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This Is Woman's Work with Nicole Kalil


Let’s talk about the three things women are told not to do: negotiate, network unapologetically, and say no like we mean it. Most of us have been programmed to default to yes—to the point that we feel guilty saying no, even when it’s the most obvious answer. And when we do say no? We often soften it, explain it away, and sugarcoat it so much that it barely sounds like a no at all. Kathryn Valentine—CEO of Worthmore Strategies and corporate badass helping companies retain and promote female talent—is here to flip that script. With experience advising Fortune 100s and dropping knowledge in places like HBR and Fast Company, Kathryn knows exactly how women can claim their worth, own their voice, and not feel bad about it. From salary talks to schedule shifts, from asking for more to turning down what doesn’t serve you, this episode is your reminder: your power doesn't come from being liked. It comes from knowing what matters and having the guts to go after it. Kathryn even drops her epic list of 76 things you can negotiate (yes, SEVENTY-SIX). So if you've ever softened your no or stayed silent in a meeting, this one’s for you. Connect with Kathryn: Website: www.worthmorestrategies.com 76 Things You Can Negotiate: www.76things.com Related Podcast Episodes: The Hard Truths Of Entrepreneurship with Dr. Darnyelle Jervey Harmon | 313 Toxic Productivity with Israa Nasir | 254 Be A Likeable Badass with Alison Fragale | 230 Share the Love: If you found this episode insightful, please share it with a friend, tag us on social media, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform! 🔗 Subscribe & Review: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…
Cracking Addiction
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Inhalt bereitgestellt von Meducate. Alle Podcast-Inhalte, einschließlich Episoden, Grafiken und Podcast-Beschreibungen, werden direkt von Meducate oder seinem Podcast-Plattformpartner hochgeladen und bereitgestellt. Wenn Sie glauben, dass jemand Ihr urheberrechtlich geschütztes Werk ohne Ihre Erlaubnis nutzt, können Sie dem hier beschriebenen Verfahren folgen https://de.player.fm/legal.
Seeking answers about addiction or supporting someone on the path to recovery? Welcome to Cracking Addiction, the podcast that empowers you with knowledge and hope. Hosted by Addiction Medicine Specialist Dr. Ferghal Armstrong, we explore the science of addiction, effective treatments, and inspiring recovery stories. Whether you're facing addiction, helping a loved one, or a professional seeking insights, this podcast is for you. Join us weekly for expert discussions on substance abuse, behavioral addictions, and their impact on lives. Subscribe now to become part of our healing community
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209 Episoden
Alle als (un)gespielt markieren ...
Manage series 3078017
Inhalt bereitgestellt von Meducate. Alle Podcast-Inhalte, einschließlich Episoden, Grafiken und Podcast-Beschreibungen, werden direkt von Meducate oder seinem Podcast-Plattformpartner hochgeladen und bereitgestellt. Wenn Sie glauben, dass jemand Ihr urheberrechtlich geschütztes Werk ohne Ihre Erlaubnis nutzt, können Sie dem hier beschriebenen Verfahren folgen https://de.player.fm/legal.
Seeking answers about addiction or supporting someone on the path to recovery? Welcome to Cracking Addiction, the podcast that empowers you with knowledge and hope. Hosted by Addiction Medicine Specialist Dr. Ferghal Armstrong, we explore the science of addiction, effective treatments, and inspiring recovery stories. Whether you're facing addiction, helping a loved one, or a professional seeking insights, this podcast is for you. Join us weekly for expert discussions on substance abuse, behavioral addictions, and their impact on lives. Subscribe now to become part of our healing community
…
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209 Episoden
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×How to Stop Shopping Addiction Signs, Diagnosis & Real-Life ImpactIs. Is It Just Retail Therapy — or Something Deeper? Is your shopping habit harmless fun, or could it be compulsive buying disorder (oniomania)? In this eye-opening episode of Cracking Addiction, Dr. Ferghal Armstrong breaks down the hidden reality of shopping addiction — its diagnosis, stigma, and the very real consequences on daily life. What you’ll learn in this video: What truly defines a shopping addictionHow impulse control disorders spiral into debt, anxiety, and relationship issues Why online shopping has made things worse — and harder to stopThe powerful role of dopamine, targeted ads, and instant gratificationY you’ll also discover why shopping disorder is not yet officially recognised in the DSM-5 (but partially listed in the ICD-11), and how that gap affects real-world treatment options. We’ll explore: Shopping addiction recovery optionsSurprising statistics and behavioral trends The psychological effects that most people ignoreWhether your own (or a loved one’s) habit has crossed the line This is essential viewing if you’re struggling with overspending, concerned about a spouse or friend, or curious about how a love for shopping can become a real mental health issue. Keywords covered: shopping addiction, compulsive shopping, online shopping addiction, oniomania, shopping disorder symptoms, DSM-5, ICD-11, compulsive spending, psychological effects of shopping. Chapters: 00:00:00 Is Shopping Addiction Real? The Science and the Controversy 00:01:13 Official Recognition: DSM-5 vs ICD-11 00:02:23 Diagnosis Challenges and Debates 00:03:33 Screening Tools and Prevalence Rates 00:04:14 Who is Affected? Gender, Age, and Reporting Differences 00:05:00 The Cycle of Compulsive Shopping: Behaviours and Consequences 00:05:50 The Need for Recognition and Support Watch now to learn the signs, science, and solutions behind shopping addiction. #shoppingaddiction #compulsivespending #mentalhealthawareness #crackingaddiction #impulsecontroldisorders…
Dr Armstrong Shares Ways to Help With Porn Addiction! Are you battling porn addiction symptoms or wondering why porn addiction is harmful? In this eye-opening episode of Cracking Addiction, Dr. Ferghal Armstrong uncovers the truth about porn addiction, its impact on mental health, and how to overcome it using proven, science-based methods. You’ll learn whether porn addiction is real—even though it's not officially listed in diagnostic manuals—and how it can cause guilt, anxiety, and relationship strain. Dr. Armstrong explains how to quit porn addiction using effective therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and group therapy. He also explores how medications such as SSRIs and off-label options like naltrexone may help reduce compulsive urges. You'll gain insight into the underlying causes of addiction, including trauma, ADHD, anxiety, and early exposure to explicit content. This episode goes beyond stopping porn use—it’s about understanding the root causes, conquering shame, and realigning with your values to take back control. Dr. Armstrong shares relatable stories and the latest 2025 research to equip you with powerful, practical tools for lasting change.If you're searching for real answers on how to overcome porn addiction or begin your mental health recovery journey, this episode delivers the guidance and support you need. Chapters: 00:00:00 Treating Porn Addiction Without Official Recognition 00:00:44 Assessing Clinical Significance and Key Red Flags 00:01:21 Core Role of Psychotherapy: CBT and Its Benefits 00:02:04 Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Group Therapy, and 12 Steps 00:02:50 Psychoeducation: Understanding the Struggle 00:03:28 Pharmacological Support: SSRIs and Opioid Antagonists 00:04:19 Medication Considerations and Off-Label Use 00:05:07 The Bigger Picture: Comorbidities and Holistic Assessment 00:05:42 Early Exposure, Recovery Goals, and Reducing Shame 00:06:19 Closing Remarks and Preview of Next Episode…
Is Porn Addiction Real? | Truth Behind Porn Addiction Explained Is porn addiction actually real — or just a myth? In this eye-opening episode of Cracking Addiction, Dr. Ferghal Armstrong explores what really happens to your brain when watching porn and why some people can’t stop. Discover the shocking science behind porn addiction symptoms like emotional numbness, relationship issues, and even erectile dysfunction — all linked to dopamine overload and the brain's reward system. Ever wondered why millions visit sites like Pornhub daily? What separates healthy habits from compulsive behavior? Is there actually a cure for porn addiction? This episode explains why porn addiction might be more real than you think, highlighting terms like “compulsive sexual behavior disorder” and “self-perceived problematic pornography use (SPPU).” You'll also uncover how early exposure, anonymity, and endless access trap users in harmful cycles.Dr. Armstrong reveals how to overcome porn addiction with real mental health tools — backed by cutting-edge 2025 brain research. If you're looking to understand the truth or want to learn how to quit porn addiction for good, this is the episode you can’t miss. Chapters: 00:00:00 Is Porn Addiction Real? – Framing the Debate 00:00:56 Diagnostic Controversy: DSM-5 vs. ICD-11 00:01:54 The Brain and Porn – Addiction or Moral Conflict? 00:02:34 Clinical Impairment and Who Is Affected00:03:24 No Consensus – Assessment Challenges and Terminology 00:04:02 The AAA Engine: Why Porn Use Can Become Problematic 00:04:50 Patterns, Tolerance, and Coping Mechanisms 00:05:37 Clinical Reality: Suffering Beyond Diagnosis 00:06:14 Clinical Humility and What’s Next…
Is sugar addiction as powerful as cocaine?Is sugar truly a food addiction? This video explores the neuroscience behind sugar's allure, touching on the brain reward pathway and how sugar hijacks brain. It also considers what this means for our mental health and overall well-being. Dr. Ferghal Armstrong reveals how to break sugar addiction and beat sugar addiction with science-backed insights. Struggling with my sugar addiction or relentless sugar cravings? Discover how to quit sugar and stop sugar cravings as Dr. Armstrong unpacks why sweets are so hard to resist. Did you know rats choose sugar over cocaine in studies, driven by sugar and dopamine? Dive into the neuroscience of sugar addiction, from dopamine and sugar rewiring your brain’s reward system to refined sugar effects mirroring hard drugs. Dr. Armstrong explores sugar binge eating, withdrawal, and tolerance, showing how sugar cravings hijack the nucleus accumbens, just like narcotics. Learn how genetics and early experiences fuel my sugar addiction and why addiction transfer risks new substance use disorders post-weight loss surgery. This episode offers a sugar detox roadmap with practical tips to overcome sugar addiction. From how to break sugar addiction to mastering stop sugar cravings strategies, Dr. Armstrong empowers you to take charge. Perfect for those tackling sugar binge eating or seeking mental health clarity, this video blends refined sugar effects insights with addiction recovery tools. Share your how to quit sugar story below! Chapters 00:00:00 Is Sugar Addiction Real? Exploring the Concept 00:00:57 Sugar and the Brain: Dopamine, Reward, and Craving 00:01:48 Evolutionary Roots: Why Are We Wired for Sugar? 00:02:33 Refined Sugar’s Addictive Properties and Animal Studies 00:03:46 Clinical Implications: Susceptibility, Symptoms, and Neurobiology 00:04:41 Takeaways: Recognising and Addressing Sugar Addiction 00:05:19 Closing Remarks #SugarAddiction #BreakTheSugarAddiction #HowToQuitSugar #DopamineAndSugar…
Struggling with porn addiction or supporting someone who is? This episode of "Cracking Addiction" delivers real talk, clinical insight, and proven strategies for lasting recovery. 🚨 Subscribe for more expert-led content on addiction and recovery! 🚨Join Dr. Ferghal Armstrong as he tackles the complex truth about porn addiction help, from hidden signs of porn addiction to the emotional toll of shame and porn addiction. Whether you're seeking pornography addiction treatment or just beginning to question your habits, this video is a compassionate, evidence-based guide to healing.🔑 In this episode:How CBT for porn addiction rewires behaviorThe power of peer support porn addiction communitiesWhy accountability in addiction recovery is a game-changerPractical tools for tracking porn useThe link between mental health and pornYou’ll hear how real people break free from secrecy, moral conflict, and isolation—proving that porn addiction recovery isn’t just possible, it’s transformative.Perfect for individuals, clinicians, and families navigating the path to overcoming porn addiction. Learn what works, what doesn’t, and how to create lasting change in a judgment-free space.💬 Leave your thoughts below | 👍 Like & Share to support awareness | 🔔 Subscribe for moreChapters:00:00:00 Who Seeks Help for Pornography Addiction?00:00:41 The Role of Shame and Barriers to Treatment00:01:16 Why People Seek Treatment: Life Collisions and Moral Incongruence00:02:29 What Helps: Validation, Structure, and Accountability00:03:03 The Power of Peer Support and Tracking Behavior00:04:04 Removing Judgment and Supporting Individual Goals00:04:23 Barriers: Systemic, Cultural, and Personal Challenges00:04:57 Keys to Recovery: Awareness, Support, Connection, and Language00:05:27 Closing Thoughts and What Makes Treatment Possible#pornaddictionhelp #pornaddictionrecovery #mentalhealthandporn #CBTforpornaddiction…
Solstice-Induced Mood Disorders and Relapse Prevention Does the summer solstice mental health shift hit your addiction relapse prevention? In Cracking Addiction: Solstice-Induced Mood Disorders and Relapse Prevention, Dr. Ferghal Armstrong unveils how seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and solstice and mood changes impact seasonal mood affective disorder in recovery. Curious about seasonal affective disorder with drug addiction? This seasonal affective disorder guide explores why seasonal affective disorder triggers like longer summer days or darker winters disrupt circadian rhythm and addiction. Dr. Armstrong breaks down summer seasonal affective disorder and reverse seasonal affective disorder, revealing how seasonal affective disorder alters serotonin and melatonin, risking winter blues recovery or relapse. Learn what is one of the best treatments for seasonal affective disorder—from light therapy for depression to sleep hygiene and nutrition tweaks. This episode offers SAD recovery tips for both hemispheres, tackling seasonal affective disorder with drug addiction with science-backed addiction relapse prevention strategies. Whether you’re battling seasonal affective disorder triggers or seeking summer solstice mental health tools, Dr. Armstrong shares actionable SAD recovery tips. Master your circadian rhythm and addiction with light therapy for depression, build a robust recovery routine, and stay motivated to avoid isolation. This video is a must for anyone in addiction relapse prevention or navigating seasonal mood affective disorder. Chapters: 00:00:00 Solstice Shifts and Their Impact on Mood 00:00:53 Sunlight, Brain Chemistry, and Circadian Rhythm 00:01:35 Defining Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) 00:02:24 Why SAD Matters in Recovery 00:03:10 Warning Signs and Early Detection of SAD 00:04:21 Light Strategies for Solstice Mood Management 00:04:52 Structured Routine, Exercise, and Nutrition Tips 00:05:23 Social Support and When to Seek Professional Help…
From Dopamine to Disease: Understanding the Addiction-Cancer Connection. What’s the hidden link between addiction and cancer? In this Cracking Addiction episode, Dr. Ferghal Armstrong and UC San Diego’s Dr Raphael E. Cuomo reveal how lifestyle and cancer risk intertwine. Discover how cancer prevention and healthy lifestyle choices can transform your health and lower risks, including skin cancer and lifestyle choices like sun exposure or smoking. Dr. Cuomo debunks the myth that lifestyle and cancer are solely genetic, diving into how addiction and cancer connect through neurobiology—think dopamine, mesolimbic pathways, and epigenetics. Learn how modifiable habits, from processed foods and red meat to screen time and stress, fuel lifestyle and cancer risk. Skin cancer and lifestyle choices, like neglecting sunscreen, and behavioural addictions, like binge-watching or social media scrolling, silently drive disease. This episode empowers you with cancer prevention and healthy lifestyle strategies to break free from self-sabotaging cycles. Dr. Armstrong and Dr. Cuomo unpack actionable health tips, showing how lifestyle and cancer are shaped by daily choices. From understanding addiction’s grip on your brain to adopting cancer prevention and healthy lifestyle habits, this science-backed guide offers hope for addiction recovery and long-term wellness. Whether you’re aiming to reduce lifestyle and cancer risk or live healthier, this video delivers insights on the biology of wellness and proactive prevention. Get The Book Crave: The Hidden Biology of Addiction and Cancerhttps://raphaelcuomo.com/crave Subscribe for more addiction and cancer insights! Share your health journey below! Chapters:00:00:00 Introducing Dr. Raphael Cuomo: Background and Professional Focus 00:01:59 Lifestyle Factors and Cancer Risk: Beyond Smoking 00:02:44 The Role of Diet, Sugar, and Red Meat in Cancer Development 00:04:42 Addictive Behaviors and Lesser-Known Cancer Risks 00:05:29 Moving Public Health “Upstream”: Changing Mindsets, Not Just Behaviours 00:06:29 Why We Struggle to Establish Healthy Habits00:07:52 Addiction Pathways: Dopamine and Lifestyle Diseases 00:08:08 Cancer as a Modifiable Lifestyle Disease 00:09:01 Brain Pathways Involved in Addiction 00:10:11 Dopamine: “Wanting” vs. Pleasure, and the Hijacking of Reward Systems 00:12:10 How Addictive Foods and Behaviours Fuel Chronic Illness 00:13:43 The Modern Difficulty with Rest, Repair, and Reflection 00:15:03 Linking Lifestyle Addiction to Cancer: The Prevention 2.0 Model 00:16:29 Are Addictive Substances Directly Carcinogenic 00:17:55 How Process Addictions like Food and Screen Time Affect Cancer Risk 00:20:10 Epigenetics and How Lifestyle Changes Influence Cancer Outcomes 00:22:39 The Chain: Addiction, Lifestyle, Epigenetics, and Cancer Risk 00:23:22 Professor Cuomo’s Book: The Hidden Biology of Addiction and Cancer 00:24:49 Closing Remarks and Reflections on Healthy Change #AddictionAndCancer #CancerPreventionAndHealthyLifestyle #LifestyleAndCancerRisk #SkinCancerAndLifestyleChoices…
The Truth About Pill Testing: Myths, Facts, and Public Health Impact.Ready to uncover the truth behind pill testing news? Dr. Ferghal Armstrong dives into pill testing Australia, revealing what is pill testing and its impact on public health. Forget myths—pill testing at festivals uses drug testing techniques like gas chromatography and mass spectrometry to identify dangerous substances in party drugs, with up to half containing unexpected or deadly compounds like fentanyl or nitazenes, as seen in recent 7 news pill testing reports. Dr. Armstrong explores pill testing music festivals, from groovin the moo trials to Victoria’s Beyond the Valley, where over 700 festival-goers used pill testing at music festivals in 2024, with one in six discarding drugs after results. Does pill testing work? Data shows nearly 20% of users avoid drugs post-testing, debunking the pill testing debate myth that it encourages use. The victorian governments pill testing stance has shifted since Dan Andrews pill testing opposition, with 2025 trials expanding to festivals like Pitch Music and Arts, supported by drug testing advocates. These confidential, judgment-free services offer harm reduction advice without condoning drug use, aligning with global pill testing australia trends. Learn how pill testing at festivals saves lives, as highlighted in 7 news pill testing coverage of NSW’s Yours and Owls trial, where 10% of drugs were mislabelled. Whether you’re a festival-goer, parent, or health advocate, this episode unpacks festival safety and party drug dangers. Join the push for smarter drug testing policies! Chapters 00:00:00 Introduction: What is Pill Testing? 00:00:46 Drug Use at Festivals and the Role of Pill Testing 00:01:37 How Pill Testing Works: Scientific Analysis and Harm Reduction 00:02:36 Confidential, Non-Judgmental Advice for Users 00:03:35 What’s Really in Party Drugs? Surprising and Dangerous Results 00:04:27 Does Pill Testing Encourage Drug Use? Evidence and Myths 00:05:06 Pill Testing and User Behaviour: The Impact of Results 00:05:59 Confidentiality, Legal Protections, and Access to Help 00:07:18 Pill Testing’s Influence on Drug Policy and Public Health 00:08:20 Conclusion: Pill Testing as a Life-Saving, Compassionate Service Share your thoughts below! #PillTestingAustralia #PillTestingMusicFestivals #DoesPillTestingWork #HarmReduction…
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Cracking Addiction

Ever felt gut feeling vs anxiety and wondered how can you listen to your gut feeling when you have anxiety and OCD? In Cracking Addiction: Anxiety & The Gut, Dr. Ferghal Armstrong unravels the gut brain connection behind anxiety gut feeling. Discover how the gut brain axis and enteric nervous system—your “second brain”—link mental health to digestion. Struggling with relationship anxiety or true gut feeling? This video reveals how to calm down anxiety gut feeling naturally!Dr. Armstrong dives into the vagus nerve and mental health, showing how the gut microbiome and mood are tied through serotonin production in gut—90% of your serotonin comes from your gut, not your brain! Learn how gut health and anxiety connect via leaky gut anxiety, inflammation and mental health, and the gut brain axis. Stress and gut health can worsen anxiety disorder, but probiotics for anxiety, fiber rich diet gut health, anti inflammatory gut foods, and omega 3 for brain health offer relief.Packed with holistic approach anxiety tips, this episode explores coping strategies like cognitive behavioral therapy gut strategies, mindfulness for anxiety, and DBT TIP skills to manage stress management gut issues. Dr. Armstrong shares how foods for gut bacteria and a fiber rich diet gut health can boost mental health and digestion. Curious about how to calm down anxiety gut feeling or distinguish intuition from anxiety disorder? This video has answers.Whether you’re exploring gut health and anxiety or seeking a holistic approach anxiety, this science-backed guide delivers. Download our FREE mental health tools infographic—link in the show notes! Subscribe for more mental health insights! Share your anxiety gut feeling story below! Chapters00:00:00 Gut Feelings: How Your Brain and Belly Are Connected00:00:50 The Enteric Nervous System: Your “Second Brain”00:01:31 Serotonin, Gut Microbiota, and Mental Health00:02:15 Three Routes from Gut to Brain: Neural, Hormonal, Immune00:03:01 Chronic Inflammation: The Link Between Gut, Anxiety, and Depression00:03:47 Treating the Mind Helps the Gut—And Vice Versa00:04:22 Simple Gut-Healthy Habits: Diet, Movement, and More00:05:17 Final Thoughts: Why Supporting Your Gut May Reduce Anxiety#GutFeelingVsAnxiety #GutBrainConnection #MentalHealth #AnxietyGutFeeling #HolisticApproachAnxiety…
A Step-By-Step Emergency Plan for Coping With Panic and Anxiety.Are you battling sudden anxiety attacks or panic attacks and need how to stop anxiety attacks right now? In this Cracking Addiction episode, Dr Ferghal Armstrong delivers your emergency anxiety toolkit—a step-by-step plan for anxiety and panic attack help! Whether you’re seeking how to stop panic and anxiety attacks for good, tackling anxiety at work, or fighting how to stop anxiety attacks and overthinking, this guide has you covered. Dr Ferghal Armstrong explains why panic attacks strike, unpacking the role of adrenaline and hyperventilation in your body. Learn coping strategies and mental health tools like the 54321 technique for grounding techniques, square breathing, and 4-7-8 breathing to calm your mind fast. Discover paced breathing and progressive muscle relaxation to ease tension, plus dialectical behavior therapy tricks like DBT TIP skills (Temperature, Intense exercise, Paced breathing) to stop anxiety attacks in their tracks—whether at home or anxiety at work.Curious about how to stop anxiety attacks at work or when diazepam fits into anxiety treatment? Dr. Armstrong reveals when meds help and why your own anxiety management tools often outshine the medicine cabinet. From grounding techniques to environment tweaks, these science-backed mental health tools empower you to take control, no matter if anxiety attacks are new or longstanding.For instant anxiety and panic attack help, grab our FREE downloadable Emergency Anxiety Toolkit infographic—link in the show notes! Save it, print it, or keep it on your phone for how to stop anxiety attacks right now, anytime, anywhere. This episode blends actionable coping strategies, expert insights from Dr Ferghal Armstrong, and hope to not just survive but command your next panic attack with confidence. Download the Emergency Toolkit PDF.https://meducate.now/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/MeducateEmergency-Anxiety-Attack-Toolkit.pdf Chapters00:00:00 Understanding Anxiety and Panic Attacks 00:00:40 Symptoms and Reality—Why Panic Attacks Aren’t Dangerous 00:01:02 The Importance of Having a Clear Plan 00:01:35 Step 1: Acknowledge the Anxiety Attack 00:01:55 Step 2–3: 5-4-3-2-1 Technique) 00:02:42 The Role of Breathing—Hyperventilation and How to Stop It 00:03:07 Breathing Techniques: Square Breathing and 4-7-8 Breathing 00:03:38 Gentle Movement and the TIP DBT Technique 00:04:21 TIP: Temperature, Intense Exercise, Paced Breathing 00:05:19 Progressive Muscle Relaxation 00:06:02 Why Fast Breathing Happens and How to Reverse It 00:06:26 Practical Slow Breathing Exercise 00:06:54 Medication Use: Diazepam Explained 00:07:35 Practice and Preparation: Emergency Anxiety Toolkit 00:08:03 Recap of the Go-To Anxiety Attack Strategy #AnxietyAttack #PanicAttack #HowToStopAnxietyAttacksRightNow #DrFerghalArmstrong #MentalHealthTools…
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Cracking Addiction

