Cslhg.org Review

Based on checking the website, Cslhg.org appears to be a legitimate, abstinence-based support group focused on helping individuals overcome addiction to cannabis, spice, and other legal highs.

While their mission of aiding recovery is commendable, certain aspects of their online presence and the broader topic of drug use warrant a deeper look from an ethical standpoint.

Overall Review Summary:

• Website Focus: Addiction recovery support for cannabis, spice, and legal highs.
• Approach: Abstinence-based, user-led, mutual aid self-help group.
• Target Audience: Individuals struggling with these addictions and their families.
• Key Services: Weekly meetings in-person and online, referrals to other programs Change Programme, AIM group SMART, NA, educational outreach.
• Ethical Stance: While addiction recovery is positive, the underlying subject of drug use is strictly discouraged in Islam. The website’s charitable status and focus on self-help are positive.
• Website Clarity: Provides clear information on their mission, history, and approach.
• Contact Information: Email and voicemail/text number provided.
• Missing Elements for a Robust Review: Lack of detailed financial transparency, clearer governance structure beyond “user-led,” and more in-depth privacy policy.

While Cslhg.org addresses a critical societal issue—addiction—it’s crucial to acknowledge that the use and promotion of cannabis and other synthetic substances are unequivocally forbidden in Islam due to their intoxicating and harmful effects on the mind, body, and soul.

Such substances impair judgment, lead to dependence, and divert individuals from productive and righteous paths.

The path to true well-being and inner peace lies in abstinence from all intoxicants and harmful practices.

For those seeking support, the focus should always be on holistic recovery rooted in values that promote a sound mind and body, free from chemical dependency.

Here are some alternatives focused on personal development and holistic well-being that align with ethical principles:

• Mindfulness Apps e.g., Calm or Headspace: Key Features: Guided meditations, sleep stories, breathing exercises, mindfulness programs. Average Price: $15/month or $70/year. Pros: Promotes mental clarity, reduces stress, improves focus, accessible anytime, anywhere. Cons: Requires consistent practice, effectiveness varies per individual, subscription cost.
• Productivity Planners e.g., Panda Planner: Key Features: Goal setting, daily planning, gratitude journaling, habit tracking, undated pages. Average Price: $20-$30. Pros: Enhances organization, promotes goal achievement, encourages positive habits, reduces procrastination. Cons: Requires discipline to use consistently, can feel restrictive for some, physical item to carry.
• Online Learning Platforms e.g., Coursera: Key Features: Courses from top universities, professional certificates, specializations in various fields, flexible learning schedules. Average Price: Free courses available, paid courses/specializations vary e.g., $49/month for Coursera Plus. Pros: Skill development, intellectual growth, career advancement, diverse topics. Cons: Requires self-discipline, can be time-consuming, some content requires payment.
• Fitness Trackers e.g., Fitbit Inspire 3: Key Features: Activity tracking steps, distance, calories, heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, stress management tools. Average Price: $80-$100. Pros: Encourages physical activity, provides health insights, helps build healthy habits, motivating. Cons: Requires charging, can be an initial investment, data privacy concerns for some.
• Aromatherapy Diffusers & Essential Oils e.g., NOW Solutions Diffuser: Key Features: Disperses essential oils into the air, promotes relaxation, improves air quality, various aesthetic designs. Average Price: Diffuser $20-$40, Oils $10-$20 per bottle. Pros: Creates a calming atmosphere, natural scents, non-ingestible form of well-being support. Cons: Can be messy, requires regular cleaning, some individuals may be sensitive to certain oils.
• Journaling Supplies e.g., Leuchtturm1917 Notebook: Key Features: High-quality paper, numbered pages, table of contents, various sizes and colors. Average Price: $20-$25. Pros: Enhances self-reflection, stress relief, goal tracking, boosts creativity. Cons: Requires a habit to maintain, can feel daunting for beginners, physical item.
• Home Workout Equipment e.g., Resistance Bands Set: Key Features: Various resistance levels, portable, suitable for full-body workouts, often comes with a carrying bag. Average Price: $15-$30. Pros: Convenient for home use, cost-effective, versatile for different exercises, promotes physical health. Cons: May not replace gym equipment for all fitness levels, proper form is crucial to avoid injury.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

