Author: Mitchell Webb

Abstract Addiction is a complex, multifaceted phenomenon that has been described variously as a disease, disorder, syndrome, obsessive-compulsive behaviour, learned behaviour, or spiritual malady. Modern scientific understanding emphasises addiction as a chronic brain disorder shaped by neurobiological changes, learning, and social context. This article examines each conceptualisation and presents an integrated definition that aligns with… Continue reading Understanding Addiction: A Modern, Integrative Perspective

Addiction fundamentally alters the brain’s reward and decision-making systems through well-documented neurobiological mechanisms. When substances like drugs (including alcohol and nicotine) are consumed, they trigger massive releases of dopamine in the brain’s reward circuit, particularly in areas like the nucleus accumbens and ventral tegmental area. With repeated exposure, the brain adapts by reducing natural dopamine… Continue reading Addiction – What You Need To Know

The phrase “Say what you mean, but don’t say it mean” is all about the balance between honesty and kindness in communication. Here’s what it means: Why it matters: This phrase promotes healthy communication. It’s a reminder that:

Overall Global Leading Cause of Death Breakdown by Category By Age Age Group Leading Cause(s) of Death Infants (<1) Neonatal conditions, birth complications, infections Children (1–14) Accidents (injuries), infections (low-income countries), cancers (e.g., leukemia) Youth (15–24) Road injuries, suicide, homicide (varies by country) Adults (25–44) Injuries (road, drug overdose), suicide, HIV/AIDS (in some countries), heart… Continue reading Mortality Determinants

If you’ve ever found yourself thinking “Part of me wants to change… but part of me’s not sure”, you’re not alone. That back-and-forth, weighing things up—“Should I? Shouldn’t I?”—is a normal part of how people process big (and small) decisions. In counselling, this is called ambivalence, and rather than seeing it as a barrier, Motivational… Continue reading Thinking About Change? How Motivational Interviewing Can Help

Supporting someone who’s having thoughts of suicide is one of the most important, and at times most challenging, parts of a support persons role. People who experience suicidality can vary from passing ideas to serious planning and often come from a place of deep emotional pain. We all have a duty to respond with care,… Continue reading Suicidality: Talking About Suicide and Support

Social psychological models of behaviour attempt to explain why individuals act the way they do in various social contexts. These models integrate individual, interpersonal, and societal factors to provide insights into behaviour. Here’s an overview of some key models: 1. Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) proposes that behaviour is influenced by: – Attitudes toward the… Continue reading Predicting behaviour: Social Psychological Models of Behaviour

Albert Ellis, in his Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy (REBT), identified a number of dysfunctional beliefs that people often hold. Ellis intentionally adopts extreme views to emphasize how people often exaggerate their perspectives irrationally. He referred to this tendency as “awfulizing,” where we negatively overgeneralise situations. This behaviour can stem from a strong desire for certainty,… Continue reading Albert Ellis’s “Irrational Belief’s about Life” and Self-stereotyping

Managing moderate to intense anxiety often involves a combination of techniques that address both the mind and body. Here are some effective strategies: 1. Breathing Exercises: Practice slow, deep breathing to calm your nervous system. For example, inhale for a count of four, hold for four, and exhale for four. 2. Progressive Muscle Relaxation: Tense… Continue reading Effective strategies and techniques for moderate to intense anxiety:

Psychological factors influencing drug use in Sydney’s gay community often stem from unique social and emotional challenges. Research highlights that stigma, discrimination, self-stigma, and internalised homophobia can lead to feelings of isolation, shame, and mental distress, which may increase vulnerability to substance use. Additionally, the normalisation of partying in certain social settings, such as bars… Continue reading Biopsychosocial factors influencing drug use in the LGBTQIA+ Community

Historical Context Historically, mental illness and addiction have been misunderstood and stigmatized. For much of history, these conditions were seen as moral failings or character flaws rather than medical issues. This has led to a persistent stigma that continues to influence societal attitudes. Lack of Awareness and Education There is still a significant lack of… Continue reading The continued differential treatment of mental illness and addiction compared to physical illness by broader society is rooted in several factors:

Psychologists believe that the core issues of anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa are multifaceted, involving a combination of biological, psychological, and social factors. Here are some of the key issues: Anorexia Nervosa Bulimia Nervosa Both disorders are complex and can have severe physical and psychological consequences. Treatment typically involves addressing these core issues through therapy,… Continue reading Eating Disorders DSM-5