1 Do SSRIs Really Work? Depression Treatment and the Serotonin Debate with Dr Ferghal Armstrong 5:19
Do SSRIs Really Work? Understanding Depression Treatment and the Serotonin Debate.Are you wondering how SSRIs work for depression treatment or if they’re right for your mental health? Join Dr. Ferghal Armstrong on Cracking Addiction for a myth-busting dive into selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, the cornerstone antidepressants for mood disorders like severe depression, mild depression, and moderate depression. This episode unpacks the science behind SSRIs, from the chemical imbalance theory of serotonin to the modern role of neuroplasticity in reshaping brain pathways.Dr. Armstrong explains what do SSRIs do, revealing why antidepressant efficacy isn’t instant—those crucial 4-8 weeks are about brain adaptation, not just a serotonin boost. He breaks down clinical trials, showing where SSRIs outperform the placebo effect and where they fall short, especially for mild depression. With antidepressant controversy swirling, learn why side effects like lethargy or emotional numbness affect many, and why only about half of patients see success, highlighting the need for personalized medicine.This video is essential for anyone navigating depression treatment, supporting loved ones, or prescribing antidepressants as clinicians. Dr. Armstrong explores how therapy options and the therapeutic setting amplify results, while the placebo effect can rival SSRIs in some cases. He tackles real-world challenges, from varying response rates to the push for mental health awareness in choosing the right path.Don’t miss this honest look at SSRIs—their strengths, limits, and role in mental health. Dr. Armstrong’s evidence-based insights from clinical trials empower you to make informed decisions about mood disorders and therapy options. Hit play for trustworthy answers and a fresh perspective on the antidepressant controversy!Chapters00:00:00 Introduction: SSRIs and the Mystery of How They Work00:00:41 How SSRIs Affect Serotonin in the Brain00:01:19 Challenging the Chemical Imbalance Theory00:02:09 Do SSRIs Actually Work? Examining the Evidence00:02:53 The Placebo Effect and Study Limitations00:03:31 Real World Response Rates and What They Mean00:04:05 Clinical Judgment and Finding the Right Treatment00:04:44 Setting Realistic Expectations: SSRIs Are Not Magic Bullets00:05:11 Conclusion: The Evolving Science and Role of SSRIs in Depression…
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Cracking Addiction

1 Can You Stop Antidepressants Safely? Tapering, Withdrawal & Advice from Dr. Ferghal Armstrong 7:23
Can You Stop Antidepressants Safely? Tapering, Withdrawal & Advice from Dr. Ferghal ArmstrongAre you—or someone you care about—among the millions taking SSRI antidepressants for anxiety or depression? You're not alone. In this eye-opening episode of Cracking Addiction, Dr. Ferghal Armstrong dives deep into why Australia has one of the highest rates of antidepressant use in the world, and what that means for long-term health, mental clarity, and emotional well-being.What You’ll Learn:-What do SSRIs really do to your brain?-Why are so many people on long-term antidepressants?-How to tell the difference between SSRI withdrawal and true relapse-Are SSRIs harmful in the long run?- The truth about the chemical imbalance theory-Side effects of long-term SSRI use: lethargy, emotional numbness, sexual dysfunction, and more-How to safely taper off antidepressants using Australia’s “Release” programMost antidepressant research focuses on short-term use, but what happens after years or even decades? This episode reveals the missing pieces in our understanding of long-term SSRI use—and how to take back control if your prescription has turned into a habit.Whether you:-Just started taking SSRIs-Have years of experience with antidepressants-Are a doctor or mental health professional seeking evidence-based strategies-You’ll find practical tools, expert insights, and hope in this episode. Don't let antidepressants become a silent lifetime sentence.Watch now to learn how to stop safely, avoid withdrawal symptoms, and regain control—with guidance from Addiction Specialist Dr. Ferghal Armstrong. Like, subscribe, and share your SSRI experience in the comments below! Subscribe for more on mental health, psychiatry, and addiction science.#ssrians #antidepressants #mentalhealth #depressiontreatment #crackingaddiction #drferghalarmstrong Chapters 00:00:00 Australia’s High Antidepressant Use: An Alarming Trend 00:00:43 Why Are People Staying on Antidepressants Long Term? 00:01:41 The Habit of Long Term Use: Automatic and Unquestioned 00:02:30 Lack of Evidence for Long Term Effectiveness 00:03:18 Downsides and Side Effects of Chronic Use 00:03:54 Emotional Numbness and Lasting Sexual Dysfunction 00:04:31 Withdrawal vs. Relapse: The Challenge of Stopping 00:05:08 Tapering Difficulties and Lack of Guidelines 00:05:59 The Release Program: A New Approach to Safe Deprescribing 00:06:45 Changing the Narrative: Tools and Support for Safe Discontinuation…
Why Alcohol Makes Anxiety Worse Unravel the Truth! In this Cracking Addiction episode, Dr. Ferghal Armstrong dives into the complex link between anxiety and alcohol. Ever wondered how are anxiety disorders and alcohol use related? Discover why drinking to ease social anxiety or anxiety and drinking can spiral into alcohol and anxiety disorder, leaving you with hangxiety—that dreaded anxiety after drinking. Only 20% of people with anxiety and alcohol abuse use alcohol to self-medicate, but the risks are huge. Learn how alcohol effects disrupt brain chemistry, fueling a feedback loop where anxiety and drinking worsen each other. Dr. Armstrong reveals why quitting alcohol and anxiety go hand-in-hand and why traditional treatments often fail for mental health struggles. Get practical tips to break the cycle and build real coping skills! Why watch? Bust myths and find hope for anxiety and alcohol recovery. Subscribe for more mental health insights!Share your story below!Chapters00:00:00 The Reality of Self-Medicating Anxiety with Alcohol 00:00:42 Prevalence and Demographics of Self-Medication 00:01:27 Who is Most at Risk for Self-Medicating? 00:02:18 Short-Term Relief, Long-Term Harm 00:03:04 Increased Risks: Dependence, Depression, and Suicidality 00:03:39 The Bidirectional Cycle: Anxiety and Alcohol 00:04:25 Withdrawal, Protracted Abstinence, and the Vicious Cycle 00:04:53 The Psychological Feedback Loop 00:05:32 Why People with Anxiety Turn to Alcohol 00:06:10 Personality, Coping Skills, and Self-Medication 00:07:06 Dual Diagnosis: Why Traditional Treatments Often Fail 00:07:51 Integrated CBT: Treating Anxiety and Alcohol Use Together 00:08:53 Clinical Practice—Prevention, Questions, and Skills for Coping 00:09:30 Recovery Is Possible with Integrated Care…
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Cracking Addiction

Tackling Dual Diagnosis: Treating Alcohol Dependence and Depression Together.Struggling with Alcohol and Depression? Unlock Dual Diagnosis Solutions! In this Cracking Addiction episode, Dr. Ferghal Armstrong explores cross addiction dual diagnosis, revealing why alcohol patients also suffer from dual diagnosis. Learn what is dual diagnosis and how dual diagnosis and comorbidity—like alcohol and depression—create a vicious cycle. Did you know 64% of those with alcohol problems face clinical depression? Discover how alcohol, a depressant, worsens mental health, and why siloed treatments fail. Dr. Armstrong breaks down dual diagnosis treatment strategies, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing (MI), and screening tools like AUDIT and PHQ-9. Get practical tips to tackle drink problems and boost recovery through integrated dual diagnosis channel care. Why watch? Gain hope with compassionate, holistic approaches to alcohol and depression recovery. Subscribe for more mental health insights! Share your story below! Chapters 00:00:00 Alcohol and Depression: A Complicated Relationship 00:00:41 Prevalence and the Vicious Cycle 00:01:24 Correlation and Causation: The Two-Way Street 00:01:53 How Alcohol Triggers Depression 00:02:27 Psychosocial Consequences and Escalating Depression 00:02:55 Depression Leading to Alcohol Use: Self-Medication 00:03:34 The Impact on Quality of Life 00:04:10 Challenges with Traditional Treatment Approaches 00:04:55 Integrated Dual Diagnosis Care: CBT and MI 00:05:32 Case Example: Sam’s Story 00:06:06 The Importance of Aftercare and Ongoing Support 00:06:38 Medication, Screening, and Clinical Considerations 00:07:35 Stigma and the Need for Compassionate Care 00:08:17 Key Takeaways and Summing Up 00:08:48 Final Message: Recovery Is Possible…
How Australia's Free Naloxone Program Saves 3 Lives EVERY DAY!Australia’s Naloxone Program: Saving Lives, Closing Gaps, and Fighting Opioid Overdose Deaths Addiction Specialist Dr. Ferghal Armstrong dives into the life-saving power of naloxone (Narcan), reversing drug overdoses from fentanyl and painkillers, saving 3 lives daily. Learn how it works as a “blocker” to restore breathing in minutes, plus life-saving techniques from paramedic school and first responder OD training. Shocking gaps persist: Victoria Police can’t carry naloxone, 40% of pharmacies don’t stock it, and stigma endangers families. Uncover overdose EMT insights, policy failures, and reforms needed to combat drug OD as synthetic opioids hit Australia. Chapters 00:00:00 Naloxone Saves Lives: Introduction and Key Facts 00:00:39 How Naloxone Works: Mechanism and Safety 00:01:15 Forms of Naloxone and Accessibility for the Public 00:02:10 Evidence Supporting Community Naloxone Programs 00:02:57 Successes and Gaps in Australia’s Take Home Naloxone Program 00:03:56 Emerging Threats: Synthetic Opioids and Urgency of Intervention 00:04:44 Victoria’s Policy Disconnect: Police and Naloxone Access 00:05:19 Legal Barriers and Double Standards in Overdose Response 00:06:12 Litigation Fears and Naloxone Supply Pressures 00:06:54 Misconceptions about Overdose Risk: Prescription Opioids 00:07:39 The Need for Culture Change: Normalizing Naloxone Access 00:08:20 Solutions and Recommendations: Closing the Gaps 00:09:17 Final Thoughts: Lives Saved with Better Policy #overdoseprevention #FentanylOverdose #HarmReduction…
What Really Happens To Your Body On Ecstasy?Curious about the real truth behind Ecstasy (MDMA)? Think it’s a “safe party drug”? Think again! In this eye-opening episode of Cracking Addiction, Dr. Ferghal Armstrong dives deep into everything you need to know about ecstasy—from its detailed pharmacology, shocking side effects, and hidden dangers to its emerging use in PTSD treatment research. Dr. Armstrong breaks down the science behind ecstasy’s effects, explaining how its chemical cousins like PMA and PMMA can increase the risk of fatal overdose—sometimes with just one pill. You’ll learn about the difference between street names like “Molly”, “XTC”, and “Beans”, and why what you think you’re taking might be far more dangerous than it seems. Discover how these drugs impact the brain, causing potentially life-threatening problems such as serotonin syndrome, hyperthermia, hyponatremia, and even psychosis or severe depression days after use. The episode explores why ecstasy produces feelings of empathy, heightened sensory experiences, and emotional connection, but also why it can lead to erectile dysfunction and a dreaded “ecstasy hangover.” Special attention is given to gender differences—did you know women face unique risks, including much higher chances of serious complications? If you’re concerned about party drugs, fascinated by psychopharmacology, or care about your mental health and the safety of your friends, this is a must-watch! Keywords like MDMA dangers, ecstasy overdose, serotonin syndrome, party drug risks, stimulant toxicity, PTSD research, MDMA side effects, raves, pill testing, harm reduction are all tackled with clarity and compassion.…
Have you ever wondered about the difference between alcohol withdrawal and drug withdrawal? In this episode, Dr. Ferghal Armstrong breaks down alcohol withdrawal vs drug withdrawal, shedding light on the unique signs and timelines of each. Explore the world of intoxication and withdrawal—from pinpoint pupils in opioid intoxication to cerebellar signs in alcohol intoxication. Learn to recognize the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal, including seizures, hallucinations, autonomic hyperarousal, delirium tremens, insomnia, and agitation. Discover how these differ from opioid withdrawal, which presents with flu-like symptoms, yawning, and anxiety.Dr. Armstrong walks you through the alcohol withdrawal timeline, compares it to opioid withdrawal, and explains the neurobiology behind neuroexcitation and psychiatric arousal. This is essential knowledge for understanding substance use, whether you're a health professional or simply curious about the human brain. This video also touches on the role of medications like benzodiazepines and tramadol, and how respiratory depression can be a critical concern in certain types of intoxication. 00:00:00 Introduction to Intoxication and Withdrawal 00:00:50 Intoxication: Pupils and Seizures 00:02:37 Intoxication and Bowel Sounds 00:03:37 Alcohol and Opioid Intoxication Differences 00:03:37 Withdrawal: General Phenomena 00:04:27 Alcohol vs. Opioid Withdrawal 00:05:16 Summary and Conclusion…
Ever wondered how a urine drug test really works—or how some people try to beat the system? This is the ultimate guide you've been searching for! In this compelling video, I dive deep into the fascinating world of urine drug testing, breaking down the science, procedures, and myths behind it all.From the urine drug test collection procedure to the detection windows for substances like cannabis, cocaine, opiates, and alcohol metabolites, we cover everything you need to know. You'll learn why urine is one of the most commonly used biological samples, thanks to its higher drug metabolite concentrations and longer detection periods.Curious about how to pass a drug test? I reveal the common tactics people use in an attempt to fool the system—like diluting samples, using synthetic urine, or detox kits—and explain why most of them don’t work.We also explore the Australian guidelines for urine drug screening, look at the differences between screening and confirmatory testing, and discuss which substances might evade a standard drug test.Whether you're fascinated by forensics, involved in healthcare, or just curious about drug testing, this video is packed with insights. Don't miss it!00:00:00 Introduction to Urine Drug Screening00:01:01 Biological Substrates for Drug Testing00:02:16 Detection Windows for Common Drugs00:04:07 Screening vs. Confirmatory Testing00:05:47 GCMS and LCMS Testing00:06:33 Legally Defined Cutoff Levels in Australia00:09:09 Drugs Not Detected on Standard Panels00:10:16 Errors and Cross-Reactivity in Drug Testing00:11:58 False Negatives and Evasion Techniques00:12:43 Adulteration and Evasion Techniques00:14:32 Health Risks of Adulteration00:16:33 Individual Patient Factors00:17:37 Urine Collection and Observed Testing Guidelines00:18:48 Conclusion…
Curious about what cocaine withdrawal feels like? In this video, We break down everything you need to know about tackling the tough but manageable cocaine withdrawal journey. Join Dr Ferghal Armstrong for an engaging and insightful discussion as I explore the phases of cocaine withdrawal, their psychological effects, and practical tips to navigate each stage with confidence.We’ll cover the initial crash phase, the intense withdrawal phase, and the final extinction phase, giving you a clear picture of what to expect during recovery. I’ll also share key strategies to ease cocaine withdrawal symptoms, including psychoeducation, proper nutrition, and sleep hygiene—tools that can make all the difference in managing this process effectively. 00:00:00 Introduction and Disclaimer 00:00:46 Cocaine Withdrawal Overview 00:01:54 Cocaine Withdrawal Timeline 00:03:11 Managing Cocaine Withdrawal 00:04:19 Diazepam Use in Withdrawal 00:06:21 Supportive Medications 00:07:19 Discharge Planning 00:08:32 Relapse Prevention Strategies 00:09:47 Pharmacotherapy Options 00:10:42 Relapse Rates and Prognosis 00:13:11 Conclusion on Recovery Prospects…
Cognitive Decline Countdown: How Cocaine Speeds It Up.Dr. Ferghal Armstrong sheds light on the profound cognitive decline associated with long-term cocaine use, unraveling the mystery behind cocaine’s neuroanatomy mechanisms and their impact on everyday life. Discover how chronic cocaine use, a form of drug abuse, leads to cognitive impairments such as attention deficits, impaired executive functioning, and emotional dysregulation—all stemming from dysfunctions in the brain's neurobiological systems. This video dives deep into the toll of addiction, particularly drug addiction, on mental health.In this enlightening discussion, Dr. Armstrong explores key brain regions like the prefrontal cortex and the hippocampus, explaining the complex interplay of neurotransmitters like dopamine and glutamate in chronic cocaine users. While cocaine takes center stage, parallels are drawn to other forms of addiction, such as opioid addiction, to highlight shared mechanisms of harm. Unveil the truths about structural brain changes, oxidative stress, and real-world implications like occupational impairment and disrupted relationships. This discussion is crucial for anyone journeying towards understanding substance use disorder or supporting someone in recovery from the grips of drug addiction.…
Are you concerned about brain health after cocaine use? You’re not alone. This video explores how nutritional supplements can speed up recovery from cocaine addiction and cocaine withdrawal. Want to know how to support your brain? Keep watching.B vitamins (B6, B9, B12) lower homocysteine levels and boost neurotransmitter production for better memory and mental health. I share exact dosages and warn about risks, like too much B6. Antioxidants like vitamin E and C, plus polyphenols (resveratrol, curcumin, EGCG), shield neurons from damage and fight brain fog. Omega-3 fatty acids improve optimal mind performance.00:00:00 Introduction to Nutritional Supplementation for Brain Health00:01:03 The Role of B Vitamins in Brain and Cardiac Health00:02:02 Vitamin B6 Dosage and Risks00:03:04 Vitamin B12 Absorption Issues and Treatment00:04:18 Antioxidants: Vitamin E and C for Neural Protection00:05:09 Dosing and Risks of Antioxidant Supplementation00:05:58 Polyphenols: Resveratrol, Curcumin, and EGCG00:07:02 Importance of Minerals: Magnesium, Zinc, and Selenium00:08:01 Omega 3 Fatty Acids for Neuroprotection and Cardiac Health00:09:03 Summary and Cautions on Supplement Use and Toxicity…
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Cracking Addiction

