The Risks of Trending Laughing Gas

In recent times, a concerning trend has emerged on social media platforms and among certain social circles – the recreational use of laughing gas, also known as nitrous oxide.   The effects of nitrous oxide, commonly used for medical and dental purposes, may induce short-lived euphoria and laughter. The increasing popularity of its recreational use raises…

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Healing Addiction at its Core 

At New Leaf Recovery, we understand the necessity of healing addiction at its core, specific to each person. We aim to look at the intricacies of addiction and provide comprehensive treatments that go beyond the surface-level symptoms.    It’s important to explore the profound connection between trauma and substance dependency. At New Leaf Recovery, we focus…

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The Science Behind the Addiction to Ultra-Processed Foods 

In the pursuit of modern convenience, ultra-processed foods have seamlessly integrated into our daily lives. From the convenience store snacks to the savoury delights that line supermarket aisles. These culinary creations seem to possess an irresistible allure.   However, beneath the surface of our cravings for these processed delights lies a complex interplay of neurological and…

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Love Shouldn’t Hurt: Understanding & Dealing with Love Addiction

As human beings, we are all naturally wired to want the perfect relationship with someone who loves us for who we are and wants to spend their time with us. However, for some, this can be difficult to find or may lead to behaviour that causes concern to those around you.   But what is love…

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Beyond the Bulk: The Dark Side of Steroid Abuse

Over the last few years, the UK has seen a rise in the use of anabolic steroids across fitness enthusiasts and wider demographics. This is a growing trend amongst young men, highlighting concerns about the impact these steroids can have on health and society.   According to research by UKAD in 2020, it is estimated that…

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Elton John’s Story with Addiction

Sir Elton John is one of the music industries most renowned and influential artists of all time, starting his music career in 1969 at the age of 22 years old. In the decades since then, he has sold more than 300 million record globally, won 5 Grammy Awards and has had over 50 hits in…

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Academic Stress and Substance Use

In the world of academia, where smart ideas happen, there’s a hidden issue—a quiet struggle with substances. Imagine a wise professor having a quiet glass of wine at a conference or a hardworking student finding comfort in a late-night drink to ease stress. These scenes, rarely talked about openly, show a real problem—academic stress mixed…

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Stigma of Addiction

Addiction has been recognised since 1952, when it was added by the American Psychiatric Association into the first edition of their Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, more commonly known as the DSM. It was listed within the Sociopathic Personality Disturbance section, and included subtypes of ‘alcoholism’ and ‘drug addiction’. Despite the large strides…

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The Role of Setting Boundaries in Addiction Recovery

Setting boundaries in addiction recovery can be an extremely daunting undertaking, especially when you have to set boundaries with your loved ones. The journey towards addiction recovery is a demanding and often uncomfortable path that requires unwavering commitment, resilience, and a deep understanding of oneself. As individuals embark on this transformative journey, they often discover…

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From Laughter to Legislation: Unpacking the Nitrous Oxide Ban

What is Nitrous Oxide? Nitrous oxide is a colourless gas that you can usually find sold in canisters for a variety of uses. From medical pain relief to aerating whipping cream in cafes. It is also, however, now a controlled class-C drug that could land dealers up to fourteen years in jail. For those caught…

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