If you are struggling with an addiction, like many people, you have probably been able to maintain that balance fairly well for a period of time. In fact, when you first began using your preferred substance(s) or began engaging in problematic behavior(s), you may not have thought that you had an addiction problem at all [...]

Cross-addiction occurs when one addiction (chemical or behavioural) is swapped for another. For example, a recovering cocaine addict may start abusing prescription drugs. Often substance abusers will gravitate toward another substance that simulates the effects of their original addiction (euphoria, mental stimulation, increased energy, etc.). However, they may also develop a behavioural addiction such as [...]

It is a very traumatic experience when you discover that your partner is struggling with an addiction. Whether it's a substance abuse problem, or a sexual addiction, the shock you experience is unparalleled; especially if you find out that it has been going on for a long time without your knowledge. Perhaps that's the situation [...]

It's extremely difficult to have a partner who is an addict. Whether your partner suffers from a substance abuse problem, or his or her issues center around a behavioral addiction such as sex or gambling, you're constantly feeling confused, helpless and alone. You may want so desperately to be able to help, but you're not [...]

According to recent epidemiological studies, as many as 50% of individuals with mental health diagnosis also suffer from co-occurring substance abuse disorders. While substance dependence and withdrawal can actually be the cause of psychiatric symptoms, such as paranoia, hallucinations, delusions and panic attacks, many psychiatric conditions are pre-existing and are exacerbated, or even quieted momentarily, [...]

  It is not easy for someone who struggles with an addiction to a substance (such as alcohol or drugs), or a behavior (such as sex or gambling) to admit that he or she needs counselling. In fact, most people who have an addiction, experience a great deal of fear and trepidation when they think [...]

Generally speaking, people who are addicted to sex tend to organize everything in their lives around sex. It's actually quite similar to the way drug addicts organize their lives around getting their next high. Perhaps you have concerns about yourself, and you're wondering if you might be dealing with a sexual addiction. Or, maybe you [...]

Sexual relationships are a part of every adult's life. Whether you are single, married or in any type of relationship, sexual activities and thoughts are normal and healthy parts of our psyche. Nevertheless, there is a line between healthy sexual behaviours and unhealthy sexual behaviours. Sexual Addiction is a very real phenomenon. It can be [...]

People fortunate enough not to grapple with powerful addictive disorders, may not understand just how powerful it is. Some people don't realize it is a chronic disease, much like diabetes, which must be treated and managed throughout one's life. Those who don't fully understand the power of this disease might think addicts should simply cease [...]

According to a widely used Stages of Change model that was first developed in the 1970s, coming to terms with your addiction and exploring options for treatment happens in the "Preparation Stage" of change. Perhaps you know you struggle with addiction, but you are not sure yet if you are ready to change; this would [...]