Victoria McCann BA, MSc

Victoria McCann BA, MSc

Communications Director & Editorial Lead

Victoria McCann, BA, MSc, is Communications Director & Editorial Lead at Castle Craig and a member of the clinic’s founding family. With over a decade of experience in addiction treatment communications, she leads the creation of clear, compassionate content that supports patients, families, and healthcare professionals. Victoria is committed to reducing stigma around addiction and mental health, and brings strategic insight and lived sector knowledge to her work. She regularly attends and organises addiction treatment conferences across the UK and Europe, promoting high standards of care and best practice in the field. Victoria also works with the media to raise awareness and share informed perspectives on addiction and recovery. The Herald, The Times, BBC, STV, The Times, New York Post, The Guardian.

Four people (two women and two men) indoors sitting on chairs in a circle, talking about addiction recovery at Smarmore Castle

Drug & Alcohol Rehabilitation and Detox Centre

Understanding the Disease of Addiction Addiction isn’t a choice or a moral failing—it’s a complex disease that affects the brain and body. Just like any illness, it requires professional care and treatment to overcome. Without proper intervention, addiction can worsen over time, making recovery more difficult. Without Intervention, Addiction Can Lead to Irreversible Consequences Addiction […]

Diazepam Addiction Signs, Withdrawal & Treatment

Page Clinically Reviewed on by Victoria McCann BA, MSc | Communications Director & Editorial Lead

In the era of modern medicine, Diazepam, or Valium as it’s more commonly known, has become a double-edged sword. As relief from anxiety, muscle spasms, or seizures, diazepam was a regularly prescribed drug despite the potential for dependence. Although it is still prescribed, most GPs will not provide a course for longer than 7 days. […]

How To Tell If Someone Is On Speed

Speed is a powerful stimulant drug that affects the central nervous system, leading to increased energy, alertness, and euphoria. You can recognise when someone has taken this amphetamine by their sudden burst of energy, erratic behaviour and unusual agitation. It is useful to know the effects speed has on individuals, as prolonged or excessive use […]

The Disease Model of Addiction: Is Addiction a Disease?

When people refer to addiction as a disease, they are acknowledging that addiction is a complex medical condition characterised by changes in brain function and structure. This perspective, known as the disease model of addiction, views addiction as a chronic and relapsing disorder that involves compulsive drug-seeking and use despite harmful consequences. The disease model […]

Addictive Personality Disorder: Myth or Reality?

The concept of an “addictive personality” has permeated popular culture with its suggestion that some individuals possess a particular set of traits that predispose them to addiction. But is there scientific evidence to support the idea of an addictive personality type, or is it more myth than reality? Opinions vary widely among experts, but most […]

15 Celebrities Who Recovered from Alcoholism

Well-known actors, musicians and public figures have fought addiction and shared their stories with the world. Their stories, filled with both despair and triumph, prove that recovery isn’t just a distant dream but a reachable reality. 1. Bradley Cooper Known for his dynamic roles and compelling performances, Bradley Cooper’s battle with addiction began early in […]

Can Your Liver Repair Itself From Alcohol Misuse?

The liver is a testimony to how amazing our bodies are: it has the remarkable ability to regenerate itself, even after significant injury or surgery. Unlike most organs, the liver can recover lost tissue; as little as 51% of a liver can regrow back to its full size. That said, the liver’s ability to repair […]

Understanding Dual Diagnosis: Addiction and Mental Health

People living with a “dual diagnosis” are experiencing a mental health condition alongside a substance use disorder, such as alcohol addiction or drug addiction. Dual diagnosis is a complex condition that requires careful assessment, comprehensive treatment and ongoing aftercare support to help a person navigate their recovery from addiction. At Smarmore Castle, our team understand […]

Help & Treatment Options for Porn Addiction

Deciding to quit watching porn indicates that you may be aware that your relationship with it is unhealthy. Porn addiction is a real and growing problem in our society, and while it may seem like a harmless habit to some, all forms of addictive behaviours are harmful and should be taken seriously. (1) If you […]

Ketamine Bladder: Causes, Symptoms & Prevention

Ketamine is best known as a medical anaesthetic and, in some cases, for its use in mental health treatment. But when ketamine is used regularly for non-medical reasons, it can lead to serious health problems, especially in the bladder. “Ketamine bladder” or “K-bladder” is a painful and sometimes disabling condition that has become more common […]

How To Stop Smoking Weed (And Why It’s Hard To Quit)

Deciding to stop smoking weed can be difficult, especially if you have been smoking cannabis for some time. While you will have your reasons for quitting, it’s important to recognise that stopping isn’t easy for everyone, and there are many reasons for this. As you’re considering stepping away from cannabis, it’s important to understand why […]

An anonymous man sitting at a laptop in the dark considering getting help with gambling addiction.

A Guide to Getting Help With Gambling Addiction

If you are struggling with compulsive gambling habits, reaching out for help with gambling addiction can be difficult, but it’s important to see this as a positive and important first step towards recovery In the UK, there are several services available to help you take back control of your gambling, but navigating these options can […]