The Addiction & Recovery Resource Blog

What Does Having An “Addictive Personality” Really Mean?

• Mandy Sandhu
• 13 Apr 2023

Your idea of someone with an “addictive personality” is probably inaccurate. In pop culture, this persona is associated with specific traits or characteristics that are recognizable just by looking at someone. However, in reality, having addictive tendencies and living with addiction is hardly so simple. Unfortunately, as is so often the case, much of the conversation surrounding addiction is clouded...

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ADHD and Alcohol: How They Interact

• Mandy Sandhu
• 6 Apr 2023

In today's fast-paced world, coping with life's challenges can feel challenging and complicated. However, for those living with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), it can sometimes feel like an impossible task. While it’s important to note that not everyone who has ADHD also has a substance use disorder, research has found they often co-occur. But what is the link between ADHD and...

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What is Harm Reduction and How Does it Work?

• Mandy Sandhu
• 30 Mar 2023

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to treating patients with addiction. Addiction is a complicated, multi-faceted illness that can arise from several different causes. It can take many forms and manifest in various ways. Harm reduction addresses these issues by offering inclusive and flexible solutions. By allowing people who use drugs (PWUD) to recover and thrive on their own terms, harm...

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Talking About Mental Health With Your Children: A How-To Guide

• Mandy Sandhu
• 22 Mar 2023

Around 70% of adults with mental health issues first experienced symptoms before they turned 18. Unfortunately, less than 20% of Canada’s youth suffering from mental illness receive treatment. Talking about mental health is something you can do to equip your children with the knowledge they need to dissect complicated feelings; no matter if they are struggling or not. Here are...

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Recognizing Depression in Teens: The Signs You Need to Know

• Mandy Sandhu
• 15 Mar 2023

Depression in teens can manifest in various ways. What may seem like normal teenage behaviour or the result of hormonal changes could be the beginnings of teen depression. Recognizing the symptoms right away is your best chance to help them through it. Depression in teens is different than in adults because they are exposed to different triggers, environments and challenges....

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Opiate vs Opioid: Key Differences

• Mandy Sandhu
• 8 Mar 2023

Opioids and opiates are drugs used in the treatment of moderate to severe pain. The main difference between the two is that opiates are naturally-derived, while opioids are synthetic. However, they are both powerful analgesics with serious risks and side effects. Because of this, they are often reserved for severe cases despite their widespread effectiveness in treating patients of all...

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Harm Reduction vs. Abstinence Drug Treatment

• Mandy Sandhu
• 16 Feb 2023

When deciding to seek treatment for drug addiction—either for yourself or a loved one—one of the questions we often ask is, “which option should I choose?” Knowing the differences between harm reduction and abstinence treatment options will help you make more informed decisions, especially when it comes to your finances, availability, effectiveness of the treatment, and safety. In this article,...

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What Are the Types of Therapy for Addiction?

• Mandy Sandhu
• 9 Feb 2023

The purpose of therapy, despite the stigma associated with it, is to benefit the health of patients and prevent relapses. Therapists provide a safe, non-judgmental environment to help patients explore their thoughts, feelings and behaviours. Through this exploration, patients can gain insight and develop effective strategies to cope with the challenges they face. This can lead to improved mental well-being...

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Women and Substance Abuse: Overcoming Addiction

• Mandy Sandhu
• 26 Jan 2023

Addiction recovery programs should take into account all aspects of a women's journey to treatment instead of following a generic approach. Substance abuse disorder (SUD) among women involves unique risks and patterns. Recognizing these can help improve the prevention and treatment of SUD. Let’s take a closer look at women and substance abuse and the crucial role biology plays in...

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How Thought Suppression Can Help You Stay Sober

• Mandy Sandhu
• 19 Jan 2023

Do you believe in mind over matter? If you’ve ever heard of the placebo effect, then you’re probably aware that thoughts have a measurable effect on one’s wellness. While its positive effects are usually limited to getting relief from psychological stressors like insomnia, it is evidence that thoughts can influence physical outcomes. What if you could utilize your mind to...

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