A child wakes up in the morning with a stomachache, refuses breakfast and doesn't want to go to school. The doctor finds nothing, but the problem returns. In younger schoolchildren, it often doesn't have to be a physical illness, but anxiety and school stress that manifest themselves physically.

How to know it's a mental issue and not an illness

Anxiety in children aged 6-11 is most often hidden behind somatic symptoms: abdominal pain, headaches, nausea, diarrhea or morning vomiting - often just before going to school. The child may be irritable, cling to you more than usual, have nightmares or avoid peers. These signals indicate that the nervous system is overloaded by schoolwork, bullying or changes at home.

If the problems last longer than 2 weeks, affect school attendance or family life, it is time to seek professional help. In Czechia, up to half of schoolchildren suffer from mental health problems, with anxiety leading the way.

Why does this happen to younger schoolchildren?

The transition to school, pressure to perform, conflicts with friends or arguments at home trigger a stress response. The child cannot yet name emotions, so they are "released" through the body. Triggers can be diverse: bullying, a new sibling, parents' divorce or too much time spent in front of screens.

5 tips to help your child today

• Establish a calm, unhurried morning routine – breakfast together, a short walk.

• Teach your child a simple breathing exercise: inhale for 4 seconds, exhale for 4 seconds, repeat 3 times.

• Limit screen time, replace time with reading, playing or exercising.

• Talk about feelings openly, without prejudice or judgment.

• Ensure the child gets enough sleep and a balanced diet.

These steps may provide short-term relief, but they do not address the cause of the problem.

How the first session at EUNOMA Clinic works

At our clinic, we use playful and experiential methods—such as drawing, play, and storytelling—to help children express their emotions without the need for words. Psychologist Rút Jungwirthová focuses on psychological counseling for children and adolescents, as well as supporting parents through challenging situations. Parents are actively involved throughout the process to help strengthen family connections. The first 50-minute consultation is dedicated to meeting with the parents and jointly outlining the next steps.

Taking the first step toward change can be very challenging.Schedule a consultation with a child psychologist Rút Jungwirthová so you don't have to go through this journey alone.

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EUNOMA Clinic nutritionist Kateřina Kozáková was invited to the program (Ne)závislí on the web news portal FocusOn, where she shares her perspective on nutrition, addiction, and the pressure to perform in everyday life and in top sports. In the interview, she explains why rigid rules in eating often lead to eating disorders and how food addiction differs from alcohol or nicotine addiction.

Nutrition is not a list of forbidden foods

In the interview, Kateřina describes how nutrition in the Czech Republic is still often reduced to a simple list of allowed and forbidden foods, which traps many people in a vicious circle of diets, overeating and guilt. Her goal is not for clients to be dependent on recommendations or strict rules, but for them to find a sustainable way of eating that respects their specific needs, lifestyle and psychological burden. According to her, the diet must adapt to the person – their activity, digestion, fatigue and level of stress – not the other way around.

Food, dopamine and addictions

Kateřina also discusses how food is related to addictive behavior. She explains that the combination of sugar and fat in ultra-processed foods activates the brain's reward center in a similar way to some addictive substances, as it leads to a release of dopamine and serotonin. However, the fundamental difference compared to other addictions is that food cannot be eliminated from our lives, and the goal is therefore not abstinence, but regulation and restoration of a balanced relationship with food.

Nutrition during withdrawal and the risk of “nutritional replacement” addiction

A significant part of the conversation is devoted to the topic of nutrition in people in the treatment of alcohol or nicotine addiction. Energy and micronutrient deficiencies, disrupted metabolism, and sleep disorders are common, which can hinder recovery if not actively addressed. Kateřina describes that the great risk is replacing one addiction with another – typically overeating – and that the goal is not to ban sweets, but to consciously and controlledly include them in an overall stable diet.

