Are you ready to transform your recovery journey and optimize your well-being with the power of nutrition? In this episode of Cracking Addiction, we delve into why the Mediterranean diet is a game-changer for anyone on a path to recovery from substance use disorder. The Mediterranean diet isn't just a buzzword—it's a scientifically backed lifestyle that improves physical and mental health. You’ll discover its key components, including olive oil, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, and how the...
Nov 13, 2024•15 min•Season 3Ep. 170
Are you aware of how much alcohol is too much? Join me, Dr. Ferghal Armstrong, as I delve into the startling epidemiology of alcohol and alcohol misuse, based on the latest data from the National Drug Strategy Household Survey 2022-2023. Uncover the hidden facts and societal impacts of risky drinking habits, and learn how different countries set their alcohol consumption guidelines. In this video, I'll break down the confusing variations of what constitutes a "standard drink" in Australia, Canad...
Nov 06, 2024•12 min•Season 3Ep. 169
🚨 Important Update on Paracetamol in Australia! 🚨 Are you aware of the recent changes in paracetamol regulations and its implications for pain management? Whether you're a healthcare professional, student, or someone who frequently uses paracetamol, this must-see episode of "Cracking Addiction" is packed with crucial insights! Join Dr. Ferghal Armstrong in our latest episode where he breaks down: The various theories behind paracetamol's mechanism of action A recent meta-analysis on paracetamo...
Oct 30, 2024•10 min•Season 3Ep. 168
Are you curious about what really causes addiction? In this eye-opening video, I dive deep into the complexities of addiction, examining the genetic vulnerability, environmental influences, and the significant role of trauma. You'll discover how substances like nicotine, heroin, and alcohol increase dopamine in the brain, making us crave them even when we don't necessarily enjoy them. Keyword alert: If you're fascinated by addiction, neuroscience, or mental health, this video is tailor-made for ...
Oct 23, 2024•10 min•Season 3Ep. 167
Are you curious about the role of urine drug screens in addiction treatment? Wondering if they're necessary or just a hassle? Join me, Dr. Ferghal Armstrong, and the insightful Dr. Richard Bradlow as we dive deep into the debate around urine drug screens and their place in modern clinics. We'll uncover the science, the ethics, and the real-world impacts these tests have on patients and practitioners alike. In this eye-opening episode, we explore whether urine drug screens help build trust or dam...
Oct 16, 2024•15 min•Season 3Ep. 166
Are you looking to deepen your understanding of the AA 12-Step Program and peer support in addiction recovery? You've found the perfect video! In this engaging chat, I sit down with Jesse Ball to uncover the transformative power of peer support and the truths behind the AA 12-Step Program. We dive right in by explaining the fundamental structure of Alcoholics Anonymous and other 12-Step groups like Narcotics Anonymous, Gamblers Anonymous, and so on, breaking down the processes that make these me...
Oct 09, 2024•12 min•Season 3Ep. 165
Uncovering the Power of Ibogaine: A Game-Changer for Addiction Treatment [Psychedelic Medicine, Ibogaine, Addiction Recovery] Are you ready to revolutionise your understanding of addiction treatment? In this eye-opening episode of Cracking Addiction, I sit down with the legendary Zappy Zapolin, founder of the Mind Army and renowned as the "psychedelic concierge to the stars." Together, we delve into the transformative world of psychedelic medicine, focusing specifically on the groundbreaking pot...
Oct 02, 2024•24 min•Season 3Ep. 164
In this episode of Cracking Addiction, I sit down with Jesse Ball to explore the profound journey of breaking free from addiction and embracing a fulfilling life in recovery. If you're looking for motivation and real-life insights on addiction, recovery, and maintaining sobriety, this video is just for you! Keywords: addiction, recovery, sobriety. We dive deep into Jesse's personal experiences, from the pivotal moments that made recovery attractive to the ongoing practices that help him stay cle...
Sep 25, 2024•23 min•Season 3Ep. 163
Are you curious about how alcohol really affects your heart health? In this eye-opening episode of "Cracking Addiction," Dr. Richard Bradlow and I, Dr. Ferghal Armstrong, dive deep into the science behind alcohol consumption and its impacts on diseases like high blood pressure and heart disease. This video is packed with insights that you won't want to miss! Alcohol and heart health are two critical subjects that often spark extensive debates. In today's discussion, we'll explore the common ques...
Sep 18, 2024•11 min•Season 3Ep. 162
Mastering Opioid Risk Management: Practical Tips & Life-Saving Strategies with Dr. Ferghal Armstrong Are you concerned about the risks associated with opioids? Want to understand practical strategies for opioid risk management? This is the video just for you! Join me, Dr. Ferghal Armstrong, and Dr. Richard Bradlow as we delve deep into the intricacies of managing opioid toxicity, dependency, and safety. In this episode of Cracking Addiction, we tackle the pressing [keywords "opioid risk mana...
