Addictions

SmartphoneAddiction (002)

Smartphone Addiction

The headline in the Globe and Mail read, "Your smartphone is making you stupid, antisocial and unhealthy. So why can't you put it down?" by Eric Andrew-Gee. As I began to read the article I became alarmed by the research...

Orthorexia Nervosa: When Healing Becomes Unhealthy

Sally scrolls through her social media and an article catches her eye. She clicks on the link and begins to read about how processed foods can be harmful to health. She resonates with the article and slowly stops eating processed...
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Marijuana: Not all good or bad

Those living in B.C and, in particular, Vancouver are well aware of the debate regarding the legalization of marijuana. The province recently approved the opening of Medical Marijuana Dispensaries which have very quickly grown in number to rival that of...
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My Teen is Cutting: What can I do?

Liz and Dan recently received a call from the school counsellor informing them their 14 year old daughter, Becky, has been cutting herself. Liz and Dan were in disbelief and confusion. Becky has always been an outstanding child who is...
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A Better Drug Treatment Focus

As an addictions counsellor I have often wondered why many addicts attend one or more treatment centers yet most will continue to relapse. And we have to wonder why the success rates for full recovery only vary from 5 to...
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Game Over?

David 'Hesh' Walker. Illidan Stormrage. Sonic the Hedgehog. Now that I have your attention, please put down the controller or take your hand off the keyboard, and read on! This article will review the pros and cons of video gaming,...

An Alcoholic’s Gratitude

Mary grew up with an alcoholic father and she promised herself that she would never marry anyone who was a heavy drinker. But now after 18 years of marriage she finds that her marriage is much like that of her...
Beautiful rocky beach landscape at Pacific Ocean Coast. Picture taken South of Wickaninnish Beach near Tofino and Ucluelet on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada.

Treatment Options

Are you or someone you know struggling with substance use? Are you searching for suitable addiction resources and supports, but discovering the route to be confusing and daunting? Here is a breakdown of some of the programs available for adults....
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Winning Your Private Battles

He got the gold. Forty year old Eric Lamaze won an Olympic Gold medal for the individual show jumping competition in the 2008 Beijing Olympics, the first one for Canada in Olympic Equestrian show jumping since 1976. This happened years...

Disease of Alcoholism

The disease model of alcohol abuse is widely accepted but is controversial in many circles. Opponents claim it relieves the problem drinker of any responsibility for their alcohol abuse and related consequences. Proponents claim it has its advantages which are...