Cslhg.org Review: A Closer Look at Their Mission and Operations

Cslhg.org, which stands for The Cannabis, Spice and Legal Highs Group, positions itself as an abstinence-based, user-led support group dedicated to helping individuals overcome addiction to these substances.

While the mission of aiding recovery is inherently positive, it’s vital to examine the context and the broader implications from an ethical standpoint, especially considering Islamic principles that strictly forbid intoxicants.

The website aims to fill a gap in support for cannabis and synthetic drug users, recognizing that specialized mutual aid is often lacking.

The Foundation and Philosophy of Cslhg.org

Cslhg.org was established in March 2015 by service users and staff of the Bridge Project in Bradford, UK.

Their formation was a direct response to the perceived need for dedicated support for past and current users of cannabis, spice, and legal highs, as well as their families.

This user-led approach is a cornerstone of their philosophy, emphasizing shared personal experience and best practices in recovery.

• Abstinence-Based Model: A key aspect of Cslhg.org’s approach is its strict adherence to an abstinence-based recovery model. This means their primary goal is to help members achieve and maintain complete sobriety from all street drugs.
  • “No Magic Solutions, No Quick Fixes”: The website explicitly states, “We believe everyone has the power to overcome their addictions through commitment and hard work. We offer help and direction, there are no magic solutions, no quick fixes and no tablets, pills or scripts.” This transparency about the arduous journey of recovery is commendable.
  • Strict Policy: They enforce a “strict policy of not using on the day of attendance and we do not allow children, drugs or paraphernalia at the venue,” ensuring a safe and drug-free environment for their meetings.
• User-Led Support: The group’s “user-led” nature suggests that those with lived experience of addiction and recovery play a significant role in guiding the support group’s activities and direction.
  • Empowerment: This model can be empowering for members, fostering a sense of community and shared understanding. It allows for peer support and mentorship, which can be highly effective in addiction recovery.
  • Community Building: The emphasis on “mutual aid” highlights the communal aspect of their support, where individuals help each other through shared challenges and successes.

Cslhg.org’s Focus on Specific Substances

The group explicitly defines the substances they address: cannabis, “Spice” all analogue cannabinoids mimicking cannabis, and “legal highs” man-made synthetic versions of street drugs, now known as Novel Psychoactive Substances. This clear definition helps potential members understand if the group is suitable for their specific needs.

• Cannabis: They highlight cannabis as the “most commonly used illegal drug,” yet paradoxically, it has “the lowest levels of specialist mutual aid support within user led addiction services.” This statistic underscores the gap Cslhg.org aims to fill.
  • Home Office Crime Survey 2015/16 Data: The website cites data indicating that in 2015/16, 6.5% of adults aged 16-59 around 2.1 million people in England and Wales had used cannabis in the last year. Among younger adults 16-24, this figure rose to 15.8% around 975,000. These statistics emphasize the prevalence of cannabis use and the societal need for intervention programs.
• Spice and Legal Highs: The website acknowledges that “the recent advent of spice and legal highs use has left users even less well catered for.” These synthetic substances often pose unique and severe challenges due to their unpredictable potency and potential for rapid addiction.

The Problem with Intoxicants and Why Recovery Matters

While Cslhg.org’s recovery efforts are commendable, it’s crucial to reiterate the severe ethical implications of intoxicants.

From an Islamic perspective, all mind-altering substances, including cannabis, alcohol, and synthetic drugs, are strictly forbidden.

