Cracking Addiction

The Neuroscience of Cravings and Brain Recovery

03 Apr 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Addiction neuroscience explains why cravings feel urgent, physical, and overpowering—and why that does not mean recovery is impossible.Many people s...

Dopamine, Relapse, and Recovery: Why Addiction Needs Long-Term Management

25 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

A lot of people still think addiction recovery is just about willpower.But addiction neuroscience tells a different story: dopamine, the reward system...

Why You Can Be Detoxed and Still Addicted

18 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Addiction neuroscience, dopamine, cravings: detox ends withdrawal, but it does not end addiction.The MythA common myth in addiction recovery is that o...

Relapse Happens to Everyone: Here's the Science Why - Addiction Basics 06

11 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Dr. Fergal Armstrong reframes relapse in addiction, explaining why it's not a personal failure but a common part of the recovery journey, comparab...

The Science of Withdrawal: What's Actually Happening? - Addiction Basics #5

04 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Withdrawal is one of the most feared parts of addiction recovery.But neuroscience shows something important:Withdrawal isn’t a failure of willpower ...

Addiction vs Dependence vs Tolerance: The Critical Medical Difference

25 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

🚨 TOLERANCE ≠ ADDICTION 🚨Most people — even healthcare professionals — use these terms incorrectly.And that confusion is hurting patients....

Why Buprenorphine Is Safer Than Full Opioid Agonists

23 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Most people think methadone is the only real option for opioid addiction.Wrong.Buprenorphine — especially long-acting injectable depot — is flippi...

How Cravings Work: Limbic System vs Prefrontal Cortex - Addiction Basics EP3

18 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Addiction neuroscience explains why wanting to quit isn’t the same as being able to quit. Dopamine reshapes the brain’s reward system.In Episode 3...

Dopamine and Addiction: The Science of Cravings - Addiction Basics EP2

12 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Addiction neuroscience explained. Dopamine, cravings, brain recovery, and neuroplasticity — backed by research.If you’ve ever wondered how addicti...

Addiction Is a Brain Disorder, Not a Character Flaw - Addiction Basics EP1

06 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Addiction isn’t a failure of willpower — it’s a brain disorder.And misunderstanding that fact has cost millions of people their recovery.In Part...

Smoking During Recovery Might Be Your Biggest Mistake

28 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

What if quitting smoking is the fastest way to strengthen addiction recovery?That sounds backwards… but the science says otherwise.For decades, addi...

They never told us benzos do this to your brain

21 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

These drugs calm your brain—but what if they’re silently increasing your stroke risk?For decades, benzodiazepines like Valium and Xanax were seen ...

Is Any Amount of Alcohol Actually Safe? The Science Says No

14 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

For decades, alcohol has enjoyed a surprising reputation as a health booster—especially red wine. You’ve heard the claims: stronger hearts, longer...

The Truth About Kava: Benzodiazepine Effects Nobody Explains

07 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore "kava kava," a traditional Pacific plant with anxiolytic effects similar to low-dose benzodiazepines. We discuss...

The Brain Pattern That Shows Addiction Risk Years in Advance

01 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Can a brain scan predict addiction risk BEFORE first use? 🚨Most people think substances change the brain after experimentation.But this episode fli...

Kava in Australia: Natural Calm or Silent Liver Damage?

28 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Kava is everywhere… but is it silently damaging your patients’ livers?Kava is now turning up in Australian pharmacies, health food stores and onli...

How to Cut Sugar by 78% in 30 Days

12 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

How to Cut Sugar by 78% in 30 Days.Sugar is hijacking your brain — but you can take control back faster than you think.Most people want to quit suga...

What Happens to Teen Brains After Cannabis?

27 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

What Happens to Teen Brains After Cannabis?What if one long-term study could completely reshape how we view teenage cannabis use? This jaw-dropping vi...

The Hidden Danger In Your Medicine Cabinet!

19 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Millions unknowingly store a lethal cocktail in their medicine cabinets—and it’s not from illicit drugs. In this gripping episode, Dr. Ferghal Arm...