Healing the Brain Post-Addiction: Understanding Neuroplasticity in Cocaine Recovery.Is your brain crying out for recovery from chronic cocaine use? If you're ready to embark on a transformative journey toward healing the brain post-addiction, this episode is your ticket to reclaiming your life. We delve deep into the brain's remarkable ability to repair itself through neuroplasticity, even after the damage caused by drug addiction.How can the brain bounce back? Let me guide you through the mind-bending concepts of synaptic remodelling, glutamate homeostasis, and neurogenesis—all crucial for addiction recovery. We’ll unwrap the keys to enabling your brain’s miraculous healing, focusing on how the brain rewires itself for better decision-making, impulse control, and motivation.The road to recovery doesn’t stop at abstinence. Mental health plays a vital role in cocaine addiction recovery, and we’ll explore how interventions like aerobic exercise, mindfulness, therapy, and targeted nutritional strategies can support both cognitive and structural healing.If you're searching for real, science-backed insights into addiction recovery, this episode will give you a powerful look at how the brain regenerates and how you can take an active role in your healing journey.🔔 Subscribe for more expert discussions on addiction, neuroplasticity, and mental health! 00:00:00 Introduction to cocaine recovery and neuroplasticity 00:00:54 Mechanisms of neuroplasticity in cocaine recovery 00:01:53 Synaptic remodeling and receptor recovery 00:02:53 Glutamate homeostasis restoration 00:03:42 Stages of brain healing post cocaine use 00:04:21 Acute withdrawal stage 00:05:12 Early recovery stage 00:06:10 Midterm recovery stage 00:06:52 Long term recovery stage 00:08:20 Cognitive, structural, and functional recovery patterns 00:09:56 Factors influencing recovery speed 00:10:46 Interventions that promote recovery 00:11:48 Negative factors affecting brain recovery 00:12:33 Conclusion and final thoughts…
If you've ever wondered how cocaine impacts cognitive function, emotional regulation, and the relentless cycle of addiction, then you're in the right place. Witness how cocaine wreaks havoc on the prefrontal cortex, amygdala, hippocampus, and more, leading to devastating memory deficits, decision-making impairments, and risk of psychosis.Join us in exploring the grim reality of cocaine's influence on brain structure, including gray matter reduction and dopamine receptor loss, revealed through advanced neuroimaging studies. The revelations of how these changes manifest in everyday life— from blunted pleasure to heightened anxiety and stress sensitization— will leave you astounded.Chapters00:00:00 Introduction and Recap on Previous Episode00:00:35 Neuroanatomical Damage from Chronic Cocaine Use00:01:30 Cardiovascular Effects and Stroke Risks00:02:38 Neurochemical Imbalances and Neurotransmitter Dysregulation00:03:42 Psychological Impairments from Chronic Cocaine Use00:04:38 Emotional Dysregulation and Increased Impulsivity00:05:44 Structural Brain Changes in Chronic Cocaine Users00:06:38 Long Term Recovery Challenges00:07:40 Conclusion and Final Thoughts…
If you've ever wondered how cocaine impacts cognitive function, emotional regulation, and the relentless cycle of addiction, then you're in the right place. Witness how cocaine wreaks havoc on the prefrontal cortex, amygdala, hippocampus, and more, leading to devastating memory deficits, decision-making impairments, and risk of psychosis.Join us in exploring the grim reality of cocaine's influence on brain structure, including gray matter reduction and dopamine receptor loss, revealed through advanced neuroimaging studies. The revelations of how these changes manifest in everyday life— from blunted pleasure to heightened anxiety and stress sensitization— will leave you astounded.Chapters00:00:00 Introduction and Recap on Previous Episode00:00:35 Neuroanatomical Damage from Chronic Cocaine Use00:01:30 Cardiovascular Effects and Stroke Risks00:02:38 Neurochemical Imbalances and Neurotransmitter Dysregulation00:03:42 Psychological Impairments from Chronic Cocaine Use00:04:38 Emotional Dysregulation and Increased Impulsivity00:05:44 Structural Brain Changes in Chronic Cocaine Users00:06:38 Long Term Recovery Challenges00:07:40 Conclusion and Final Thoughts…
In this video, I uncover the secrets behind cocaine's manipulation of our dopamine system, which plays a pivotal role in reward, motivation, and addiction. Whether you're curious about the science or looking to understand the mechanics behind addiction, this video is your starting point.We'll explore how cocaine, in its many forms like cocaine hydrochloride, freebase, and crack, disrupts your brain's delicate balance. By blocking the dopamine transporter, cocaine creates a dopamine overload, leading to euphoria and stimulation. However, this seemingly pleasant effect harbors a darker consequence. Our deep dive doesn't stop at dopamine.We'll traverse various brain regions influenced by cocaine, witnessing its impact on the meso limbic system responsible for reward and reinforcement, and the mesocortical system overseeing decision making and impulse control. The stakes are high as we venture into the realms of stress and arousal, exploring how cocaine tips the balance and intensifies norepinephrine release, contributing to increased heart rates and blood pressure and significantly elevating the risks of heart attacks or strokes.Chapters00:00:00 Introduction and Overview 00:00:44 Cocaine and the Dopamine System 00:01:25 Mechanism of Action: Dopamine Transporter (DAT) Blockage00:02:24 Neurotransmitter Spillover: Serotonin and Norepinephrine 00:03:33 Cocaine's Effects on Reward Pathway 00:04:16 Role of the Nucleus Accumbens and Amygdala00:05:21 Hippocampus and Memory Formation 00:06:17 Decision Making and Impulse Control: Mesocortical System00:07:02 Motor System and Nigrostriatal Pathway 00:07:54 Stress and Arousal: Hypothalamus 00:08:00 Conclusion…
Are you curious about how cocaine works in the body and the secrets behind successful drug testing? Look no further! In this eye-opening video, I delve deep into cocaine's kinetics, covering everything from absorption and distribution to metabolism and excretion. We explore how various routes of administration—like snorting, smoking, and injection—affect cocaine's absorption rate and the resulting emotional highs. Learn why bioavailability is greatest through inhalation and intravenous use, and discover the factors influencing this potent drug's absorption and distribution.We also highlight crucial information on cocaine metabolism, including its breakdown into metabolites like benzoylecgonine, norcocaine, and cocaethylene. You will learn why certain combinations, such as cocaine with alcohol, can lead to detrimental effects and prolonged drug detection times. Armed with this knowledge, you'll better understand the intricacies of urine drug testing and how metabolites linger in the system for days to weeks, depending on user habits.Chapters00:00:00 Introduction to Cocaine Kinetics00:00:47 Cocaine Absorption Methods00:01:48 Distribution of Cocaine00:02:35 Cocaine Metabolism00:04:22 Metabolic Pathways and Key Harm Reduction Intervention00:05:21 Detailed Metabolites of Cocaine00:07:06 Half-Life of Cocaine and Its Metabolites00:08:17 Detection Methods for Cocaine in Biological Matrices00:09:03 Overview of Biological Matrices for Cocaine Detection00:10:47 Considerations for Cocaine Detection00:11:27 Implications for Drug Testing00:12:07 Conclusion and Next Episode Preview…
Join Addiction medicine specialist Dr. Ferghal Armstrong as he demystifies the complexities surrounding cocaine and its various forms. Derived from the coca plant native to South America, cocaine is a drug that has captivated cultures for centuries—both for its ceremonial use by indigenous peoples and its controversial place in modern society. Dr. Armstrong walks you through the historical context of cocaine, its initial uses, and the evolution of its reputation from a local anaesthetic to a highly addictive substance.Discover the clinical effects that draw individuals to use cocaine, from the euphoric highs to the concerning long-term health risks such as cardiovascular problems, mental health issues, and physical deterioration. Learn about the distinct processes that differentiate cocaine hydrochloride, the easily snorted or injected powder, from freebase cocaine and crack cocaine, both of which are smokable and deliver an even more rapid high.With insights into the risky manufacturing methods and the physicochemical properties that influence how cocaine is consumed, this video encourages viewers to reflect on the profound impact this drug has on individuals and communities. Prepare to gain knowledge, awareness, and a sharper understanding of the intricacies of cocaine addiction in this first episode of the Cracking Addiction series.Chapters00:00:00 Introduction to Cocaine and Its Forms00:01:08 Historical and Medical Background of Cocaine00:02:20 Risks and Long-term Effects of Cocaine Use00:03:31 Cocaine Production: From Plant to Powder00:04:33 Understanding Cocaine Hydrochloride00:05:50 Insights into Freebase Cocaine00:07:24 Exploring Crack Cocaine00:08:14 Differentiating the Forms of Cocaine00:09:51 Conclusion and Key Takeaways…
If you're struggling with benzodiazepine withdrawal, this video shares safe tapering strategies to help you ditch the anxiety and regain control. Learn about benzodiazepine induced neurological dysfunction (BIND) and how to overcome it. In this episode, Dr Ferghal Armstrong discusses the mechanisms of benzodiazepine induced neurological dysfunction (BIND) and the complexities of benzodiazepine withdrawal. He explains that benzodiazepines and Z drugs increase the effect of the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA, which leads the brain to compensate by increasing excitotoxic glutamate. Over time, this balance shift can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms and heightened anxiety, among other issues. Dr Armstrong also compares BIND to conditions like fibromyalgia and opioid-induced hyperalgesia, providing a robust framework for understanding the distressing experiences faced by those on long-term benzodiazepines. 00:00 GABA's Impact and Brain Compensation 03:50 Paradox of Drug-Induced Sensitisation 08:12 Benzodiazepine Tapering Principles 10:23 Lifestyle Medicine for Withdrawal 13:33 Farewell from Cracking Addiction…
If you're experiencing BIND from benzodiazepines, watch out for these alarming signs of neurological dysfunction and cognitive impairment. This video will help you understand the risks of long-term benzodiazepine use. Episode Focus: Benzodiazepine-Induced Neurological Dysfunction (BIND) In this episode, we explore the multiple facets of benzodiazepine-induced neurological dysfunction (BIND). This condition encompasses cognitive impairments associated with both long-term benzodiazepine use and withdrawal, continuing up to 42 months after cessation of the drug. Dr. Armstrong provides clinically-backed insights, guiding us through how BIND manifests, the range of symptoms it can cause, and the significant, long-lasting repercussions on cognitive function. 00:00 Long-Term Benzodiazepine Cognitive Impairments 04:21 Benzodiazepines: Long-Term Cognitive Impairment 07:47 Risks of Long-Term Benzodiazepine Use…
Are you struggling with benzodiazepine dependence, looking to understand their impact, or need tips on tapering off? You’ve come to the right place! In this episode of "Cracking Addiction," I delve deep into the world of benzodiazepines, exploring their role in cognitive impairment, addiction potential, and their crucial use in alcohol withdrawal management. With keywords like benzodiazepines, addiction, and alcohol withdrawal, this video is a must-watch for anyone dealing with these powerful medications. Firstly, we shed light on how benzodiazepines impair cognitive function, causing attention deficits, concentration issues, and even long-term psychomotor impairments. But the conversation doesn't stop there; I explain why these drugs can be highly addictive due to their euphorogenic potential and rapid onset, highlighting which specific benzodiazepines carry the highest addiction risks. Then, we shift focus to benzodiazepines' indispensable role in treating alcohol withdrawal. I break down different strategies, from front-loading regimes to symptom-triggered sedation, to ensure a safe and effective withdrawal process. Lastly, we tackle the challenging topic of tapering benzodiazepines, offering practical tips and guidelines on tapering speeds, minimising withdrawal symptoms, and ensuring a smooth transition. 00:00:00 Introduction to Benzodiazepines 00:00:30 Benzodiazepines and Cognitive Function 00:01:00 Short-term Use: Anterograde Amnesia and Learning Impairments 00:01:30 Long-term Use: Concentration, Psychomotor Function, and Driving Risks 00:02:00 Cognitive Impairment Duration after Cessation 00:03:00 Benzodiazepine Addiction and Euphorogenicity 00:04:10 Benzodiazepines and Comorbid Conditions 00:04:40 Alcohol Use Disorder and Benzodiazepines 00:05:00 Mental Health Comorbidity and Substance Use 00:05:30 Therapeutic Uses: Alcohol Withdrawal Management 00:06:15 Alcohol Withdrawal Regimes: Front Loading, Tapering, and Symptom-Triggered 00:06:50 Safe Cessation Post-Alcohol Withdrawal 00:08:20 Benzodiazepine Tapering in Long-Term Users 00:09:30 Managing Illicit Benzodiazepine Dependency 00:10:30 Tapering Strategies: Converting to Diazepam 00:11:20 Requirements for Safe Diazepam Use 00:12:00 Dose Reduction Speeds and Inpatient vs Outpatient Strategies 00:14:10 Negotiating Tapering with Patients 00:14:50 Episode Summary…
In this eye-opening episode of Cracking Addiction, we delve deep into the intricate world of benzodiazepine withdrawal and its impact on chronic pain and anxiety. If you've ever struggled with benzodiazepine use or are curious about how these medications work, this video is for you! 🌟 Discover the critical differences between clinical tolerance and dependence, and understand why the Royal College of Psychiatrists advises limiting benzodiazepine use to no more than one month. We explore the alarming reality that prolonged benzodiazepine use can create a second condition — dependence — which can look strikingly similar to anxiety disorders. Learn about the withdrawal symptoms using my handy mnemonic "AMPS," which helps identify anxiety, autonomic hyperarousal, muscular symptoms, perceptual abnormalities, and more. You'll also gain insights into the timeline and duration of withdrawal symptoms based on different benzodiazepines' half-lives. Additionally, we discuss how benzodiazepines influence pain management, often leading to greater pain severity and higher risk opioid prescriptions. We also shed light on the specific challenges faced by patients with panic disorders, emphasising why benzodiazepines are not recommended for long-term treatment. 00:00:00 Introduction to Benzodiazepine Withdrawal 00:00:48 Tolerance to Benzodiazepines 00:02:21 Understanding Dependence on Benzodiazepines 00:03:17 Signs and Symptoms of Benzodiazepine Withdrawal 00:05:10 Timing and Half-life of Benzodiazepines 00:08:05 Role of Benzodiazepines in Pain Management 00:10:06 Benzodiazepines and Anxiety Disorders 00:11:21 Conclusion and Summary…
Discover the fascinating world of benzodiazepines as we break down their metabolism, kinetics, and clinical impact. In this episode, we explore how the liver processes these commonly prescribed medications, highlighting the critical role of the cytochrome P4503A4 system. Learn why some benzodiazepines bypass phase 1 oxidation and how this affects their safety in elderly patients or those with liver disease. We also dive into the science of drug interactions, detailing how inhibitors and inducers of the SIP 3A4 enzyme can significantly alter plasma concentrations of benzodiazepines like diazepam. Plus, find out why tolerance develops, including uncoupling, receptor internalisation, and receptor insensitivity at the GABAA site. Whether you're a clinician or curious learner, this video equips you with essential knowledge on selecting the right benzodiazepine for specific conditions like anxiety, insomnia, or epilepsy. Don’t miss our insights into the dangers of long-term use and the development of tolerance.…
Dive deep into the fascinating world of benzodiazepines with Dr. Ferghal Armstrong as we explore how these commonly prescribed medications function, their effects on the brain, and their clinical uses. Learn about the science behind GABA modulation, the differences between benzodiazepines and barbiturates, and why benzodiazepines are considered safer. We’ll uncover the secrets of their potency, half-lives, and why they’re used for conditions like anxiety, insomnia, and withdrawal management. You’ll also discover intriguing details about the GABA-A receptor, how benzodiazepines enhance its function, and the crucial distinctions between short-acting and long-acting benzodiazepines. Plus, we’ll discuss the potential risks when benzodiazepines are combined with opioids and how this can drastically increase overdose risks. Whether you’re a healthcare professional, a student, or just curious about pharmacology, this episode provides essential insights into benzodiazepines. Don't miss this educational journey into the science and safety of these vital drugs! Subscribe, comment, and share with anyone interested in understanding modern medicine better. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Benzodiazepines 03:01 Understanding GABA and Benzodiazepine Mechanism 05:57 Comparative Potency and Half-Life of Benzodiazepines 09:09 Clinical Effects and Lethality of Benzodiazepines…
Loneliness can have serious effects on your body. In this video, we'll explore the impacts of loneliness on your health and what you can do to combat it. Discover how social connections, resilience, and avoiding substance use disorder can help improve your well-being. Loneliness can be deadlier than smoking or excessive drinking? Discover why loneliness is more than just an emotion; it’s a significant risk factor for substance use relapse, increased suicide rates, strokes, heart attacks, and even diminished immunity. Learn from the Harvard study led by Robert Waldinger, which conclusively states that loneliness kills. Understand why your social connections affect your well-being far more profoundly than you ever imagined. 00:00:00 Introduction: Social Connections and Resilience 00:00:40 Effects of Loneliness 00:01:11 The Illusion of Social Media 00:02:00 Loneliness Compared to Smoking and Alcoholism 00:02:52 The Myth of Teflon Man 00:03:33 Harvard Study Findings: Importance of Relationships 00:05:20 Financial Success and Warm Relationships 00:06:27 Alcoholism and Longevity 00:07:18 Parenthood and Long-term Effects 00:08:14 Real-life Social Connections vs Social Media 00:09:52 Key Cognitions Affecting Social Connection 00:10:42 Supporting Opportunities for Social Contact 00:11:36 The Opposite of Addiction 00:12:23 Changing Peer Groups 00:13:32 The Famous Five: Essential Relationships in Recovery 00:15:06 Embracing Common Ground in Peer Support Groups 00:16:05 Conclusion: Unlocking the Power of Social Connection…
n this powerful interview, Dr. Samantha Harte reveals what nobody tells you about turning pain into power. She shares her journey through addiction recovery, mental health struggles, and the importance of a 12-step program. If you're a sober mom or struggling with substance abuse, this interview is a must-watch for insights and inspiration. Dr. Samantha Harte isn't just an expert—she's lived through the struggles herself, growing up in a family of addicts and dealing with issues like codependency and people-pleasing. She reveals how she turned her life around, becoming a bestselling author, a life coach, and a keynote speaker. Her book, "Breaking the Circuit: How to Rewire Your Mind for Hope, Resilience, and Joy in the Face of Trauma," offers a fresh take on the 12 steps, providing a modern spiritual template not just for addicts, but for everyone facing life's uncertainties and losses. For more information visit Dr Samantha Harte's website https://drsamanthaharte.com/ 00:00:01 Introduction to Dr. Samantha Harte 00:00:28 Dr. Harte's Professional Titles and Background 00:01:41 Personal Journey and Struggle with Addiction 00:03:00 Overdose and Catalyst for Change 00:04:22 15 Years of Sobriety and Recovery 00:05:35 Spiritual Journey and Professional Integration 00:06:09 Initial Resistance to 12-Step Program 00:08:14 Realising True Rock Bottom 00:10:20 The Hook: Returning to 12-Step Meetings 00:12:32 Struggles with Downers and Self-Realisation 00:13:46 Confronting Self-Ridicule and Perfectionism 00:14:18 Incorporating Wisdom into Professional Work 00:15:55 The Steps on Marriage and Personal Crisis 00:17:20 Learning Self-Forgiveness and Compassion 00:18:29 Application of 12 Steps in Everyday Situations 00:20:19 Bridging Ancient Practices with Modern Science 00:21:07 Universal Application of 12-Step Wisdom 00:21:43 Availability of Dr. Harte's Book…
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Cracking Addiction

Are you ready to transform your mental health and physical wellbeing? In this episode of Cracking Addiction, we dive deep into the powerful role of positivity, meaningful activity, and strong relationships in enhancing your life. If you've ever struggled with poor mental health or have been curious about how to improve your happiness, you're in the right place! Let's talk about how simple lifestyle changes, like adding those famous 10,000 steps and reducing leisure inactivity, can directly impact your well being. Keywords like "mental health" and "physical wellbeing" take center stage as we explore their intertwined connection. Ever wondered why "sitting is the new smoking"? You'll discover shocking insights that will make you rethink your daily habits. Alongside, we unravel the vicious cycle of alcohol consumption and its detrimental effects on mental health. But that's not all—we'll delve into Martin Seligman's PERMA model, showing you how positivity and engagement in meaningful activities can drastically change your life. This video isn't just informative; it's a roadmap to a healthier, happier you. 00:00:00 Introduction to Well Being and Poor Mental Health 00:00:30 Origins of the 10,000 Steps Concept 00:01:07 Relationship Between Steps and Mortality 00:01:50 The Harm of Leisure Time Inactivity 00:02:13 Sitting as the New Smoking 0 0:03:10 Harmful Alcohol Consumption and Mental Health 00:03:50 Alcohol Consumption Guidelines in Australia and Canada 00:04:05 The PERMA Model by Martin Seligman 00:05:03 Developing Positivity Through Deliberate Practices 00:06:05 Importance of Engagement in Meaningful Activities 00:07:23 Relationship Between Loneliness and Meta-Inflammation 00:08:53 Impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences on Well being 00:09:32 Benefits of High Well Being 00:10:09 Summary and Conclusion…
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Cracking Addiction

Are you ready to dive deep into the multidimensional concept of well-being and discover actionable steps to enhance your life? In this episode of Cracking Addiction, I uncover the secrets to achieving ultimate well-being by examining the vital role of genetics and the impactful behaviours you can adopt today. From physical fitness and dieting strategies to the importance of social connections and lifestyle choices, you'll find out exactly how to boost your mental and physical health! Throughout this video, we explore the genetic influence on well-being, revealing that at least a third of our life satisfaction and wellness are inherited. You'll learn the significance of commuting physical activity, the power of a vegetable-rich diet, and the impact of abstaining from tobacco and alcohol. Each proven tip is designed to elevate your life, making this video a must-watch for anyone looking to improve their quality of life. 00:00:00 Introduction to Well Being 00:00:54 Definitions of Well Being 00:01:48 Genetic Influence on Well Being 00:02:58 Behavioural Determinants of Well Being 00:03:43 Activities Reducing Well Being 00:04:25 Alcohol Consumption and Well Being 00:04:53 Government Physical Activity Recommendations 00:05:34 Diet and Well Being 00:06:26 Tobacco and Well Being 00:07:07 Summary and Conclusion…
In this eye-opening episode of "Cracking Addiction", we dive deep into the complex world of gambling addiction. We'll explore risk factors, diagnostic criteria, and effective treatment options—both psychological and pharmacological. You won't want to miss this comprehensive guide on tackling gambling addiction. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, Australians lose around $25 billion annually to legal forms of gambling. That's astonishing! With 75% of adults engaging in some form of gambling, the impact is massive. I break down gambling statistics, risk factors, and comorbidities like mental health disorders and substance use, making it clear that gambling addiction is a significant issue. Wondering about how to diagnose gambling addiction? I cover valuable tools like the Lie Bet questionnaire and the Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI). Understanding criteria from DSM-5, I use the mnemonic "CLERIC R.I.P." to make it easier for you to remember the signs. From CBT to motivational interviewing, and even pharmacotherapy like opioid antagonists and antidepressants, I unpack every viable treatment. 00:00:00 Introduction and Scope of the Problem 00:00:59 Risk Factors for Gambling Disorder 00:02:51 Assessing Gambling Disorder 00:04:04 DSM-5 Criteria for Gambling Disorder 00:05:43 Understanding Low Risk Gambling 00:06:37 Subtypes of Gambling Disorder 00:07:19 Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for Gambling 00:08:12 Motivational Interviewing 00:09:01 Pharmacological Treatments 00:10:59 Available Help Resources in Australia 00:11:48 Conclusion and Final Thought…
Welcome to Cracking Addiction; in this video, we dive deep into the world of prudent diets, revealing how you can naturally improve your heart and brain health. From understanding the Mediterranean diet’s benefits to exploring the DASH diet's effectiveness in lowering blood pressure, you'll get a comprehensive look at how specific foods contribute to your overall well-being. Plus, we introduce you to the cutting-edge MIND diet, a fusion designed to protect against neurodegeneration and enhance cognitive function. If you’re fascinated by the connection between food and health, this video is just for you! In just a few sentences, you'll discover why the DASH, Mediterranean, and MIND diets are essential for those serious about heart and brain health. These prudent diets will give you actionable tips to enhance your wellness journey right now!…
Are you ready to transform your recovery journey and optimize your well-being with the power of nutrition? In this episode of Cracking Addiction, we delve into why the Mediterranean diet is a game-changer for anyone on a path to recovery from substance use disorder. The Mediterranean diet isn't just a buzzword—it's a scientifically backed lifestyle that improves physical and mental health. You’ll discover its key components, including olive oil, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, and how they contribute to a healthier heart, better mood, and reduced risk of chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes and cancer. Join Dr Fergal Armstrong as he breaks down the benefits of adhering to this diet, supported by landmark studies and real-world data. The Mediterranean diet can decrease your chances of cardiovascular diseases, prevent cognitive decline, and even lower the risk of depression. Whether battling addiction, dealing with metabolic syndrome, or simply wanting to enhance your overall health, this video is packed with invaluable insights.…
Are you aware of how much alcohol is too much? Join me, Dr. Ferghal Armstrong, as I delve into the startling epidemiology of alcohol and alcohol misuse, based on the latest data from the National Drug Strategy Household Survey 2022-2023. Uncover the hidden facts and societal impacts of risky drinking habits, and learn how different countries set their alcohol consumption guidelines. In this video, I'll break down the confusing variations of what constitutes a "standard drink" in Australia, Canada, the USA, and the UK. I'll also explore the recommended alcohol limits, why they differ so much between nations, and what this means for us. Find out the alarming statistics: 31% of people in Australia are drinking at risky levels, far exceeding the recommended limits. This video is packed with eye-opening insights on the impact of remote living, indigenous status, sexual orientation, and psychological distress on drinking behaviours. But that's not all. You'll get to understand the real-life consequences of alcohol misuse: from verbal and physical abuse to injury rates requiring medical attention. Discover the shocking gender-specific risks, especially for women, and learn about the drastic behavior changes under the influence. Are you ready to challenge your understanding of alcohol consumption and its real impacts? Hit that play button now!…
🚨 Important Update on Paracetamol in Australia! 🚨 Are you aware of the recent changes in paracetamol regulations and its implications for pain management? Whether you're a healthcare professional, student, or someone who frequently uses paracetamol, this must-see episode of "Cracking Addiction" is packed with crucial insights! Join Dr. Ferghal Armstrong in our latest episode where he breaks down: The various theories behind paracetamol's mechanism of action A recent meta-analysis on paracetamol's effectiveness for different pain conditions The liver toxicity risks associated with paracetamol and how to manage them effectively Upcoming changes in paracetamol pack sizes and what they mean for you Discover how the regulation changes, set to take effect on 1st February 2025, are aimed at reducing incidences of liver injury and death. Learn practical tips on safe paracetamol use and stay ahead of these regulatory updates.…
Are you curious about what really causes addiction? In this eye-opening video, I dive deep into the complexities of addiction, examining the genetic vulnerability, environmental influences, and the significant role of trauma. You'll discover how substances like nicotine, heroin, and alcohol increase dopamine in the brain, making us crave them even when we don't necessarily enjoy them. Keyword alert: If you're fascinated by addiction, neuroscience, or mental health, this video is tailor-made for you! Join me, Dr. Ferghal Armstrong, as we explore the intricate pathways and factors leading to addiction. You'll learn how genetic factors account for about 50% of addiction risk and why some substances hold higher addictive potential than others. We’ll delve into the environmental or exposure risk factors, such as family dynamics, school policies, and community environments, all of which play crucial roles in addiction. Most importantly, we'll discuss the often-overlooked impact of childhood trauma and how these early experiences can lead to risky behaviours and substance use later in life. Keyword lovers: Addiction causes, addiction genetics, addiction trauma—you don't want to miss this! This video arms you with a better understanding of addiction so that we can approach those affected with empathy and compassion. You'll gain insights that can help illuminate why addiction is not just a personal failing but a multifaceted condition influenced by a range of factors.…
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Cracking Addiction

