Lifestyle - Addiction Archives

The Connection between Social Media and Suicide

Social media platforms have become a ubiquitous part of everyday life. They offer endless opportunities for connection, entertainment, and self-expression. However, alongside the many benefits of social media lies a darker side, one that has raised increasing concerns among mental health professionals: the connection between social media and suicide.

The Influence of Social Media on Mental Health

Social media can have a profound impact on mental health, particularly among young people and vulnerable persons. While platforms can provide a sense of community and support, they can also exacerbate feelings of loneliness, inadequacy, and depression. The constant barrage of images and posts that highlight the ‘perfect’ lives of others can lead to harmful comparisons and a distorted sense of self-worth.

Research has shown that individuals who spend excessive amounts of time on social media are more likely to experience mental health issues, including depression and anxiety. These issues, if left unaddressed, can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviours. The anonymity and lack of face-to-face interaction on social media can also make it easier for individuals to express these thoughts without seeking help, creating a dangerous cycle.

Cyberbullying and Its Consequences

One of the most significant ways social media contributes to suicide risk is through cyberbullying. Unlike traditional bullying, cyberbullying can be relentless, with no escape for the victim. Harassment, threats, and public shaming can be amplified and perpetuated across platforms, leading to severe emotional distress.

Victims of cyberbullying often feel trapped and powerless, with no way to defend themselves or escape the torment. This overwhelming sense of hopelessness can lead some individuals to consider suicide as their only way out. Tragically, there have been numerous high-profile cases where young people have taken their own lives after being targeted by online bullies.

The Impact on Adolescents

The U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory released the following: “Up to 95% of young people aged 13-17 report using a social media platform. Nearly two-thirds of teenagers report using social media every day and one third report using social media “almost constantly.” “The types of use and content children and adolescents are exposed to pose mental health concerns. Children and adolescents who spend more than 3 hours a day on social media face double the risk of mental health problems including experiencing symptoms of depression and anxiety. This is concerning as a recent survey showed that teenagers spend an average of 3.5 hours a day on social media. And when asked about the impact of social media on their body image, 46% of adolescents aged 13-17 said social media makes them feel worse.”. For more details, refer to the US Surgeon General’s advisory.

The Role of Social Media in Suicide Contagion

Social media can also contribute to a phenomenon known as suicide contagion. When suicide is sensationalised or widely discussed on these platforms, it can sometimes lead to a ‘copycat’ effect, where vulnerable individuals are influenced to take their own lives. This is particularly concerning when graphic images, detailed methods, or glorification of suicide are shared.

The rapid spread of information on social media means that news of a suicide can reach a vast audience almost instantly. While raising awareness about mental health and suicide prevention is critical, there is a fine line between education and harmful exposure. The way suicide is portrayed on social media can have a significant impact on how it is perceived and acted upon by others.

The Potential for Positive Change

Despite the risks, social media also has the potential to be a force for good in suicide prevention. These platforms can be powerful tools for raising awareness, sharing resources, and providing support to those in need. Online communities, mental health campaigns, and hotlines can reach individuals who might not otherwise seek help.

By promoting responsible use of social media and encouraging open conversations about mental health, we can enjoy the positive aspects of these platforms while minimising the risks. Social media companies need to take responsibility by implementing stricter content moderation policies, offering crisis support, and collaborating with mental health organisations.

As individuals, we can contribute by being mindful of our social media habits, supporting friends and loved ones who may be struggling, and advocating for safer online environments. By working together, we can help ensure that social media becomes a platform for positive change rather than a catalyst for tragedy.

If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please reach out to a mental health professional at LifeAssist or contact a suicide prevention hotline in your area. Remember, help is always available, and you are not alone.

zara2024-08-31T08:52:19+00:00

The Truth about Alcohol Abuse

Whilst the clinking of glasses often signifies celebration, there is a darker side of alcohol that often goes unnoticed until significant damage is done. Use of alcohol is often tied to social acceptance and cultural norms – prohibited in some cultures and promoted in others.

Many people feel that they can drink responsibly without placing themselves or others at risk, but there is a fine line between use and abuse of alcohol – when crossed it can be a slippery slide into dependency and addiction. It’s time for us to take a good look at this sensitive topic and consider how it impacts our lives directly and indirectly.

The hidden price

Alcohol abuse doesn’t just wreak havoc on physical health – think liver damage, heart disease, and a weakened immune system – but also takes a toll on mental wellbeing. Anxiety, depression, and cognitive impairments are often exacerbated by excessive drinking. Relationships crumble, careers falter, and personal dreams fade into the background as alcohol takes centre stage.

