular forms of psychotherapy mostly used in one-on-one counselling sessions. As the name suggests, CBT is based on a mix of cognitive (mental processes like thoughts) and behavioural approaches. This therapy was started by Aron Beck in the 1960s.  CBT helps identify negative thought patterns that impact your emotions and…

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All about Dialectical Behavior Therapy
Akansha Sahay
February 28, 2023
What is DBT DBT is one of the most popular psychotherapies today. It was traditionally developed by Dr Marsha Linehan to treat people with borderline personality disorder (BPD). Today, it is used to treat various other mental health illnesses like depression, stress, anxiety and also substance abuse. It is an evidence-based therapy with many kinds of research showing its efficacy…

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What is the Mental Health Act 2017
Akansha Sahay
June 21, 2023
Did you know that just a few years ago, the mental health law in India allowed judicial officers and mental health establishments to authorise long-stay admissions of persons with mental illness (PMI) — often against the informed consent and wishes of the individual? This law, known as the Indian Mental Health Act 1987, also mandated rigid and tedious license criteria…

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What are some of the most popular therapies used for de-addiction treatment?
Akansha Sahay
June 28, 2023
Karan's life spiralled into addiction, leaving him broken and isolated. Seeking help, he enrolled in therapy, where he found understanding and guidance. Through therapy, he uncovered the root causes of his addiction and learned healthier coping mechanisms. With support from group sessions, Karan realised he wasn't alone and gained strength from shared experiences. Today, he continues his recovery journey, embracing…

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Symptoms of Depression in Teens
Akansha Sahay
August 5, 2023
15 Symptoms of Depression in Teens Is your teenage daughter or son simply experiencing the ups and downs of adolescence, or could they be displaying signs of depression? The teenage years can be challenging for both parents and children as they navigate the process of self-discovery. Understanding the symptoms of depression in teens is crucial to providing them with the…

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Symptoms of Depression in Women
Akansha Sahay
August 22, 2023
Sudha, a 40-year-old homemaker, felt persistently sad, lost her interest in household activities and stopped going out with her friends. She used to be enthusiastic about creating a nurturing home, but she now struggled to find any motivation to eat her food. Her husband and children think that she might just be bored. But only Sudha knows what her real…

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Spasmo Proxyvon – Uses, Side Effects and Addiction
Akansha Sahay
August 29, 2023
A diligent worker and loving family man, Jeevan found himself ensnared in an unexpected battle. A trusted doctor prescribed him a seemingly harmless painkiller for his persistent back pain. Unbeknownst to John, this prescription drug was highly addictive. Initially, it offered solace from pain, but soon, he craved it for reasons beyond physical agony. His life began to spiral out…

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12-step program for sex-addiction
Akansha Sahay
August 30, 2023
12-Step Programs for Sex Addiction Recovery: A Comprehensive Guide Jatin has always felt a relentless pull towards his desires, a compulsive need that consumed his thoughts and actions. For years, he battled in silence, grappling with the overwhelming grip of sex addiction. The stigma surrounding his condition weighed heavily on him, making him feel isolated and ashamed. Friends and family…

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Benefits of Treatment in India for International Patients
Akansha Sahay
September 19, 2023
7 Benefits of Getting Mental Health & Addiction Treatment in India A remarkable shift has occurred in the mental health and addiction treatment world in recent years. More and more individuals from around the globe are turning their attention towards India as a destination for healing and recovery. If you need help with your mental health or addiction, you might…

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National Anti-Drug Addiction Day in India
Akansha Sahay
October 2, 2022
National Anti-Drug Addiction day is celebrated on the 2nd of October of every year in India. Every child in India knows that the 2nd of October is celebrated as Gandhi Jayanti. One of the reasons why National Anti-Drug Addiction day is celebrated on the same day is because Gandhi Ji condemned the use of drugs. On this day, people across…