Are you curious about the role of urine drug screens in addiction treatment? Wondering if they're necessary or just a hassle? Join me, Dr. Ferghal Armstrong, and the insightful Dr. Richard Bradlow as we dive deep into the debate around urine drug screens and their place in modern clinics. We'll uncover the science, the ethics, and the real-world impacts these tests have on patients and practitioners alike. In this eye-opening episode, we explore whether urine drug screens help build trust or damage therapeutic relationships, and we debate their role in managing takeaways for methadone and suboxone patients. We'll delve into the latest guidelines, discuss the pros and cons, and share intriguing real-life cases that reveal the complexities of addiction treatment. If you’re passionate about addiction medicine or seeking to understand more about urine drug screens, this video is a must-watch! Key Discussion Points: To do or not to do? The impact of urine drug screens on rapport and stigma. The critical role of urine drug screens in prescribing safe takeaways. Real-world cases highlighting the necessity and consequences of screening. Best practices for balancing patient care and harm prevention.…
Are you looking to deepen your understanding of the AA 12-Step Program and peer support in addiction recovery? You've found the perfect video! In this engaging chat, I sit down with Jesse Ball to uncover the transformative power of peer support and the truths behind the AA 12-Step Program. We dive right in by explaining the fundamental structure of Alcoholics Anonymous and other 12-Step groups like Narcotics Anonymous, Gamblers Anonymous, and so on, breaking down the processes that make these meetings so effective. Our conversation tackles common objections, debunking the myth that the 12-Step Program is a cult and addressing concerns around spirituality and belief systems. As a bonus, Jesse shares his own journey from addiction to becoming a recovery support worker, highlighting the significance of having a sponsor to guide you through the 12 steps. Whether you're skeptical about needing a sponsor or simply curious about how to choose one, this video answers all your questions. So, if you're in recovery, considering joining a peer support group, or just eager to learn more about the AA 12-Step Program, hit play and join us on this enlightening journey! Bullet Points Peer support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and their variants are essential for recovery, offering a structured twelve-step program based on spiritual principles. The twelve-step philosophy holds that human willpower alone cannot overcome addiction, emphasizing a spiritual approach to recovery. Common criticisms of the twelve-step program include perceptions of it being a cult; however, the program is decentralised and members can leave freely at any time. Sponsors within these programs guide newcomers through the twelve steps, and selecting a sponsor involves finding someone you understand and can connect with, often recommended to have at least one year of sobriety. The actual work and transformation in the twelve-step program happen largely outside meetings, through the guidance of sponsors who help members adopt new ways of thinking.…
Uncovering the Power of Ibogaine: A Game-Changer for Addiction Treatment [Psychedelic Medicine, Ibogaine, Addiction Recovery] Are you ready to revolutionise your understanding of addiction treatment? In this eye-opening episode of Cracking Addiction, I sit down with the legendary Zappy Zapolin, founder of the Mind Army and renowned as the "psychedelic concierge to the stars." Together, we delve into the transformative world of psychedelic medicine, focusing specifically on the groundbreaking potential of ibogaine in addiction recovery. 🔥 Discover how ibogaine offers a radical shift in treating heroin addiction and other substance dependencies. Zappy takes us on a journey through the cultural and historical roots of this powerful African plant, used for centuries by the Bwiti people to connect with their ancestors. With current rising addiction crises and mental health issues, could ibogaine be the miracle we’ve been waiting for? 👀 Don't miss out on this riveting conversation that promises to challenge conventional wisdom. You'll learn why Zappy and his Mind Army are advocating fiercely for the decriminalization and legalization of naturally occurring psychedelics. Tune in to understand the profound benefits and the contentious debates surrounding their use. 💬 Be part of this transformative discussion! Like, share, comment, and subscribe to MedHeads to stay updated with the latest in addiction treatment breakthroughs! 📚 [Mind Army Official Website] https://mindarmy.org #Ibogaine #PsychedelicMedicine #AddictionRecovery #MentalHealth #CrackingAddiction This episode is perfect for you if you're committed to exploring cutting-edge treatments and alternative solutions to addiction.…
In this episode of Cracking Addiction, I sit down with Jesse Ball to explore the profound journey of breaking free from addiction and embracing a fulfilling life in recovery. If you're looking for motivation and real-life insights on addiction, recovery, and maintaining sobriety, this video is just for you! Keywords: addiction, recovery, sobriety. We dive deep into Jesse's personal experiences, from the pivotal moments that made recovery attractive to the ongoing practices that help him stay clean. You'll hear about the power of accountability, the journey through the twelve-step program, and how even salsa dancing can play a role in the path to a new life. Jesse’s story resonates with the struggles many face, and his tips on fitness, diet, and mental health are invaluable for anyone navigating their own recovery or supporting someone in theirs. Keywords: addiction, recovery, sobriety. Trigger for Change: A realisation by the age of 25 that continuing to use drugs over a past breakup was no longer a valid reason. Trauma and Substance Use: Emphasised the importance of not validating a victim mindset to avoid feeling disempowered and reinforcing the ability to change one's life. Power and Accountability: Recognising powerlessness over addiction paradoxically empowers individuals to actively seek help and make lifestyle changes. Sustaining Recovery: Success in early recovery involved following advice from experienced individuals in recovery, engaging in therapy, fitness, and building accountability through relationships and activities. Maintaining Recovery: Continuously engaging in healthy habits such as regular exercise, meditation, and diet, while exploring new interests and remaining accountable to oneself and others.…
Are you curious about how alcohol really affects your heart health? In this eye-opening episode of "Cracking Addiction," Dr. Richard Bradlow and Dr. Ferghal Armstrong dive deep into the science behind alcohol consumption and its impacts on diseases like high blood pressure and heart disease. This video is packed with insights that you won't want to miss! Alcohol and heart health are two critical subjects that often spark extensive debates. In today's discussion, we'll explore the common questions that many people have about alcohol and its relationship with high blood pressure and heart disease. We'll debunk myths, reveal surprising facts, and help you understand the intricate balance between potential benefits and significant risks. We start with the famous debate on whether alcohol, especially red wine, can benefit your heart. While resveratrol in wine does have some health benefits, I explain how the harmful effects of excessive alcohol consumption far outweigh these perks. Dr. Bradlow and I cover topics like alcoholic cardiomyopathy, thiamine deficiency, and the dangerous path toward cirrhosis and other liver issues. Understanding these mechanisms will give you a clearer picture of what too much alcohol can do to your body, especially your heart.…
Mastering Opioid Risk Management: Practical Tips & Life-Saving Strategies with Dr. Ferghal Armstrong Are you concerned about the risks associated with opioids? Want to understand practical strategies for opioid risk management? This is the video just for you! Join me, Dr. Ferghal Armstrong, and Dr. Richard Bradlow as we delve deep into the intricacies of managing opioid toxicity, dependency, and safety. In this episode of Cracking Addiction, we tackle the pressing [keywords "opioid risk management"] head-on. We discuss why it's crucial to manage the risks of opioids and share actionable techniques that you can incorporate into your medical practice immediately. Our conversation covers everything from assessing the right reasons for prescribing opioids, establishing clearly defined functional goals, to the benefits of opioid rotation and utilising naloxone nasal spray (Nixoid). If you want to stay ahead in your practice and ensure patient safety, make sure not to miss this episode! We also highlight the importance of having an "exit strategy" for opioid prescriptions and discuss harm minimisation strategies for high doses. This video is packed with valuable insights and expert advice. If you found this information valuable, don't forget to like, share, and comment below. Your feedback helps us create more content that matters to you. Links and Resources: Join our community: https://meducate.com.au/ For more insightful content, visit our website https://meducate.com.au/…
Are you concerned about the dangers of benzodiazepines and opioids? Curious about how these medications impact individuals with substance use disorders? In this episode of Cracking Addiction, Dr. Ferghal Armstrong and Dr. Richard Bradlow tackle the pressing issues surrounding the prescription of benzodiazepines and opioids. This is essential viewing for anyone interested in the complex dynamics of medication management and opioid stewardship. From the outset, we delve into the rising legal and ethical concerns GPs face when prescribing these medications. We discuss the escalated risks of co-prescribing benzodiazepines with other sedatives, including alcohol and opioids, which can be life-threatening. Our experts explain why saying no to persistent medication requests is difficult but sometimes necessary to uphold the principle of "primum non nocere" — do not harm. What sets this episode apart is its insightful historical context. We explore tranquilizers from the first minor tranquilizer, Milltown, to the development of major tranquilizers alongside antipsychotics and antidepressants. Dr. Bradlow’s analysis is both rich and engaging, providing a broader understanding of how these medications evolved and why benzodiazepines, despite their therapeutic window, are fraught with dependency issues. Discover the nuanced strategies for managing long-term benzodiazepine and opioid prescriptions, especially in cases involving chronic pain and opioid use disorder. Learn about the importance of clear communication and shared decision-making between doctors and patients, which is crucial for safe prescribing practices. Feel empowered in your knowledge and join the conversation on how we can navigate these challenging waters responsibly. Whether you're a healthcare professional, educator, or someone affected by substance use disorders, this video provides the insights you need.…
In this episode, Dr. Ferghal Armstrong is joined by Andy Smith to demystify appreciative inquiry, a groundbreaking approach to solving problems by concentrating on what works. Andy walks us through his journey from an IT professional disenchanted with his career, to becoming a hypnotherapist and eventually an expert in appreciative inquiry. He discusses how appreciative inquiry diverges from traditional problem-solving methods and shares compelling case studies, including an intriguing example from a women's prison in the UK. Learning Outcomes: Understanding Appreciative Inquiry: Learn what appreciative inquiry is and how it can be more effective than traditional problem-solving methods. Unlike conventional approaches that focus on identifying and fixing problems, appreciative inquiry seeks to amplify the elements that are already working well. This shift in focus can lead to more sustainable solutions and enhanced performance. Differences from Traditional Change Management: Realise how appreciative inquiry differs significantly from conventional consulting and change management. Instead of diagnosing problems and prescribing solutions, appreciative inquiry involves facilitating people to discover their own solutions. This method benefits from the expertise of the individuals involved, promoting more personalised and relevant outcomes. Application in Varied Settings: Discover the versatility of appreciative inquiry through its application in different settings, such as healthcare and prisons. For example, Andy shares how appreciative inquiry was used to streamline a drug dispensing regime in a women's prison. This revealed not just practical solutions but also enhanced the working relationships between prison officers and nursing staff. Link with Emotional Intelligence and NLP: Appreciate the connection between appreciative inquiry, emotional intelligence, and neuro-linguistic programming (NLP). While NLP is expert-driven, appreciative inquiry is participant-driven, focusing on collaborative problem-solving. Both approaches aim to improve interpersonal skills but use different methodologies to achieve this. Actionable Takeaways: Flip the Problem: When faced with a problem, consider what the opposite of that problem looks like. For instance, if you’re dealing with high employee turnover, ask yourself what a highly engaged, content workforce would look like. This approach can open up new avenues for solutions that you might not have considered otherwise. Facilitate, Don't Dictate: When tackling issues within a team or organisation, focus on facilitating discussions rather than prescribing solutions. By doing so, you’re leveraging the collective expertise and experience of the group, which often leads to more creative and applicable solutions. This also fosters a sense of ownership and accountability among team members. Engage in Generative Conversations: Encourage open and positive conversations that focus on possibilities rather than limitations. This creates an atmosphere where team members feel safe to share ideas and are more likely to collaborate effectively. Generative conversations can lead to insights that transform how problems are perceived and addressed. Utilise Both Brain Networks: Understand the importance of alternating between the task-positive and default mode networks of the brain. Task-positive is excellent for focus and goal achievement, but to foster creativity and new ideas, the relaxed default mode network is indispensable. Create an environment where both networks can be activated as needed.…
Welcome to another insightful episode of Cracking Addiction, where we delve into the intricate connections between substance use and sleep architecture. I'm your host, Dr. Ferghal Armstrong, and joining me today is Dr. Richard Bradlow. In this episode, we dive deep into understanding how various substances, particularly those that are misused, impact sleep quality and patterns. We will explore the challenging phenomenon of post-detox insomnia and its implications on relapse. Dr. Bradlow shares practical approaches to managing insomnia through lifestyle changes and short-term medication, highlighting the importance of addressing sleep issues in addiction recovery. Additionally, we discuss the critical components of sleep architecture, including sleep latency, REM sleep, and slow wave sleep, and how different substances influence these parameters. From the negative impact of alcohol and cannabis on REM sleep to the importance of deep sleep in cognitive and physical restoration, this episode covers it all. Join us as we unravel the complexities of sleep and addiction, and discover effective strategies to support those on the path to recovery.…
In this episode of "Cracking Addiction," we dive deep into the concept of "resilience" and its critical role in addiction recovery. I'm Dr. Ferghal Armstrong, and joining me is the insightful Dr. Richard Bradlow. Together, we unravel the layers of how resilience can make or break the recovery process for individuals battling addiction. Resilience in addiction recovery is more than just a buzzword; it's the lifeline that enables one to bounce back amidst life’s hardships. Dr. Richard Bradlow and I discuss how resilience helps manage both the impulsivity and compulsivity associated with substance use disorders. How can we bolster this resilience in recovery? By mastering small, achievable goals, creating positive habits, and saying 'no' to cravings, of course! Are you or someone you know struggling with recovery? This episode is tailored for you. Tune in to discover practical tips, backed by real-life experiences and professional insights, to enhance your journey towards a substance-free life.…
Dr Ferghal Armstrong and Dr Richard Bradlow explore the significance of melatonin in sleep. Melatonin, a neurotransmitter produced by the pineal gland, plays a crucial role in helping you fall asleep. The discussion touches on various aspects of melatonin including its production, function, and how it can be optimised for better sleep. Ferghal and Richard also dive into the intricacies of sleep hygiene, shedding light on actionable steps that anyone can take to enhance their sleep quality. Learning outcomes from this episode include understanding the pineal gland's role in melatonin production and the significance of melatonin in the sleep-wake cycle. Richard explains that melatonin is not just any neurotransmitter but a pivotal player in beginning the sleep process. You'll learn why blue light suppresses melatonin production and why it’s crucial to limit your exposure to screens before bedtime. You'll also discover why the body's natural rhythms dictate that sleep hygiene actually starts in the morning, highlighting the importance of light exposure and physical activity. Key points raised include the ineffectiveness of exogenous melatonin in improving sleep quality, often proving to be more of a placebo than a reliable solution. Ferghal and Richard discuss the importance of natural light exposure, particularly in the morning, to help suppress melatonin and kickstart the day. They also touch on the benefits of morning exercise and even cold showers to optimise wakefulness. ### Learning Outcomes 1. **Understanding Pineal Gland and Melatonin:** The pineal gland’s role in melatonin production is essential for sleep. Melatonin, a neurotransmitter, is key in initiating sleep but does not keep you asleep. Richard elaborates that melatonin production is sensitive to light exposure, particularly blue light, which can suppress its release, making it harder to fall asleep. Therefore, taking steps to manage light exposure, especially in the evening, can significantly impact your ability to sleep. 2. **Ineffectiveness of Exogenous Melatonin:** Exogenous melatonin does not significantly improve sleep; often, it is no more effective than a placebo. Ferghal highlights the variability in melatonin products, especially those purchased online, and questions their reliability. This revelation underscores the importance of turning to prescribed melatonin when necessary for accurate dosing. The discussion serves as a cautionary tale about the limited benefits and potential risks of self-medicating with melatonin. 3. **Role of Natural Light Exposure:** Light exposure, particularly in the morning, is crucial in maintaining your body's circadian rhythm. Ferghal stresses the importance of getting outside and absorbing natural light to suppress melatonin and signal your body that it's time to wake up. Even on cloudy days, the light outdoors significantly surpasses indoor lighting in intensity. This practice can prepare your body for a more restful night by maintaining a healthy sleep-wake cycle. 4. **Importance of Physical Exercise:** Engaging in physical activity is another vital component of sleep hygiene. Richard explains that exercise, especially when done in the morning, not only benefits your overall health but also helps maintain a healthy sleep-wake cycle. While some traditionally advise against exercising close to bedtime, studies show it does not necessarily affect sleep quality. Including exercise in your daily routine, even late in the day, can support better sleep habits. ### Actionable Takeaways 1. **Managing Light Exposure:** Begin your sleep hygiene routine in the morning by exposing yourself to natural light. Avoid screens with blue light at least one to two hours before bedtime to prevent melatonin...…
I sit down with the inspiring Jesse Ball as we dive deep into the concept of spirituality and authenticity in recovery. The enlightening conversation reveals how Jesse transformed his life by reconnecting with his true self and breaking free from the chains of addiction. This is your opportunity to understand the profound impact of spiritual awakening and authentic living on the road to recovery. Throughout this episode, Jesse and I unpack the disconnection that fueled his addiction and explore his journey toward understanding and embracing his authentic self. Jesse shares the revolutionary moment of spiritual realization that altered his path and offers valuable insights on maintaining that authenticity in daily life. If you're seeking practical advice on personal growth, emotional vulnerability, and authentic connection, you're in the right place. Jesse's story is a beacon of hope and a testament to the power of taking responsibility for one's own life. By embracing his vulnerabilities, overcoming self-loathing, and making recovery his full-time job, Jesse discovered unimaginable strength and clarity. You'll learn how to release old narratives, confront your rock bottom, and build a life where your internal and external selves align perfectly.…
Recovery isn’t just about stopping substance use; it’s about transforming your life. This episode covers key points like the idea of “white knuckling” versus a more holistic approach to sobriety, and how hitting rock bottom can be a powerful catalyst for change. Jesse, a former addict turned lived experience peer worker, shares his own journey, revealing how finding your authentic self can turn recovery into an exciting, fulfilling process. **Learning Outcomes:** 1. **Understanding the True Nature of Recovery:** It’s crucial to understand that recovery is far more than just abstaining from harmful substances. Jesse highlights that true recovery is about discovering and connecting with your authentic self. This shift in perspective can turn what seems like a daunting process into an attractive and fulfilling journey. By acknowledging that recovery involves reconnecting with your real self, you can focus on the long-term benefits rather than short-term sacrifices. 2. **Recovery vs. White Knuckling:** Jesse discusses the exhausting and often unsuccessful method known as "white knuckling"—relying solely on willpower to refrain from substance use. He outlines how this is not sustainable for those deeply entrenched in addiction. Instead, a structured recovery programme alongside community support can offer a more sustainable and fulfilling path to sobriety. Recognising this can help you align your recovery efforts more effectively and avoid the burnout associated with sheer willpower. 3. **The Role of Hitting Rock Bottom:** Ferghal and Jesse delve into the importance of hitting rock bottom as a catalyst for embracing recovery. Jesse explains how the sheer misery of his lowest point opened his eyes to the necessity of change. This realisation can act as a turning point, making the attractions of a clean, healthy life more apparent. This insight can be both a wake-up call and a motivator for those reluctant to embark on their recovery journey. 4. **The Concept of Self Care in Recovery:** One of the standout themes is the idea that recovery demands rigorous self-care. Jesse’s tale of prioritising diet, exercise, and mental wellness paints a vivid picture of how taking care of oneself daily is not a luxury but a necessity. This actionable takeaway can help you build a solid foundation for long-term sobriety by instilling habits that support both your physical and emotional well-being. **Actionable Takeaways:** 1. **Engage with Recovery Communities:** Jesse highlights how seeing others with qualities he admired—patience, calmness, wisdom—made recovery appealing for him. This underscores the importance of surrounding yourself with supportive individuals who inspire you. Seek out local or online recovery support groups; these communities can be invaluable in offering the encouragement and motivation you need to stay on track. 2. **Explore New Hobbies and Interests:** Breaking free from the cycle of addiction often requires filling your life with new, healthy activities. Jesse mentions trying ultra running, hiking, and even yoga retreats to fulfil his need for excitement. Make a list of activities you’ve always wanted to try and commit to exploring at least one new interest a month. This approach not only keeps you engaged but also helps in building a new identity beyond addiction. 3. **Prioritise Self-care:** A recurring theme in this episode is the crucial role of self-care in recovery. Jesse’s disciplined routine, including meditation, yoga, and maintaining a balanced lifestyle, serves as a powerful model. Develop a daily self-care regimen that includes physical, mental, and emotional health practices. Prioritising self-care helps prevent relapse and promotes overall well-being. 4. **Shift Your Perspective on Fun:** One of the most profound insights Jesse shares is how his...…
Ferghal Armstrong sits down with Thomas Conrad, a recovery expert who transformed his life from rock bottom to running a successful addiction treatment centre. This episode is filled with powerful insights and actionable strategies that can guide both individuals and their families through the labyrinthine path of addiction and recovery. If you're committed to understanding the challenges of addiction and finding effective ways to overcome them, this episode is a must-listen. **Episode Summary** This episode delves deeply into Thomas Conrad's journey from struggling with alcohol addiction to becoming a beacon of hope for others. With his relatable yet extraordinary story, Thomas sheds light on the complexities of recovery, the power of a supportive community, and the critical role that faith and spirituality can play. If you're searching for inspiration and practical advice on navigating the path to sobriety, this conversation offers a treasure trove of wisdom. **Learning Outcomes** 1. **Understanding the Role of Family and Friends in Recovery** Thomas emphasises the significant impact that a person's social support system can have on their recovery journey. Friends and family members can either enable or hinder progress, making it essential for them to be educated and supportive. Thomas explains that setting firm boundaries and intervening forcefully when necessary can be life-saving acts. Learning how to involve your loved ones in your recovery process can make a significant difference and foster an environment conducive to healing. 2. **Concept of a Higher Power in Recovery** Spirituality and faith can often be controversial topics in the realm of addiction recovery. Thomas discusses how reinterpreting the concept of a higher power, as suggested by Russell Brand, can make the twelve steps more accessible to those who struggle with traditional religious notions. This broader perspective can open doors for many individuals who might otherwise feel alienated. Embracing a flexible approach to spirituality can be a powerful tool in the recovery process. 3. **The Importance of Consequences in Recovery** Thomas shares the critical role that consequences played in shifting his mindset from pre-contemplation to active recovery. Sometimes, tangible consequences like a DUI or job loss can serve as a much-needed wake-up call. Thomas explains that for those who might be functional alcoholics, these jolts of reality are often crucial for propelling them toward change. Understanding the importance of consequences can help frame recovery as a necessary step rather than an imposed punishment. 4. **Controlled Risk Exposure for Children** The conversation also touches on how to communicate the risks of drugs to children. Thomas and Dr Ferghal discuss the importance of controlled risk exposure as a teaching tool. This strategy might involve setting examples, sharing real-life stories, and maintaining open communication. Cultivating an environment where children feel comfortable discussing such issues can lead to better-informed decisions and healthier long-term choices. **Quote ** Thomas Conrad said it best: "To overcome addiction, you have to punch fear in the face. Stepping into treatment was the scariest yet most liberating choice I ever made." Russell Brand 12 Steps https://www.russellbrand.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/russell-brand-recovery-the-program.pdf…
Have you ever wondered how the quality of your sleep impacts your mental health? Or how the intricacies of sleep deprivation can influence everything from decision-making to long-term brain health? In this riveting episode of "Cracking Addiction," Dr Ferghal Armstrong and Dr Richard Bradlow dive deep into the complex, bidirectional relationship between sleep and mental health. Whether you're grappling with insomnia, curious about ADHD, or just keen to improve your sleep hygiene, this episode packs a wealth of information and actionable advice. Listen to gain valuable insights and transform how you view the power of sleep. **Sleep and Mental Health Interlink** In this episode, Dr Ferghal Armstrong and Dr Richard Bradlow explore various mental health disorders, such as melancholic and atypical depression, and their distinct sleep patterns. They discuss how poor sleep can aggravate existing mental illnesses and vice versa. Understand why sleep is crucial and how its deprivation can lead to cognitive and emotional impairments. Gain practical, scientific knowledge on how to enhance your sleep quality and, by extension, your mental health. **Best Quote:** "Sleep deprivation ultimately kills you, and it kills you quicker than starvation." **Learning Outcomes:** 1. **Understanding the Bidirectional Relationship:** Explore the fascinating concept of the bidirectional relationship between sleep and mental health. Learn how poor sleep can precipitate mental health issues like anxiety and depression and how these conditions can further deteriorate sleep quality. Understanding this relationship can prompt more effective treatment approaches. Practising better sleep hygiene can potentially alleviate some symptoms of mental health disorders. 2. **Melancholic vs Atypical Depression:** Differentiate between melancholic and atypical depression regarding their impact on sleep. Melancholic depression is linked with early morning awakenings, while atypical depression is associated with hypersomnia. This knowledge can help you identify what type of depression may be affecting you or your loved ones. By recognizing these patterns, you can seek appropriate treatment options. 3. **Impact of Sleep Deprivation on Cognitive Function:** Realise how sleep deprivation affects cognitive functions, such as decision-making and ethical awareness. Discover that being awake for 16 hours renders cognitive impairment equivalent to a 0.05 blood alcohol level. This insight can incentivise you to prioritise sleep, especially if your day-to-day activities involve crucial decision-making. Adequate sleep can improve your productivity and emotional well-being.…
Dr. Ferghal Armstrong and Jesse Ball explore the foundational aspects of early recovery from addiction, highlighting the roles of honesty, support systems, and effective routines. Jesse shares how a no-nonsense, empathetic counsellor with lived experience catalysed his transformation. This episode delves deep into practical strategies to navigate the vulnerable early stages of sobriety and sustain long-term recovery. Listen in for invaluable lessons that go beyond recovery—these are life skills everyone should possess. **Learning Outcomes and Actionable Takeaways:** 1. **Honesty and Vulnerability in Recovery:** Jesse emphasises the pivotal role of being completely honest with his counsellor. The absence of judgement and the presence of lived experience created a safe space for Jesse to be vulnerable. By being open about his behaviours and feelings, Jesse was able to receive tailored, effective advice, which was instrumental in his recovery. Honesty not only builds trust but also catalyses tailored interventions essential for overcoming addiction. 2. **The Power of Support Systems:** One of the most significant aspects of Jesse’s recovery was his willingness to listen to others who had walked the same path. Building relationships with those who have lived experience can provide crucial support and inspiration. During weak moments, reaching out to someone who understands your struggle can make all the difference. Jesse's experience underscores the importance of having a robust support network ready to offer reasoning when self-delusion creeps in. 3. **Establishing a Routine:** Jesse’s disciplined approach to his daily routine played a critical role in his recovery. From morning walks to regular therapy sessions and meetings, a structured day helped him stay focused and avoid relapse. Incorporating simple, healthy habits like exercising, eating well, and staying occupied can support mental clarity and emotional stability. A consistent routine creates a sense of normalcy and purpose, essential in the tumultuous early stages of recovery. 4. **Cutting Ties with Negative Influences:** Jesse made the tough but necessary decision to distance himself from his old friendship group, realising the importance of eliminating risky environments. This bold choice was driven by understanding that his life depended on his recovery. By only engaging in safe social interactions, Jesse minimised triggers and maximised his chances of staying sober. This teaches us the crucial lesson that prioritising health sometimes means making difficult choices about relationships. 5. **Proactive Planning for Crises:** Jesse's proactive strategy to pre-empt and address moments of weakness was another key to his success. Knowing the likelihood of temptation, he ensured he had trusted individuals to call when those 'mind worms' started speaking. This preparedness to seek external voices of reason is critical in averting relapse. Planning for crises is an actionable step everyone in recovery should adopt, recognising that the path is fraught with moments requiring external reinforcement. **Quote:** *"Often, it's someone else's voice of reasoning during those really weak, vulnerable moments that can be the difference between success and failure."* – Jesse Ball.…
In this episode, we have the privilege of hearing from Jesse Ball, a courageous individual with lived experience in the realm of addiction and recovery. Jesse takes us on an intimate journey through his turbulent past, sharing candidly about his use of various substances starting from his early teens, driven by the desire to fit in and cope with life’s challenges. He opens up about the harrowing depths of his addiction, the disconnection from self, and the mental and physical toll it took on him. Most importantly, Jesse delves into the pivotal moments that spurred him toward recovery, revealing the internal battles and the persistent voice of hope that eventually led him to seek help. Through his story, we gain invaluable insights into the complexities of addiction and the therapeutic processes that can make a difference. Join us as Jesse shares his profound wisdom on the importance of meeting people where they are in their journey, the role of spirituality in healing, and the transformative power of genuine human connection. Whether you’re struggling with addiction, a healthcare provider, or simply looking to understand more about this challenging issue, Jesse’s story is sure to inspire and enlighten.…
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Cracking Addiction