Can a Single Dose of Ibogaine Cure PTSD? Stanford Thinks So

12 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In a stunning breakthrough, Stanford researchers have unveiled a potential game-changer in the fight against PTSD and traumatic brain injury. This epi...

Can Your Genes Predict Addiction? Science Says Yes

06 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Addiction isn't just about choices—it's also in your genes.New research reveals that your risk for alcohol, opioid, and cannabis addiction m...

Cannabis and Psychosis: What 66,000 People Revealed

26 Oct 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Cannabis and Psychosis: What 66,000 People RevealedCannabis and Psychosis: What Science REALLY Says Is cannabis as harmless as many believe? A groundb...

Does Cannabis Really Help with Anxiety? | The Science Explained

09 Oct 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Does Cannabis Really Help with Anxiety? | The Science ExplainedFor years, many have turned to weed for anxiety relief, but new research suggests the t...

Australia's Dangerous New Opioid Shocks Doctors

03 Oct 2025

Contributed by Lukas

The Drug Landscape Has Changed—Are You Ready? Australia is now facing one of the deadliest evolutions in synthetic opioids—nitazenes. With potency...

Pregnancy and Smoking: The Real Cost Beyond Birth

25 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

This episode of Cracking Addiction delivers a powerful, evidence-packed message on how smoking profoundly impacts reproductive health, pregnancy, and ...

Asthma, COPD, Emphysema: The Smoking Connection Explained

18 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Every puff of cigarette smoke delivers toxic chemicals deep into your lungs—triggering a cascade of damage that most people don’t realise until it...

Smoking’s Secret Weapon: Vascular Poison in Every Puff

11 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Smoking’s Secret Weapon: Vascular Poison in Every PuffIn this high-voltage episode of Cracking Addiction, Dr  Ferghal Armstrong delivers a powerfu...

The Shocking Truth About Smoking and Cancer!

04 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

The Shocking Truth About Smoking and Cancer!Part 3This video dives deep into the molecular chaos caused by tobacco smoke, revealing how it doesn’t j...

Cigarettes Today Are Engineered for Addiction — Here's How - Part 1 of 6

01 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Cigarettes Today Are Engineered for Addiction — Here's How.PART 1 of 6 "Unfiltered: Inside the Smoke"Today’s cigarettes are a far cr...

Shocking Facts About Cigarette Chemicals!

27 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Shocking Facts About Cigarette Chemicals!Cigarettes are more than just dried tobacco—they’re chemical weapons in disguise. In this eye-opening epi...

How to Stop Shopping Addiction Signs, Diagnosis & Real-Life Impact

14 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

How to Stop Shopping Addiction Signs, Diagnosis & Real-Life ImpactIs. Is It Just Retail Therapy — or Something Deeper?Is your shopping habit har...

Dr Amstrong Shares Ways to Help With Porn Addiction!

31 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Dr Armstrong Shares Ways to Help With Porn Addiction!Are you battling porn addiction symptoms or wondering why porn addiction is harmful? In this eye-...

Is Porn Addiction Real? | Truth Behind Porn Addiction Explained

23 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Is Porn Addiction Real? | Truth Behind Porn Addiction ExplainedIs porn addiction actually real — or just a myth? In this eye-opening episode of Crac...

Is sugar addiction as powerful as cocaine?

10 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Is sugar addiction as powerful as cocaine?Is sugar truly a food addiction? This video explores the neuroscience behind sugar's allure, touching on...

Porn Addiction Help: Overcoming Stigma and Building Lasting Change

07 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Struggling with porn addiction or supporting someone who is? This episode of "Cracking Addiction" delivers real talk, clinical insight, and ...

How Summer and Winter Mess With Your Mood!

03 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Solstice-Induced Mood Disorders and Relapse PreventionDoes the summer solstice mental health shift hit your addiction relapse prevention? In Cracking ...

From Dopamine to Disease: Understanding the Addiction-Cancer Connection

25 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

From Dopamine to Disease: Understanding the Addiction-Cancer Connection.What’s the hidden link between addiction and cancer? In this Cracking Addict...

The Truth About Pill Testing: Myths, Facts, and Public Health Impact

18 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

The Truth About Pill Testing: Myths, Facts, and Public Health Impact.Ready to uncover the truth behind pill testing news? Dr. Ferghal Armstrong dives ...

