The Tropical Island Mauritius

Mauritius Island is a portrait of alluring deep blue landscapes and white sandy beaches.

Among the coconut trees and tropical weather lies a haven of lush surroundings. Deep within is a world of people rich in culture and religion.

Mauritius is in the south-west of the Indian Ocean, near the African coast next to the island Madagascar. Port Louis is the capital and is the main portal for markets, shops and restaurants. Markets are alive with the vibe of different customs displayed alongside of each other.

Spicy foods and tropical fruits are a delightful treat and popular attraction among the local tourists. The History of Mauritius derives from the early Portuguese, the Dutch as well as British and French settlers.

African slaves were an early part of trade which plays a major role in the mixed descent followed by native Asians. Although English is the official language the main dialect is creole while others are influenced by their native origins such as Hindi, African or French.

The sugarcane has been a growing boon for the Mauritian economy after once being a poor island that was dominated and used for trade by African slaves. Later, after having settled the Dutch introduced the sugarcane which is used widely to produce rum.

Religion is divided and plays an important part of the Mauritian heritage. Here, is an array of Christians, Muslims, Hindus and Buddhists. Different religious festivals are celebrated throughout the year. Each ceremony is held sacred with pride and joy.

One of the main excitements of the island is the Sega Dance. The Sega is of African descent an originated from Madagascar. At night-time in the village the echoing sound of tribal drumming can be heard from afar. It is traditional for the men to play percussion instruments while the women perform the leading jovial dance called the Sega.

Mauritian cuisine is combined with a curious blend of ethnic flavours that includes mixed spices, fresh vegetables and herbs. The main dish cooked in the home is a fish, chicken or meat stew served with rice. There are plenty of restaurants including food stalls situated along the streets that contain a variety of foods that are Indian, Chinese and Muslim.

As the days reach a humid peak, the beaches are a refreshing hub for tourists and are close by the local village. Mauritius is said to be a tropical paradise and indeed it is with its warm, sultry weather, beautiful beaches, exotic food enriched within the diversity of culture and spirituality; it truly is an island of the Gods

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The Battling Truth of Alcohol

Alcoholism also known as alcohol dependence is the uncontrollable urge of drinking a high consumption level of alcohol. It is not known what causes alcoholism however, having a genetic predisposition as well as environmental factors are thought to be a high risk according to researchers.

As the level of alcohol consumption increases the higher the danger of developing the early onset stages of alcoholism. This will eventually progress the disease to an advanced stage.


Alcohol's affect on the brain and health:

Alcoholism causes damage to the brain cells and affects the central nervous system. Alcohol impairs the brain's ability to function normally affecting performance rate quite markedly.

This will result in the loss of memory, black outs, slow reaction, poor muscle co-ordination and motor skills. Blurred vision and speech occur due to paralysis of the neurological function to the brain.


Cancer of the liver also called cirrhosis, vitamin B1 deficiency, poor nutrition and hygiene are common among alcoholics. Long-term heavy drinkers will develop a tolerance to alcohol that will cause symptoms after drinking is abruptly ceased.

Symptoms:

Unable to tolerate or limit the use of alcohol in one drinking session. Having to drink to excess in order to reach a level of intoxication.


Symptoms also include both psychological and physical:

Withdrawal symptoms: - cravings, tremors mild or severe aka delirium tremens. Convulsions, palpitations, sweating, anxiety, nausea, insomnia, agitation, mental confusion and hallucinations to name just a few examples.

It is very difficult to admit to having a drinking problem and thus many alcoholics are in denial. History of family and friends has a huge impact towards both those of the alcoholic and family and friends involved.

Numbers have increased among the homeless of those who are alcohol dependent. Alcoholism isolates people who are inflicted throughout the community. Mental health issues are also frequent among heavy alcohol users. Alcoholism is a debilitating condition that shares a high rate of unemployment, poverty and homelessness that is known to exist throughout society.

Outcome:

It is extremely difficult for anyone with an addiction to quit and this is also the case with alcohol dependency.

Medical Checks: Medical checks from your GP are necessary in monitoring your health.

Rehabilitation Centres

Rehabilitation centres for detox as well as Drug and Alcohol Counselling services are available in the use of treatments for heavy drinkers. Success widely depends on a variety of issues some include medical while other reasons may be personal. The ability to abstain is the only way for an alcoholic to remain sober.


Further reading and resources:
http://www.healthline.com/health/alcohol/effects-on-body


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Life On The Streets

Life on the streets for the homeless is a way of life. The reasons for poverty and homelessness are diverse and raises controversial issues. Homelessness has been stigmatised throughout the ages along with drug/alcohol addiction and mental illness. Just what is the main cause?

Non-connectedness is a feeling of not belonging to society and has been the case for many homeless people who live on the street. Statistics have noted when a shelter is provided most often the person chooses to be homeless as there is a feeling of "connectedness" that is shared with other homeless people.

A lack of social support, family and friends is also the cause of loneliness and isolation. Other issues that involve homelessness are sexual abuse and domestic violence that is found to be reportedly common among street teenagers.

Drug, alcohol and mental health issues are a serious problem in local communities. Welfare agencies who offer shelter support as a temporary relief are unable to come to a resolution as many continue to live a life on the street.

The poverty and isolation of street living has a high mortality rate due to poor nutrition, hygiene and health issues that increase the risk of developing diseases.

Mentally ill people who are left medically untreated, places their mental health at risk of depression, suicide, including the wide use of substance abuse and drug overdose. Victims of street violence such as beatings and robberies are a regular occurrence significantly targeted at ageing alcoholics.

Homeless Services:

There is a wide variety of services to help the homeless.

Housing Offices support those who are at risk of becoming homeless or who are already homeless.

Housing Support Agencies offer a range of care for those who are in need of food, shelter and clothes. Counseling advice services are free.

Drop In Centres cater for daily activities such as: Meals, donated food parcels and social support groups. Toilet and showering facilities are available for use during the day.

Medical Care Centres focus on medical support that includes; Drug/Alcohol Counselling and Crisis Services for the Mentally ill.

Homelessness has risen in the last decade and has become worldwide. World Government Communities have yet to discover a method in controlling and resolving the growing crisis in our society.

http://salvos.org.au/
The Salvation Army in Australia (NSW, ACT, Qld): contacts, help, donations, volunteering, stores, school projects, job opportunities, church, spirituality, prayer.


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