Join Dr. Ferghal Armstrong and Dr. Laura Petracek as they delve into the transformative O-M-A-N (Observation, Measuring, Asserting, and Not) framework for negotiating with friends, partners, colleagues, and others. In this enlightening discussion, Dr. Armstrong emphasises the power of observation and creating healthy boundaries without jeopardising relationships. Discover how being a disinterested observer and practicing mindfulness can keep emotions in check during negotiations. Explore practical techniques like body scans and taking timeouts to defuse potential conflicts and facilitate open dialogue. Say goodbye to unnecessary apologies and discover the linguistic alternative, "ology," to express disagreement respectfully. Gain valuable insights into the importance of ego detachment and anacostics for problem resolution. Discover how removing ego-driven dynamics leads to more harmonious relationships and a more fulfilling life. Don't miss out on this invaluable wisdom and effective negotiating techniques for building stronger connections with those around you. Cracking Addiction 104 offers listeners invaluable insights into the art of setting boundaries, observing patterns, and understanding the role of ego in relationships. By recognizing the importance of self-reflection, assertiveness, and the impact of excessive apologizing, we can navigate conflicts with grace, preserve the dynamics of our relationships, and prioritize our well-being. Remember, true growth and freedom lie in finding a balance between asserting oneself and maintaining strong, respectful connections with others. Subscribe to Cracking Addiction for more thought-provoking discussions that explore strategies for overcoming addiction and building healthier, more fulfilling lives.…
Improve your relationships and enhance your interpersonal skills with the Dear Man technique, a powerful tool derived from dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT). Join Dr. Ferghal Armstrong and Dr. Laura Petracek as they delve into the intricacies of this technique and its application for individuals with substance use disorders and borderline personality disorder. The Dear Man technique helps you navigate challenging conversations and assert your intentions confidently. Discover how to effectively express your opinions and emotions, set appropriate boundaries, and strengthen your position in interpersonal interactions. Learn the art of saying no without fear of rejection or resentment. By employing this technique, you'll gain valuable insights into understanding the whole picture, assessing extenuating circumstances, and choosing your battles wisely. Additionally, explore the importance of scriptwriting, holistic management, emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and mindfulness as part of a comprehensive approach to personal growth. Don't miss this opportunity to develop your interpersonal effectiveness and build healthier relationships. Watch now and transform your communication skills with the Dear Man technique! Discussions and comments in our videos are for informational purposes only and should not replace the advice of your medical professional. Please consult with your doctor before making any changes to your medical treatment or lifestyle. Latest Blogs https://www.meducate.com.au/blog About Meducate ® Meducate provides online education for doctors, clinicians, health professionals and the public. See the website to browse the many different talks and courses available https://www.meducate.com.au…
In this episode, we explore the diagnosis of depression and its subtypes. Depression is a powerful emotional state that affects work, relationships, and more. We delve into major depression, the symptoms, and diagnostic criteria. We discuss how depression can be a clinical disorder, not just negative thoughts. Dan Pham emphasises the importance of explaining the diagnosis to loved ones. We also examine persistent depressive disorder, adjustment disorder, and the link between depression and substance use disorders. We debunk the monoamine hypothesis and discuss the complexity of depression's causes. The show explores the compounding effects of substance use and stress. We highlight the role of antidepressants, psychological therapies, and lifestyle factors in managing depression. Join us on "Cracking Addiction" to delve into the complexities of depression and effective treatments. Subscribe now for mental health insights!…
Join us on Cracking Addiction as we delve into the fascinating world of dual diagnosis and triple diagnosis in addiction medicine. Dual diagnosis refers to the coexistence of a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder, while triple diagnosis encompasses the additional dimension of physical health. In this thought-provoking series, experts Dan Pham and Ferghal Armstrong explore the interplay between mental health, substance use, and physical well-being, shedding light on the complex relationships and effective treatment approaches. Discover the importance of holistic care, the impact of co-occurring disorders, and the need for integrated treatment in improving outcomes. Don't miss out on this enlightening journey into the intricate web of addiction and mental health. Subscribe now to Cracking Addiction and unlock the keys to comprehensive recovery.…
Welcome to the 100th episode of Cracking Addiction. In this milestone episode, we delve deep into the assessment of dependency, comparing home-based detox with inpatient detox, and explore the fundamental principles of managing withdrawals for alcohol, cannabis, methamphetamine, and opioids. We examine the important decision of choosing between home-based detox and inpatient detox. We also explore the advantages and challenges of both approaches, considering factors such as the level of support, medical supervision, and individual needs. Withdrawal symptoms can be one of the most challenging aspects of addiction recovery. We tackle this topic head-on by providing a comprehensive overview of the management of withdrawals for alcohol, cannabis, methamphetamine, and opioids.…
Dr. Ferghal Armstrong and Steve Herd delve into the grim reality of family violence, exposing its potential for lethality. They focus on key risk factors, including the perpetrators' behaviour towards pets and their use of jealousy as a tool for control. The discussion begins by highlighting the alarming connection between the mistreatment of animals and domestic violence. Steve Herd emphasises that harm to pets serves as a significant risk factor, revealing the narcissism and psychopathy behind the abusers' actions. Animals and people become pawns in their need for dominance, erasing any notion of respect for their victims. Dr. Armstrong further elucidates how the mistreatment of pets reflects the perpetrators' hunger for control. Their narrative of blame and avoidance of responsibility sets the stage for further violence. Dr. Armstrong chillingly suggests that targeting and harming pets often precede the escalation to harming a partner, indicating the dire situation at hand. The conversation then delves into the risk factors associated with lethality in family violence. Jealousy emerges as a toxic and obsessive behaviour, capable of being misinterpreted as an expression of love. Steve Herd and Dr. Armstrong explore the concept of Othello syndrome, characterised by delusional jealousy that can lead to tragic consequences, as seen in the Shakespearean play. Sexual violence takes centre stage as another high-risk factor for lethality. Steve Herd highlights the historical context surrounding marital rape, with its criminalisation only occurring in the 1990s. Dr. Armstrong challenges outdated beliefs, expressing concern over the perception of sexual violence as a right and the role of a submissive spouse. They emphasise that sexual violence stems from a desire for dominance and control rather than any biological need. The discussion concludes by reinforcing that the risk factors discussed are not isolated incidents but rather pervasive patterns within family violence. It is stressed that family violence is a gendered behaviour, driven by choices and a hunger for power. Steve Herd and Dr. Armstrong highlight the importance of addressing these issues comprehensively to effect meaningful change. In the final moments, Steve Herd and Dr. Armstrong emphasise the need to evaluate risk levels in cases of family violence. By critically assessing the identified risk factors, they can develop effective intervention strategies to protect potential victims. Join Dr. Ferghal Armstrong and Steve Herd in this revealing episode of Cracking Addiction, where they unravel the dark truths behind family violence, unmasking its potential for lethality and offering insights into the path to intervention.…
In this serious and thought-provoking episode of "Cracking Addiction," Dr. Ferghal Armstrong and Mr. Stephen Heard shed light on evidence-based risk factors for lethality in family violence. They address the complexities faced by clinicians when dealing with female victims and emphasise the importance of understanding their resilience strategies. The episode explores the heightened risks during separation, with violence often escalating afterward. Herd stresses the need to prioritise safety by connecting victims with the police and relevant support services. They discuss the legal obligations associated with intervention orders, aiming to make clients aware of the protection they provide. The conversation delves into self-harm and suicide attempts by perpetrators, highlighting their controlling behaviours and the potential for murder-suicide. They caution against underestimating the significance of access to weapons in assessing risk. The discussion also touches upon factors like unemployment and drug misuse, which can amplify the severity and frequency of family violence. The episode concludes with a reminder to clinicians about the importance of planning for family violence and the role of distractions in reducing risk. Dr. Armstrong expresses gratitude to Steve Herd for his insights, leaving viewers with a deep understanding of the urgent need for proactive interventions. Content Warning: The episode contains discussions on sensitive topics such as domestic violence, self-harm, suicide, and murder-suicide. Viewer discretion is advised.…
In this thought-provoking episode of Cracking Addiction, Dr Ferghal Armstrong and Steve Herd delve into the grim reality of family violence, focusing on the evidence-based risk factors for lethality. With a serious tone, they shed light on the Common Risk Assessment Framework, which highlights factors that significantly contribute to the risk of lethality in domestic abuse cases. Drawing attention to the alarming statistics, the hosts reveal the distressing truth that more than one woman per week in Australia falls victim to fatal violence at the hands of a current or former partner. As the discussion unfolds, Ferghal and Steve underscore the importance of understanding high lethality factors in family violence, particularly the patterns of escalating violence. Steve Herd educates the audience about the chilling escalation of violence against women by partners, wherein physical abuse intensifies from a mere slap to a punch, and sometimes to a devastating push. Ferghal Armstrong emphasises the grave nature of strangulation as the most significant physical risk factor in these cases. Astonishingly, victims of family violence often fail to disclose incidents of strangulation, further complicating the identification and prevention of lethal outcomes. The hosts shine a light on the often-overlooked risk factor of choking, revealing how victims may not openly admit to experiencing strangulation. Dr Ferghal explains that strangulation poses a risk not only to lethality but also to significant morbidity. Shockingly, just 15 seconds of strangulation with a firm handshake grip strength is enough to cause urinary incontinence, while a mere 30 seconds can result in fecal incontinence. The episode explores the aftermath of family violence, emphasising that women who have experienced such abuse may downplay their ordeal but later recall waking up to find themselves wet or soiled. Furthermore, Ferghal Armstrong and Steve Herd shed light on the extensive damage strangulation can inflict, including harm to brain arteries, the thyroid gland, cartilage, and the voice box. This comprehensive discussion reveals the range of associated morbidities and illnesses, underscoring the urgent need to recognise and address strangulation as a high-risk factor that is often downplayed or misunderstood. As the episode concludes, Ferghal Armstrong and Steve Herd leave the audience with a heightened awareness of the hidden dangers within family violence, urging society to take a stand against this pervasive issue and prioritise the safety and well-being of those affected. Note: The content described in the episode summary is of a serious nature, focusing on the severity and impact of family violence. The tone of the description reflects this seriousness and aims to raise awareness about the subject matter.…
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Cracking Addiction

In this informative episode, Dr. Ferghal Armstrong and Dr. Laura J. Petracek discuss the power of mindfulness and meditation in regulating our emotions. They explore the concept of mindfulness, which involves paying attention to the present moment without worrying about the past or future, and they explain how this can lead to decreased physiological responses and a lower heart rate. They also delve into the differences between mindfulness and meditation, and how both techniques can benefit the brain by increasing the size of certain areas and strengthening connections between them. Dr. Armstrong emphasises the importance of daily mindfulness practice, even if it's just for a few minutes, to build a strong foundation. Dr. Petracek agrees that it can be challenging but believes it sets the tone for a better day. They also touch on the non-judgmental aspect of mindfulness and how it can be incorporated into therapy, such as dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT). This video is a great resource for anyone interested in learning more about the benefits of mindfulness and meditation for emotional regulation. So, sit back, relax, and join Dr. Armstrong and Dr. Petracek as they guide you through the world of mindfulness and its many benefits. Don't forget to hit the like button and subscribe to our channel for more informative episodes!…
In this episode of Cracking Addition, Dr. Ferghal Armstrong and Dr. Laura J. Petracek discuss the important topic of managing emotional distress through reality acceptance and mindfulness skills. They delve into the concept of reality acceptance and explain how it involves accepting the situation for what it is, which ultimately causes less suffering. They also stress the importance of being responsive rather than reactive, and the space between event and response where a choice can be made. Furthermore, they highlight the significance of mindfulness and meditation in helping to build the pause button and respond instead of reacting. Through their discussion, they emphasise how reality acceptance can help people cope with adversity and lessen their suffering. They caution against beating oneself up and hating oneself into acceptance, as this can lead to depression and feeling stuck. Dr Armstrong shares some interesting quotes from literature and pop culture that suggest anxiety is a necessary part of life. Dr. Petracek encourages Dr. Armstrong to practice reality acceptance skills as a way of retraining the brain. They share personal examples of reality acceptance and being present in the current moment. This episode provides valuable insights into how to manage emotional distress through reality acceptance and mindfulness skills. Don't miss out on this informative and thought-provoking discussion. Discussions and comments in our videos are for informational purposes only and should not replace the advice of your medical professional. Please consult with your doctor before making any changes to your medical treatment or lifestyle. Latest Blogs https://www.meducate.com.au/blog About Meducate ® Meducate provides online education for doctors, clinicians, health professionals and the public. See the website to browse the many different talks and courses available https://www.meducate.com.au…
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Cracking Addiction