Sep 11, 2024•21 min•Season 3Ep. 161
Are you concerned about the dangers of benzodiazepines and opioids? Curious about how these medications impact individuals with substance use disorders? In this episode of Cracking Addiction, Dr. Ferghal Armstrong and Dr. Richard Bradlow tackle the pressing issues surrounding the prescription of benzodiazepines and opioids. This is essential viewing for anyone interested in the complex dynamics of medication management and opioid stewardship. From the outset, we delve into the rising legal and e...
Sep 04, 2024•32 min•Season 3Ep. 160
In this episode, Dr. Ferghal Armstrong is joined by Andy Smith to demystify appreciative inquiry, a groundbreaking approach to solving problems by concentrating on what works. Andy walks us through his journey from an IT professional disenchanted with his career, to becoming a hypnotherapist and eventually an expert in appreciative inquiry. He discusses how appreciative inquiry diverges from traditional problem-solving methods and shares compelling case studies, including an intriguing example f...
Aug 28, 2024•20 min•Season 3Ep. 159
Welcome to another insightful episode of Cracking Addiction, where we delve into the intricate connections between substance use and sleep architecture. I'm your host, Dr. Ferghal Armstrong, and joining me today is Dr. Richard Bradlow. In this episode, we dive deep into understanding how various substances, particularly those that are misused, impact sleep quality and patterns. We will explore the challenging phenomenon of post-detox insomnia and its implications on relapse. Dr. Bradlow shares p...
Aug 21, 2024•21 min•Season 3Ep. 158
In this episode of "Cracking Addiction," we dive deep into the concept of "resilience" and its critical role in addiction recovery. I'm Dr. Ferghal Armstrong, and joining me is the insightful Dr. Richard Bradlow. Together, we unravel the layers of how resilience can make or break the recovery process for individuals battling addiction. Resilience in addiction recovery is more than just a buzzword; it's the lifeline that enables one to bounce back amidst life’s hardships. Dr. Richard Bradlow and ...
Aug 14, 2024•14 min•Season 3Ep. 157
Dr Ferghal Armstrong and Dr Richard Bradlow explore the significance of melatonin in sleep. Melatonin, a neurotransmitter produced by the pineal gland, plays a crucial role in helping you fall asleep. The discussion touches on various aspects of melatonin including its production, function, and how it can be optimised for better sleep. Ferghal and Richard also dive into the intricacies of sleep hygiene, shedding light on actionable steps that anyone can take to enhance their sleep quality. Learn...
Aug 07, 2024•28 min•Season 3Ep. 156
I sit down with the inspiring Jesse Ball as we dive deep into the concept of spirituality and authenticity in recovery. The enlightening conversation reveals how Jesse transformed his life by reconnecting with his true self and breaking free from the chains of addiction. This is your opportunity to understand the profound impact of spiritual awakening and authentic living on the road to recovery. Throughout this episode, Jesse and I unpack the disconnection that fueled his addiction and explore ...
Jul 31, 2024•21 min•Season 3Ep. 155
Recovery isn’t just about stopping substance use; it’s about transforming your life. This episode covers key points like the idea of “white knuckling” versus a more holistic approach to sobriety, and how hitting rock bottom can be a powerful catalyst for change. Jesse, a former addict turned lived experience peer worker, shares his own journey, revealing how finding your authentic self can turn recovery into an exciting, fulfilling process. **Learning Outcomes:** 1. **Understanding the True Natu...
Jul 24, 2024•28 min•Season 3Ep. 154
Ferghal Armstrong sits down with Thomas Conrad, a recovery expert who transformed his life from rock bottom to running a successful addiction treatment centre. This episode is filled with powerful insights and actionable strategies that can guide both individuals and their families through the labyrinthine path of addiction and recovery. If you're committed to understanding the challenges of addiction and finding effective ways to overcome them, this episode is a must-listen. **Episode Summary**...
Jul 17, 2024•36 min•Season 3Ep. 153
Have you ever wondered how the quality of your sleep impacts your mental health? Or how the intricacies of sleep deprivation can influence everything from decision-making to long-term brain health? In this riveting episode of "Cracking Addiction," Dr Ferghal Armstrong and Dr Richard Bradlow dive deep into the complex, bidirectional relationship between sleep and mental health. Whether you're grappling with insomnia, curious about ADHD, or just keen to improve your sleep hygiene, this episode pac...
Jul 10, 2024•21 min•Season 3Ep. 152
Dr. Ferghal Armstrong and Jesse Ball explore the foundational aspects of early recovery from addiction, highlighting the roles of honesty, support systems, and effective routines. Jesse shares how a no-nonsense, empathetic counsellor with lived experience catalysed his transformation. This episode delves deep into practical strategies to navigate the vulnerable early stages of sobriety and sustain long-term recovery. Listen in for invaluable lessons that go beyond recovery—these are life skills ...