This prohibition is rooted in protecting the individual’s intellect, physical health, and spiritual well-being, as well as safeguarding the family and community. Kunshtech.com Review

• Harm to Intellect: Intoxicants impair judgment, memory, and cognitive function, hindering an individual’s ability to think clearly, make rational decisions, and engage in meaningful acts of worship or productivity.
• Physical Deterioration: Prolonged substance abuse leads to a myriad of physical health problems, including damage to vital organs, weakened immune systems, and increased susceptibility to diseases.
• Spiritual Decay: Intoxication distances an individual from their spiritual purpose, making them heedless of their religious duties and less inclined towards righteous conduct. It can foster apathy and self-neglect.
• Societal Breakdown: Substance abuse contributes to social problems such as crime, violence, family dysfunction, and economic strain. It erodes trust and disrupts the fabric of communities.
• Waste of Resources: Funds spent on acquiring and using intoxicants are a waste of precious resources that could otherwise be used for beneficial purposes, for oneself, one’s family, or for charity.

Therefore, while the group helps individuals stop harmful behaviors, the ultimate goal should be a life completely free from such substances, aligning with a holistic approach to well-being that promotes a clear mind, a healthy body, and a strong spirit.

Cslhg.org: Engagement and Reach

The website highlights significant engagement since its inception, indicating a strong community response to their services.

• Membership Growth: As of October 2017, Cslhg.org reported seeing “over 200 members attending our weekly meetings, with over 1500 individual instances of attendance.” This demonstrates consistent participation and a clear need for their services within the community.
• Regular Attendance: They “regularly see attendances between 15 –25,” with the majority approximately 90% being individuals seeking help for cannabis addiction, 8% for spice, and 2% for legal highs. This data offers insight into the primary demographic they serve.
• Outreach Activities: Beyond their regular meetings, Cslhg.org also extends its model to “local universities and health care establishments,” indicating a proactive approach to education and prevention. This outreach is crucial for raising awareness and providing early intervention.
• Success Stories: The website briefly mentions “numerous examples of success in our diverse membership supporting members with serious lifelong addictions and watching them grow and develop into volunteering, employment and general health and happiness.” While only brief mentions of testimonials are visible on the homepage, the implication is that they have tangible results. This positive impact on individuals’ lives, guiding them towards productive and healthy living, is the ultimate goal of any recovery program.

Cslhg.org Pros & Cons

When evaluating Cslhg.org, it’s important to weigh its strengths against areas that could be improved, particularly from a perspective that values clarity, transparency, and a holistic approach to well-being.

Pros:

• Clear Mission and Focus: The website clearly states its mission to support individuals recovering from cannabis, spice, and legal highs addiction through an abstinence-based model. This specificity helps potential members understand if the group is right for them.
• User-Led and Mutual Aid: The emphasis on being “user-led” and a “mutual aid support group” fosters a sense of community, shared experience, and peer support, which can be highly effective in addiction recovery.
• Abstinence-Based: For those committed to complete sobriety, the strict abstinence policy provides a clear framework and a drug-free environment, aligning with the ethical stance against intoxicants.
• Accessibility: Offering both regular in-person meetings and online options increases accessibility for a wider range of individuals, including those with geographical limitations or social anxieties.
• Community Engagement: The group’s outreach to universities and healthcare establishments demonstrates a proactive approach to education and prevention, aiming to address the issue beyond just direct support.
• Referral Network: By referring members to other established programs Change Programme, AIM group SMART, NA, Cslhg.org shows it’s part of a broader support ecosystem and recognizes that different individuals may benefit from various resources.
• Transparency on Process: The direct statement that there are “no magic solutions, no quick fixes and no tablets, pills or scripts” sets realistic expectations for the challenging journey of recovery.
• Charity Status: Being a registered charity Charity number: 1193551 implies a level of accountability and dedication to public benefit.