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Ibogaine for addiction treatment
Akansha Sahay
October 4, 2023
Discover how ibogaine, a natural psychoactive substance, is used in addiction treatment. Explore its benefits, safety considerations, and role in helping treat addiction. How Ibogaine is Being Used to Treat Addiction Ibogaine, one of the psychoactive indole alkaloids found in West Africa possesses antiaddictive properties. Several studies have claimed Ibogaine being used as a treatment for opiate, alcohol, cocaine and…

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Caffeine Addiction: signs and symptoms
Akansha Sahay
October 18, 2023
Can You Get Addicted to Caffeine? Caffeine has become an inseparable part of our lives in a world that thrives on a cup of coffee to kickstart the day or a soothing tea to unwind in the evening. But can you get addicted to caffeine? If yes, how long does it take to get addicted? This blog covers signs of…

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17 symptoms of PTSD
Akansha Sahay
What are the 17 symptoms of PTSD? Explore the 17 symptoms of PTSD. Understand the emotional, psychological, and physical signs of post-traumatic stress disorder and its impact on individuals. What are the 17 symptoms of PTSD? Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can manifest within a month following a traumatic event, though some symptoms may not…

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Mental Health Funding: Where Does Your Tax Money Go?
Akansha Sahay
October 22, 2023
Mental health in India is gradually gaining recognition and support, with increasing efforts to reduce stigma and enhance access to services. There are many challenges, such as a significant treatment gap, limited access to mental health services, and enduring stigma surrounding mental illnesses. The country grapples with a shortage of mental health professionals, particularly in rural areas, leading to inadequate…

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Caregiver stress
Akansha Sahay
13 Ways to Manage Caregiver Stress & Burnout Explore practical strategies for caregivers to prioritize self-care, find support, and maintain well-being while caring for loved ones. Introduction Taking care of a loved one is a noble yet challenging task that can be emotionally draining. Caregiver stress is a common problem worldwide. This article discusses the significance of managing caregiver stress…

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The Future of Mental Health: Government Strategies and Long-Term Planning
Akansha Sahay
November 16, 2023
The prevalence of mental health issues is a growing concern in India, emphasizing the critical need for government strategies to address this challenge. The burden of mental health disorders in India is substantial, with millions of people affected by conditions ranging from depression and anxiety to more severe disorders.  According to a study, approximately 150 million Indians are in need…

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Yoga for Mental Health: Poses for Stress Relief
Akansha Sahay
November 29, 2023
In today's frenetic pace, yoga emerges as a vital sanctuary for mental health. Its fusion of movement, breath, and mindfulness forms a powerful antidote to stress. Through deliberate poses and meditation, yoga reduces cortisol levels, easing tension and anxiety. It nurtures resilience, enhancing clarity and emotional balance. This ancient practice not only strengthens the body but also cultivates a profound…

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10 ways to avoid drug addiction
Akansha Sahay
December 23, 2023
Drug addiction is a pervasive and deeply impactful issue that transcends boundaries, affecting individuals and families. There are millions grappling with the physical, psychological, and social repercussions of substance abuse. According to data from the National Centre for Drug Abuse Prevention (NISD0,) 16 crore people are current users of alcohol, and 5.2% of them are alcohol dependent. Beyond the immediate…

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How long to rewire the brain from addiction?
Akansha Sahay
How Long It Takes to Rewire the Brain from Addiction and What to Expect Addiction exerts a profound impact on the intricate workings of the brain, redefining its very structure and function. From the immediate rush of pleasure to the enduring alterations in neural circuitry, addiction poses a complex array of effects that linger long after the substance is absent.…

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Holiday Sobriety: Celebrating Festivities Without Compromising Recovery Goals
Akansha Sahay
December 30, 2023
The holiday gathering was a swirl of laughter and clinking glasses, but for Arpit, it was a balancing act between joy and commitment. The smell of beer and champagne brought back memories, testing the resolve forged in sobriety. Surrounded by warmth and cheer, every offer of a drink became a tug-of-war between fitting in and staying true to a hard-won…

