One of the most important foundations of any relationship? Trust. Sadly, that trust can be shattered by addiction. If drugs or alcohol come immediately to mind, that’s not unusual. Yet, gambling addiction can just as easily tear apart an otherwise loving couple. Gambling addiction is less commonly discussed and often, less obvious. … [Read more...]

You may be great at math, but not so accomplished at calculating math of a good time. What does calculating math of a good time even mean? This is the second part of a look at alcohol or substance use or misuse. (See “The 5 Stages of Intoxication.”) Calculating math of a good time Have you ever had a fun night out with friends, drinking some … [Read more...]

Are you over-drinking? Some people say there are 5 stages of intoxication: jocose, verbose, bellicose, lachrymose, and comatose. Others add grandiose, morose, and adios! Let’s take a closer look. Understanding the 5 stages of intoxication Jocose means humorous or playful, joking. When you’re in this state, you’re friendly, engaging, fun to be … [Read more...]

Season Five of Showtime Channel’s darkly comic “Nurse Jackie” proves my contention that “if you deal with the behavior without confronting the underlying issues, you’re just switching chairs on a sinking ship.” I was referring to substance abuse in the quote, but it really holds true for the behavioral approach to all psychological problems. Yet … [Read more...]