The deceptive escape

Many turn to alcohol as an escape from life’s pressures, but this relief is fleeting. The temporary numbness is a deceptive mask, hiding deeper issues that only worsen over time. What begins as a coping mechanism can quickly spiral into dependence, trapping individuals in a vicious cycle of abuse.

The path to recovery

Breaking free from alcohol abuse requires courage and support. Recognising the problem is the first step. From there, seeking help—whether through friends, family, or professional services—can start the process to recovery. There’s no shame in asking for help; in fact, it’s a testament to one’s strength and determination to reclaim their life.

A brighter tomorrow

Imagine a life where your health thrives, relationships flourish, and your mind is clear. This isn’t a distant dream but a reachable reality. By addressing alcohol abuse head-on, you can unlock a future filled with genuine joy, unclouded by the haze of alcohol.

The journey may be challenging, but the destination—a life of true wellbeing—is undeniably worth it. Reach out to a LifeAssist Counsellor today.

Cheers to a healthier, happier you!

zara2024-06-30T13:54:25+00:00

‘High’ly Functional

Many individuals struggling with substance abuse manage to maintain a façade of normalcy. These people can hold down jobs, maintain relationships, and appear successful, all while battling their addiction in secret. The term ‘high-functioning addict’ is often used to describe these individuals.

Functioning addicts often go unnoticed because they don’t fit the stereotypical image of addiction. Key characteristics of a high-functioning substance addict include:

Maintaining Responsibilities: They often hold down jobs, attend school, and fulfil family responsibilities, sometimes excelling in these areas despite their addiction.

Concealment: They are skilled at hiding their substance use from colleagues, friends, and family, often going to great lengths to cover up their behaviour.

Justification: They rationalise their substance use, believing they have it under control or using it as a reward for their hard work and achievements.

Inconsistent Behaviour: Although they may seem fine most of the time, there can be occasional lapses or erratic behaviours that hint at their substance use.

Denial: They often deny the extent of their problem, both to themselves and to others, believing they can quit anytime they want or that their usage is not problematic.

Stress and Health Issues: Despite outward appearances, their addiction often leads to internal stress, health problems, and mental health issues over time. Their hidden struggles can be just as damaging, both to themselves and to those around them.

Substance abuse comes in many forms, each with its unique challenges and coping mechanisms. Often, one addiction can lead to another, creating a vicious cycle where individuals seek out new substances or behaviours to achieve the desired effects or cope with the initial addiction’s consequences, referred to as “cross- addiction” or “addiction transfer”.

Alcohol Abuse: Excessive or frequent drinking of alcohol, often used to cope with stress or emotional pain.

Nicotine Abuse: Dependence on cigarettes, vapes, or other tobacco products, commonly used for stress relief.

Prescription Drug Abuse: Misuse of medications such as opioids, benzodiazepines, or stimulants, often originally prescribed for pain, anxiety, or attention disorders.

Illicit Drug Abuse: Use of illegal drugs like cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, or ecstasy to escape life’s pressures or for recreational purposes.

Cannabis Abuse: Overuse or dependency on marijuana for its calming effects.

Inhalant Abuse: Sniffing or inhaling household chemicals like glue, paint thinners, or aerosols to achieve a high.

Hallucinogen Abuse: Use of substances like LSD, psilocybin (magic mushrooms), or PCP to alter perception and escape reality.

Steroid Abuse: Use of anabolic steroids to cope with body image pressures and enhance physical performance.

Over-the-Counter (OTC) Drug Abuse: Misuse of readily available medications like cough syrups or cold medicines containing dextromethorphan or pseudoephedrine.

Caffeine Abuse: Excessive consumption of caffeine through coffee, energy drinks, or supplements, often used to cope with fatigue or enhance productivity.

Substance abuse can have serious physical, professional, and mental health consequences and often requires professional intervention and support to overcome. You are not alone. LifeAssist has a team of counsellors to support you, or a family member, to take charge of addiction. Get in touch now.

zara2024-06-02T09:21:41+00:00

Supporting a loved one with substance abuse problems

Dealing with substance abuse is one of the most challenging experiences anyone can face. Watching a loved one struggle with addiction can be particularly heartbreaking. You undoubtedly want to do everything you can to help them overcome their addiction and regain their health and wellbeing. However, it can be a complex and emotionally demanding task, and it’s essential to approach it methodically, practically and with as much support as possible.