Athletes, performance and dangerous shortcuts

As a nutrition therapist who works with the sports community, among other things, Kateřina also talks about specific risks for athletes. According to her, extreme diets, eliminating carbohydrates or overusing supplements are increasingly common among young athletes, which can lead to serious health and psychological problems. She describes simple carbohydrates as the basic "fuel" for sports performance and warns that the pursuit of absolute control of the body often ends in a loss of balance.

Where care ends and obsession begins

The interview also discusses how to recognize the line between a healthy interest in nutrition and pathological behavior. Warning signs include avoiding social situations because of food, strong anxiety in connection with "unplanned" eating, or a feeling of guilt after every deviation from the set rules. In the case of eating disorders such as anorexia or bulimia, Kateřina emphasizes the need to combine nutritional therapy, psychotherapy, and sometimes even pharmacological treatment in order to truly break out of the vicious circle.

"Nutrition is not divided into good and bad"

In conclusion, Kateřina summarizes one of the biggest myths she encounters in her practice: according to her, nutrition is not divided into "good" and "bad", but into sustainable and unsustainable. The key is long-term stability, regularity and the ability to perceive your own body's signals - not the effort to find miracle foods or the next "perfect" diet.

Listen to the full interview

You can watch the entire interview with Kateřina Kozáková on the program (Ne)závišlí on FocusOn as a video or podcast on the FocusOn website at the link.

Do you want to support your relationship with food?

If you are dealing with your relationship with food, overeating, weight loss, sports performance or nutrition in the context of addiction or mental illness, book a consultation with nutritional therapist Kateřina Kozáková. You can book an individual nutritional consultation via our online booking form, or contact us by email or phone.

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Most families today struggle with the question of how much time is “normal” to spend on a phone or tablet. A child who reaches for a device as soon as they wake up in the morning, stays up all night watching TikTok, and fights over putting down the phone are common, are not the exception. But the question is: is this just part of growing up in the digital age, or is it risky behavior that needs attention?

Digital technologies have their advantages – they make it easier to learn, communicate with friends and access information. The problem arises when they become a daily “escape” from reality, stress or boredom. The algorithms of social networks and games are designed to keep us there as long as possible thanks to random rewards and act like an addictive substance.

How to know when it's time to act? Here are 7 warning signs:

• Poor performance at school for no other reason.

• Sleep problems (staying up late, difficulty falling asleep due to light from screens).

• Irritability, aggression, or anxiety when the child cannot use the device.

• Neglecting responsibilities, clubs, or personal hygiene due to online time.

• Impulsivity and loss of control (“just a moment” stretches into hours).

• Withdrawal from real-life relationships – the child spends more time online than with family or friends.

• Reduced movement, back, head or eye pain.

A simple test for you: For 2-3 days, write down how much time your child (and you) spends on screens. Compare your estimate with reality – it often surprises us. Ask: “What do you use your phone for most? Can you be offline for an hour without stress?”

If you notice a combination of warning signs or feel that things are getting out of control, don’t wait to take action. At EUNOMA Clinic, Mgr. Kristýna Březováoffers addiction counseling to help assess the situation, identify underlying causes, and create a clear plan for setting healthy boundaries around digital technology use.

Seeking help is not a failure – it is a responsibility.

Schedule a consultation online or writedirectly to brezova.kristyna@seznam.cz to arrange a consultation with addiction specialist Kristýna Březová.

Addiction is not a problem solely of the individual — it often affects their entire family, partner, and close circle. Understanding how addiction impacts the family system is crucial for better managing the situation and finding paths to recovery for both the addicted person and their loved ones.

How addiction affects family

When someone in the family becomes addicted (to alcohol, drugs, gambling), their behavior and priorities often change. The addict may withdraw into themselves, lose interest in shared activities, and neglect responsibilities. Arguments, distrust, insecurity, or financial problems often arise. Other family members try to solve the situation, sometimes to the point of taking responsibility for the addict.

What is codependency?

