Between 2022 and 2023, 2.4% of adults living in England and Wales reported using powder cocaine. Amongst young adults, this number rose to 5.1%. Cocaine has become one of the most commonly used drugs in the UK, with levels of cocaine use across the nation being the second highest in the world. This indicates that cocaine is somewhat embedded into the drug culture of the UK. But how has that become the case? There are a range of factors and circumstances that may trigger a cocaine addiction. Understanding these triggers can be a form of empowerment, both for the individual coping with cocaine ..read more

Sometimes, the hardest part of having an addiction is acknowledging its presence. How do we know if we are addicted to cocaine or use cocaine regularly? Addiction is categorised as a type of dependency. But, not all instances of substance use ‘qualify’ as an addiction. For cocaine use to move towards addiction, specific psychological and physiological processes take place. This deepens and complicates the relationship between the user and cocaine. It can lead to a situation where cocaine is inextricably linked with feelings of pleasure, euphoria and relief. At that stage, it becomes extremely ..read more

  An accidental alcohol relapse occurs when an individual unintentionally consumes alcohol, mistaking it for a non-alcoholic beverage or consuming a product containing alcohol unknowingly. This differs significantly from an intentional relapse, where the individual consciously chooses to consume alcohol, fully aware of the consequences. The distinction between these two types of relapse is crucial because it impacts the approach to alcohol help and alcohol detox processes.    Recognising an accidental relapse as a genuine mistake rather than a failure allows individuals and t ..read more

Cocaine is widely available and extremely addictive, and the UK takes more of it than almost anywhere else in Europe. The number of people entering cocaine addiction treatment in the UK rose steadily from 2011 until 2020, when it dropped slightly – but this could be more to do with the Covid pandemic than the UK losing interest in cocaine. We’re going to take a look at just why cocaine’s appeal has been so enduring – the psychological effects, signs of addiction, media depictions, and how the drug has retained so much of its mystique. How it feels Powder cocaine is most commonly taken by sno ..read more

In this blog, we explore seven compelling reasons why someone would consider a life without alcohol abstinence. It’s a perfect chance to reflect on your relationship with alcohol, especially if you’re feeling it’s becoming problematic. Join us as we delve into these insights, offering a fresh perspective on sobriety. 1. The cons of drinking alcohol are starting to outweigh the pros If you’re a regular drinker, you most likely have had times where you told yourself you’re ‘done with alcohol’. Perhaps the hangovers are becoming unbearable or you’re not feeling as excited as you used to about d ..read more

Since it was established in the 1930s, the 12-step approach has become widely used. 12 Step was designed by Bill Wilson – founder of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). Wilson founded the model during his own rehabilitation for addiction, perhaps becoming one of the most commonly known interventions for addiction. In Great Britain, there are an estimated 4,661 dedicated AA groups. This indicates that 12 Step and its associated practices remain, for many, a cornerstone of addiction help and support. However, we know that different people take different approaches. We are all individuals with our own be ..read more

Eating disorders are considered to be the most ‘lethal’ of conditions under the umbrella of psychiatric diagnosis. Whilst all psychiatric conditions carry a risk, the harm related to eating disorders is significantly heightened. This is because eating disorders tangibly affect the body in dramatic ways. The symptoms of disordered eating inscribe themselves on the body, creating a range of physical health effects and deteriorations that can threaten both health and quality of life. When we think about eating disorders, we may initially picture the ‘classic’ symptoms of anorexia, bulimia, or ..read more

While societal views on alcoholism are slowly beginning to shift, there is still often a perception that alcohol addiction inevitably causes a relentless downward spiral. This portrayal is often mirrored in films and television and paints a grim picture of people’s lives slowly but surely falling to pieces. The reality of alcoholism, however, is that, as with all illnesses, it has varied manifestations and outcomes. The journey through alcoholism is deeply personal and influenced by a number of factors, including environmental circumstances, mental health and access to treatment. This blog wi ..read more

While many of us know that scientific research indicates low to moderate alcohol consumption might offer some health benefits, we are all acutely aware of the dangers posed by alcohol addiction. What might not be as well-known is the extent of the damage alcohol addiction can inflict on our bodies. In this blog, we will delve into the lesser-known facts about how alcohol abuse can exacerbate or cause issues with certain illnesses, some of which may surprise you. Liver damage and cirrhosis Alcohol addiction can severely damage the liver, leading to cirrhosis, a condition where the liver is so ..read more

According to recent reports, the UK has become the largest consumer of cocaine in Europe and the second largest globally. Experts have suggested that this may be linked to the UK’s binge drinking culture and the ease with which the drug can be acquired—being as simple as ‘ordering a pizza’. Given the accessibility of a substance as addictive as cocaine, it is not a far-fetched notion that many individuals are currently suffering from or will suffer from, cocaine addiction. In this blog, we will examine the signs of cocaine addiction as well as the long-term risks it poses to users.   W ..read more