The first step is to educate yourself about addiction. Learn about the physical, psychological, and social effects of drug and alcohol abuse and the various treatment options available. Familiarise yourself with the signs and symptoms of substance abuse, so you can recognise them and take appropriate action.

It’s also important to approach the situation with empathy and compassion. Addiction is a disease, and it’s not something anyone chooses or can control. Your loved one may feel ashamed, guilty, or hopeless, and it’s crucial to show them that you care and are there for them. Listen to them without judgement, offer emotional support, and be patient and understanding.

Another critical aspect is setting boundaries. Addiction can be incredibly manipulative, disruptive and destructive, and protecting yourself and your family from its effects is vital. This may mean establishing strict limits, such as not enabling or making excuses for them, refusing to bail them out of legal or financial problems, or not tolerating abusive or aggressive behaviour.

Treatment for substance abuse can take many forms, from counselling and therapy to medication-assisted treatment and inpatient rehabilitation. Encourage them to speak with a qualified addiction specialist, and offer to help them find the resources they need to get better.

Supporting a loved one with substance abuse problems can be emotionally challenging, and taking care of yourself is essential. Ensure you get enough rest, eat healthily, and engage in activities that bring you joy and fulfilment.

Consider joining a support group for family members of those struggling with addiction, and don’t hesitate to call LifeAssist to help or advice if you need it.

zara2023-03-27T13:47:26+00:00

How to party safely

‘Tis the season to be jolly, but with it comes the prospect of binge drinking, which might be harmful to one’s health. Make sure you and your loved ones are safe at all times with these tips:

Keep tabs. Always let someone know where you are. Downloadable smartphone tracker apps help keep you and your loved ones traceable.
Don’t drink and drive. Organise a lift with a non-drinker, take an uber, or stay with the party hosts. Most car insurances offer discounted rates on services that will take you and your car home safely.
Respect others. Avoid promoting drinking games that cause people to drink more alcohol than they realise.
Look out for friends. If a friend is drunk, encourage them to switch to non-alcoholic drinks and keep an eye on them.

Want to drink less?

Many of us drink alcohol at a party because we’re thirsty. Quench your thirst with water before/during the party to limit your capacity.
Pace yourself. Have non-alcoholic drinks in between. Take small sips, and slow down.
Smaller glasses. Try using smaller glasses and make drinks last longer.
Avoid top-ups. Always finish your drink before getting a new one to track your alcohol consumption.
Eating slows your drinking pace. Alcohol is absorbed slower on a full stomach.
Play pool, dance, engage in stimulating conversation or chew gum. Many people gulp their first drink to avoid initial party awkwardness. You’ll drink less if you have something to do, or keep your mouth occupied.

Want to avoid drinking altogether?

Prepare a script. It’s easier to decline a drink and avoid possible awkwardness if you’ve prepared a response e.g. “I’m going to stick with Sprite tonight, thanks” or “I’m up early tomorrow.”
Be creative. It’s tempting to drink alcoholic drinks because they may look more interesting than your boring bottle of sparkling water. Bring non-alcoholic drinks that excite you and get creative by adding fruit or other mixers.
Sit with feelings. Instead of diving for a drink, practice accepting feelings of social anxiety, boredom, or frustration. The more you can tolerate being in the moment, no matter what, the less likely you’ll drink away the feelings you don’t like.
Keep to your departure time. We often have the best intentions at the start of a party but later on, boundaries often fly out the window. Planning your departure in advance can protect you from regrets. But if you’re having a ball and feeling strong, keep partying!

Are you worried about your own, or a family member’s alcohol usage? Reach out to speak to a professional counsellor for guidance.

zara2022-11-30T16:42:16+00:00

Tis’ the season to be jolly

Many of us look forward to celebrations at this time of year, and for some, it’s an opportunity to kick back and relax with a couple of alcoholic beverages. However, drinking beyond one’s limits can have adverse consequences, such as fights, motor vehicle accidents, and in some cases leading to depression and in worst-case scenarios, fatalities.

Immediate effects

The specific effects of alcohol on each individual will vary; but it’s impossible to make good decisions when you’re intoxicated, and there’s no way to sober up quickly.

Initially, drinking may make you feel happy and excited, but it decreases inhibitions and leads to reckless, sometimes dangerous decisions such as drunk driving, or unprotected sex, followed by severe slumps in mood.