Cons:

• Limited Financial Transparency: While a registered charity, the website does not provide easily accessible financial reports or details on how donations are used. This lack of transparency can be a concern for those looking to support or understand the organization’s financial health.
• Vague Testimonial Presentation: The “Group Testimonials” section on the homepage lists only codes and names e.g., “M0117 Steve,” “M0141 Kev” without accompanying text. This makes it impossible for visitors to read or understand the impact of the group from actual members, reducing the credibility and emotional connection that testimonials typically provide.
• Minimal Governance Details: Beyond stating it’s “user-led” and “supported by the Bridge Project and The Change Programme,” there’s little information on the organizational structure, leadership, or specific governance policies.
• Basic Website Design: The website’s design is functional but quite basic, potentially impacting user experience and perception of professionalism compared to more modern, well-funded organizations.
• No Clear Privacy Policy: A readily accessible and detailed privacy policy outlining how user data is collected, stored, and used is absent from the homepage. This is a significant concern for any organization, especially one dealing with sensitive personal information related to addiction.
• Lack of Immediate Crisis Support Information: While they offer support, there’s no prominent, immediate information for individuals in crisis or needing urgent help, which is often a feature on reputable health support websites.
• Limited “Articles” Content: The “Articles” section link redirects to a “substance information page,” which is informative but doesn’t feature diverse articles or blog posts that might enrich the user’s understanding beyond substance definitions.
• Generic Contact Information: The provided email [email protected] is a generic Gmail address rather than a domain-specific email e.g., [email protected], which can sometimes raise questions about professionalism or scale.

Cslhg.org Alternatives: Focusing on Holistic Well-being

Given the strong ethical stance against intoxicants, alternatives that focus on holistic well-being, personal development, and positive lifestyle changes are crucial.

These alternatives provide avenues for growth that align with a life free from harmful dependencies, promoting mental clarity, physical health, and spiritual peace.

• Online Self-Improvement Courses e.g., edX: Key Features: Wide range of academic and professional courses, self-paced learning, certificates available. Average Price: Free to audit, paid for certificates $50-$300. Pros: Intellectual growth, skill acquisition, personal enrichment, flexible learning. Cons: Requires self-discipline, can be time-consuming, not all courses offer certificates.
• Digital Journaling Apps e.g., Day One: Key Features: Secure journaling, photo/video integration, tagging, search, cross-device sync. Average Price: Free basic, premium $3.99/month. Pros: Private reflection, stress reduction, memory keeping, accessible on multiple devices. Cons: Subscription cost for full features, requires digital device.
• Stress Relief Tools e.g., Fidget Toys: Key Features: Tactile stimulation, repetitive motions, various designs spinners, cubes, pop-its. Average Price: $5-$20. Pros: Helps manage anxiety, improves focus, portable, non-addictive coping mechanism. Cons: Can be distracting if overused, effectiveness varies per individual.
• Art & Craft Supplies e.g., Drawing Kits: Key Features: Various mediums pencils, paints, pastels, sketchbooks, instructional guides. Average Price: $20-$50. Pros: Boosts creativity, provides a positive outlet, reduces stress, develops fine motor skills. Cons: Requires initial investment, can be messy, takes time to develop skills.
• Gardening Tools & Seeds e.g., Beginner’s Vegetable Seed Kit: Key Features: Basic tools trowel, gloves, variety of seeds, instructional booklet. Average Price: $20-$40. Pros: Connects with nature, therapeutic, provides fresh produce, promotes patience and responsibility. Cons: Requires outdoor space or pots, weather dependent, takes time for results.
• Meditation Cushions e.g., Zafu: Key Features: Ergonomic design for comfortable posture, durable filling buckwheat, kapok, various colors. Average Price: $30-$60. Pros: Supports comfortable meditation, promotes good posture, enhances focus during practice. Cons: Initial investment, can be bulky to store.
• Acupressure Mats e.g., Sivan Health and Fitness Acupressure Mat: Key Features: Thousands of plastic spikes, various sizes, often comes with a pillow. Average Price: $20-$40. Pros: May relieve muscle tension, promote relaxation, improve circulation, non-invasive. Cons: Can be uncomfortable initially, not suitable for everyone e.g., sensitive skin, results vary.