How Your Gut Impacts Anxiety: Exploring the Surprising Brain-Gut Connection

11 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Ever felt gut feeling vs anxiety and wondered how can you listen to your gut feeling when you have anxiety and OCD? In Cracking Addiction: Anxiety &am...

A Step-By-Step Emergency Plan for Coping With Panic and Anxiety

03 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

A Step-By-Step Emergency Plan for Coping With Panic and Anxiety.Are you battling sudden anxiety attacks or panic attacks and need how to stop anxiety ...

Do SSRIs Really Work? Depression Treatment and the Serotonin Debate with Dr Ferghal Armstrong

28 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Do SSRIs Really Work? Understanding Depression Treatment and the Serotonin Debate.Are you wondering how SSRIs work for depression treatment or if they...

Can You Stop Antidepressants Safely? Tapering, Withdrawal & Advice from Dr. Ferghal Armstrong

28 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Can You Stop Antidepressants Safely? Tapering, Withdrawal & Advice from Dr. Ferghal ArmstrongAre you—or someone you care about—among the milli...

Why Alcohol Makes Anxiety Worse

14 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Why Alcohol Makes Anxiety WorseUnravel the Truth! In this Cracking Addiction episode, Dr. Ferghal Armstrong dives into the complex link between anxiet...

Tackling Dual Diagnosis: Treating Alcohol Dependence and Depression Together

07 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Tackling Dual Diagnosis: Treating Alcohol Dependence and Depression Together.Struggling with Alcohol and Depression? Unlock Dual Diagnosis Solutions! ...

How Australia's Free Naloxone Program Saves 3 Lives EVERY DAY!

30 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

How Australia's Free Naloxone Program Saves 3 Lives EVERY DAY!Australia’s Naloxone Program: Saving Lives, Closing Gaps, and Fighting Opioid Over...

What Really Happens To Your Body On Ecstasy?

23 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

What Really Happens To Your Body On Ecstasy?Curious about the real truth behind Ecstasy (MDMA)? Think it’s a “safe party drug”? Think again! In ...

Alcohol and Opioid Withdrawal: What You Need to Know

17 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Have you ever wondered about the difference between alcohol withdrawal and drug withdrawal? In this episode, Dr. Ferghal Armstrong breaks down alcohol...

Urine Drug Test Explained - Why Your Drug Test Might Be Wrong?

11 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Ever wondered how a urine drug test really works—or how some people try to beat the system? This is the ultimate guide you've been searching for...

Cocaine Withdrawal Timeline And Treatment Facts You NEED To Know!

03 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Curious about what cocaine withdrawal feels like? In this video, We break down everything you need to know about tackling the tough but manageable coc...

Cognitive Decline Countdown: How Cocaine Speeds It Up

27 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Cognitive Decline Countdown: How Cocaine Speeds It Up.Dr. Ferghal Armstrong sheds light on the profound cognitive decline associated with long-term co...

Nutritional Supplements for the Brain - Health Recovery After Cocaine Use

19 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Are you concerned about brain health after cocaine use? You’re not alone. This video explores how nutritional supplements can speed up recovery from...

Healing the Brain Post-Addiction: Understanding Neuroplasticity in Cocaine Recovery

12 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Healing the Brain Post-Addiction: Understanding Neuroplasticity in Cocaine Recovery.Is your brain crying out for recovery from chronic cocaine use? If...

How Does Cocaine Permanently Change Your Brain Structure?

06 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

If you've ever wondered how cocaine impacts cognitive function, emotional regulation, and the relentless cycle of addiction, then you're in th...

How Does Cocaine Permanently Change Your Brain Structure?

05 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

If you've ever wondered how cocaine impacts cognitive function, emotional regulation, and the relentless cycle of addiction, then you're in th...

Your Brain on Cocaine - The SHOCKING Truth About Dopamine!

27 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this video, I uncover the secrets behind cocaine's manipulation of our dopamine system, which plays a pivotal role in reward, motivation, and a...

The Science Behind Cocaine Drug Testing You NEED to Know

20 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Are you curious about how cocaine works in the body and the secrets behind successful drug testing? Look no further! In this eye-opening video, I delv...