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Is Your Relationship Toxic? A Guide to Spotting the Signs
Akansha Sahay
February 27, 2024
Relationships can be a rollercoaster, with their highs and lows. It's natural to face challenges, but understanding the difference between a rough patch and a toxic relationship is crucial. In this blog, we're going to explore the signs that can help you distinguish between a healthy connection and a toxic one. Why? Recognising these signs is the first step towards…

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International Cooperation and India’s Role in Global Drug Control
Akansha Sahay
March 13, 2024
Drug control refers to the regulatory measures and policies implemented by governments and international organisations to manage and restrict the production, distribution, and consumption of psychoactive substances. The primary objective of drug control is to mitigate the negative social, health, and economic consequences associated with drug abuse and trafficking. This multifaceted approach involves law enforcement efforts to combat illicit drug…

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Traditional Indian Approaches to Treating Addiction and Mental Health
Akansha Sahay
April 6, 2024
In recent years, traditional Indian healing practices have been experiencing a resurgence in popularity and recognition. Many of these age-old healing methods, such as Ayurveda, yoga, and meditation, were pushed into the background as modern medicine and therapy gained prominence. However, there has been a noticeable shift towards embracing and promoting these ancient practices once again.  People are increasingly drawn…

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Things you can do this mental health awareness month
Akansha Sahay
May 17, 2022
“We should make it clear that getting help isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s a sign of strength.” - Michelle Obama One in four people suffers from a mental illness in a given year. The prevalence of stigma in this area comes in the way of people seeking treatment. A study showed that about 47% of people express higher judgment towards…

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Signs of Hidden Drug or Alcohol Use
trista2593
July 6, 2012
Think about a time when you did something that you didn't want anyone else to know about. We've all been there. And we all have tactics to avoid revealing what we've done. Especially in the early stages of an addiction, drug and alcohol addicts discover themselves consistently hiding the truth. Many addicts develop strategies and ways to get around telling…

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Are You Drinking Too Much?
admin
August 21, 2012
It's easy to underestimate how much you drink. Even casual drinkers may be drinking too much. Check out the following infographic to see how much is too much. You may be surprised. This infographic was created and originally posted by Duffy's Rehab, Napa Valley, California, USA. Read the original article on their blog to learn more.

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A Pastor, the Nazis, and Bill W: The Origins and Impact of the Serenity Prayer
admin
October 8, 2012
God grant me the serenity To accept the things I cannot change, The courage to change the things I can, And the wisdom to know the difference. These words, known as the Serenity Prayer, have become inseparably linked with AA and are used for those recovering from a variety of addictions around the world. India is no exception; the Serenity…

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Executive Burnout - Working the Marathon Shift

Executive Burnout – Working the Marathon Shift
trista2593
February 15, 2013
Anyone who has run a marathon can echo these words, "long-distance running is no cakewalk." In fact, running those 42 kilometers places your body under such pressure and fatigue that an individual often needs up to two to three months to recover fully. This may seem like a long time, it did to me at first. But that three month…

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Drugs that can kill you in 5 minutes

Drugs That Can Kill You in 5 Minutes
admin
January 6, 2014
If you are considering suicide, you are not alone. Confidential help is available for free. Call 91-9820466726 View Suicide.org's list of hotlines for help in all states → People use drugs to briefly step out of reality. Addicts light up to escape the real world for a moment. An alcoholic takes another drink to revisit that "better place" the beverage…

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Can I get addiction treatment during the COVID-19 lockdown in India?