Codependency is a term that describes a condition in which one or more family members begin to unconsciously adapt their behavior to the addicted individual. They try to protect them from the consequences of their actions, make excuses for them, hide the truth from others, or solve their problems for them. The codependent person can become very exhausted, lose themselves, and their life begins to revolve mainly around the needs of the addict. Unfortunately, this allows the addict to continue their destructive behavior because they do not have to fully face the consequences of their actions.

Common manifestations of codependency

• Constantly defending and apologizing for the addict
• Tendency to take on all household responsibilities
• Fear of raising a problem or asking for help
• Suppression of one's own needs and feelings

How to strengthen the family and help the addict

A very important step is to admit that there is a problem with addiction in the family and to take seriously how the slide into codependency affects all members of the household. It is important to learn to say "no", set healthy boundaries and take care of yourself. Do not be afraid to seek help from professionals, such as an addiction specialist or a family or couples therapist. Support and education of loved ones are often key to successful addiction treatment and maintaining a healthy family environment.

In conclusion

Every family member deserves the right to personal wellbeing and a life free from the impact of another person’s addiction. Change can be challenging, but with the right support and understanding, it’s possible to overcome times of crisis and move toward healthier family relationships.

If you or someone close to you is going through a similar situation, you don’t have to face it alone. Our clinic offers support focused on strengthening family systems and working with loved ones. This area is led by addictologist Ing. Bc. Michaela Jelínková. You can schedule an addiction counselling easily through our online booking form.

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In the process of recovering from addiction, it is not enough to focus solely on the substance use itself. It is equally important to take care of key areas of lifestyle that have a fundamental impact on mental and physical well-being. Changing these factors not only helps to alleviate withdrawal symptoms and prevent relapse, but most importantly supports the long-term management of a life free from addiction.

1. Quality sleep: the basis for good decision-making

Getting enough and quality sleep (ideally 7-9 hours each day) strengthens our ability to cope with stress, improves mood, memory and emotional stability. For people struggling with addiction, poor sleep can increase cravings for addictive substances and the risk of impulsive behavior. Maintain a regular routine, limit screen time on phones, computers and television in the evenings and create a calm, well-ventilated and dark sleeping environment. Taking a morning walk in the sun or doing some relaxation before bed, such as reading, listening to calm music or doing gentle stretches, can also help.

2. A healthy diet as a support for mind and body

A balanced diet is key to maintaining a stable mood and managing stress. People with addictions often suffer from nutrient deficiencies, which can worsen their mental state. Focus on eating fresh foods, vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and legumes. Omega-3 fatty acids (nuts, flaxseed, fish) can help reduce anxiety and low mood. Limit processed foods high in sugar and saturated fat. Stay hydrated — water, herbal teas, or unsweetened flavored water are great choices.

3. Movement and activity: a cure for stress and bad mood

Regular exercise increases mental resilience, reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression, and brings more energy to life. Include movement in your schedule — whether it's a brisk walk in nature, yoga, online home workouts, or group classes, which can also expand your social network with acquaintances who will support you in a healthy lifestyle.

4. Stress Management: Tools for Calm and Resilience

Long-term stress is harmful to the body and mind and often leads to a worsening of addictive behavior. Learn simple breathing techniques, such as deep diaphragmatic breathing or the 4×4 method (inhale for 4 seconds, exhale for 4 seconds). Try meditation, mindfulness apps (such as Headspace or Calm), or individual psychotherapy. Regular exercise or increasing your dietary fiber intake can also help, which also affects stress management.

5. Social relationships and psychological well-being

Loneliness is a risk factor for relapse to substance use and the development of mental health problems. Stay connected with family and loved ones, join support groups (Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, or Gamblers Anonymous), or participate in sports, social, or educational activities. If you are feeling unwell, don't hesitate to seek professional help — therapy offers a safe environment to share feelings and work through isolation. Pets or online communities can also help.

Why are these factors linked?