1 Beyond Stereotypes: Unmasking Family Violence by Women - Genuine Victims vs. Victim Stancing 21:28
In this thought-provoking Cracking Addiction episode, Dr Ferghal Armstrong and Steve Herd delve into the complex issue of how alcohol intersects with family violence. From the perspective of both the perpetrator and the victim of family violence, they explore the use of victim blaming and victim numbing to justify drinking in a family violence context. They also discuss the use of alcohol and drugs as a form of coercion in family violence and how access to treatment can be an issue. Dr Ferghal Armstrong and Steve Herd also discuss the prevalence of family violence perpetrated by women on men and how to distinguish between genuine victims and those who are victim stancing. They emphasise the importance of understanding the power dynamics in a relationship and the need to believe the victim's story. The definition of family violence, which includes a power and control imbalance, fear on the part of both sides, and the need for men to be aware of their safety when they go out, is also explored. The video highlights the importance of treating clients with unconditional positive regard and not laying blame on men who use family violence. The conversation also touches on the need for more agility in delivering services to victims of family violence to prevent avoidable deaths. The discussion ends with the importance of working with perpetrators of family violence to develop skills in identifying and motivating clients to seek help. If you're interested in understanding the complex intersection of alcohol and family violence, this video is a must-watch. Discussions and comments in our videos are for informational purposes only and should not replace the advice of your medical professional. Please consult with your doctor before making any changes to your medical treatment or lifestyle. Latest Blogs https://www.meducate.com.au/blog About Meducate ® Meducate provides online education for doctors, clinicians, health professionals and the public. See the website to browse the many different talks and courses available https://www.meducate.com.au…
In this thought-provoking episode of Cracking Addiction, Dr Ferghal Armstrong and Steve Herd delve into the complex intersection between AOD (alcohol and other drugs) use and family violence. The duo challenges the common misconception that stopping AOD use would automatically eliminate family violence. According to Armstrong and Herd, family violence is a long-term set of behaviours that require a comprehensive approach to tackle effectively. The discussion also covers the broader picture of family violence, including the personality traits and skills of the perpetrator, such as narcissism, lack of empathy, and cognitive ability. While Armstrong suggests that IQ does not increase or decrease the risk of family violence, Herd argues that people with disabilities have a greater chance of experiencing and using family violence. The episode also touches on the issue of gender inequality as a risk factor for using violence, as well as why people choose to stay in abusive relationships. Armstrong and Herd emphasise that the perpetrator is solely responsible for family violence, and supporting the situation better involves identifying and focusing on the perpetrator's behaviours. The duo also addresses the role of alcohol in family violence, debunking the notion that alcohol fuels violence. They argue that alcohol absolves perpetrators of responsibility and gives them permission to relapse long before it occurs. The episode concludes with a discussion of the importance of treating clients with unconditional positive regard and not laying blame on men who use family violence. Armstrong and Herd highlight the need to be more agile in the delivery of services to victims of family violence and the importance of believing their stories. This insightful video offers a fresh perspective on the intersection between AOD use and family violence and offers practical solutions for addressing this pressing issue. Discussions and comments in our videos are for informational purposes only and should not replace the advice of your medical professional. Please consult with your doctor before making any changes to your medical treatment or lifestyle. Latest Blogs https://www.meducate.com.au/blog About Meducate ® Meducate provides online education for doctors, clinicians, health professionals and the public. See the website to browse the many different talks and courses available https://www.meducate.com.au…
The Sensory Awareness Rule of Five is a technique that involves shifting one's focus from distressing thoughts or emotions to neutral sensory input. By focusing on what we can see, hear, feel, smell, and taste, we can ground ourselves in the present moment and reduce the intensity of our distress. This technique can be particularly helpful for individuals who experience re-experiencing symptoms associated with PTSD. By focusing on neutral stimuli, we can shift our attention away from distressing memories or flashbacks and regain a sense of control. To use this technique, you can start by taking a few deep breaths and then focus on the present moment. What can you see around you? What sounds can you hear? What sensations can you feel in your body? What smells can you detect? What tastes can you identify? Take a few moments to observe these neutral sensory inputs and allow yourself to become fully present in the moment. This can help you to calm down and reduce the intensity of your distress. Improve the Day Mnemonic The "Improve" the day system is a useful intervention for managing distress that involves focusing on six areas of our lives that can improve our overall well-being and reduce distress. By implementing small changes in these areas, we can improve our mood, reduce distress, and enhance our overall well-being. The acronym "Improve" stands for: Imagery: This involves using visualization techniques to imagine positive outcomes or situations. By visualizing positive outcomes, we can create a sense of hope and optimism. For example, if we are feeling distressed about an upcoming presentation, we can visualize ourselves giving a successful presentation and receiving positive feedback from our audience. This can help us feel more confident and less anxious about the upcoming event. Meaning: This involves identifying activities or experiences that give our lives meaning and purpose. When we engage in activities that are aligned with our values and beliefs, we experience a sense of fulfillment and satisfaction. For example, if we value helping others, we can engage in volunteer work or donate to a charitable organization. This can give us a sense of purpose and meaning, which can help reduce distress. Prayer: This involves engaging in spiritual or religious practices that provide comfort and support. For individuals who have a spiritual or religious practice, engaging in prayer or meditation can provide a sense of comfort and support. This can help reduce distress and provide a sense of connection to something larger than ourselves. Relaxation: This involves engaging in activities that promote relaxation and reduce stress, such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga. When we are stressed or anxious, our body responds by releasing stress hormones, such as cortisol and adrenaline. By engaging in relaxation techniques, we can reduce the amount of stress hormones in our body and promote a sense of calm and relaxation. One thing: This involves identifying one small thing we can do each day to improve our mood or well-being. This can be something as simple as taking a few minutes to listen to our favorite song, going for a walk, or calling a friend. By focusing on one small thing each day, we can create a sense of accomplishment and positivity, which can help reduce distress. Vacation: This involves taking time off from work or other responsibilities to engage in enjoyable activities or travel. Vacations provide an opportunity to relax, recharge, and engage in activities that bring us joy and fulfillment. By taking time off from our regular routine, we can reduce stress and improve our overall well-being. In conclusion, the "Improve" the day system is a useful intervention for managing distress that involves focusing on six areas of our lives that can improve our overall well-being and reduce distress. By implementing small changes in...…
TIPP is a simple and effective acronym that stands for Temperature, Intense Exercise, Paced Breathing, and Progressive Muscle Relaxation. Each component of TIPP is designed to help us manage acute distress in a different way. Temperature: Exposure to cold temperatures has been shown to reduce sympathetic nervous system tone and increase parasympathetic nervous system tone. This means that cold exposure can help us calm down and feel more relaxed. To use this technique, you can try putting your face into a bucket of iced water for 30-60 seconds. While this may sound unpleasant, it can be a powerful tool for managing acute distress. Intense Exercise: Intense exercise can help disperse the adrenaline rush associated with acute distress. When we experience distress, our body releases adrenaline, which prepares us for fight or flight. However, if we do not use this adrenaline, it can build up and cause us to feel more anxious or agitated. Intense exercise can help us burn off this adrenaline and feel more calm and relaxed. To get the most benefit from intense exercise, it is important to reach our maximal heart rate. Our maximal heart rate is calculated as 220 minus our age. For example, if you are 30 years old, your maximal heart rate would be 190 (220-30=190). To get the most benefit from exercise, we should aim to achieve 90% of our maximal heart rate for 30-second bursts. This can increase our fitness and also reduce our emotional distress. Paced Breathing: Paced breathing is a technique that involves slowing down our breathing to help us feel more calm and relaxed. To use this technique, we should inhale for 4 seconds, hold our breath for 4 seconds, and then exhale for 4 seconds. This can be repeated for several minutes until we feel more calm and relaxed. Progressive Muscle Relaxation: Progressive muscle relaxation is a technique that involves tensing and then relaxing different muscle groups in our body. This can help us release tension and feel more relaxed. To use this technique, we should tense our muscles for 5-10 seconds and then relax them for 10-20 seconds. This can be repeated for several minutes until we feel more relaxed. Discussions and comments in our videos are for informational purposes only and should not replace the advice of your medical professional. Please consult with your doctor before making any changes to your medical treatment or lifestyle. Latest Blogs https://www.meducate.com.au/blog About Meducate ® Meducate provides online education for doctors, clinicians, health professionals and the public. See the website to browse the many different talks and courses available https://www.meducate.com.au…
Dr. Laura explains in more detail about Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and its four core components: distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness training, mindfulness, and emotional regulation. DBT is a type of therapy that helps people regulate their emotions and develop coping skills. Dialectics is a key concept that runs through each of the modules of DBT. It involves accepting both sides of a situation rather than seeing things in black and white, either-or terms. For example, instead of thinking "I'm in pain and it's never going to end," a dialectical approach would be to acknowledge the pain but also recognize that it will eventually pass. The three pillars of DBT are dialectics, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and mindfulness. CBT involves identifying and changing negative thought patterns, while mindfulness involves being present in the moment and non-judgmentally observing one's thoughts and feelings. Originally developed to help women with borderline personality disorder, DBT is now used to help people with a wide range of problems, including substance abuse issues. DBT provides individuals with a toolkit of skills to help them manage difficult emotions, communicate effectively, and cope with stressors in a healthy way. Overall, the episode provides a brief but informative introduction to DBT and its core components, as well as its applications in various contexts. Discussions and comments in our videos are for informational purposes only and should not replace the advice of your medical professional. Please consult with your doctor before making any changes to your medical treatment or lifestyle. Latest Blogs https://www.meducate.com.au/blog About Meducate ® Meducate provides online education for doctors, clinicians, health professionals and the public. See the website to browse the many different talks and courses available https://www.meducate.com.au…
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 difference between dexamphetamine and amphetamine, the safety concerns associated with stimulant therapy, and the role of non-stimulant pharmacology in ADHD management. Learning outcomes: 1. Understanding the nuances of stimulant medications: Dr. Armstrong and Dr. Bhatnagar explain the mechanism of action and differences between amphetamines, including dexamphetamine, lisdexamfetamine, and methylphenidate, helping listeners grasp the key factors to consider when prescribing and using these medications. 2. Safety considerations and risk management: The episode delves into the potential risks associated with stimulant therapy, such as psychosis and substance use disorder, while also addressing the assessment and management of these risks to ensure safe and effective treatment for individuals with ADHD. 3. Exploring non-stimulant pharmacology: Listeners will gain insights into the role of atomoxetine as a non-stimulant medication for ADHD management. The episode highlights the considerations and scenarios where non-stimulant pharmacology might be preferred or necessary, providing a comprehensive view of treatment options. Actionable takeaways: 1. Informed decision-making: Gain an understanding of the specific characteristics of different stimulant medications and how they impact dopamine release, enabling more informed decisions when prescribing medications for ADHD management. 2. Risk assessment and mitigation: Learn about the potential risks, such as psychosis and substance use disorder, associated with stimulant therapy, and discover strategies for assessing and managing these risks to ensure patient safety and treatment effectiveness. 3. Consideration of non-stimulant options: Explore the role of non-stimulant pharmacology, particularly atomoxetine, in the management of ADHD, and understand the scenarios where non-stimulant medications may be beneficial, providing a holistic approach to treatment. Quote or insight: "Every now and then, if you have that propensity to have a psychotic episode, [stimulant medication] might be the thing that adds another notch to your likelihood meter." #ADHDmanagement #StimulantMedication #NonStimulantPharmacology #PatientSafety #RiskAssessment #Atomoxetine #InformedPrescribing #SubstanceUseDisorder #PsychosisRisk #CrackingAddiction Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Cracking Addiction. For more insightful content, be sure to like and subscribe to our channel. You can find more information and episodes on our Meducate website: https://meducate.com.au.…
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. Bhatnagar explains the use of DSM-5 criteria for diagnosing ADHD in Australia, emphasizing the longstanding nature of the symptoms and the retrospective diagnosis in adults. 2. Age Considerations: The discussion delves into the importance of symptoms appearing before the age of twelve, with Dr. Armstrong emphasising the need for a collateral history from primary school to ascertain symptoms across multiple domains. 3. Domain Requirements: Dr. Bhatnagar elaborates on the need for symptoms to manifest in more than two settings, such as school, home, and hobbies, influencing academic, social, and personal functioning. Learning outcomes: 1. Understanding Diagnostic Criteria: Gain a comprehensive understanding of the DSM-5 criteria used for diagnosing ADHD, including the duration and pervasive nature of symptoms. 2. Age-Specific Considerations: Learn about the significance of symptoms appearing before the age of twelve and the role of collateral history in diagnosing ADHD in different age groups. 3. Impact of Symptoms: Understand the impact of symptoms across multiple domains and settings, including academic, social, and personal aspects of an individual's life. Actionable takeaways: 1. Educators and Parents: When observing potential ADHD symptoms in children, seek a collateral history from school and home to understand the pervasive nature of symptoms. 2. Clinicians: Conduct a thorough assessment and use a natural history approach to gauge the impact of symptoms on an individual's daily functioning, particularly in academic and social settings. Quote: "ADHD says nothing about intelligence; it says nothing about rules. It's about being able to sit there and give focus to those things." - Dr. Bhatnagar Hashtags: #ADHD #MentalHealth #DiagnosticCriteria #ChildhoodDevelopment #Neurodiversity #ClinicalAssessment #DSM5 #PsychiatricDisorders #PatientCare #Meducate…
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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 light on its significance and practical implications in aiding recovery from addiction. The insights shared by Dr. Ferghal Armstrong and Dr. Laura Petracek provide a holistic understanding of the program's spiritual elements, the role of service in recovery, addressing relapse, and the importance of personal growth. Learning Outcomes: 1. Importance of Service: Dr. Ferghal and Dr. Laura articulate the pivotal role of service to others in the recovery journey. By engaging in service and helping fellow strugglers, individuals not only offer support but also find purpose and a sense of fulfilment. 2. Relapse Management: The discussion candidly addresses the possibility of relapse in the recovery journey and highlights practical approaches to deal with setbacks. Understanding that relapse is a part of the journey, the episode provides valuable insights on how to navigate relapse with compassion and practical support. 3. Spiritual Awakening: Delving into the spiritual aspect, the episode explores the concept of spiritual awakening as a result of the twelve steps and its role in fostering personal growth and contributing to the journey towards recovery. 4. Medication in Recovery: Dr. Laura confronts the topic of medication in recovery, advocating for a deeper understanding and acceptance of its role in aiding sobriety. By destigmatizing medication as part of the recovery journey, individuals struggling with addiction can access comprehensive support. Actionable Takeaways: 1. Embracing Service: Incorporate acts of service into your recovery journey, whether through supporting fellow strugglers or contributing to the wider community. Engaging in service can offer a sense of purpose and fulfillment, aiding in personal growth. 2. Relapse Preparedness: Acknowledge the possibility of relapse and create a support network to address setbacks with compassion and understanding. By approaching relapse preparedness proactively, individuals can navigate challenging moments on their recovery journey. 3. Spiritual Reflection: Reflect on the concept of spiritual awakening as a result of the twelve steps and its potential impact on personal growth. Exploring spirituality can offer a deeper understanding of oneself and the journey towards recovery. 4. Destigmatizing Medication: Engage in open conversations about the role of medication in recovery. By destigmatizing the use of medication as part of the recovery journey, individuals can access comprehensive support tailored to their needs. Quote: "It's always darkest before the dawn. There's hope, and there will be another day. Hang in there." - Dr. Laura Petracek Hashtags: #RecoveryJourney #TwelveStepProgram #ServiceToOthers #RelapsePrevention #SpiritualAwakening #MedicationInRecovery #MentalWellness #AddictionSupport #PersonalGrowth #CrackingAddiction…
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, medication management. Learning outcomes: 1. Understanding the prevalence and presentation of adult ADHD: The episode sheds light on the prevalence of adult ADHD and how the symptoms may manifest differently in adults compared to children. Listeners will learn about the challenges in accurately diagnosing adult ADHD and the potential impact of environmental factors on its development. 2. Exploring differential diagnoses: The speakers discuss the importance of exploring differential diagnoses for acquired inattention syndrome, including substance use, PTSD, and borderline personality disorder. Listeners will gain insights into how these conditions may present similarly to ADHD but require distinct diagnostic and treatment approaches. 3. Examining the impact of trauma and substance use: The episode addresses the role of trauma and substance use in exacerbating inattention and emotional dysregulation. Listeners will understand the complex interplay between trauma, substance use, and the development of inattention symptoms, particularly in the context of ADHD. 4. Navigating medication management for ADHD: The speakers provide valuable insights into the complexities of medication management for individuals with ADHD, including potential comorbidities such as substance use disorders. Listeners will learn about the need for comprehensive treatment approaches that go beyond pharmacotherapy to address the functional impairments associated with ADHD. Actionable takeaways: 1. Conduct a thorough differential diagnosis: When evaluating patients for suspected adult ADHD, consider a comprehensive differential diagnosis that encompasses trauma, substance use, and other mental health conditions that may present similarly to ADHD. This approach can ensure accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plans. 2. Consider the impact of trauma and substance use: Take into account the potential impact of trauma and substance use on inattention and emotional dysregulation when assessing individuals for ADHD. By addressing underlying trauma and substance use issues, healthcare providers can better support individuals with ADHD. 3. Incorporate non-pharmacological interventions: Recognize the importance of incorporating non-pharmacological interventions, such as ADHD coaching and psychosocial support, alongside medication management for individuals with ADHD. This comprehensive approach can address the long-term functional impairments associated with the condition. 4. Advocate for comprehensive care: Encourage a multidisciplinary approach to the management of adult ADHD, involving collaboration between mental health professionals, addiction specialists, and primary care providers. By advocating for comprehensive care, healthcare providers can address the diverse needs of individuals with ADHD. Insight: "All roads lead to Rome. So really, the inattentive prefrontal cortex is the final common pathway of the vast majority of mental health disorders, including substance use disorders." - Dr. Ferghal Armstrong Hashtags: #ADHD #AdultADHD #MentalHealth #SubstanceUse #Trauma #Diagnosis #DifferentialDiagnosis #MedicationManagement #PsychosocialSupport #ComprehensiveCare…
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 step, emphasising the focus on conscious contact with a higher power and praying for knowledge of that power's will. The conversation also touches on the evolution of the interpretation of a higher power and the challenges of incorporating the 11th step into daily practice. The speakers shed light on the impact of skepticism on engagement with the step and the importance of sponsors and connection in recovery. **Learning Outcomes:** 1. Understanding the 11th step: Gain insight into the significance of prayer and meditation in establishing conscious contact with a higher power as outlined in the twelve-step program. 2. Practical manifestation: Explore different methods to incorporate prayer and meditation into daily recovery practice, from reading meditation books to journaling and seeking guidance. 3. Impact of skepticism on recovery: Recognise the implications of skepticism and defiance on engagement with the twelve-step program, and the importance of empathy and exploration of alternative avenues for connection. 4. The role of sponsors and connection: Appreciate the significance of sponsors in reframing the 11th step and the transformative potential of finding connection in recovery. **Actionable Takeaways:** 1. Start each day with a moment of prayer or meditation to establish a connection with a higher power and seek guidance on your journey of recovery. 2. Explore various methods of meditation, such as reading meditation books, journaling, or even engaging in outdoor activities, to foster a deeper spiritual and introspective practice. 3. Recognise the impact of skepticism on engagement with recovery programs and consider the role of empathy and exploration of alternative paths for connection and healing. 4. Emphasise the role of sponsors and the power of connection in finding support and reframing the 11th step, seeking guidance from those who have walked a similar path. **Quote:** "Getting quiet and doing meditation help facilitate the process of discerning the right choices, instead of overthinking and trying to solve problems on our own."…
In this episode of Cracking Addiction, Dr. Ferghal Armstrong and Dr. Manu Bhatnagar delve into the complexities of screening for ADHD in both children and adults. They break down the core concepts of inattention, impulsivity, and hyperkinesis, providing valuable insights into the often-misunderstood symptoms of this condition. Understanding how ADHD presents in children and adults, as well as the differential diagnosis considerations, can be crucial for parents, educators, and healthcare professionals. This episode offers valuable information for anyone navigating the challenges of identifying and understanding ADHD. Focus Keyword: ADHD Screening Dr. Manu Bhatnagar provides an in-depth understanding of inattention, explaining that ADHD doesn't necessarily equate to a deficiency in attention, but rather an inability to focus on a particular task for an extended period. He clarifies the distinction between concentration and attention, shedding light on the struggles individuals with ADHD face in prioritizing tasks and maintaining focus. Learning Outcomes: 1. Understanding the Complexities of ADHD Presentation: Dr. Bhatnagar's insights highlight the multifaceted nature of ADHD symptoms, providing a clearer understanding of the challenges individuals face in managing their attention and impulsivity. 2. Differential Diagnosis Considerations: By exploring alternative diagnoses such as anxiety and autistic spectrum disorder, listeners gain an understanding of the importance of comprehensive assessments in ruling out other potential conditions before reaching an ADHD diagnosis. 3. The Impact of ADHD on Children: The episode delves into the potential repercussions of undiagnosed ADHD in children, offering valuable insights for parents and educators to recognize and address symptoms early on. 4. Utilising Screening Tools and Collateral Interviews: The discussion emphasises the significance of structured screening tools and obtaining collateral information from multiple sources to achieve a robust ADHD diagnosis. Actionable Takeaways: 1. Encourage Collaborative Approach: Healthcare professionals, educators, and parents are encouraged to collaborate in providing comprehensive insights into a child's behaviour, ensuring all facets are considered when assessing ADHD. 2. Early Intervention: Recognising and addressing symptoms of ADHD in children early on can help prevent potential emotional and psychological impacts, emphasising the need for proactive intervention and support. 3. Comprehensive Assessments: Consider a holistic approach to diagnosis, including screening tools, collateral interviews, and comprehensive assessments, ensuring a thorough evaluation to capture the complexities of ADHD symptoms. 4. Seeking Support and Understanding: Individuals with ADHD may benefit from tailored support and understanding, emphasizing the importance of creating an environment that accommodates neurodiversity. Quote: Dr. Bhatnagar highlights the impact of undiagnosed ADHD, stating, "You can treat ADHD with a pill, you can't undo years of having undiagnosed ADHD and what that might do to someone's sense of self." keywords ADHD, prevalence, mental disorder, neurodevelopmental, screening, impulsivity, inattention, hyperkinesis, concentration, dopamine, norepinephrine, hyperfocus, success, expert, myth, functional, diagnostic criteria, sex gender, subtype, fidgeting, impulsivity, hyperactivity, angry outbursts, anxiety, sensitivity, specificity, differential diagnosis, language disorder, autism spectrum disorder, social services, psychosocial interventions…
In this groundbreaking episode of Cracking Addiction, Dr. Ferghal Armstrong and Manu Bhatnagar guide listeners through a deep dive into ADHD, unraveling its complexities and controversies. The duo dissects the widely debated concept of ADHD from a neuropsychological standpoint, exploring its validity, prevalence, and implications for both children and adults. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the social constructs and cultural influences shaping ADHD diagnosis and management. **Key Points**: 1. ADHD as a Real Neurological Disorder 2. Social Construct Controversy 3. Prevalence and Diagnostic Criteria 4. ADHD in Children and Adults 5. Retrospective Diagnosis and Comorbidities 6. Higher Prevalence in Incarcerated Populations and Substance Users **Learning Outcomes**: 1. Understanding ADHD as a Real Neurological Disorder: Dr. Bhatnagar's explanation sheds light on the misconceptions surrounding ADHD and reaffirms its standing as a neurodevelopmental disorder. Listeners will gain a comprehensive understanding of the neurological underpinnings and complexities of ADHD, dispelling any lingering doubts about its legitimacy. 2. Unraveling the Social Construct Controversy: The insightful discussion delves into the social construct controversy surrounding ADHD, providing a nuanced perspective on how societal factors can impact its diagnosis and management. Listeners will grasp the intricate balance between neurobiological constructs and environmental influences in delineating ADHD. 3. Exploring Prevalence and Diagnostic Criteria: Dr. Armstrong and Dr. Bhatnagar offer a detailed exploration of the prevalence and diagnostic criteria for ADHD, elucidating the contrast and impact of using DSM criteria versus ICD criteria. Listeners will grasp the intricacies of diagnosing ADHD in children and gain awareness of the challenges in assessing the disorder in adults. 4. Navigating ADHD in Children and Adults: Through the episode, listeners will gain a deeper comprehension of how ADHD manifests in children and the transition into adulthood. The nuanced discussion presents a holistic view of the developmental trajectory of ADHD, fostering a balanced understanding of its implications across different life stages. 5. Retrospective Diagnosis and Comorbidities: The speakers unravel the complexity of retrospectively diagnosing ADHD in adults and the intricacies of identifying co-occurring conditions. Listeners will gain insights into the challenges of retrospective diagnosis, emphasising the need for thorough assessments to ensure accurate diagnoses in adulthood. **Actionable Takeaways**: 1. Foster Empathy and Understanding: Emphasise the real neurobiological underpinnings of ADHD to foster empathy and understanding for individuals struggling with the disorder, dispelling societal stigmas and misconceptions. 2. Advocate for Comprehensive Assessment: Encourage comprehensive assessments, including collateral evidence from early life, to ensure accurate and thorough diagnoses of ADHD in both children and adults, promoting effective interventions. 3. Consider Cultural and Social Influences: Remain cognisant of the cultural and social influences shaping the diagnosis and management of ADHD, recognizing the dynamic interplay between biological factors and environmental context. 4. Support Holistic Approaches to Treatment: Emphasise the importance of holistic treatment approaches for ADHD, including psychosocial interventions alongside pharmacological interventions, to address the multifaceted nature of the disorder. #ADHD #Neurodiversity #MentalHealthMatters #Neuroplasticity #PsychiatricDiagnosis #SocialConstruct #Comorbidities #HolisticTreatment #ChildhoodDevelopment #AdultADHD…
Welcome to the latest instalment of the Cracking Addiction newsletter. In this episode, I dive deep into Step 10 of the twelve-step journey with Dr. Laura Petracek. We explore the ongoing process of personal inventory and prompt amends, shedding light on the critical role of self-reflection in addiction recovery. Why Listen: If you're looking to gain insights into maintaining sobriety and personal growth in addiction recovery, this episode is not to be missed. Step 10, addressed alongside Dr. Laura Petracek, delves into the ongoing commitment to self-reflection and the importance of making amends. It also offers valuable lessons for anyone seeking to improve their personal growth journey. Key Points You Will Learn: 1. The 10th step involves an ongoing self-reflection process where individuals take inventory of their daily behaviours and promptly make amends when necessary. 2. Step 10 is not a formalised process like the previous steps. It represents a summary of the earlier steps, requiring individuals to take personal responsibility for their actions. 3. Dr. Laura Petracek sheds light on the challenges individuals face in staying on their side of the street and not resorting to the blame game when making amends. 4. The episode discusses how relapse is not an inevitable part of the recovery journey and explores the significance of mindset in preventing a potential relapse. 5. We delve into the analogy of recovery being akin to cycling uphill, emphasising the need for ongoing effort and growth to prevent stagnation or relapse. Interesting Fact: The episode highlights the concept that relapse is a process, not just a single event. Dr. Laura Petracek explains that the cognitive distortions and behaviours leading up to the actual act of picking up a drink or a drug are equally crucial and warrant attention. Learning Outcomes and Actionable Takeaways: 1. Develop an understanding of the ongoing self-reflection process involved in Step 10 and recognize the importance of making amends promptly. 2. Gain insights into the challenges individuals face in maintaining personal accountability and learn strategies to overcome the tendency to indulge in the blame game. 3. Understand the nuanced view of relapse as a process and explore the proactive efforts that can help prevent a potential relapse. 4. Embrace the analogy of recovery being akin to cycling uphill, fostering a mindset of continuous effort and growth to sustain sobriety and personal development. 5. Gain valuable insights from Dr. Laura Petracek's personal journey and expertise, reinforcing the idea of recovery as an ongoing and transformative process. As Dr. Laura Petracek aptly puts it, "I feel we could concentrate or bring that message. Like, that's not an option anymore. I feel there's so much permission, and that's okay. You could go out 50 million times, and I think that could be changed."…
In this episode of Cracking Addiction, Dr. Ferghal Armstrong and Dr. Laura Petracek delve into the complexities of the 9th step of the addiction recovery journey, which involves making direct amends to those who have been hurt. Dr. Petracek shares insights from her personal experience, providing a deep understanding of the emotional and psychological struggles involved in this step. Listeners will gain an in-depth understanding of the 9th step, the process of making amends, the intricate dynamics involved, and the impact on recovery.…
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In this episode of Cracking Addiction, Dr. Fergal Armstrong and Dr. Laura Petracek discuss the challenging 8th step in addiction recovery – making a list of persons who have been harmed and becoming willing to make amends to them. The conversation delves into the emotional and practical complexities of this step, offering invaluable insights into the process of self-reflection, making amends, and navigating the internal and external obstacles in the recovery journey. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the 8th step and its significance in the recovery process, as well as practical strategies for approaching this crucial aspect of addiction rehabilitation.…
In this episode of Cracking Addiction, Dr. Ferghal Armstrong and Dr. Manu Bhatnagar delve into the complex issue of psychosis in the context of withdrawal treatment or when withdrawing from stimulants such as methamphetamine. They explore the challenges of distinguishing between drug-induced psychosis and primary psychotic disorders, and discuss the intricacies of treatment options, including the use of benzodiazepines and antipsychotics. With valuable insights and clinical expertise, this episode provides a deep understanding of the management of psychosis in the context of substance withdrawal. Key Points: - Differentiating between drug-induced psychosis and primary psychotic disorders is a challenging yet crucial aspect of patient care in the context of substance withdrawal. - Understanding the neurochemical impact of stimulants on the brain and the implications for treatment is essential for managing psychotic symptoms effectively. - The role of benzodiazepines and antipsychotics in controlling agitation and psychotic symptoms during withdrawal and the potential transition to more long-term antipsychotic therapy in cases of persistent symptoms. - The importance of comprehensive and integrated psychosocial support alongside medication in ensuring long-term recovery and abstinence. Insightful Quote: "The best amount of medication is the least effective dose. My role is to say, how much support can we put around you? So I can bring this dose down to a level where it's causing the least amount of side effects, but it's just enough to prevent the next episode happening." - Dr. Manu Bhatnagar Learning Outcomes: 1. Gain insights into the complexities of distinguishing between drug-induced psychosis and primary psychotic disorders, and the implications for treatment decisions. 2. Understand the neurochemical basis of stimulant-induced psychosis and the role of medications such as benzodiazepines and antipsychotics in managing psychotic symptoms during withdrawal. 3. Appreciate the significance of longitudinal assessment and psychosocial support in the overall management of psychosis in the context of substance withdrawal. 4. Explore the potential transition to long-term antipsychotic therapy and the importance of holistic approaches to supporting recovery and abstinence. Actionable Takeaways: 1. When managing patients undergoing withdrawal from stimulants, establish a timeline of substance use and psychotic symptoms to differentiate between drug-induced psychosis and primary psychotic disorders. 2. Consider the neurochemical impact of stimulants and the mechanisms of action of benzodiazepines and antipsychotics to tailor treatment for psychotic symptoms during withdrawal. 3. Emphasize the role of comprehensive psychosocial support and longitudinal assessment in ensuring successful recovery and abstinence post-withdrawal. 4. Strive for a balanced approach to medication, aiming for the least effective dose while providing adequate support to prevent future episodes of psychosis.…
In this episode of Cracking Addiction, Dr. Ferghal Armstrong and guest Dr. Manu Bhatnagar engage in a deep dive into the complex topic of psychosis, specifically in the context of substance use disorders. With a focus on understanding the nature of psychosis, the impetus behind psychotic experiences, and the differentiating factors between substance-induced psychotic disorders and primary schizophrenia disorders, this episode imparts valuable insights for both healthcare professionals and individuals affected by addiction and mental health issues. Focus Keyword: Psychosis in Addiction In this episode of Cracking Addiction, Dr. Manu Bhatnagar and Dr. Ferghal Armstrong dissect the nature of psychosis, emphasizing its status as a symptom rather than a standalone illness. They highlight the potential influences of social and cultural contexts on the diagnosis of psychosis, shedding light on the impact of societal trends and media portrayals on the manifestation of psychotic experiences. The discussion delves into the potential causes of psychosis, including the interplay of genetic, environmental, and substance-related factors. Learning Outcomes: 1. Understanding the Multifaceted Nature of Psychosis: Dr. Bhatnagar provides a comprehensive overview of psychosis, defining it as a disruption of thought, perception, and cognition. This highlights the diversity of psychotic experiences and the importance of individual past experiences in shaping these manifestations. The discussion offers a nuanced understanding of psychosis as a complex interplay of factors, paving the way for more holistic approaches to addressing psychotic symptoms. 2. Differentiating Substance-Induced Psychotic Disorders: The episode elucidates the distinction between substance-induced psychotic disorders, particularly those triggered by stimulants and cannabis, and primary schizophrenia disorders. The emphasis on psychomotor agitation as a hallmark of substance-induced psychosis provides a valuable framework for clinicians to differentiate these conditions, informing targeted interventions. 3. Longitudinal Assessment and Treatment Implications: The speakers underscore the significance of longitudinal assessment in distinguishing substance-induced psychosis from primary schizophrenia disorders. This insight carries profound implications for treatment, as the potential resolution of symptoms with abstinence underscores the importance of addressing substance use in managing psychotic experiences. Actionable Takeaways: 1. Embrace a Holistic Understanding: Recognize the multifactorial nature of psychosis, encompassing genetic predispositions, environmental influences, and substance-related triggers. This broader perspective can inform more comprehensive treatment strategies, taking into account the diverse factors contributing to psychotic experiences. 2. Heightened Clinical Vigilance: Develop a heightened awareness of the hallmarks of substance-induced psychotic disorders, such as psychomotor agitation and acute onset in the context of substance use. This keen clinical vigilance can aid in accurate differential diagnosis and tailored interventions for individuals presenting with psychotic symptoms. 3. Prioritize Longitudinal Assessment: Prioritize longitudinal assessment, particularly in cases of suspected substance-induced psychosis, to discern the potential impact of substance use on psychotic experiences. This approach underscores the importance of addressing substance use disorders in managing psychosis and promoting long-term recovery.…
In today's episode, Dr. Ferghal Armstrong and Dr. Laura Petracek delve into the seventh step of the twelve-step program. They discuss the importance of humbly asking God to remove our character defects and how it is a continuous process rather than a one-time request. They explore the concept of progress, not perfection, and the active role we play in our personal growth. They also address the secular context of the seventh step, explaining that it can be reinterpreted to seek help from oneself, the community, therapists, or support groups. Discover how therapy can complement a twelve-step program and the importance of self-awareness in the journey of recovery…
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Dr. Ferghal Armstrong and Dr. Laura Petracek discuss the 6th step of the twelve-step process of addiction recovery. They explore the concept of God in this step and emphasize that it can be interpreted as a higher power or even nature. They also question the passive nature of this step, as it involves asking an external force to remove our character defects. The discussion delves into the Christian origins of the steps and how they may not resonate with everyone. Ultimately, Dr. Petracek suggests rewording the step to focus on being willing to acknowledge and actively work on our faults and shortcomings. Key Points: 1. The 6th step originally had a Christian foundation but can be personalized to a higher power of choice. 2. Asking God or a higher power to remove defects of character may absolve individuals of personal responsibility for change. 3. Motivational interviewing can help individuals identify obstacles to change and improve readiness. 4. Sponsors play a crucial role in guiding individuals through the steps, but may not have psychological training. 5. The phrase "we are entirely ready" implies a commitment to change without holding back or making exceptions. 6. Modern psychological tools like CBT and motivational interviewing can complement the twelve-step process. 7. The reworded 6th step focuses on acknowledging and actively working on faults and shortcomings, providing a more accessible approach. 8. Accountability and agency are emphasized in the reworded step, promoting personal responsibility for change. 9. The process after the 5th step involves a simple prayer expressing readiness for defects to be removed. 10. The 6th step is brief and vague, leaving room for interpretation and individualized implementation. Learning Outcomes: 1. Understand the historical context of the 6th step and the potential limitations of its Christian origins. 2. Recognize the potential pitfalls of passively relying on a higher power to remove character defects. 3. Explore motivational interviewing techniques to assess readiness for change and identify obstacles. 4. Appreciate the importance of sponsors who possess psychological insight in guiding individuals through the steps. 5. Reflect on the significance of being entirely ready and the commitment it entails for personal growth. 6. Integrate modern psychological tools, such as CBT and motivational interviewing, to enhance addiction recovery. 7. Reevaluate the wording of the 6th step to focus on personal accountability and actively addressing faults and shortcomings. 8. Empower individuals to take responsibility for their own growth and change in addiction recovery. 9. Understand the simplicity of the 6th step process, involving a prayer expressing readiness for change. 10. Recognize the individualized nature of implementing the 6th step and the room for interpretation. Actionable Takeaways: 1. Assess your willingness to change and reflect on any attachments or payoffs that may hinder personal growth. 2. Engage in motivational interviewing with yourself or seek help from a sponsor to identify obstacles to change. 3. Seek sponsors or support networks knowledgeable about psychological tools like CBT and motivational interviewing. 4. Embrace the concept of being entirely ready without making exceptions or holding back from personal growth. 5. Adapt the 6th step to be more accessible and relatable by focusing on actively acknowledging and working on faults and shortcomings. 6. Foster personal accountability and agency in the recovery process by taking responsibility for your own growth and change. 7. Incorporate modern psychological tools, alongside the twelve-step process, to enhance addiction recovery outcomes. 8. Practice the simple prayer expressing willingness and readiness for change in the 6th…
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Cracking Addiction