Jul 03, 2024•18 min•Season 3Ep. 151
In this episode, we have the privilege of hearing from Jesse Ball, a courageous individual with lived experience in the realm of addiction and recovery. Jesse takes us on an intimate journey through his turbulent past, sharing candidly about his use of various substances starting from his early teens, driven by the desire to fit in and cope with life’s challenges. He opens up about the harrowing depths of his addiction, the disconnection from self, and the mental and physical toll it took on him...
Jun 26, 2024•20 min•Season 3Ep. 150
Are you or someone you know struggling with alcohol use disorder? In this video, I sit down with Jonathan Hunt-Glassman, the CEO of Ore Health, to uncover groundbreaking strategies for managing alcohol use disorder. From effective **medication** options to the critical role of digital health technologies, we delve deep into how you can begin your journey to recovery today. Jonathan and I discuss everything from first-line treatments like **naltrexone** and **acamprosate** to alternative medicati...
Jun 19, 2024•21 min•Season 3Ep. 149
In this compelling episode of Cracking Addiction, Dr Ferghal Armstrong welcomes Jonathan Hunt-Glassman, an individual with lived experience of alcohol misuse and the CEO of Oar Health. Jonathan provides a raw and honest account of his struggles with alcohol, starting from high school right through to his twenties. His journey involved excessive binge drinking, blackouts, and multi-day benders, ultimately leading to the physical and mental health repercussions associated with alcohol addiction. *...
Jun 12, 2024•19 min•Season 3Ep. 148
Are you curious about the hidden dangers lurking in the world of synthetic opioids? In this episode of "Cracking Addiction," Dr Ferghal Armstrong sits down with the incredible Prof. Suzanne Neilsen, Deputy Director of the Monash Addiction Research Centre, to dive deep into the chilling rise of nitazenes in Australia. As high-potency synthetic opioids, nitazenes are causing waves of concern, and their impact could be closer to home than you think. What's a nitazene, you ask? These potent syntheti...
Jun 05, 2024•16 min•Season 3Ep. 147
Dr Ferghal introduces us to Helen, a Reiki master, who delves into the origins of Reiki and its application in addiction recovery. Discover the transformative power of Reiki healing and how it can complement traditional methods of treatment for substance use disorders. Gain insights into the emotional causes of addiction and explore how Reiki can aid in relapse prevention and detoxification. Join us as we unravel the potential of Reiki in supporting individuals on their journey to recovery from ...
May 29, 2024•19 min•Season 3Ep. 146
In this episode, Dr Ferghal Armstrong and Dr Richard Bradlow unpack the complex relationship between alcohol, thiamine deficiency, and the severe neurological condition Wernicke’s encephalopathy. Ferghal opens by questioning long-held beliefs about alcohol’s direct effects on thiamine absorption, while Richard provides a contextual understanding of the symptomatic manifestations. The discussion touches on the practicalities of diagnosing and treating thiamine deficiency, focusing particularly on...
May 22, 2024•24 min•Season 3Ep. 145
In the latest episode of "Cracking Addiction," Dr Ferghal continues the journey with Dr Richard, exploring the critical subject of alcohol withdrawal. This episode is particularly focused on the timings, the natural history of withdrawal symptoms, and the potential complications faced during alcohol detoxification. The discourse provides key insights on when symptoms typically appear, ranging from mild to severe cases, and discusses methods of intervention based on the severity of withdrawal sym...
May 15, 2024•25 min•Season 3Ep. 144
In this riveting episode of Cracking Addiction, Dr Ferghal Armstrong and Dr Richard Bradlow shed light on the complex issue of alcohol use and withdrawal, providing critical insights and practical guidance for individuals and healthcare professionals alike. The duo explores detailed diagnostic criteria and the implications of daily alcohol consumption and addresses the signs that might indicate a move towards severe withdrawal symptoms. Learn about the societal impacts of drinking norms and the ...
May 08, 2024•22 min•Season 3Ep. 143
Dr Ferghal Armstrong explores the profound impact of lifestyle interventions on addiction recovery, focusing on the crucial role of tobacco cessation within the addiction and mental health treatment spaces. Dr Armstrong discusses recent AOD (Alcohol and Other Drugs) guidelines that integrate lifestyle medicine, highlighting how these can dramatically improve patient outcomes. The discussion extends to the implications of smoking on the efficacy of psychiatric medications and overall prognosis fo...
May 01, 2024•13 min•Season 3Ep. 142
Dr Ferghal Armstrong addresses the often-underestimated influence of diet on addiction recovery and mental health. By contrasting Australian Dietary guidelines with the detriments of ultra-processed "junk" food, Ferghal uncovers the profound impact that food choices have on our overall health and capacity to overcome addiction. Exploring various diets, such as the Mediterranean, DASH, and MIND diets, Ferghal emphasizes the benefits of whole foods and the avoidance of high saturated fat, sodium, ...
Apr 24, 2024•10 min•Season 3Ep. 141
