Tag: counselling for addiction
Growing up with addicted parents
Growing up with addicted parents can be an incredibly difficult experience for children. Addiction can impact every aspect of a family’s life, from the emotional well-being of each family member to the practical aspects of day-to-day living. Children who grow up in households where addiction is present often face unique challenges that can affect their development and future.
One of the most significant challenges that children of addicted parents face is emotional instability. Addiction is often accompanied by mood swings, outbursts of anger, and unpredictable behavior. Children may never know what to expect from their parents, which can lead to feelings of anxiety, fear, and confusion. This can make it challenging for them to form healthy relationships in the future, as they may struggle to trust others or feel safe around them.
One of the most significant issues that these children face is anger management problems. Children living in households with addicted parents often experience a range of emotions, including fear, sadness, guilt, and anger. However, anger, in particular, can be a prevalent and disruptive emotion for these children.
Children who struggle with anger management issues may display it in the form of outbursts, temper tantrums, verbal or physical aggression, and even self-harm. These behaviors can create additional stress for the child and the family, exacerbating the challenges of living with addiction.
Children of addicted parents may also face the risk of neglect or abuse. Addiction can impair a parent’s judgment and decision-making abilities, making it difficult for them to prioritize their children’s needs. In extreme cases, addiction can lead to neglect or abuse of children, as parents may be too intoxicated or preoccupied to care for them properly. This can have lasting effects on a child’s mental health and well-being, leading to long-term trauma or even physical harm.They may be physically present but emotionally absent, leaving children feeling lonely, isolated, and confused
Addiction can lead to financial instability, as parents may struggle to hold down a job or prioritize their spending. This can mean that children may not have access to basic necessities like food, clothing, or housing. Additionally, addiction can make it challenging for parents to maintain consistent routines or schedules, leading to unpredictable home life.
Despite these challenges, it is essential to recognize that children of addicted parents can and do overcome these obstacles. With the right support and resources, they can build resilience and learn to cope with the challenges they face. This may include seeking out therapy or counseling to address the emotional impact of addiction, connecting with community resources for basic needs like food and shelter, or even finding a supportive network of friends or family members who can offer a stable and positive environment.
In addition to seeking out support, it is also crucial for children of addicted parents to practice self-care. This may involve setting boundaries with their parents or learning healthy coping mechanisms to manage stress and anxiety. It may also involve seeking out opportunities for personal growth and development, such as pursuing education or a career path that aligns with their interests and passions.
Growing up with addicted parents can be a challenging and traumatic experience for children, but it is not an insurmountable one. With the right support and resources, children can learn to overcome the challenges they face and build a fulfilling and happy life for themselves. By recognizing the impact of addiction on families and communities, we can work together to provide the support and resources necessary to help children of addicted parents thrive.
Relationship between grief and substance abuse
Our professional team at the Toronto treatment centre understands how grief and substance abuse can be related. For some people, substance abuse may be a way of coping with the pain and emotional distress of grief. This is particularly true for people who have lost someone close to them or have experienced a major life event, such as a divorce or job loss. Substance abuse can provide temporary relief from the intense feelings of sadness, loneliness, and hopelessness that often accompany grief.
Facts about marijuana use
More than 6.2 million Canadians have used weed, and many have become dependent on it. But, should you quit smoking weed? Weed products are known for their addictive properties and it is the second most used mind-altering substance in North America. Many have the impression that we can’t become addicted to weed. However, the National Institute of Drug Abuse (NIDA) considers marijuana an addictive substance that contributes to mental health disorders. Psychological dependence is very much possible in which one’s body and brain adapt to marijuana, as it changes the natural ways the brain works, negatively altering its baseline state.
What is withdrawal from marijuana like?
Withdrawal typically starts 1-2 days after you quit, and symptoms may include nausea, headaches, depressed mood, trouble sleeping, nervousness, increased anxiety, decreased appetite, and troubling dreams. The way you experience symptoms depends on how often and how much you consumed before quitting. Chronic cannabis users may also experience long-term health problems.
Having an addiction or dependence on marijuana can lead to effects even when not in withdrawal. THC can cause cognitive impairment, diminished coordination, a slower reaction time, and paranoia. The THC in weed affects dopamine, which leads to euphoria, pain modulation and anxiety. The more weed you consume, the harder it becomes to quit. Abuse of weed can make new things feel boring to you, ruining the novelties of life. Newer studies show that too much marijuana use during adolescence can cause brain long-term damage.
Addiction affects all parts of life negatively. But, quitting smoking weed on your own can be difficult, and many don’t succeed. It’s easy to get discouraged. Thankfully, there are many ways to treat this addiction and help you quit. This is facilitated with behavioural treatments and medical supervision.
Are you or someone you know struggling with an addiction to marijuana? Please contact us, we can help.