1 Exploring the Fifth Step: Embracing Accountability in the Fifth Step of the Twelve Step Program 21:30
In this episode of Cracking Addiction, we delve into the crucial fifth step of the twelve-step program. Join us as we explore the significance of admitting our wrongs to God, ourselves, and another human being. Here's a breakdown of the key takeaways from this insightful conversation: Admitting our wrongs to another human being takes courage: Sharing our faults with someone else can be scary, as we fear their judgment and acceptance. However, it is essential for healing and growth. Accountability and introspection: The fifth step requires us to take accountability for our actions, acknowledging our wrongs and guilts. It involves recognizing cognitive distortions and working through defences like rationalization and blaming others. Balancing self-compassion and growth: While The Fifth Step may seem like a process of self-loathing, it is important to maintain a balanced view. Recognizing our positive qualities helps us build self-esteem and fosters the process of forgiveness and redemption.…
Are you or someone you know struggling with alcohol use disorder? In this video, I sit down with Jonathan Hunt-Glassman, the CEO of Ore Health, to uncover groundbreaking strategies for managing alcohol use disorder. From effective **medication** options to the critical role of digital health technologies, we delve deep into how you can begin your journey to recovery today. Jonathan and I discuss everything from first-line treatments like **naltrexone** and **acamprosate** to alternative medications and talking therapies. You'll learn why **medication** is crucial but not the only solution, and how digital solutions can make accessing healthcare easier and more private. Our conversation is packed with actionable insights that can help you or your loved ones make significant strides in overcoming alcohol use disorder.…
In this compelling episode of Cracking Addiction, Dr Ferghal Armstrong welcomes Jonathan Hunt-Glassman, an individual with lived experience of alcohol misuse and the CEO of Oar Health. Jonathan provides a raw and honest account of his struggles with alcohol, starting from high school right through to his twenties. His journey involved excessive binge drinking, blackouts, and multi-day benders, ultimately leading to the physical and mental health repercussions associated with alcohol addiction. **Key Points Covered:** 1. **Understanding the Root Causes**: - Jonathan delves into the social anxiety that drove his alcohol misuse. As Dr Ferghal notes, understanding the underlying pain is crucial. 2. **The Impact of Social Media and COVID-19**: - The episode discusses how the increase in digital communication and social isolation could contribute to future spikes in alcohol use disorders. 3. **The Importance of Support Systems**: - Jonathan highlights how a supportive healthcare practitioner, empathic friends, and a loving partner were instrumental in his recovery. 4. **Tools for Recovery**: - Jonathan shares the multifaceted toolkit that helped him, including goal-setting, medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes. **Learning Outcomes:** 1. **Identifying Root Causes**: - By listening to Jonathan's experiences, you will learn how social anxiety and feelings of insecurity can lead to problematic drinking. Understanding these root causes can help in seeking appropriate therapies to address them. 2. **The Role of Support Systems**: - This episode underscores the importance of having a reliable support system. Friends and family play a critical role in recovery, providing non-judgmental, loving support that can significantly impact an individual's journey towards sobriety. 3. **Utilising Healthcare Professionals**: - The value of a compassionate healthcare provider cannot be overstated. As Jonathan explains, a simple phrase like "We can work with that" can break down barriers of fear and shame, making the initial steps to recovery much more manageable. 4. **Building a Toolkit for Recovery**: - Jonathan discusses the various tools that worked for him, including medication, therapy, and personal strategies like avoiding drinking on an empty stomach. Assembling a similar toolkit can provide a structured and effective approach to managing alcohol use disorder. **Actionable Takeaways:** 1. **Address Social Anxiety**: - Seek professional help to address any underlying social anxiety or insecurity. Therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) can be incredibly effective in mitigating these triggers. 2. **Establish Clear Goals**: - Set clear, achievable goals for your alcohol consumption. For Jonathan, a key goal was never to blackout again; similar concrete objectives can provide direction and motivation. 3. **Engage with Health Practitioners**: - Don’t hesitate to consult with healthcare professionals. A supportive and understanding medical practitioner can offer crucial guidance and prescribe helpful medications if necessary. 4. **Rely on a Support Network**: - Lean on your friends and family. Their support can provide emotional resilience and practical help, such as non-judgemental feedback or participating in healthier, sober activities. **Quote:** "We can work with that." This phrase, used by Jonathan's healthcare provider, signifies the power of empathy, understanding, and collaboration in the recovery journey.…
Are you curious about the hidden dangers lurking in the world of synthetic opioids? In this episode of "Cracking Addiction," Dr Ferghal Armstrong sits down with the incredible Prof. Suzanne Neilsen, Deputy Director of the Monash Addiction Research Centre, to dive deep into the chilling rise of nitazenes in Australia. As high-potency synthetic opioids, nitazenes are causing waves of concern, and their impact could be closer to home than you think. What's a nitazene, you ask? These potent synthetic opioids came into existence through pharmaceutical research in the 1950s but are now making a perilous comeback in the illicit drug scene. As Suzanne and I chat, we unravel why these forgotten compounds are suddenly re-emerging and the harrowing effects they have, particularly respiratory depression. Also, did you know that nitazine contamination could be lurking in various recreational drugs like MDMA or ketamine, posing a lethal threat unexpectedly? But don't just take my word for it—watch the video and have your questions answered by one of Australia’s leading experts in addiction research. Prof. Neilsen steps us through the nuances of these dangerous compounds, their presence in recreational drugs, and the life-saving importance of naloxone for overdose reversals. **Learning Outcomes:** 1. **Understanding Nitazines:** - Learn about Nitazenes, their chemical structure, and why they are considered highly potent opioids. - Suzanne reveals that although they were initially developed for potential therapeutic uses, their severe side effects, including significant respiratory depression, halted their progress. - Discover the historical context that has led to their re-emergence in the illicit drug scene. - Recognise the distinction between different types of Nitazenes and their varying potencies and half-lives. 2. **Risk Awareness and Harm Reduction:** - Understand the risks associated with Nitazene contamination in various illicit drugs, such as MDMA, ketamine, and cocaine. - Gain insights into how synthetic opioids like Nitazenes and fentanyl increase the danger of overdose due to their potency and rapid onset. - Develop awareness of the “sloppy drug dealer” theory and its implications for contamination. - Learn about the broadening need for harm reduction initiatives that address not just opioid users but anyone using illicit drugs. 3. **Importance of Naloxone:** - Comprehend the role of naloxone in reversing opioid overdoses, even caused by potent synthetic opioids like Nitazenes. - Learn about the potentially higher doses of naloxone required to reverse nitazene-induced overdoses. - Understand the importance of having multiple doses of naloxone on hand and the implications for stocking it in harm reduction services. - Recognise the balance needed in administering naloxone to avoid severe withdrawal symptoms in patients. **Actionable Takeaways:** 1. **Increasing Awareness and Education:** - Educate yourself and your community about the dangers of synthetic opioids like nitazenes. - If you’re in a position to influence policy, advocate for expanding drug-checking services to help identify contaminants before use. - Spread the word about the importance of having naloxone readily available, especially in communities at risk. - Support initiatives that provide harm reduction training to a broad audience, including those who might not identify as opioid users. 2. **Advocating for Harm Reduction Services:** - Push for the establishment and funding of drug checking services in all states and territories, not just limited areas. - Encourage local governments and organisations to support evidence-based harm reduction services. - Participate in or initiate community...…
Dr Ferghal introduces us to Helen, a Reiki master, who delves into the origins of Reiki and its application in addiction recovery. Discover the transformative power of Reiki healing and how it can complement traditional methods of treatment for substance use disorders. Gain insights into the emotional causes of addiction and explore how Reiki can aid in relapse prevention and detoxification. Join us as we unravel the potential of Reiki in supporting individuals on their journey to recovery from addiction. **Focus Keyword:** Reiki in Addiction Recovery **Key Points:** - Learn about the origins of Reiki and how it was discovered by Mikaya in the 18th century. - Understand the Reiki healing process and how it can help individuals release fear and emotional traumas. - Explore the role of Reiki in addiction recovery, including aiding in detoxification, relapse prevention, and addressing underlying emotional causes of addiction. - Discover the levels of Reiki attunements and the benefits of each stage in personal healing and helping others. **Quote:** "Ask not why the drug, but why the pain." - Dr Ferghal Armstrong **Learning Outcomes:** 1. Understand the origins of Reiki and its connection to traditional healing practices. 2. Explore the role of Reiki in releasing fear and emotional traumas in addiction recovery. 3. Learn about the levels of Reiki attunements and their significance in personal healing and growth. 4. Discover the potential benefits of Reiki in detoxification, relapse prevention, and addressing the emotional root causes of addiction. **Actionable Takeaways:** 1. Consider incorporating Reiki as a complementary therapy in addiction recovery programmes to support emotional healing. 2. Explore the practice of Reiki for personal healing and self-care, starting with Reiki Level 1 attunement. 3. Investigate the role of Reiki in reducing fear and anxiety during the recovery process and consult with a Reiki master for guidance. 4. Reflect on the emotional causes of addiction and how Reiki may assist in addressing and releasing these underlying issues.…
In this episode, Dr Ferghal Armstrong and Dr Richard Bradlow unpack the complex relationship between alcohol, thiamine deficiency, and the severe neurological condition Wernicke’s encephalopathy. Ferghal opens by questioning long-held beliefs about alcohol’s direct effects on thiamine absorption, while Richard provides a contextual understanding of the symptomatic manifestations. The discussion touches on the practicalities of diagnosing and treating thiamine deficiency, focusing particularly on clinical scenarios where immediate action can prevent irreversible damage. **Learning Outcomes** 1. **Understanding Thiamine Deficiency and Alcohol Use** - Thiamine deficiency is commonly seen in individuals with alcohol use disorders due to poor diet, liver damage, and compromised gut integrity. Ferghal emphasises that alcohol does not directly reduce thiamine but affects its absorption and storage indirectly. - Recognise the critical symptoms of thiamine deficiency: Ataxia, ophthalmoplegia, and confusion. Richard shares that only 10% of individuals present with the classic triad, stressing the need for a low threshold in administering thiamine. - Ferghal reveals that thiamine is stored in the liver, with approximately 20-30 milligrams available. Without replenishment, these levels deplete quickly, making regular intake essential. 2. **Diagnosis and Management** - Learn to assess risk factors beyond alcohol consumption. Richard suggests evaluating diet, liver health, and any conditions that hamper gut absorption. - Understand the importance of high-dose, parenteral thiamine administration in suspected cases of Wernicke’s encephalopathy. This prevents irreversible neuronal damage, particularly in the cerebellum and midbrain. - Find out why rapid thiamine delivery is critical. Ferghal explains that alcohol withdrawal demands a higher energy output, which depletes thiamine stores faster, precipitating encephalopathy. 3. **Preventative Measures and Harm Reduction** - Recognise the importance of thiamine supplements for those engaging in hazardous drinking, even if not experiencing withdrawal. Richard advocates for over-the-counter vitamin B1 tablets, taken multiple times daily for optimal absorption. - Explore how diet can play a crucial role in preventing thiamine deficiency. Liver, cereals, and fortified foods are excellent sources of thiamine, as Ferghal points out. - Koraskoff’s syndrome is an irreversible consequence of untreated thiamine deficiency. It leads to significant memory deficits and an ataxic gait, which underscores the need for timely intervention. **Actionable Takeaways** 1. **Routine Screening for Thiamine Deficiency** - Incorporate routine screening for thiamine deficiency in patients with alcohol use disorder. Ferghal and Richard highlight this as a vital practice to prevent conditions like Wernicke’s encephalopathy and Korsakoff syndrome. - Develop a checklist for evaluating risk factors, including dietary patterns, liver function, and gut health issues. - Push for early intervention even with subclinical symptoms. Ferghal stresses the colossal benefits of early detection and treatment. 2. **Educate on Thiamine Supplementation** - Ensure patients receive clear instructions on thiamine supplementation. Richard recommends oral vitamin B1, taken in divided doses throughout the day. - Cultural and dietary recommendations should include foods rich in thiamine, like liver and fortified cereals. - Advocate for harm reduction strategies that include vitamin supplements. Ferghal points out this can significantly reduce the risk of severe neurological...…
In the latest episode of "Cracking Addiction," Dr Ferghal continues the journey with Dr Richard, exploring the critical subject of alcohol withdrawal. This episode is particularly focused on the timings, the natural history of withdrawal symptoms, and the potential complications faced during alcohol detoxification. The discourse provides key insights on when symptoms typically appear, ranging from mild to severe cases, and discusses methods of intervention based on the severity of withdrawal symptoms. **Learning Outcomes:** 1. **Understanding the Onset of Alcohol Withdrawal:** This episode helps listeners grasp the variable onset of alcohol withdrawal symptoms which can appear from 12 to 24 hours after the last drink. Ferghal and Richard explain the concept of 'day two' of withdrawal, enhancing understanding of the physiological changes happening in the body during this time. 2. **Risk Factors and Complications:** The conversation thoroughly covers potential complications, such as seizures and delirium tremens. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing past withdrawal histories and comorbidities that heighten withdrawal complications, which proves crucial for healthcare providers in assessing risk. 3. **Ethical and Effective Treatment Strategies:** Highlighting the dangers of protocol-driven approaches in detoxification settings, Richard points out the importance of tailored treatment plans. They discuss the use of diazepam to manage symptoms effectively and the strategies to mitigate risks such as 'kindling.' 4. **Proper Management of Seizures and Delirium:** Key strategies for managing severe withdrawal symptoms like seizures and delirium tremens (DTs) are elaborated on, including the avoidance of certain medications and the focus on benzodiazepine regulation. **Actionable Takeaways:** 1. **Recognise the Early Signs:** Listeners are encouraged to identify early withdrawal symptoms to initiate timely treatment, potentially preventing the escalation towards more severe complications such as DTs. 2. **Avoid High-Protocol Rigidity:** The importance of flexibility in treatment protocols was underscored, stressing individual patient needs over rigid guidelines, which might prevent effective symptom management. 3. **Prepare For Seizure Management:** Understanding that alcohol withdrawal seizures could peak around 24 hours post-last ingestion, healthcare providers should monitor and adjust benzodiazepine dosages accordingly. 4. **Psychosocial Aspects of Withdrawal:** Addressing withdrawal is not just about managing physical symptoms but also involves supporting the patient’s psychological well-being to enhance recovery success rates.…
In this riveting episode of Cracking Addiction, Dr Ferghal Armstrong and Dr Richard Bradlow shed light on the complex issue of alcohol use and withdrawal, providing critical insights and practical guidance for individuals and healthcare professionals alike. The duo explores detailed diagnostic criteria and the implications of daily alcohol consumption and addresses the signs that might indicate a move towards severe withdrawal symptoms. Learn about the societal impacts of drinking norms and the misconceptions that might be putting individuals at risk without them even realising it. This episode uncovers the stark differences between casual drinking and potential alcohol dependence that could lead to serious health consequences. **Learning Outcomes:** 1. Understand the varied patterns of alcohol withdrawal and how personal history affects its likelihood. Richard emphasizes the importance of individual patient history in predicting withdrawal symptoms such as seizures. 2. Discover the guidelines for safe alcohol consumption set by different governments and how they compare, highlighting discrepancies that might affect public health advice. Particularly, the comparison between Australian, Canadian, and American standards provides a global view of alcohol consumption benchmarks. 3. Recognize the clinical signs of alcohol withdrawal, applying both psychological and physiological markers, including the mnemonic PAST NIGHT (Psychomotor Agitation, Anxiety, Seizures, Terrors, etc.) proposed by Ferghal for easier recall during assessments. 4. Learn about the significant risks associated with ignoring other potential diagnoses when a patient presents symptoms similar to alcohol withdrawal, underscoring the necessity of comprehensive medical evaluation.…
Dr Ferghal Armstrong explores the profound impact of lifestyle interventions on addiction recovery, focusing on the crucial role of tobacco cessation within the addiction and mental health treatment spaces. Dr Armstrong discusses recent AOD (Alcohol and Other Drugs) guidelines that integrate lifestyle medicine, highlighting how these can dramatically improve patient outcomes. The discussion extends to the implications of smoking on the efficacy of psychiatric medications and overall prognosis for individuals with mood disorders. **Learning Outcomes:** 1. Understand the six pillars of lifestyle medicine as detailed by Dr Armstrong, which include the feet, the fork, the fingers, sleep, stress management, and social connection. The episode elucidates how each pillar contributes to comprehensive addiction recovery and overall mental health enhancement, emphasising the multifaceted approach required for effective treatment. 2. Gain insights into the interactions between tobacco use and psychiatric medications, learning why smoking cessation is not merely beneficial but essential for patients undergoing treatment for mood disorders and other mental health issues. Dr Armstrong explains how smoking can alter medication efficacy and overall treatment trajectories. 3. Explore the impact of the latest AOD guidelines, which advocate for lifestyle interventions during withdrawal periods. These guidelines offer a new perspective on managing withdrawal by integrating lifestyle improvements that can lead to more successful recovery outcomes. 4. Recognise the broader implications of alcohol consumption as discussed by Dr Armstrong, including detailed comparisons of standard drink measurements and guidelines in different regions, which underline the global variations in alcohol consumption recommendations.…
Dr Ferghal Armstrong addresses the often-underestimated influence of diet on addiction recovery and mental health. By contrasting Australian Dietary guidelines with the detriments of ultra-processed "junk" food, Ferghal uncovers the profound impact that food choices have on our overall health and capacity to overcome addiction. Exploring various diets, such as the Mediterranean, DASH, and MIND diets, Ferghal emphasizes the benefits of whole foods and the avoidance of high saturated fat, sodium, and processed sugars. Crucial connections between diet and risk of diseases, including cardiovascular issues, cancer, metabolic syndrome, and mental health disorders, are highlighted, making a strong case for the fork's role in lifestyle medicine. 00:00 Dr. Fergal Armstrong discusses lifestyle medicine in addiction. 03:49 Junk food linked to metabolic diseases, mental health. 08:16 MIND diet reduces Alzheimer's risk, benefits mental health.…
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Cracking Addiction

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 addiction and mood disorders. 05:41 Exercise improves mood; small amounts daily best. 07:12 Exercise reduces cancer incidence and improves survival. 10:16 Exercise has numerous positive effects on health…
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Cracking Addiction

Listen to this insightful episode of Cracking Addiction and unravel the complexities of substance use within the realm of professional sports, particularly the AFL. We delve into the controversial handling of illicit drug use among players, balancing the tightrope between medical treatment and role-model expectations. This discussion is crucial for anyone looking to understand the multifaceted approach to addiction and substance use in high-pressure environments. Join Dr. Ferghal Armstrong and guest journalist Max Laughton as they dissect the layers of policy, public perception, and personal care in the context of the AFL's recent drug use dilemma. The focus of this episode lies in the intricate policy and personal care considerations surrounding illicit drug use among AFL players. Max helps us unfold the doctor-patient confidentiality within clubs, the allegation of deception through manufactured injuries, and the tension between medical care and punitive actions. The conversation pivots to societal expectations of athletes as role models, the ethical conundra posed by possible performance enhancement, and the broader implications of substance use policies in sports. This episode offers a perspective shift urging compassion and understanding, instead of condemnation, in substance use management. Learning Outcome 1: Understanding the distinction between social substance use, addiction, and the role sports pressures play in substance use amongst AFL players. It is highlighted that not all substance use signals addiction and the pressures unique to AFL players can amplify the risks. Recognition of this nuance is crucial in addressing and managing substance use in professional sports. Ferghal articulates the importance of distinguishing occasional use from dependency and considering the broader psychosocial factors contributing to each player's situation. Actionable Takeaway 1: Encourage open dialogue about the psychosocial pressures associated with professional sports that could lead to substance use. Sports organizations can focus on preventive measures by fostering environments supportive of mental health and resilience training. It's essential to create an open forum for athletes to discuss their challenges without fear of punitive repercussions, cultivating a team culture that prioritizes well-being and support over punishment. Learning Outcome 2: The dilemma faced by AFL in balancing the medical model of substance use treatment with the expectation of punishment for 'misbehaviour'. AFL players caught using illicit substances aren't just athletes; they are individuals with complex personal circumstances and health needs. By exploring this sensitive terrain, listeners gain insight into the complexities of sports administration, ethical considerations, and the well-being of the players. Ferghal emphasizes the importance of treating substance use as a health issue rather than a criminal or purely disciplinary matter. Actionable Takeaway 2: Evaluate and potentially implement medical models of care for substance use amongst athletes in all sports sectors. By focusing on treatment rather than punishment, sports organizations can maintain the dignity of the player while addressing the health issue more effectively. Listeners involved in sports administration might consider advocating for or revising existing policies to integrate health-centric approaches to substance use. **Quote or Insight:** "AFL players caught using illicit substances aren't just athletes; they are individuals with complex personal circumstances and health needs." - Dr. Ferghal Armstrong.…
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, heart disease, and cancer. Episode Focus Keyword: Alcohol Consumption Guidelines In this episode, listeners will learn: 1. Understanding Standard Drink Measurements: Dr Armstrong explains the standard drink measurements in Australia and the USA, shedding light on the discrepancies and how they affect alcohol consumption guidelines. By understanding the concept of standard drinks, listeners can accurately assess their alcohol intake and comprehend the differences in guidelines between countries. Actionable Takeaway: When assessing alcohol consumption, use the standard drink measurements provided by your country's guidelines to make informed decisions about safe drinking practices. 2. Risks of Alcohol Dependency: Dr Armstrong elucidates the thresholds for alcohol dependency in men and women, emphasizing the correlation between excessive alcohol consumption and the increased risk of dependency. By recognising these thresholds, individuals can monitor their alcohol intake and mitigate the risk of developing dependency. Actionable Takeaway: Monitor your alcohol consumption to ensure it falls within the recommended thresholds, thereby reducing the risk of alcohol dependency. 3. Variances in Global Guidelines: The episode compares alcohol consumption guidelines in Australia, the USA, and Canada, highlighting the differences in recommended alcohol limits and their implications for long-term health. By understanding these variances, listeners can appreciate the diverse approaches to alcohol consumption and make informed choices based on their local guidelines. Actionable Takeaway: Familiarise yourself with the alcohol consumption guidelines specific to your region to align your drinking habits with the recommended limits for optimal health outcomes. Quote or Insight: "The harms of alcohol are cumulative and have a dose-response. To minimize long-term harms, you need to keep your alcohol consumption quite low." - Dr Ferghal Armstrong…
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**: Dr. Armstrong elucidates the crucial components of resilience, emphasizing the role of mastering daily routines and achieving small victories in fostering confidence and resilience. He highlights the significance of personal mastery in building the groundwork for resilience and sustained recovery. 2. **The Power of Vicarious Mastery**: Through inspiring stories shared in peer support groups, individuals on their recovery journey gain access to vicarious mastery. Dr. Armstrong underscores the importance of surrounding oneself with individuals committed to similar goals, demonstrating how learning from others' experiences can ignite confidence and motivation. 3. **Embracing Exhortation for Progress**: Dr Armstrong discusses the impact of counselling and therapeutic interventions on the stages of change in addiction recovery. He reveals how counsellors' guidance and accountability can propel individuals through the cycle of change, nurturing resilience and fortitude. 4. **Unlocking Emotional Regulation Techniques**: The episode introduces practical techniques for emotional regulation, such as the physiological sigh, which can help individuals manage overwhelming emotions and maintain a calm state of mind. Dr. Armstrong provides insights into the importance of emotional balance in fostering resilience and overcoming temptations. 🚀 **Actionable Takeaways** 1. **Cultivate Mastery through Daily Achievements**: Incorporate achievable goals and routines into your daily life to build a foundation of success and confidence, laying the groundwork for resilience. 2. **Engage in Peer Support Groups for Inspiration**: Actively participate in peer support groups to gain insight from others' recovery journeys, leveraging their experiences to fuel your own determination and resilience. 3. **Embrace Counseling and Therapeutic Support**: Seek professional guidance and counselling to navigate the stages of change in addiction recovery, leveraging the accountability and insights provided to progress toward resilience and long-term recovery. 4. **Harness Emotional Regulation Techniques**: Implement techniques like the physiological sigh to manage emotional upheavals and cultivate a balanced state of mind, enhancing your ability to resist temptations and build resilience. 🌟 **Quote**: "It might be making your bed. It's something as basic as that. But if that becomes part of your routine, that routine of mastery, that routine of success, that routine of achievement will then set you up for future mastery, future achievement and future resilience."…
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Cracking Addiction

1 Understanding Addiction: The Science Behind Substance Dependence and Its Impact on the Brain 12:09
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 it's a chronic disorder of the brain and not a moral failing. Tune in as he expertly breaks down the three phases of addiction—binging, withdrawal, and poor decision making—and the specific brain regions involved. If you want to gain a deeper understanding of addiction and its underlying mechanisms, this episode is a must-listen. **Key Points** - Genetic, environmental, and drug-specific factors play crucial roles in determining an individual's vulnerability to addiction. - Dopamine, the key molecule associated with desire and reward, is released by the nucleus accumbens when exposed to addictive substances. - Addiction is a chronic brain disorder, and its three phases (binging, withdrawal, lack of control) affect specific parts of the brain, leading to compulsive substance use. **Learning Outcomes** 1. *Understanding Addiction Vulnerability:* Dr. Armstrong explains how genetic predisposition, environmental influences, and the nature of the drug itself collectively contribute to an individual's vulnerability to addiction. Realizing the multifactorial nature of addiction susceptibility can aid in devising comprehensive prevention and treatment strategies. 2. *Neurological Impact of Addiction:* By examining the impact of addiction on the brain, listeners will gain insight into the physiological aspects that underpin substance dependence. Understanding the role of dopamine in mediating addiction-related behaviour can help in comprehending the complexities of addictive tendencies. 3. *Three Phases of Addiction:* Through a detailed exploration of the binging, withdrawal, and lack of control phases, listeners can observe how addiction manifests in different parts of the brain. This insight can unveil the intricate nature of addiction progression and assist in the development of targeted interventions. **Actionable Takeaways** 1. *Recognize Genetic Vulnerability:* Reflect on your family history of addiction to understand potential genetic predispositions, but bear in mind that environmental and drug-specific factors also play pivotal roles. 2. *Educate On Dopamine's Role:* Learn about dopamine's function in the brain and its connection to addictive tendencies, enabling a deeper understanding of the neurobiological processes involved in addiction. 3. *Identify Addiction Phases:* Recognize the distinct phases of addiction, from initial enjoyment to compulsive use, and how they correspond to neurological changes, fostering a more holistic understanding of the addiction cycle. **Insightful Quote** "Addiction is not a moral failing, it's not a poor choice, and certainly shouldn't be treated as such. It's a chronic disorder of the brain, prone to relapse." - Dr. Ferghal Armstrong **Hashtags** #AddictionScience #Neurobiology #ChronicDisorder #DopamineRelease #GeneticVulnerability #EnvironmentalInfluences #BrainNeurology #BingingWithdrawalControl #AddictionPrevention #TreatmentStrategies Thank you for tuning in to "Cracking Addiction." Like what you heard? Make sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel and online platforms...…
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Cracking Addiction

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. Focus Keyword: ADHD non-stimulant treatments Key Points: - The episode discusses the pharmacological aspects of non-stimulant treatment options for ADHD. - The roles of clonidine, guanfazine, and melatonin in managing ADHD symptoms, particularly sleep disturbances, are explored in detail. - The impact of substances, lifestyle factors, and the circadian rhythm on ADHD symptoms is highlighted. - The implications of ADHD on sleep architecture and strategies for managing this aspect are deeply delved into. Learning Outcomes: 1. Understanding the Role of Clonidine and Guanfacine: Clonidine, initially developed for lowering blood pressure, has shown effectiveness in managing ADHD symptoms, particularly in enhancing sleep quality. Guanfacine, although not widely used due to cost and regulatory concerns, presents a promising alternative with a longer duration of action. By understanding the mechanisms and impacts of these medications, healthcare providers can make informed decisions regarding non-stimulant ADHD treatments, considering factors such as duration of action and potential adjunctive benefits. 2. Addressing Sleep Disturbances in ADHD: The episode sheds light on the correlation between ADHD and delayed sleep phase disorder, underscoring the significance of sleep in managing ADHD symptoms. Insight into the application of melatonin, lifestyle interventions, and lightbox therapy as components of a comprehensive sleep management strategy can equip individuals and healthcare professionals with valuable tools for improving sleep quality in individuals with ADHD. Actionable Takeaways: 1. Optimizing Non-Stimulant ADHD Treatments: Utilize the knowledge of clonidine and guanfacine as effective non-stimulant treatments for ADHD, considering factors such as the patient's response, duration of action, and adjunctive benefits in tailoring treatment plans. 2. Implementing Comprehensive Sleep Management Strategies: Incorporate strategies such as melatonin supplementation, lifestyle modifications including exposure to morning light, and sleep hygiene practices to address sleep disturbances in individuals with ADHD, fostering better overall symptom management. Quote: "Abstinence in and of itself can be one treatment for ADHD." - Manu Bhatnagar…
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Cracking Addiction

