Why is Cat so Addictive?

Cat Variants

Khat or “Cat” as it is called in South Africa has two variants; traditionally the drug is derived from the leaves and stem of the Catha edulis plant. It is commonly chewed in the Horn of Africa and the Arabian Peninsula for its psychoactive effects. The drug contains a narcotic compound called cathinone, which acts as a stimulant and produces effects similar to amphetamines or cocaine.

The form known as “cat” however; identifiable by its white/off-white powder form; is a synthetic version and is substantially more potent as it contains the narcotic compound Methcathinone. Worryingly it is also more toxic as when manufacturing this version of the drug, poisonous household cleaning chemicals are often used. Both the chemicals Cathinone and Methcathinone are harmful when used as they stimulate the functioning of the Central Nervous System far beyond the biological baseline and thresholds.

The dangers associated with Cat

One of the many dangers associated with Methcathinone is its highly addictive nature.

Symptoms of Cat can include:

1. depression
2. anxiety,
3. irritability
4. insomnia
5. erratic mood swings
6. depressive episodes with the risk of suicide ideology.

Additionally, chronic khat use has been linked to mental health issues such as psychosis and schizophrenia.

Another danger of khat use is its impact on physical health. The drug has been linked to a range of negative health effects, including cardiovascular problems, oral and oesophageal cancers, and gastrointestinal issues such as constipation and diarrhea. Khat use has also been associated with dental problems, including gum disease and tooth decay.

Common identifiable markers of someone using/abusing Cat include but are not limited to; dilation of pupils, increase in energy, confused or impaired thinking and decision making, profuse sweating, aggression or hostility, rapid speech patterns, and in some cases signs of stimulant-induced Psychosis which can manifest in Feelings disassociation; delusions, paranoia and hallucinating.

Treating Cat Addiction

However, cat addiction can be treated through the correct methods and therapies, as with any addiction it is important to address it holistically and openly.

In conclusion, while the addictive nature of the drug, as well as its negative impacts on physical and mental health, make it a dangerous and highly addictive substance; treatment is available provided the correct treatment methods and therapies are utilised.

Stories of Recovery

• The encouragement, love and support from the team at Crossroads allowed me to eventually see that I was worth something - that my life could be turned around and that I could accomplish the things that had long been a forgotten dream.
  Oliver VG
  Read more
• On the last day of my stint at Crossroads I could only express gratitude towards all who works there. A wise councillor once commented on my question when one is ready for rehab by explaining that when one is ready for rehab, rehab is ready for you.
  Johan B
  Read more
• I was lost and my soul was broken until I ended up at Crossroads and was introduced to the Twelve Steps. With the help of their excellent staff and amazing support I have recently been clean for 18 months, I could not have done it without them!
  Carla S
  Read more
• "Just for today I am more than three years in recovery. I have Cross Roads to thank for this wonderful gift. Cross Roads helped me to set a firm foundation in my recovery on which I can continue to build."
  Angelique J
  Read more

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Start Your Recovery Process With Crossroads Recovery Centre

The real step in starting the recovery process is when the individual realises and admits to having a problem and opens up about their problem and asks for help.                     

How to start your recovery process

Starting your recovery process for someone suffering from the effects of addiction can be a cumbersome process, especially when deciding between the many facilities available. Crossroads Recovery Centre aims to make this process easy and smooth by providing advice and guidance needed to start one’s recovery journey. At Crossroads Recovery Centre we utilize the 12-Step Program when implementing individualized treatment plans for our clients, in a healthy and supportive environment. Crossroads Recovery Centre offers hope in a seemingly bleak situation which is just one phone call away.

Crossroads Recovery Centre offers its clients a safe space, without judgement to express their feelings and experiences without any blame. As soon as you have made the decision to start your Recovery Process, Crossroads Recovery Centre is the way to go.