Can I get addiction treatment during the COVID-19 lockdown in India?
vikram
April 1, 2020
What to look for and how to find help for addiction and mental health amidst India’s coronavirus crisis As the COVID-19 situation has developed and affected all of us, we quickly realised that even amidst the lockdown, people around the country would still need mental health and addiction treatment. In fact, many of the situations we all are going through…

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10 Signs To Identify If You Need Professional Help for Alcoholism

10 Signs To Identify If You Need Professional Help for Alcoholism
Niteesh Singh
September 4, 2020
How much alcohol is too much alcohol? Do I need to seek professional help? These are a few common questions people seek answers to — who are much into drinking. While many people get their hands on alcoholic drinks to celebrate, there are many who have a number of different motives to start and get habitual to drinking. The good…

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Why do I feel like smoking when I drink alcohol?
Akansha Sahay
March 23, 2022
The current lifestyle in this fast-paced world contains countless habits and routines that are unhealthy for our bodies. Be it your unusual sleeping patterns or excessive consumption of carbs and sugar. All these actions harm your physical and mental health and have a direct impact on your performance and capabilities. Smoking and drinking alcohol are two vices that are high…

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Alcoholics Anonymous
Akansha Sahay
March 29, 2022
The fast-paced life we lead is a constant race to get the next best thing. Everyone is hustling to complete their education with impressive grades, securing a dream job, buying the dream home and car, the list goes on and on. However, with all haste and competition comes immense pressure. Most people turn to various substances like cigarettes, alcohol, and…

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 Narcotics Anonymous
Akansha Sahay
March 30, 2022
Narcotics Anonymous, also called as NA, is a 12-step program similar to Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) where individuals with drug addiction problems can seek support in the recovery and healing process. The support is often offered by recovering drug addicts or individuals who have overcome their drug addictions.   Thousands of NA members hold roughly 76,000 closed and open narcotics anonymous…

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Inpatient Rehab vs Outpatient Treatment
Akansha Sahay
April 19, 2022
Inpatient vs Outpatient Rehab Treatment. Which is a better option? There comes a point in life where any person with addiction has to choose between recovery with rehab or continuing on the path of substance abuse and risk mental and physical breakdown and even death. At this crucial juncture, it is often the family and friends who decide on behalf…

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are you addicted to alcohol

Is Your Friend Addicted to Alcohol? …Are You??
trista2593
March 3, 2012
Am I an alcoholic? Do I really have a problem? And if I do, do I need to seek help? Like any other addiction, before an alcoholic can recover, the disease must be identified and accepted by the addict himself. But how do you identify an alcohol addiction? Alcohol Addiction | Identification The CAGE questionnaire is a useful acronym commonly…

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Voluntary vs Involuntary rehab
Akansha Sahay
May 20, 2022
Rishab and Ayush were at the same rehabilitation centre for their drug addiction issues. They were offered standardized treatment for addiction along with personal counselling sessions. At the end of 6 months, both were released from care, however, while Rishab continued to stay clean even months after release, Ayush had a non-fatal overdose within weeks of release. While there are…

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How can a healthy diet help addiction recovery? 
Akansha Sahay
June 27, 2022
Leaving Las Vegas, Trainspotting and Requiem for a dream are some of the most hard-hitting films that depict substance abuse and its consequences. One thing that is common in almost all these movies is that the actors who play the roles of addicts are thin, gaunt and look extremely malnourished. The reason for this is art imitates life and in…

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5 movies about addiction and recovery you must watch
Akansha Sahay
June 29, 2022
Movies are not only a source of entertainment but also a source of inspiration, they arouse emotions and motivate us to reflect on our lives. Here is a list of movies one can watch to understand how addiction affects people’s lives. These recovery stories can inspire people during their own recovery. If you are someone struggling with addiction some of…

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  10 biggest myths about addiction?
Akansha Sahay
There are many myths about addiction and treatment. This kind of misinformation gives birth to stigma. Stigma can come in the way of people seeking help and making things more difficult for them. If you know someone struggling with addiction, it’s important to know the right facts before trying to help them. In this blog, we list down some of…

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How our brain is affected by drugs
Akansha Sahay
July 5, 2022
Our brain is the most complex part of the body, and everything that we do is directed by the mechanism in our brain. To explain it better, if our body were a movie set, our brain would be the movie director, our internal organs, the producers and our external features and limbs would be the actors. So, if the movie…