In this episode, Dr. Ferghal Armstrong and Dr. Laura Petracek explore the fourth step of the twelve-step program - making a searching and fearless moral inventory. They discuss why this step is crucial for individuals with alcohol or substance use disorders, and how it can lead to a sense of relief and freedom from self-loathing. The conversation also covers the fifth step, where confession to a sponsor plays a significant role in the recovery journey. If you're looking for insights and guidance on how to navigate these steps and overcome addiction, this episode is for you. Key Points and Learning Outcomes: 1. The Importance of a Moral Inventory: The fourth step involves taking an honest and fearless inventory of oneself, examining the wreckage caused by addiction in areas such as relationships, jobs, and personal well-being. By facing the consequences of their actions, individuals can gain a clearer perspective on the impact of their addiction. 2. Relief and Support: Engaging in a moral inventory often brings a sense of relief as individuals unload the weight of negativity and self-loathing. Knowing that others have experienced similar challenges and mistakes through the support of sponsors and recovery groups can provide comfort and foster a sense of belonging. 3. Fearlessness Through Willingness: While the idea of a moral inventory may initially evoke fear, the first step towards it is willingness. By acknowledging and embracing the need for self-reflection and growth, individuals can gradually become more fearless in their journey towards recovery. 4. Resentments as Fuel for Addiction: Resentments are identified as the number one offender and a driving factor behind relapse. The constant replaying of negative thoughts and emotions can lead individuals to seek solace in addictive behaviours. Addressing and processing resentments is crucial for long-term sobriety. 5. Aligning with Moral Values: Addiction often leads individuals to act against their own moral values, such as honesty, fidelity, or generosity. Through the fourth step, individuals reintroduce themselves to their moral anchors, reestablishing their values as a guidepost for recovery. Actionable Takeaways: 1. Embrace the fear: Recognize that starting a moral inventory may be frightening but understand that it is a necessary and brave step towards recovery. Allow willingness to pave the way for fearlessness. 2. Seek support: Engage with a sponsor or join a four-step group to create a sense of community and combat feelings of isolation. Hearing others' experiences and realizing you're not alone can foster a compassionate perspective towards oneself. 3. Address resentments: Identify resentments and work on processing and releasing them. Understand that holding onto resentments only perpetuates the cycle of addiction, and forgiveness and acceptance can pave the way towards healing. 4. Realign with core values: Take time to reflect on one's moral values and assess where addiction has led to their violation. Make a commitment to realign actions and choices with those core values, fostering personal growth and integrity. Quote: "Resentments are the number one offender and the number one reason that people go back out and relapse." - Dr. Laura Petracek…
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Cracking Addiction

Welcome to another episode of Cracking Addiction, where we delve into the world of addiction and recovery. In this episode, Dr. Ferghal Armstrong and guest Dr. Laura Petracek explore the third step in the twelve-step process. They discuss the concept of turning our will and our lives over to a higher power, exploring different interpretations of what that higher power may be. Dr. Petracek shares her insights on the challenges of surrendering oneself to the unknown and the importance of accountability in the recovery process. They also discuss the Serenity Prayer and its role in understanding the third step. If you're interested in addiction recovery and understanding the power of surrender, this episode is a must-listen. Key Points and Learning Outcomes: 1. Understanding the Concept of Higher Power: The third step involves making a conscious decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of a higher power as we understand it. This concept varies for each individual, and it can include religious beliefs, nature, support groups, or even a sponsor. By exploring different interpretations, we can personalize our recovery journey and find a source of accountability and support. 2. Accountability and the Need for Human Connection: Surrendering to a higher power alone may not provide enough accountability in recovery. Dr. Petracek highlights the importance of involving real people, such as sponsors or support groups, in our commitment to abstain from addictive substances. This external accountability helps to overcome denial and provides a stronger foundation for long-term recovery. 3. Surrendering Self-Control and Willpower: The idea of surrendering our self-control, willpower, and identity can be daunting for many individuals. Particularly for those who have relied on drugs or alcohol as a coping mechanism, letting go of familiar habits may feel like stepping into the unknown. However, surrendering the things we cannot change is a crucial step towards personal growth and finding serenity in recovery. 4. Addressing Doubts and Skepticism: Some individuals may find difficulty with the third step due to its traditional association with a white Christian God. To overcome this barrier, reframing the concept of a higher power is vital. Books such as "Twelve Steps a Woman's Way" or using therapy approaches like dialectical behavior therapy can help individuals find a more inclusive interpretation that aligns with their personal beliefs and culture. Actionable Takeaways: 1. Explore Your Understanding of Higher Power: Take time to reflect on your own understanding of a higher power. Consider what brings you a sense of peace, support, and guidance. It doesn't have to conform to traditional notions; it should be a source of strength that resonates with you. 2. Seek Accountability in Human Connections: Find someone you trust, such as a sponsor or a support group, to hold you accountable in your recovery journey. Sharing your commitments and struggles with others can significantly enhance your chances of maintaining sobriety. 3. Embrace Surrender and Letting Go: Recognize the limitations of your control over certain aspects of life. Embrace the idea of surrendering the things you cannot change and focusing your energy on the areas where you can make a difference. 4. Challenge Traditional Notions: If you struggle with the concept of a higher power due to cultural or religious differences, explore alternative perspectives and resources that align with your beliefs. Look for books, communities, or therapists who can help you reframe the concept to make it more inclusive and meaningful for you. Quote: "It's like you're asking them to go off a cliff without a parachute. It's very scary. But not drinking or drugging is scary because you don't know what's going to happen. But if I wake up and have a beer, I know exactly what's going to happen and it's not...…
Dr. Ferghal Armstrong discusses the importance and impact of take-home naloxone with experts Jeremy Szmerling and Dr. Suzanne Neilsen. They explain what take-home naloxone is and its role as an opioid antagonist in combating opioid toxicity, including both heroin and prescription opioid overdoses. They debunk common misconceptions and address barriers to its usage. The episode provides valuable insights for clinicians and highlights the need for wider availability and education around take-home naloxone. Learning Outcomes: 1. Understand the purpose and availability of take-home naloxone: Take-home naloxone is an opioid antagonist that can be self-administered by a patient using formulations available at pharmacies. It is classified as a pharmacist-only medication and can be dispensed without a prescription. 2. Recognize the importance of take-home naloxone in combating opioid toxicity: Opioid toxicity can lead to serious side effects, including sedation, constipation, nausea, and even respiratory failure and death. Take-home naloxone acts as an antidote to reverse opioid overdoses, making it crucial in saving lives. 3. Dispelling myths and addressing stigma: Despite prevalent misconceptions, studies have shown that providing naloxone does not promote riskier behaviour or increase opioid use. It actually reduces the risks associated with opioid use. It is important for healthcare providers to offer naloxone without stigma to anyone at risk of an opioid overdose. Actionable Takeaways: 1. Healthcare providers should be aware of the availability of take-home naloxone and its importance in preventing opioid overdoses. They should be prepared to offer and educate patients at risk, regardless of whether they use illicit or prescribed opioids. 2. Language and approach matter: When discussing naloxone with patients, it is crucial to use appropriate language and consider the individual's background and context. Starting with terms like "overdose" or "opioid toxicity" can vary based on the patient's familiarity and comfort level. 3. Overcoming barriers: Clinicians should feel confident in identifying individuals who would benefit from naloxone training and delivery. Offering naloxone to a broad population, rather than selectively targeting high-risk individuals, can lead to more lives being saved. Quote: "Giving naloxone reduces the risks that people take... providing naloxone, providing education about what an overdose is and how to reverse it, is only going to help someone reduce their risk." - Dr. Suzanne Neilsen…
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Cracking Addiction

Welcome to "Cracking Addiction." In this episode, Dr. Fergal Armstrong and Dr. Laura Petracek dive into the second step of the twelve-step program: "Came to believe that a power greater than ourselves can restore us to sanity." They explore the meaning of each element of this step and provide valuable insights on attending meetings, belief in a higher power, and the restoration of sanity in recovery. Join them as they discuss the importance of accountability and the misconception of just stopping drinking without addressing the necessary changes for lasting recovery. Learning Outcomes: 1. Understand the concept of "came to believe" in the context of recovery, which includes attending meetings, waking up to the need for change, and developing a belief in a power greater than oneself. 2. Explore the idea of a higher power beyond traditional religious connotations, emphasizing the importance of accountability and support from others in the recovery journey. 3. Recognize the limitations of simply abstaining from alcohol without engaging in the complete process of personal growth and transformation. 4. Reframe the notion of "restoration of sanity" to focus on soundness of mind and personal well-being, rather than perpetuating stigma around mental health issues. Actionable Takeaways: 1. Engage actively in your recovery journey by attending meetings and actively participating in the process, rather than just showing up without commitment. 2. Embrace the idea of a higher power or accountability beyond yourself, whether it's through a group, sponsor, or personal belief system. 3. Recognize that simply abstaining from alcohol is just the first step, and be willing to delve into the deeper aspects of personal change and growth outlined in the twelve-step program. 4. Challenge the traditional understanding of sanity by reframing it as a state of soundness of mind and overall well-being, allowing for a more inclusive and compassionate perspective on mental health. Quote: "The steps don't work you, you have to work the steps." - Dr. Laura Petracek #CrackingAddiction #RecoveryJourney #HigherPower #Accountability #MentalHealthMatters #PersonalGrowth #WellBeing #Transformation #AlcoholRecovery #SoundnessOfMind…
In today's episode, we will dive deep into Dr Laura's personal journey of addiction, mental health struggles, and finding a sense of belonging. From battling with substance abuse and self-destructive behaviours to overcoming societal and religious pressures, Laura's story is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of seeking help. We'll explore the pivotal moments that led to her recovery, the challenges she faced along the way, and the shifts in society's attitudes towards mental health and addiction. So grab your headphones and get ready for a powerful and inspiring conversation on "Cracking Addiction." In today's episode, we will dive deep into Dr Laura's personal journey of addiction, mental health struggles, and finding a sense of belonging. From battling with substance abuse and self-destructive behaviours to overcoming societal and religious pressures, Laura's story is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of seeking help. We'll explore the pivotal moments that led to her recovery, the challenges she faced along the way, and the shifts in society's attitudes towards mental health and addiction. This episode is a must-listen if you're looking for motivation and guidance to overcome addiction. Throughout our conversation, Laura emphasizes the importance of seeking help and taking things one day at a time. Her story sheds light on the complexities of addiction and explores topics like mental illness, family dynamics, and finding a sense of belonging. By tuning in, you'll gain a deeper understanding of addiction and discover practical actions you can take to support yourself or someone you care about. So grab your headphones and get ready for a powerful and inspiring conversation on "Cracking Addiction." 00:02:07]Teenage addiction, suicide attempt, recovery, treatment. 00:06:22] Bullied at home and school, seek refuge. 00:11:31] Struggles with identity, isolation, and belonging. 00:15:52] Finished school early in rehab, struggled without it. 00:16:58] Alcoholism, obsession, excessive drinking, financial consequences, sobriety. 00:23:03] Bipolar disorder, fear of medication, AA support. 00:29:08] Life turned better without lithium, but harder. 00:30:30] Unmedicated bipolar led to depression and instability. 00:36:51] Seek help for various issues; take it one step at a time.…
Welcome to another episode of Cracking Addiction! I'm your host, Dr. Ferghal Armstrong, and the brilliant Dr. Laura Petracek is joining me today. In this episode, we dive deep into the topic of why some patients feel they don't need to achieve abstinence and believe they can control their substance use or drinking. We explore the psychological aspects at play, including cognitive distortions and denial. We also discuss the underlying reasons behind this cognitive distortion, such as the enjoyment and positive effects of alcohol and using it to suppress negative emotions. But how do we approach treatment for patients who are engaged but not acknowledging the need for abstinence? Dr. Petracek shares her insights on using a harm reduction approach and motivational interviewing to meet the clients where they are. We also touch upon the fear associated with contemplating a life without alcohol and the importance of shifting negative goals to positive ones. Lastly, we examine the impact of trauma and impulse control disorders on substance use and how to address trauma in this context. So grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and join us as we unlock the complexities of addiction on Cracking Addiction. 00:00:04 Discuss the patient's reluctance to achieve abstinence. 00:06:15 Tracking alcohol consumption to break denial promotes self-reflection. 00:09:04 Commit to engagement, reduce consumption, and seek support. 00:13:32 Trauma is a key driver for addiction. 00:17:58 Some people can control their drinking. 00:20:43 Consequences of risking sober successes for a thrill.…
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Cracking Addiction

We delve into the fascinating realm of cognitive distortions and the powerlessness individuals with addiction often face. Dr. Petracek shares her experiences and insights, highlighting the importance of motivational interviewing and the dangers of attempting to control drinking habits. We'll also explore the concept of hitting rock bottom and societal pressures that prevent individuals from seeking help. Timestamped Overview 00:01:15 Inability to control substance consumption, cognitive distortions. 00:05:53 Motivational interviewing is a helpful intervention strategy. 00:07:20 Alcohol breaks out in handcuffs, problem. 00:12:59 Outpatient approach: journal, assess, suggest, increase care. 00:17:20 Challenges in seeking help, redefining rock bottom. 00:21:50 Sometimes people need a push to seek help for mental health and addiction. 00:23:29 Thanks for your insights, Laura. Let's reconnect soon. Discussions and comments in our videos are for informational purposes only and should not replace the advice of your medical professional. Please consult with your doctor before making any changes to your medical treatment or lifestyle. Latest Blogs https://www.meducate.com.au/blog About Meducate ® Meducate provides online education for doctors, clinicians, health professionals and the public. See the website to browse the many different talks and courses available https://www.meducate.com.au…
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Cracking Addiction

In today's episode, we delve into the often isolating and lonely world of motherhood. Our host, Dr. Ferghal Armstrong, is joined once again by the inspiring Celeste Yvonne, as they discuss the challenges faced by mothers in today's society. From the impossible parenting standards set on social media to the lack of support for maternal mental health, this episode uncovers the realities that mothers often face in silence. We explore the connection between the mental load of motherhood and the rise in women's drinking, shedding light on the pressures and burdens placed upon mothers. Additionally, we dive into the incredible work of the Sober Mom Squad, a recovery network founded by our guest, Emily Paulson, during the pandemic. Join us as we explore stories of hope, discuss the need for better support systems, and offer solutions to address the struggles faced by mothers in their journey through addiction and motherhood. 00:00:28 Alcohol and societal pressures contribute to women's drinking. 00:03:42 Alcohol narratives justify and validate risky drinking. 00:09:35 Isolation, impossible standards, lacking maternal support. 00:14:15 Postpartum depression dismissed, fear of seeking help. 00:19:08 Better support for women; distribute household labor and prioritise mental health. 00:23:34 Sober Mom Squad offers recovery support network. 00:25:04 You deserve congratulations for making an impact. Discussions and comments in our videos are for informational purposes only and should not replace the advice of your medical professional. Please consult with your doctor before making any changes to your medical treatment or lifestyle. Latest Blogs https://www.meducate.com.au/blog About Meducate ® Meducate provides online education for doctors, clinicians, health professionals and the public. See the website to browse the many different talks and courses available https://www.meducate.com.au…
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Cracking Addiction

In today's episode, we have a special guest, Celeste Yvonne, sharing her personal experiences and insights on quitting alcohol and embracing a sober life. Celeste discusses the challenges that many individuals face when attempting to break free from the clutches of addiction, particularly when it comes to alcohol. She explores the fears of not fitting in, losing friends, and the belief that without alcohol, life may not be as enjoyable. Drawing from her own journey, Celeste opens up about feeling disconnected from her own life and losing her sense of identity without alcohol. However, she also reveals the incredible transformation and self-discovery that await those who embark on the path to sobriety. Celeste discovered that most things in life are actually more enjoyable without alcohol, and that those activities that may not be as enjoyable without it may not be worth pursuing in the first place. As a mother, Celeste bravely shares the challenges she faced while dealing with hangovers and the intense anxiety, frustration, and self-doubt that consumed her ability to care for her child. This pivotal moment led her to make a choice between continuing to drink or becoming the mother she wanted to be. Celeste also takes us on her journey of writing a book, which began as a memoir about quitting drinking and staying sober but evolved into a powerful combination of memoir, research, and inspiring stories from other women and mothers who have found strength and sobriety. Through personal anecdotes, Celeste recounts the transformative experience of taking a sober vacation at an all-inclusive resort, where alcohol was readily available at every turn. Despite initial fear and anxiety, she embraced her sobriety and discovered a newfound sense of power, freedom, and enjoyment in waking up early, working out, and savouring moments with her husband. We also delve into Celeste's moments of doubt and her decision to quit drinking after experiencing a panic attack at work, fearing that she would follow in her father's footsteps of addiction. Her upbringing in a home with addiction and her mother's constant weight obsession played a significant role in shaping her relationship with alcohol and food. Join us as we explore Celeste's journey of self-discovery, resilience, and the power of breaking free from addiction. This episode of Medheads will inspire, educate, and provide hope to those who are facing their own battles with addiction. Discussions and comments in our videos are for informational purposes only and should not replace the advice of your medical professional. Please consult with your doctor before making any changes to your medical treatment or lifestyle. Latest Blogs https://www.meducate.com.au/blog About Meducate ® Meducate provides online education for doctors, clinicians, health professionals and the public. See the website to browse the many different talks and courses available https://www.meducate.com.au…
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Cracking Addiction

1 Radical Acceptance: Finding Healing and Empowerment | Exploring the Path to Lessen Suffering 21:15
Join Dr. Ferghal Armstrong and Dr. Laura Petracek in this enlightening discussion about Radical Acceptance—a powerful concept that can lead us towards healing and empowerment. Radical acceptance is the process of acknowledging that we have the resources to move forward despite life's challenges. By embracing this mindset, we can alleviate suffering, reduce substance use, and foster healthier relationships. In this video, Dr. Armstrong and Dr. Petracek delve into the key steps of radical acceptance. The first step involves recognising the difference between acceptable and unacceptable behaviour, empowering us to set boundaries. Next, they explore how clients can change their lives by seeking support, such as counselling services or shelters for those in abusive situations. Discussions and comments in our videos are for informational purposes only and should not replace the advice of your medical professional. Please consult with your doctor before making any changes to your medical treatment or lifestyle. Latest Blogs https://www.meducate.com.au/blog About Meducate ® Meducate provides online education for doctors, clinicians, health professionals and the public. See the website to browse the many different talks and courses available https://www.meducate.com.au Drawing inspiration from Viktor Frankl's wisdom, the speakers discuss how suffering is often caused by our reactions to life events. Through radical acceptance, individuals can make more conscious choices to respond to challenges with a willingness to grow and heal.…
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Cracking Addiction

Join Dr. Ferghal Armstrong, Dr. Laura Petracek, and Kate Butler in this insightful discussion about using Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and mindfulness techniques to aid individuals with chronic pain. Chronic pain, persisting beyond three months with no apparent pathology, can be exacerbated by various psychological factors, such as trauma, mental health disorders, and catastrophization. In this talk, they shed light on the groundbreaking eight-week mindfulness-based stress reduction program designed by psychologist John from About Zen, which has shown remarkable success in alleviating chronic pain. Dr. Laura Petracek emphasizes the significance of addressing stress and fear of judgment, and the importance of somatic therapy connecting emotional and physical pain. The pain-insensitive warrior concept is explored, highlighting the role of emotions in pain perception. Learn how DBT skills like ACCEPTS and thought record, along with Viktor Frankl's meaning-based approach, can improve coping mechanisms and overall well-being for individuals living with chronic pain. Don't miss this enlightening conversation that offers hope and support to those seeking relief from chronic pain. Discussions and comments in our videos are for informational purposes only and should not replace the advice of your medical professional. Please consult with your doctor before making any changes to your medical treatment or lifestyle. Latest Blogs https://www.meducate.com.au/blog About Meducate ® Meducate provides online education for doctors, clinicians, health professionals and the public. See the website to browse the many different talks and courses available https://www.meducate.com.au…
In this thought-provoking discussion, Dr. Ferghal Armstrong and Dr. Laura Petracek delve into the significance of validating the invalid during conversations. They shed light on the power of respecting differing points of view, even when they may seem invalid, as a means to achieve resolution and harmony. The duo introduces the GIVE mnemonic - Gentle, Genuine, Interested, and Easy - as an effective tool for validating others' perspectives and avoiding heated arguments. They explore the benefits of adopting an easy-going approach and the use of mindful breathing to manage emotions during challenging discussions. Dr. Armstrong emphasises the value of self-esteem and its connection to one's ability to sit back and remain calm without the need to win every argument. Join this insightful conversation to learn how DBT (Dialectical Behaviour Therapy) and considering context play a crucial role in constructive communication, both in personal and academic settings. Discussions and comments in our videos are for informational purposes only and should not replace the advice of your medical professional. Please consult with your doctor before making any changes to your medical treatment or lifestyle. Latest Blogs https://www.meducate.com.au/blog About Meducate ® Meducate provides online education for doctors, clinicians, health professionals and the public. See the website to browse the many different talks and courses available https://www.meducate.com.au…
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Cracking Addiction

In this insightful conversation, Dr. Ferghal Armstrong and Dr. Laura Petracek delve into the vital aspects of effective communication: showing interest in others, active listening, and the power of validation. Dr. Armstrong emphasises the significance of giving space to open up and using body language to convey genuine interest. However, the challenge arises when discussing passionate subjects, as faking interest becomes difficult. Learn how to employ body language, such as maintaining eye contact and leaning in, to validate others' feelings and experiences. Dr. Armstrong introduces a two-step communication approach, where one person shares their feelings, the other reflects, and then responds. This method ensures a deeper understanding of the other person's perspective and fosters compassionate communication. Join this conversation to enhance your communication skills and build stronger connections with others by authentically showing interest and validation. Discussions and comments in our videos are for informational purposes only and should not replace the advice of your medical professional. Please consult with your doctor before making any changes to your medical treatment or lifestyle. Latest Blogs https://www.meducate.com.au/blog About Meducate ® Meducate provides online education for doctors, clinicians, health professionals and the public. See the website to browse the many different talks and courses available https://www.meducate.com.au…
In this insightful episode of Cracking Addiction, joinDr Ferghal Armstrong and Dr. Laura Petracek as they delve into the transformative concept of GIVE from Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT). GIVE, represented by the letters G-I-V-E, stands for Genuine, Showing Interest, Validating, and Using an Easy Manner. Discover how these principles can help individuals establish and maintain meaningful relationships, even amidst challenging situations. Dr. Laura explains the significance of being Genuine, a subtle yet powerful way of expressing sincere interest, especially when interacting with those who may be feeling insecure. Honesty with oneself and others fosters open and flexible conversations, leading to stronger connections. Negotiation is a key aspect of GIVE, enabling individuals to express their desires, wants, and dislikes, while seeking solutions and compromises. Learn how negotiation can maintain healthy relationships, even when differences arise, such as in matters of personal preferences or socio-political views. Additionally, Dr. Ferghal Armstrong, a renowned therapist, shares his expertise on cracking addiction, shedding light on maintaining safe and respectful environments by establishing boundaries and fostering a relaxed atmosphere. Join us for this enlightening episode and unlock the power of GIVE in building fulfilling connections with others. Discussions and comments in our videos are for informational purposes only and should not replace the advice of your medical professional. Please consult with your doctor before making any changes to your medical treatment or lifestyle. Latest Blogs https://www.meducate.com.au/blog About Meducate ® Meducate provides online education for doctors, clinicians, health professionals and the public. See the website to browse the many different talks and courses available https://www.meducate.com.au…
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Cracking Addiction

Join Dr. Ferghal Armstrong and Dr. Laura Petracek in this insightful discussion on self-respect as a fundamental aspect of how we relate to others. Discover effective techniques, including the FAST approach (Be Fair to Yourself and Others, No Apologies, Stick to Values, Be Truthful), that can help you cultivate self-respect and self-esteem. Gain valuable insights into the concept of fairness and its impact on relationships, as well as the distinction between equity and equality. Explore the ongoing debate in the Supreme Court regarding admissions standards and fairness for people of color. Dr. Armstrong underscores the importance of fairness in fostering self-respect and self-esteem, while Dr. Petracek highlights the significance of boundaries and core values. Learn how aligning with your values and setting boundaries can enhance decision-making and empower you to navigate life's challenges with integrity. Don't miss this transformative discussion on developing self-respect and living authentically. Discussions and comments in our videos are for informational purposes only and should not replace the advice of your medical professional. Please consult with your doctor before making any changes to your medical treatment or lifestyle. Latest Blogs https://www.meducate.com.au/blog About Meducate ® Meducate provides online education for doctors, clinicians, health professionals and the public. See the website to browse the many different talks and courses available https://www.meducate.com.au…
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