Dive into this enlightening episode of Cracking Addiction and unearth the transformative role of exercise in the journey of addiction recovery. Dr Ferghal Armstrong meticulously illustrates how incorporating physical activity can fundamentally enhance the treatment and management of substance use disorders alongside co-occurring mental health issues. Whether you're a clinician, a person in recovery, or just passionate about improving mental and physical health, this episode offers invaluable insights that could shape your approach to holistic well-being. 00:00 Prominence of lifestyle in addict ..read more

In this episode of Cracking Addiction, Dr Fergal Armstrong explores the differences in alcohol consumption guidelines across various countries. He breaks down what constitutes a standard drink in Australia and the United States and discusses the recommended limits for men and women in each country. Dr. Armstrong also delves into the Canadian guidelines, which advocate for a very low alcohol intake to minimize the risk of alcohol-related consequences. He highlights the dose-response relationship between alcohol consumption and the increased risk of various health issues, including liver disease ..read more

In this episode, Dr. Armstrong delves deep into the concept of resilience and its vital role in addiction recovery. He provides practical insights on the four key processes essential for developing resilience, shedding light on the significance of mastery, vicarious mastery, exhortation, and emotional regulation. Whether you or someone you know is battling addiction, this episode offers invaluable guidance and strategies for enhancing resilience in the face of challenges. ? **Focus Keyword: Resilience in Addiction Recovery** ? **Learning Outcomes** 1. **Understanding the Elements of Resilience ..read more

On this episode of Cracking Addiction, join host Dr. Ferghal Armstrong as he delves into the science behind addiction. Dr. Armstrong explains the crucial differences between drug misuse and addiction, highlighting the complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and drug-specific factors in influencing an individual's vulnerability to addiction. Delving into the physiological underpinnings, he discusses the role of dopamine in the brain and how addictive substances impact various brain structures. Throughout the episode, Dr. Armstrong dispels misconceptions about addiction, emphasizing that i ..read more

Dr. Ferghal Armstrong and Dr. Manu Bhatnagar delve into the complexities of non-stimulant treatments for ADHD and the pharmacological aspects involved. In this episode, the experts discuss the roles of clonidine, guanfacine, and melatonin in managing ADHD symptoms, particularly focusing on improving sleep quality and addressing underlying neurobiological factors. Their insights into the impact of lifestyle, substances, and the circadian rhythm on ADHD provide valuable information for both individuals managing the condition and healthcare professionals seeking effective treatment strategies. Fo ..read more

In this episode, Dr. Ferghal Armstrong and guest Dr. Manu Bhatnagar explore the treatment principles underlying the management of ADHD. If you want to gain valuable insights into the use of stimulant medication and non-stimulant pharmacology in addressing ADHD, this episode is a must-listen. The focus keyword for this episode is "ADHD management." Dr. Armstrong and Dr. Bhatnagar provide in-depth analysis of the use of stimulant medications, such as dexamphetamine and lisdexamfetamine, as well as non-stimulant medications like atomoxetine, in the treatment of ADHD. They shed light on the differ ..read more

Dr. Ferghal Armstrong and Dr. Manu Bhatnagar dissect the diagnostic criteria for ADHD, shedding light on the nuanced symptoms and the importance of a comprehensive assessment. By exploring the specific domain requirements, exclusion criteria, and subtypes of ADHD, they provide a deeper understanding of the diagnosis process, particularly in different age groups. The episode offers valuable insights for clinicians, educators, and individuals looking to understand ADHD and its impact on daily life. Episode focus keyword: ADHD diagnostic criteria Key points: 1. Diagnostic Criteria for ADHD: Dr ..read more

Dr. Ferghal Armstrong and Dr. Laura Petracek delve deep into the 12th step of the twelve-step program, exploring the impact of spirituality, the importance of service to others, growth, and relapse prevention. In this episode, the discussion revolves around the psychological, emotional, and practical aspects of the final step, offering valuable insights for both individuals struggling with addiction and those supporting them on their recovery journey. Focus Keyword: Twelve-Step Program This episode provides a comprehensive exploration of the 12th step of the twelve-step program, shedding ligh ..read more

Dr. Ferghal Armstrong and Dr. Manu Bhatnagar delve into the complex and often misunderstood topic of adult ADHD. They discuss the prevalence of ADHD in adults, the potential role of environmental factors in its development, and the challenges in diagnosing and treating this condition in adulthood. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the differential diagnosis of ADHD, the potential impact of trauma and substance use on inattention, and the nuances of medication management for individuals with ADHD. Keywords: Adult ADHD, diagnosis, differential diagnosis, trauma, substance use, medicatio ..read more

Dr. Ferghal Armstrong and Dr. Laura Petracek delve into the 11th step of the twelve-step program, discussing the significance of prayer and meditation in improving conscious contact with a higher power. The episode explores the practical ways individuals can manifest the 11th step in their daily lives and the impact of skepticism on recovery. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the role of connection in recovery, the importance of a sponsor, and the transformative potential of the 11th step prayer. Dr. Laura Petracek and Dr. Ferghal Armstrong provide an in-depth analysis of the 11th ste ..read more