Improving one area (e.g. sleep) naturally supports others (better sleep helps manage sweet cravings, more energy supports the willingness to exercise, exercise improves sleep quality and reduces stress). That's why it's important to work on multiple areas gradually and see them all as part of your recovery.

Remember: Start small — even a small change in one factor can have a positive impact on your journey to a healthier, happier life. If you need support or assistance on your journey to a life free of addiction, don’t hesitate to contact us. Together we will find a way.

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In the digital age, mobile apps can significantly facilitate and support the journey to regain control over substance use and increase motivation to seek treatment for addiction. A number of mobile apps can support individuals on their journey to recovery and offer tools to track abstinence, connect with support groups, and provide access to proven, science-based resources. Below, I’ve summarized some of the most commonly used apps that can help you or your loved ones stay sober.

Why use mobile applications in addiction treatment?

• Convenience: Always available on your phone, support anytime, anywhere.
• Privacy: Discreet access to resources and communities.
• Motivation: Tools to track progress, celebrate milestones, and gain support.
• Community: Connecting with people with similar experiences that reduces feelings of isolation.
• Research-backed: Many apps incorporate proven therapeutic methods and relapse prevention strategies. Research shows that using mobile apps in combination with traditional treatment can increase the success of addiction treatment and help prevent relapse.

Selection of mobile applications

1. Adiquit

• Developed by Czech experts specifically for smoking cessation.
• A clinically proven mobile application that provides the user with expert methods for treating tobacco addiction.
• Virtual therapist Adam is available 24 hours a day, guiding you from preparation for quitting to maintaining it.
• The application reflects the individual needs of the user and offers practical advice and a "last resort box" for crisis situations.
• The first few days are free, after which the program is charged.

2. I Am Sober

• Tracking the number of days of abstinence, saving reasons for abstinence and photos.
• Daily commitments, keeping promises, and evaluating your own progress.
• Motivational quotes and a supportive community of sharing users.
• Personalization according to addiction type and level of motivation, visualization of progress to increase motivation.
• The application can be used for free, advanced features are available through a subscription.

3. Quitzilla

• Recording and analysis of various forms of addictions (not only classic ones, but also bad habits).
• Monitoring abstinence, obtaining motivation in the form of rewards.
• Recording reasons for substance reuse, helping to understand patterns of behavior.
• Basic version free, advanced version for a fee.

4. QuitNow!

• A motivational application designed to quit smoking.
• Tracking the number of days since the last cigarette, money and time the user has saved
• Informing about the improvement of health status.
• The community page allows you to share successes and get support from other users.
• Basic version free, advanced version for a fee.

How to choose the right application

Think about your needs: Do you want community support, personalized recommendations, or just tracking the number of days you've been substance-free?
Look for scientifically proven apps: Prefer apps that use evidence-based methods.
Consider privacy: Check if the app protects your anonymity.
Try multiple options: Most apps are free or have a free basic version—choose the one that works best for you.

Final recommendations

Mobile apps are not a substitute for in-person contact with a professional, but they can be a great addition to treatment and support for maintaining abstinence. Whether you are at the beginning of your journey or need support for long-term abstinence, these apps can help you strengthen your motivation, engagement, and determination to continue on your journey to a healthy lifestyle.

If you are struggling with addiction, combine these digital tools with professional counseling, self-help groups, and support from addiction treatment professionals to increase your success.

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On the FocusOn website, I had the opportunity to conduct an interview with psychologist PhDr. Michaela Pacáková, head of the National Quitline, in the new program (NE)ZÁVISLÍ. The main topic was the high alcohol consumption in the Czech Republic, which is among the highest in the world and is a common part of many social and family events.

In the interview, we focused on the risks that drinking alcohol brings, and the health and social impacts of excessive consumption. Dr. Pacáková pointed out that in the Czech Republic there is still a lack of financial co-payment for health problems associated with drinking- that is, the costs of treating diseases caused by alcohol are mainly borne by the state, not the consumers themselves. This is one of the reasons why alcohol consumption is not being effectively reduced.

