Looking into treatment options for your opioid, narcotic or alcohol addiction is an important milestone. For many, it can also be overwhelming, with conflicting advice and so many programme options. We’re here to help you cut through the jargon and understand the choices available to you. Treatment programmes can take two main forms: MAT, medication-assisted […]
Addiction Resources
Overcoming Cravings Through Mindfulness: Tips for People in Recovery
Managing cravings isn’t a test of willpower; it’s a balance of strategy and self-compassion. As you go through recovery, you can begin to understand them better. What are your triggers? What helps and what doesn’t? In this article, we’ll explain the biology behind cravings and mindful techniques that can help you develop strategies to manage […]
The Importance of Boundaries in Addiction Recovery
Why Healthy Boundaries Are Important to Recovery Setting healthy boundaries is a crucial aspect of recovery. You could say that it is second only to maintaining sobriety. Boundaries protect your well-being as well as your resolve; they keep you safe from unhealthy relationships. They allow you to prioritise your needs, your recovery and yourself. If […]
The Unique Challenges Women Face in Addiction Recovery – Smarmore Castle
Addiction can happen to all of us, regardless of gender, class, skin colour or creed. Despite this seeming universality, recovery doesn’t look the same for everyone. Biological, social, and cultural differences mean that women face a unique set of challenges when overcoming addiction. Their bodies react differently to both the consumption and withdrawal from alcohol […]
How to Prepare for Rehab, Both Mentally and Logistically
Taking the next step to start rehab for drug or alcohol addiction can be daunting for most people. Often, there can be underlying questions like how do I prepare for rehab? What will I do there? Am I ready? What happens after rehab is complete? Without answers, these critical questions may cause anxiety, but there […]
Types of Addictive Behaviours
Understanding Behavioural and Process Addictions In a world increasingly dominated by instant gratification and digital connections, behavioural and process addictions have become more prevalent. These addictions, unlike drug addiction or alcohol addiction, involve compulsive engagement in non-substance-related activities that can disrupt daily life. Typically, people who find themselves struggling with behavioural addictions are those seeking […]
Signs You are Misusing Alcohol
What is Considered Alcohol Misuse? Alcohol misuse refers to excessive alcohol use that increases your risk of harm. Drinking habits include consuming too much alcohol over the week and binge drinking – alcohol consumption of more than 8 units for men or 6 units for women in a single drinking episode. Regularly drinking too much […]
Epilepsy and Alcohol: Does Alcohol Trigger Epilepsy?
Smarmore Castle in Ireland Offers Detox and Rehab Treatment for Epilepsy Triggered by Addictions Table of Contents Alcohol and Epilepsy. Is It Ever Safe? Can I Drink Alcohol When I Have Epilepsy? What Is the Risk of Mixing Epilepsy and Alcohol? Is It Safe to Drink Alcohol With My Epilepsy Medication? Can Alcohol Cause Seizures […]
Christmas in Rehab
It’s the “most wonderful time of the year,” or so the familiar tune goes. Unfortunately, this doesn’t ring true for everyone, especially if you’re suffering from alcohol or drug addiction. In fact, the holiday season can be extra stressful for many people, even those without substance misuse issues. If you’re in active addiction, the Christmas […]
Can Alcoholics Drink Casually?
The terms ‘Alcoholism’ and ‘alcoholic’ are outdated and not used in professional circles. The term ‘Alcohol Use Disorder’ is the correct term used among substance misuse professionals, but for the purposes of our audience and their familiarity with the term, we have referred to the term ‘alcoholic’ in this article. For many suffering from alcohol […]
Working from Home and Alcohol Addiction
Remote Working – A Ticking Time Bomb for Addiction The Royal College of Physicians recently reported that around 8 million people in the UK have been drinking up to 50 units a week since the start of the pandemic in January 2020. Occupational Health specialist Dr Mike McCann, a Director at Castle Craig Hospital highlights […]
King Baby Syndrome And Addiction
“King Baby Syndrome” refers to a behavioural pattern often associated with addiction and can significantly impact personal relationships, work life, and overall well-being. This syndrome is characterised by an extreme form of narcissism where people are self-obsessed, demanding, and struggle to deal with criticism or failure. They tend to be in constant need of attention […]