How to arrange for your recovery

Contact the centre telephonically at Johannesburg Admissions: +27 74 895 1043, Outpatient Admissions: +27 84 840 0079 and Pretoria Admissions: +27 82 653 3311 to arrange for an assessment at Crossroads Recovery Centre. The assessment assists clients who may still be doubting that they have a substance use disorder to know beyond any reasonable doubt that they indeed have a substance use disorder.

When the assessment has been concluded, Crossroads Recovery Centre will recommend an admission at the centre as an inpatient or treatment as an outpatient at the centre.

Stories of Recovery

• The encouragement, love and support from the team at Crossroads allowed me to eventually see that I was worth something - that my life could be turned around and that I could accomplish the things that had long been a forgotten dream.
  Oliver VG
  Read more
• On the last day of my stint at Crossroads I could only express gratitude towards all who works there. A wise councillor once commented on my question when one is ready for rehab by explaining that when one is ready for rehab, rehab is ready for you.
  Johan B
  Read more
• I was lost and my soul was broken until I ended up at Crossroads and was introduced to the Twelve Steps. With the help of their excellent staff and amazing support I have recently been clean for 18 months, I could not have done it without them!
  Carla S
  Read more
• "Just for today I am more than three years in recovery. I have Cross Roads to thank for this wonderful gift. Cross Roads helped me to set a firm foundation in my recovery on which I can continue to build."
  Angelique J
  Read more

Read more

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Crossroads Recovery Centre for Substance Abuse Treatment

In the bustling urban landscape of Johannesburg, there exists a beacon of hope for individuals grappling with substance abuse – Crossroads Recovery Centre. Nestled within the heart of this vibrant city, the centre extends a lifeline towards recovery and a journey towards a brighter future.

Crossroads Recovery Centre embodies compassion, expertise, and individualised care within the realm of addiction treatment. Committed to providing comprehensive substance abuse treatment, including alcohol and drug rehabilitation, it transcends the role of a mere facility, evolving into a sanctuary for transformation and healing.

Substance Abuse: A Complex Challenge

Substance abuse manifests as a multifaceted challenge that casts its shadow over individuals from diverse backgrounds. Whether entangled in the web of alcohol or drug dependency, addiction often ensnares its victims in a relentless cycle of physical, mental, and emotional turmoil. Crossroads Recovery Centre wholeheartedly comprehends the intricate nature of substance abuse, acknowledging that addiction transcends mere willpower, representing a complex interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors.

Alcohol Abuse: A Pervasive Issue

Alcohol abuse, frequently concealed beneath a veneer of social acceptance, pervades society indiscriminately. Crossroads Recovery Centre firmly recognizes that alcoholism knows no boundaries of age, gender, or background. Through its dedicated alcohol rehabilitation programmes, the centre strives to dismantle the prevailing stereotypes associated with alcohol abuse, offering a safe haven where individuals can confront the perils of excessive drinking and discover effective pathways to recovery.

Drug Addiction: Breaking the Chains

The relentless grip of drug addiction extends its suffocating hold not only upon the individual but also ensnares the lives of their loved ones. Situated at the heart of Johannesburg, Crossroads Recovery Centre comprehends the urgency of confronting drug addiction head-on. Its drug rehabilitation programmes extend a lifeline to those entrapped in the clutches of substance abuse, providing evidence-based treatments, counselling, and robust support systems to empower individuals in reclaiming control over their lives.

The Role of Substance Abuse Treatment

A comprehensive understanding of substance abuse is intrinsically linked to recognizing the significance of professional treatment. Crossroads Recovery Centre remains resolute in its commitment to equipping individuals with the requisite tools and resources needed to overcome addiction. From detoxification to therapy sessions, the centre’s holistic approach to substance abuse treatment delves deep into the root causes of addiction, empowering individuals to make enduring changes and escape the cycle of dependency.