We also discussed why alcohol is so widespread in Czech society, what are the prevention options, and how each of us can contribute to change. The psychologist explained how the National Quitline works and what support is available to people who want to quit or reduce their alcohol consumption.

If you are interested in this topic, you can listen to the entire interview on the FocusOn.cz website. If you are looking for support or information about alcohol addiction, do not hesitate to contact us.

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Addiction is not just a matter of weak will or one bad decision, and it is not just the result of a single cause, but a complex set of interconnected factors. The modern view of addiction therefore uses the so-called bio-psycho-socio-spiritual model, which includes four basic pillars: biological, psychological, social and spiritual. This model helps to better understand why addiction arises, how it can be effectively treated and how to prevent its return.

Biological Pillar (Body)

• Genetics and heredity: Some people are genetically at higher risk of developing addiction.
• Physical changes in the brain: Substance use affects brain circuits and chemistry, leading to physical dependence.
• Health condition: Chronic illness, pain, or other physical ailments can increase susceptibility to substance use.
• Tolerance and withdrawal: The body becomes accustomed to the substance and requires higher doses to achieve the same effect.

Psychological pillar (Mind)

• Way of thinking and experiencing: Negative thought patterns, anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem can promote the development of addiction.
• Self-medication: Using substances as an escape from psychological stress, trauma or pain, or as a response to mental illness (anxiety, depression, ADHD).
• Psychological addiction: The desire for the substance is linked to the need to improve mood or escape reality.
• Low stress resilience: A lack of stress coping strategies and the associated increased vulnerability can promote loss of control over substance use.

Social Pillar (Relationships)

• Family and environment: The quality of relationships, family environment, and support play a crucial role in the development and treatment of addiction.
• Peer pressure: Friends, colleagues, or the community can influence an individual's behavior.
• Social status and environment: Poverty, social isolation, or lack of support increase the risk of addiction.
• Sense of Belonging: The desire to belong can lead to substance use.

Spiritual Pillar (Soul)

• Meaning of life and values: Loss of meaning, inner emptiness, or conflict of values can lead to seeking relief in substance use.
• Morality and conscience: Feelings of guilt, shame, or internal conflict can maintain addiction.
• Connection with the environment and spirituality: The search for a higher meaning, faith, or inner strength promotes recovery, hope for healing, and motivation for change.
• Healing and Forgiveness: The healing process involves forgiving yourself and others and strengthening your inner strength.

How the pillars contribute to the development of addiction

Each pillar represents a separate but interconnected factor. For example, a genetic predisposition may increase risk, but without a supportive social environment and coping strategies, the risk is even greater. Psychological trauma, social isolation, or a loss of meaning in life can lead a person to seek relief in addictive substances.

The Importance of Understanding the Four Pillars in Addiction Treatment

• Comprehensive approach: Effective addiction treatment requires work on all levels – physical, psychological, social and spiritual.
• Individualized plan: Each person has a unique combination of risk factors, so it is important to tailor treatment.
• Relapse prevention: Strengthening all pillars increases the chance of long-term recovery and reduces the risk of returning to addiction.
• Support and motivation: Involving family, community, and working on personal development help a person find new meaning and motivation.

Each pillar is important and their connection is the key to successful therapy. Effective addiction treatment requires a comprehensive view of the person and their life circumstances.

If you are looking for help or support, do not hesitate to contact our clinic.

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An interview was recently published on the FocusOn website, in which I had the opportunity to discuss the issue of alcohol and the use of other addictive substances in Czech society. The topic focused, among other things, on how much beer and wine is still okay and when consumption starts to become risky. In the interview, I explained what the recommended limits are for safe alcohol consumption and why it is important to monitor not only the amount but also the frequency of consumption. At the same time, we also discussed how alcohol affects our health and why it is important to talk openly about these issues.

