Addiction is a primary, chronic disease of the brain. It is a condition in which a person engages in use of a substance or in a behaviour for which the rewarding effects provide a compelling incentive to repeatedly pursue the behaviour, despite detrimental consequences. There is scientific evidence that the addictive substances and behaviours share a key neurobiological feature—they intensely activate brain pathways of reward and reinforcement, many of which involve the neurotransmitter dopamine. Studies show that there are genetic factors, making some people more susceptible to addiction. Are you or someone you love suffering from addiction and looking for help?

Not knowing where you belong or fit in the world can be really uncomfortable. It can affect your sense of self, the energy you have, the goals you set, and the way you relate and compare yourself to others. Mindful art play is one way to change that! Counselling and art play can help expose your inner critic, develop self-compassion, deal with difficult memories, open up your creativity and capacity to cope, and develop your sense of self. Counselling, along with art play, provides a safe and neutral place to explore your feelings and options.

From computer screens to fluorescent lights many of us spend our days surrounded by bright light. Prolonged exposure means hours of squinting, eye strain and headaches. Did you know a whopping 64% of contact lens wearers are bothered by bright light daily? If you count yourself among this majority, we have some exciting news: ultra comfortable ACUVUE® OASYS contact lenses now come with Transitions™. Just like Transitions™ lenses for glasses, these contacts darken with light exposure without drastically changing the look of your beautiful natural eye colour. They also help with less squinting to bright light and reduced halos and starbursts at night.

Everyone wants to be happy — but sometimes it can seem so out-of-reach! Happiness is not always an easy target. Maybe you are carrying around a sense of dissatisfaction, irritation, or disappointment that does not go away. Where does this come from? Is it how you are living now, or is it an old experience? Other people say “let it go” – but how do you do that?! How can you change the story? Counselling provides a safe, encouraging place to explore your options, including how to start connecting with what makes you feel satisfied and joyful.

A beachfront haven on the rugged west coast of Vancouver Island, Pacific Sands Beach Resort takes tranquility to the next level. Imagine a morning beach walk followed by a relaxing spa treatment. Then spend your evening cozy and fireside in the comfort of your oceanside suite. Includes: Two Nights in a One Bedroom Oceanside Suite. Your choice of a 60-minute Signature Massage or Facial at for Sacred Stone Spa 2ppl. Value $765.00. Simply subscribe for free to the online Wellnessnews Choices for Healthy Living® edition to enter to win. Wellnessnews.ca

Missing teeth due to an accident, genetics, disease, and other reasons can cause patients to experience various problems. People’s confidence can decrease from having teeth missing from their smile because they feel more self-conscious and insecure. Missing teeth can also cause people to chew differently, which may mean they are not breaking up food properly. This can result in choking problems, digestive problems, and issues with their jaw. Infections can develop in those who are missing teeth if bacteria collect in those areas, and speech can also be negatively affected. The good news is that the right dentures can eliminate these problems.

Teens are still developing so it’s very important that they receive proper eye care to ensure the best possible vision heading into adulthood. Unfortunately, many don’t. The behavioural problems experienced by “troubled” teens may sometimes be due to undiagnosed vision issues that aren’t identified during the school years. Teens should have proper vision testing to catch potential issues such as astigmatism, convergence insufficiency, and poor tracking that may cause more problems as they get older. As well as making sure that they have a balanced diet and are getting exercise, encourage your teens to wear sunglasses with UV protection and to protect their eyes when playing sports or using tools and equipment.