As more alcohol is consumed, reaction times get slower and behaviour becomes poorly controlled, sometimes even aggressive—leading to fights and other types of violence.

Alcohol, both over time and after a single incident of binge drinking, can damage the heart, leading to strokes, high blood pressure, and irregular heartbeats called “holiday heart syndrome,” which can cause heart attacks, even in the young and healthy.

Your immune system also takes a knock. Even one night of drinking a little too much can affect your body’s ability to fight infections, for up to 24 hours.

Continued drinking can also lead to blackouts, alcohol poisoning accompanied by severe vomiting, liver damage, and at even higher levels, can stop vital life functions.

Don’t be fooled

Many think that if they stop drinking and have a cup of coffee, they will sober up and be able to drive safely. The truth is that alcohol continues to affect the brain and body long after the last drink. It enters the bloodstream from the stomach, causing unnecessary risks to your health and personal safety for hours.

Plan ahead

Don’t underestimate the effects of alcohol indulgence this holiday season. If you decide to drink, stick to a limit (one or two drinks), and make sure you don’t drive or swim under the influence.

If you feel that you or a family member have a drinking problem, please call LifeAssist to talk to a counsellor. Let us help you.

zara2021-12-01T10:31:36+00:00

Caring Families

When looking for signs of drug use in children or young people the language that they use to talk about drugs can be one of the first warning signs. Do you know the slang?

Marijuana: Dagga, Zol, Ganja and Joint

Nyope: Whoonga or Wunga

Cocaine: Coke, Yayo, Blow and Klippe

Mandrax: White Pipe, Buttons, or Doodies

Ecstasy: Molly, Love Drug or Disco Biscuits

Heroine: H, Junk or Smack

Contact LifeAssist for guidance if you suspect your child is using drugs.

zara2021-04-14T09:01:39+00:00

Substance Abuse – Signs of children using drugs

For many parents finding out that their child is using drugs is their worst nightmare. Teens who abuse drugs may suffer emotional and physical consequences and are at more risk of becoming addicted later on. It’s vital to watch out for common signs of drug abuse in your kids. The earlier they get help, the better. Here are some signs and symptoms to look out for:

Drastic changes in health and hygiene. Track marks, frequent injuries, headaches, too little or too much sleep, a dirty or messy appearance.
Changes at home or school. Drug paraphernalia like pipes or foil, complaints from the teacher, stealing items or money, bunking school, bad results on tests or reports.
Changes in behaviour. Ignoring rules, behaving recklessly, disappearing, anger outbursts, moodiness, arguing with everyone, secretive behaviour, restlessness.
Emotional changes. Withdrawal, isolation, depression, talk of suicide, anxiety
Family History. Addiction can be genetic, so if there are addicts on either side of the family your child may be more at risk.
Environment. Your child is more at risk if there are other drug users in the home, or if you live in a community with high rates of substance abuse.

By taking an interest in your child’s life and making time to have open and honest conversations you are more likely to pick up when something is wrong. If you are concerned that your child may be using drugs, contact LifeAssist for guidance and support.

Sources:

https://www.psychologytoday.com/za/blog/when-kids-call-the-shots/201805/5-warning-signs-your-teenager-may-be-using-drugs

https://africacheck.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/3rd-Annual-Youth-Risk-Survey-2011.pdf

zara2021-03-17T11:47:34+00:00

How Substance Abuse Affects Families

Drug addiction and substance abuse affect not only the addicted person themselves, but also their loved ones. Children, spouses, life-partners and parents all feel the impact of substance abuse.

While drug addicts need professional medical care and compassion to help them overcome their addictions, family members also need support and counselling to help them cope.

Denial and Enabling Doesn’t Help Addicts

Often, family members with the best of intentions can actually be doing more harm than good, without even realising it. Many addicts have close family members who are in denial about the problem, or who enable their addictive patterns by helping them to avoid the consequences.

Common unhealthy reactions to a loved one’s addiction include:

Denial: Refusing to admit that someone they love has an addiction problem, ignoring and avoiding the problem.
Co-dependence: An unhealthy attachment and involvement in a loved one’s life, a pattern of putting this other person’s needs before their own, and feelings of guilt when not taking care of the other person’s needs.
Enabling: Making excuses or defending the addict’s decisions or lying on their behalf to help them cover their tracks and avoid trouble.