Holistic Healing: Beyond Stopping Drug Abuse

Crossroads Recovery Centre views substance abuse treatment as a journey encompassing far more than the cessation of drug abuse. It seeks to unearth the underlying factors contributing to addiction, fostering holistic healing that addresses physical, emotional, and psychological well-being. By embracing this comprehensive approach, the centre fortifies individuals with the resilience required to confront life’s challenges without resorting to substance abuse as a coping mechanism.

Seeking Help: A Courageous Step

Acknowledging the need for assistance and embarking on the path to treatment necessitates immense courage. Crossroads Recovery Centre extends its heartfelt applause to individuals who undertake this pivotal journey towards recovery. Its doors stand wide open for those ready to confront the perils of substance abuse, providing a nurturing environment wherein individuals can learn, heal, and ultimately transform their lives.

Empowering the Path to Recovery

The road to recovery from substance abuse unfolds as a journey of empowerment. Crossroads Recovery Centre aspires to arm individuals with knowledge, coping skills, and a robust support network that remains steadfast long after their departure from the centre. Embracing a comprehensive approach to substance abuse treatment and recognizing the critical significance of terminating drug abuse, the centre evolves into a steadfast partner in the pursuit of a healthier, substance-free life.

Conclusion: Unmasking the Path to Recovery

In a world where the scourge of substance abuse often remains concealed, Crossroads Recovery Centre emerges as a guiding light, dispelling the shadows of addiction. Fueled by an unwavering commitment to substance abuse treatment, alcohol rehabilitation, and drug rehab, the centre acts as a catalyst for transformation. By unravelling the complexities of substance abuse and offering a holistic route to recovery, Crossroads Recovery Centre at Johannesburg and Crossroads Recovery Centre at Pretoria pave the way for individuals to step into a future illuminated by renewed hope, restored health, and newfound purpose.

Stories of Recovery

• The encouragement, love and support from the team at Crossroads allowed me to eventually see that I was worth something - that my life could be turned around and that I could accomplish the things that had long been a forgotten dream.
  Oliver VG
  Read more
• On the last day of my stint at Crossroads I could only express gratitude towards all who works there. A wise councillor once commented on my question when one is ready for rehab by explaining that when one is ready for rehab, rehab is ready for you.
  Johan B
  Read more
• I was lost and my soul was broken until I ended up at Crossroads and was introduced to the Twelve Steps. With the help of their excellent staff and amazing support I have recently been clean for 18 months, I could not have done it without them!
  Carla S
  Read more
• "Just for today I am more than three years in recovery. I have Cross Roads to thank for this wonderful gift. Cross Roads helped me to set a firm foundation in my recovery on which I can continue to build."
  Angelique J
  Read more

Read more

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What is Porn addiction and how do I find a treatment center near me?

What is a porn addiction?

Addiction is more than just an intense interest in something. It is a medical condition that changes the brain and the body and causes the person to feel compelled to continue using a substance or partaking in an activity, even when doing so may cause harm.

Most research into addiction suggests that it activates regions in the brain associated with motivation and reward. Specifically, addiction alters the body’s dopamine system.

When a person with addiction initially uses the substance or engages in the behaviour, they receive an intense rush of dopamine, causing feelings of pleasure and reward. Over time, their body may produce less dopamine and rely on the substance or behaviour to feel the dopamine rush.

Sex can be a highly rewarding behaviour, in terms of dopamine. Using pornography may also activate the dopamine system, potentially leading to addiction.

Addiction affects other aspects of the brain as well, steadily changing it, and making it increasingly difficult for the person to avoid the addictive substance or behavior.

What do I need to know about porn addiction when looking for a Rehabilitation Centre near me

Many people search for a treatment center near me when battling with addictions such as drug addiction, alcohol addiction and porn addiction.

But what is important to keep in mind when looking for a treatment center near me… is that Porn addiction is when one becomes emotionally dependent on pornography to the point that it interferes with your daily life, relationships, and ability to function.

This addiction is quite common. Doctors consider porn addiction to be a hypersexual disorder that includes behaviours such as excessive masturbation.