The Science Behind Different Types of Cocaine Explained Simply!

12 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Join Addiction medicine specialist Dr. Ferghal Armstrong as he demystifies the complexities surrounding cocaine and its various forms. Derived from th...

Ditch the Anxiety! Safe Benzodiazepine Tapering Strategies

05 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

If you're struggling with benzodiazepine withdrawal, this video shares safe tapering strategies to help you ditch the anxiety and regain control. ...

5 Alarming Signs You're Experiencing BIND from Benzodiazepines

29 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

If you're experiencing BIND from benzodiazepines, watch out for these alarming signs of neurological dysfunction and cognitive impairment. This vi...

5 Shocking Ways Cognitive Impairment Affects Your Daily Life

22 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Are you struggling with benzodiazepine dependence, looking to understand their impact, or need tips on tapering off? You’ve come to the right place!...

Benzodiazepine Side Effects That Will Make You Rethink Everything

16 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this eye-opening episode of Cracking Addiction, we delve deep into the intricate world of benzodiazepine withdrawal and its impact on chronic pain ...

Benzodiazepine EXPERT Reveals Liver Metabolism Secrets

09 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Discover the fascinating world of benzodiazepines as we break down their metabolism, kinetics, and clinical impact. In this episode, we explore how th...

Benzodiazepines SECRETLY Affecting Millions

02 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Dive deep into the fascinating world of benzodiazepines with Dr. Ferghal Armstrong as we explore how these commonly prescribed medications function, t...

The SHOCKING Impact of Loneliness on Your Health

25 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Loneliness can have serious effects on your body. In this video, we'll explore the impacts of loneliness on your health and what you can do to combat ...

What Nobody Tells You About Turning Pain into Power

18 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

n this powerful interview, Dr. Samantha Harte reveals what nobody tells you about turning pain into power. She shares her journey through addiction re...

Enhancing Well-Being Pt2 - Positivity, and Relationships for Better Health

12 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Are you ready to transform your mental health and physical wellbeing? In this episode of Cracking Addiction, we dive deep into the powerful role of po...

Enhancing Well-Being Pt1 - The Genetic and Behavioural Determinants of Well-Being

05 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Are you ready to dive deep into the multidimensional concept of well-being and discover actionable steps to enhance your life? In this episode of Crac...

Analyzing Gambling Disorder: Context, Criteria, and Treatment Methods

27 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this eye-opening episode of "Cracking Addiction", we dive deep into the complex world of gambling addiction. We'll explore risk factors, diagnostic...

The Ultimate Guide to Heart and Brain Health

20 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Welcome to Cracking Addiction; in this video, we dive deep into the world of prudent diets, revealing how you can naturally improve your heart and bra...

Enhancing Recovery with the Mediterranean Diet

13 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

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 d...

The Epidemiology of Alcohol

06 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

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 misus...

The Hidden Dangers of Paracetamol - Recent Rescheduling in Australia

30 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

🚨 Important Update on Paracetamol in Australia! 🚨Are you aware of the recent changes in paracetamol regulations and its implications for pain ma...

Addiction Facts Everyone Needs to Know

23 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Are you curious about what really causes addiction? In this eye-opening video, I dive deep into the complexities of addiction, examining the genetic v...

To Test or Not to Test: The Vital Role of Urine Drug Screens in Addiction Clinics

16 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

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 Arm...

Breaking Down AA Myths and Facts

09 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

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...

Ibogaine: A New Hope for Addiction Recovery and Mental Health

02 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Uncovering the Power of Ibogaine: A Game-Changer for Addiction Treatment [Psychedelic Medicine, Ibogaine, Addiction Recovery]Are you ready to revoluti...

Breaking Free- From Addiction to Recovery

25 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

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 fulf...

SIX WAYS ALCOHOL CAN KILL YOU

18 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Are you curious about how alcohol really affects your heart health? In this eye-opening episode of "Cracking Addiction," Dr. Richard Bradlow and Dr. F...