In addition, we discussed other important topics in the interview:

• How alcohol affects the brain and why quitting is so difficult- we explained how alcohol changes brain processes and why an addiction develops that is difficult to overcome.
• Why is it not possible to reduce overall alcohol consumption in the Czech Republic- we discussed the cultural and social factors that maintain a high level of alcohol consumption in the population.
• How the COVID-19 pandemic has led to an increase in addictions– we analyzed how the period of isolation and stress led to higher consumption of alcohol and other addictive substances.
• What other substances are currently trending among young people- we also looked at new trends in substance use among the young generation.

You can listen to the entire interview on the FocusOn.cz website.

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The use of addictive substances, especially legal addictive substances such as alcohol and nicotine, but also illegal addictive substances, is significantly widespread in the Czech population, and problems related to the use of addictive substances can be observed in adults of any age.

A doctor of any specialization regularly meets with patients who are affected by addiction issues to varying degrees in their practice, and thanks to their expertise, they have the opportunity to reveal the possible risk of developing addiction during a conversation with the patient and motivate the patient to solve their problem. Patients who use addictive substances visit primary care and emergency departments more often than patients who do not use addictive substances. The doctor in these facilities is thus an important point in the health and social care system for identifying problems associated with substance use and initiating brief intervention.

In collaboration with other experts, we have therefore prepared an electronic publication on addiction issues for doctors and medical students. The aim of the book is to provide readers with a simple way to detect problematic substance use in patients in routine clinical practice through screening and how to implement a brief intervention for patients at risk.

The e-book can be downloaded under the following link: Addiction issues in medical practice_Malinovská Brož_2024

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The Christmas season can be a stressful time, when we are more affected by problems in our family, personal or professional life or financial problems. During this period, there is often an increase in alcohol consumption, whether due to the greater number of parties at this time or as a momentary escape from the problems that weigh us down. It is not only during this period that it can happen that our drinking starts to "grow over our heads". But how do you know that drinking alcohol is becoming a problem that needs to be addressed? How do you know if you personally or someone close to you is losing control of your drinking and whether it is appropriate to consult a specialist about the problem?

It is important to remember that addiction is a mental illness, the essence of which is changes in the brain that lead to changes in behavior. The current model of addiction looks at addiction from the perspective of biology, psychology, society and spirituality, where all of these components contribute to some extent to the formation and maintenance of addiction. One of the main characteristics of alcohol addiction is an uncontrollable desire for alcohol and the inability to stop drinking once one has started. Such a person seeks out opportunities to drink alcohol or, during regular shopping, will not pass by the alcohol section without buying a bottle. The amount of alcohol that an addict can tolerate in the early stages of addiction increases, and the addict needs to drink more alcohol to achieve the desired effect. In more advanced stages of addiction, the addict needs to drink first thing in the morning to get in shape after excessive drinking the previous day, and after finishing one bottle of alcohol, he thinks about the next opportunity to go to the store to buy another bottle.

As a result of drinking, people begin to neglect normal activities that they used to do, stop completing their tasks on time, do not pay rent, and their interpersonal relationships often suffer (their marriages, long-term relationships break up, they argue with their families). An addicted person becomes upset if someone close to them (friends, family, partner) criticizes them for drinking excessively or recommends that they cut back on their drinking.

Other ways to estimate the level of alcohol problems include these four questions:

1. Have you ever felt the need to cut down on your drinking?
2. Do you feel irritated when people around you criticize your drinking?
3. Have you ever had bad feelings or feelings of guilt because of drinking?
4. Have you ever had a drink first thing in the morning to calm down or get rid of a hangover?

If a person answers yes to more than one question, it is advisable to consider consulting a specialist.

If you are interested in a consultation in our office, you can make an appointment in the Contacts section.

You can test your alcohol consumption, get a comparison with your peers, and get information about the health impacts of excessive drinking here: http://www.nudz-snasa.cz/

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