While many people follow these behaviours because they believe they are helping or protecting the addict, they are unfortunately making the situation worse. The only way to truly help someone with an addiction is to face the facts and seek professional medical attention.

Advice for Family Members

If you have a relative or even a close friend with a substance abuse problem, here are some ways you can help yourself, and in turn, help them.

Learn the facts about addiction. Do some research and speak healthcare professionals. This will help you to separate the myths from the facts, and to better understand your loved one’s behaviour.
Don’t make yourself responsible for your loved one’s happiness or recovery. You can provide support, but they need to do the work to overcome their own addiction. You can’t do it for them.
Set healthy boundaries. Putting rules in place is part of loving someone without enabling them.
Attend family counselling sessions, where you and your loved one can discuss the issue in a safe, neutral environment with a professional.
Seek out support groups for families affected by addiction. Here you can connect with others who have been through similar experiences.

Once your loved one has admitted to having a problem and started the journey towards recovery, healing can begin. While they are going through this process, the best way to support them is to take care of your own emotional health and make sure you are getting the support you need as well.

Sources:

10 Tips to Help Family Members of those Struggling with Addiction Cope. Retrieved from: https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/family-friend-portal/tips-help-cope/#gref

zara2021-04-01T13:53:58+00:00

Cardiovascular risk factors

There are many risk factors associated with coronary heart disease and stroke. The major risk factors – tobacco use, alcohol use, high blood pressure (hypertension), high cholesterol, obesity, physical inactivity and unhealthy diets – have a high prevalence across the world.

Of particular significance in developing countries is the fact that while they are grappling with increasing rates of cardiovascular disease, they still face the scourges of poor nutrition and infectious disease. Nevertheless, with the exception of sub-Saharan Africa, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the developing world.

You will not necessarily develop cardiovascular disease if you have a risk factor. But the more risk factors you have the greater is the likelihood that you will, unless you take action to modify your risk factors and work to prevent them compromising your heart health.

Modifiable risk factors

Hypertension is the single biggest risk factor for stroke. It also plays a significant role in heart attacks. It can be prevented and successfully treated but only if you have it diagnosed and stick to your recommended management plan.

Abnormal blood lipid levels, that is high total cholesterol, high levels of triglycerides, high levels of low-density lipoprotein or low levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol all increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. Changing to a healthy diet, exercise and medication can modify your blood lipid profile.

Tobacco use, whether it is smoking or chewing tobacco, increases risks of cardiovascular disease. The risk is especially high if you started smoking when young, smoke heavily or are a woman. Passive smoking is also a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Stopping tobacco use can reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease significantly, no matter how long you have smoked.

Physical inactivity increases the risk of heart disease and stroke by 50%. Obesity is a major risk for cardiovascular disease and predisposes you to diabetes. Diabetes is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease.

Type 2 diabetes is a major risk factor for coronary heart disease and stroke. Having diabetes makes you twice as likely as someone who does not to develop cardiovascular disease. If you do not control diabetes then you are more likely to develop cardiovascular disease at an earlier age than other people and it will be more devastating. If you are a pre-menopausal woman, your diabetes cancels out the protective effect of oestrogen and your risk of heart disease rises significantly.

A diet high in saturated fat increases the risk of heart disease and stroke. It is estimated to cause about 31% of coronary heart disease and 11% of stroke worldwide.

Being poor, no matter where in the globe, increases your risk of heart disease and stroke. A chronically stressful life, social isolation, anxiety and depression increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Having one to two alcohol drinks a day may lead to a 30% reduction in heart disease, but above this level alcohol consumption will damage the heart muscle.

Certain medicines may increase the risk of heart disease such as the contraceptive pill and hormone replacement therapy (HRT).

Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) is a risk factor for cardiovascular mortality.

Non-modifiable risk factors

Simply getting old is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease; risk of stroke doubles every decade after age 55.

Your family’s history of cardiovascular disease indicates your risk. If a first-degree blood relative has had coronary heart disease or stroke before the age of 55 years (for a male relative) or 65 years (for a female relative) your risk increases.

Your gender is significant: as a man you are at greater risk of heart disease than a pre-menopausal woman. But once past the menopause, a woman’s risk is similar to a man’s. Risk of stroke is similar for men and women.

Your ethnic origin plays a role. People with African or Asian ancestry are at higher risks of developing cardiovascular disease than other racial groups.

Information provided by:
World Heart Federation, www.worldheartfederation.org

2021-04-14T09:10:26+00:00

Lifestyle – Addiction