Secrets to opioid weaning done right

11 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Mastering Opioid Risk Management: Practical Tips & Life-Saving Strategies with Dr. Ferghal ArmstrongAre you concerned about the risks associated w...

The Risks Doctors Take With Prescriptions

04 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Are you concerned about the dangers of benzodiazepines and opioids? Curious about how these medications impact individuals with substance use disorder...

Beating Burnout: Revolutionary Techniques You’ve Never Heard Of!

28 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Ferghal Armstrong is joined by Andy Smith to demystify appreciative inquiry, a groundbreaking approach to solving problems by con...

Are Your Sleep Meds Making Things Worse?

21 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Welcome to another insightful episode of Cracking Addiction, where we delve into the intricate connections between substance use and sleep architectur...

How the Halo Effect Can Help You Beat Addiction

14 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

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 Ar...

Understanding Melatonin and Its Impact on Sleep Hygiene

07 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Dr Ferghal Armstrong and Dr Richard Bradlow explore the significance of melatonin in sleep. Melatonin, a neurotransmitter produced by the pineal gland...

Reconnecting with Your True Self

31 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

I sit down with the inspiring Jesse Ball as we dive deep into the concept of spirituality and authenticity in recovery. The enlightening conversation ...

The Attractiveness of Sobriety

24 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Recovery isn’t just about stopping substance use; it’s about transforming your life. This episode covers key points like the idea of “white knuc...

Punching Fear in the Face and Embracing Recovery

17 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Ferghal Armstrong sits down with Thomas Conrad, a recovery expert who transformed his life from rock bottom to running a successful addiction treatmen...

Can 4 Hours of Sleep Really Kill You?

10 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Have you ever wondered how the quality of your sleep impacts your mental health? Or how the intricacies of sleep deprivation can influence everything ...

Keys to Early Recovery: Jesse Ball on Honesty and Support

03 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Dr. Ferghal Armstrong and Jesse Ball explore the foundational aspects of early recovery from addiction, highlighting the roles of honesty, support sys...

The Turning Point: How Jesse Escaped the Grips of Addiction

26 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we have the privilege of hearing from Jesse Ball, a courageous individual with lived experience in the realm of addiction and recover...

Digital Breakthroughs in Alcohol Addiction Recovery

19 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

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 unc...

From Blackouts to Breakthroughs: An Insider's Story of Recovery and Hope

12 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this compelling episode of Cracking Addiction, Dr Ferghal Armstrong welcomes Jonathan Hunt-Glassman, an individual with lived experience of alcohol...

Synthetic Drugs You Never Knew Existed

05 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Are you curious about the hidden dangers lurking in the world of synthetic opioids? In this episode of "Cracking Addiction," Dr Ferghal Armstrong sits...

From Fear to Freedom: How Reiki Can Transform Recovery

29 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Dr Ferghal introduces us to Helen, a Reiki master, who delves into the origins of Reiki and its application in addiction recovery. Discover the transf...

Could You Be Missing This Critical Vitamin?

22 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr Ferghal Armstrong and Dr Richard Bradlow unpack the complex relationship between alcohol, thiamine deficiency, and the severe neur...

Understanding Alcohol Withdrawal: Timing, Symptoms, and Treatments

15 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In the latest episode of "Cracking Addiction," Dr Ferghal continues the journey with Dr Richard, exploring the critical subject of alcohol withdrawal....

The Nuances of Alcohol Withdrawal: Assessment and Management Insights

08 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this riveting episode of Cracking Addiction, Dr Ferghal Armstrong and Dr Richard Bradlow shed light on the complex issue of alcohol use and withdra...

Lifestyle Interventions: A New Trend in Addiction Medicine

01 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Dr Ferghal Armstrong explores the profound impact of lifestyle interventions on addiction recovery, focusing on the crucial role of tobacco cessation ...

Diet's Role in Addiction Recovery

24 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Dr Ferghal Armstrong addresses the often-underestimated influence of diet on addiction recovery and mental health. By contrasting Australian Dietary g...

Boosting Mood and Health: Integrating Exercise into Addiction and Mental Health Treatment

17 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Dive into this enlightening episode of Cracking Addiction and unearth the transformative role of exercise in the journey of addiction recovery. Dr Fer...