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Women-only Rehabs in India 
Akansha Sahay
July 15, 2022
Addiction is often seen as a problem that only men go through. Sadly, even research on addiction primarily focuses on males. In the US, it is estimated that about 42% of drug users are women. Though addiction is more prevalent in males, the difference is not large.  There are many more challenges that women face in their journey through addiction.…

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Scope of Outpatient treatment for addiction
Akansha Sahay
July 29, 2022
India is facing a serious drug addiction problem. According to the ministry of social justice and empowerment, there were 250 drug addicts for every 100,000 Indians about a decade back. This number has only been rising. In India, children as young as 15 years old are abusing drugs. However, the mean age of drug abusers is around thirty-five, and almost…

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Drug Tolerance
Akansha Sahay
August 23, 2022
What is drug tolerance? The word tolerance means the ability to endure a condition without any adverse reactions. When we are subjected to unfavourable situations over and over, we develop a tolerance for it. Eventually, the effect of those situations on us reduces. This phenomenon also happens with most addictive substances.  Think about the first time you consumed alcohol. You…

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Why you should consider a luxury rehab for your treatment
Akansha Sahay
August 31, 2022
When you hear the term “luxury rehab”, probably what comes to mind are celebrities lounging by the pool. It may seem like luxury rehabs are nothing but luxury resorts for the rich and famous to unwind. However, once you visit one of these luxury rehabs, you will realize that it’s much more than that. Let’s discover what makes luxury rehab…

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How to get help for drug addiction without my family knowing?
Akansha Sahay
Battling addiction is a tough ordeal! While it is great to have the support of your friends and family, for some, that may not be an option. There is still not much education about drug addiction and how it is a disease that needs medical attention and care. Most people, especially the older generation, still view drug addiction as a…

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Rehab for Depression
Akansha Sahay
Depression is one of the most common mental health problems in the world. It is estimated that one in five people suffer from depression at some point in their lives.  It causes problems in the person’s functioning, affecting their personal, social and professional life. Depression is also a major risk factor for suicide. According to WHO, about 700,000 people die…

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12-step Treatment Program
Akansha Sahay
September 18, 2022
What is the 12 steps program? 12 steps treatment is one of the most popular treatment methods available for addiction. It is a mutual-aid program for all types of addictions and compulsions. Many rehab centres in India incorporate this approach into their treatment plan.  It is conducted through a support group system. This helps them connect with people who are…

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Rehab for Anxiety
Akansha Sahay
September 30, 2022
Anxiety is something that each and every person is familiar with. It is a body’s natural response to stress. However, for some people, anxiety may be more persistent and disproportionate to the amount of stress they face. This can leave them feeling miserable and affect their overall functioning.  The ICD 11 categorises Anxiety disorders into the following: Generalized Anxiety DisorderPanic…

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12 step program for agnostics or atheists
Akansha Sahay
December 7, 2021
Ralph G. Nichols, the author of “Are you listening?”, said something very profound, “The most basic of all human needs is to understand and be understood. The best way to understand people is to listen to them.”   There are many ways to help someone with an addiction problem and the most basic of them is to offer to listen to…

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Alcoholism and aggression/ aggressive behaviors. How is it connected?
Akansha Sahay
November 5, 2021
“First you take a drink, then the drink takes a drink, then the drink takes you.” This is probably one of the most poignant lines from F. Scott Fitzgerald’s famous novel, ‘The Great Gatsby’. Alcohol abuse has been the cause of many broken marriages, domestic violence, road rage, drunk driving and at times even murder. Alcohol consumption is on the…

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Does Alcohol Cause Brain Damage?
Niteesh Singh
June 14, 2020
Alcohol is deeply connected with modern culture, especially in big cities. If you’ve lived in big cities, you can likely relate to this fact. Alcohol seems to be a normal part of people’s lives.  For some people, drinking alcohol is a way to relax after a whole day of office mess and stress, or for others, it may be a…

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