The prevalence of these disorders may be about 3–6%. However, the rates have been difficult to determine due to a lack of formal classification.

Porn addiction remains a controversial issue, and unfortunately, some research suggests that it is not a real condition at all. It is however still prevalent that you find a treatment center near you, to have a free assessment done.

Signs of pornography addiction

The diagnosis of pornography addiction is controversial, and not all therapists will acknowledge it.

Some Psychiatrists and counselors believe that pornography in itself is not problematic, but that it has the potential to become so, depending on the person’s viewpoint or their partner’s.

Some indications that pornography may be causing a problem include:

• A person’s sex life becomes less satisfying.
• Pornography causes relationship issues or makes a person feel less satisfied with their partner.
• A person engages in risky behavior to view pornography, such as doing so at work.

Some other signs that a person may be developing an unhealthy relationship with porn include:

• They ignore other responsibilities to view pornography.
• They view progressively more extreme pornography to get the same release that less extreme porn once offered.
• They feel frustrated or ashamed after viewing porn but continue to do so.
• They want to stop using pornography but feel unable to do so.
• They spend large sums of money on pornography, possibly at the expense of daily or family necessities.
• They use pornography to cope with sadness, anxiety, insomnia, or other mental health issues.

Causes of pornography addiction

Due to the controversy surrounding the idea of pornography addiction, researchers have yet to identify a clear set of causes.

This suggests that the very idea that porn addiction exists could be a major cause of the anxiety that some people experience when viewing porn.

Meanwhile, experts and advocates who endorse the existence of pornography addiction argue that, like other addictions, this is a complex issue with a range of possible causes. Some of these causes which may be discussed at a treatment center near me would be:

• Underlying mental health conditions: A person might use pornography to escape psychological distress.
• Relationship problems: Pornography can be an outlet for sexual dissatisfaction.
• Unhealthy cultural norms: Ideas about how people should look and behave during sex, the types of sex that a person should enjoy, and similar norms may draw some people to pornography.
• Biological causes: Certain biological factors, including changes in brain chemistry when a person views porn, may increase the risk of addiction.

Treatments and natural remedies

Research does not support any specific treatment for pornography addiction.

Indeed, because many researchers do not believe that pornography addiction is a real medical condition, some doctors and counselors may feel that no treatment is necessary.

Some people seeking treatment for pornography addiction may instead benefit from addressing other issues, such as relationship problems, sexual shame, or depression. Therefore, if a person opts for therapy, it is important to choose a therapist who understands and can manage these issues.

Some treatment strategies I will find at a treatment centre near me may involve.

• Psychotherapy: This can help a person understand their relationship with porn, identify unmet sexual needs, and develop strategies for dealing with psychological distress.
• Relationship counseling: Couples’ counseling can help partners talk about their values, determine whether porn has a place in their relationship, and cultivate deeper trust.
• Medication: Sometimes a person uses pornography to cope with another condition. Medication may help treat the underlying issue.
• Lifestyle changes: Some people use pornography out of boredom or exhaustion. A more healthful lifestyle may involve spending fewer hours on the computer.

Stories of Recovery

• The encouragement, love and support from the team at Crossroads allowed me to eventually see that I was worth something - that my life could be turned around and that I could accomplish the things that had long been a forgotten dream.
  Oliver VG
  Read more
• On the last day of my stint at Crossroads I could only express gratitude towards all who works there. A wise councillor once commented on my question when one is ready for rehab by explaining that when one is ready for rehab, rehab is ready for you.
  Johan B
  Read more
• I was lost and my soul was broken until I ended up at Crossroads and was introduced to the Twelve Steps. With the help of their excellent staff and amazing support I have recently been clean for 18 months, I could not have done it without them!
  Carla S
  Read more
• "Just for today I am more than three years in recovery. I have Cross Roads to thank for this wonderful gift. Cross Roads helped me to set a firm foundation in my recovery on which I can continue to build."
  Angelique J
  Read more

Read more

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