How to Find Legitimate Support Groups for Addiction

For individuals seeking support for addiction, it’s paramount to find legitimate, ethical, and effective programs.

• National Helplines and Hotlines: In the U.S., organizations like the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration SAMHSA offer national helplines and online locators for treatment facilities.
  • SAMHSA National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP 4357 provides confidential free help, from public health agencies, to find substance use treatment and information.
  • Online Treatment Locators: SAMHSA’s website https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline allows users to search for treatment centers by location and type of service.
• Professional Organizations: Organizations like the National Institute on Drug Abuse NIDA https://www.nida.nih.gov/ provide extensive research, statistics, and resources on drug addiction, treatment approaches, and prevention.
  • Evidence-Based Practices: Look for programs that utilize evidence-based treatment modalities, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and contingency management.
• Local Health Departments and Community Centers: These often have information on local support groups, rehabilitation centers, and mental health services. They can provide referrals to trusted providers within your community.
• Established 12-Step Programs: Groups like Narcotics Anonymous NA or Alcoholics Anonymous AA have established structures and a long history of helping individuals achieve sobriety through a peer-support model.
  • NA Narcotics Anonymous: https://www.na.org/
  • AA Alcoholics Anonymous: https://www.aa.org/
• Verify Credentials and Reviews: For any private facility or less-known group, verify their licensing, certifications, and read reviews from former clients or reputable third-party review sites.
• Consult Healthcare Professionals: A doctor or mental health professional can provide personalized recommendations and guidance on the most appropriate treatment path based on an individual’s specific needs and circumstances.

Understanding the Importance of Holistic Recovery

Addiction recovery is not merely about stopping substance use. Northriveroutfitter.com Review

It’s about rebuilding a life of purpose, health, and spiritual well-being.

A truly holistic approach addresses the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual dimensions of an individual.

• Physical Health: This involves regular exercise, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and medical care to address any health issues resulting from substance abuse.
• Mental Health: Addressing underlying mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, or trauma is crucial, often requiring therapy, counseling, or psychiatric support.
• Emotional Well-being: Learning healthy coping mechanisms for stress, anger, and other difficult emotions, as well as developing emotional resilience.
• Spiritual Growth: Connecting with one’s spiritual purpose, engaging in acts of worship, mindfulness, and reflection, which provides a moral compass and inner peace. This is particularly vital from an Islamic perspective, as faith offers a profound source of strength and guidance in overcoming life’s challenges.
• Social Connections: Building a supportive network of friends, family, and community members who encourage positive behaviors and healthy relationships.
• Purpose and Meaning: Finding meaningful activities, work, or hobbies that provide a sense of accomplishment and contribute to society. This helps fill the void left by addiction and directs energy towards constructive endeavors.

By focusing on these multifaceted aspects, individuals can achieve sustainable recovery and build a life that is fulfilling, productive, and aligned with ethical principles.

FAQ

What is Cslhg.org?

Cslhg.org The Cannabis, Spice and Legal Highs Group is an abstinence-based, user-led support group based in Bradford, UK, focused on helping individuals recover from addiction to cannabis, spice, and other legal highs.

Is Cslhg.org a legitimate organization?

Yes, Cslhg.org is a registered charity in the UK Charity number: 1193551, suggesting it operates with a degree of legitimacy and oversight.

What kind of support does Cslhg.org offer?

Cslhg.org offers mutual aid support through weekly meetings in-person and online, peer support, and referrals to other established addiction recovery programs like The Change Programme, AIM group SMART, and NA.

Does Cslhg.org provide medication or pills for addiction?

No, Cslhg.org explicitly states that they offer “no magic solutions, no quick fixes and no tablets, pills or scripts,” emphasizing that their approach is based on commitment, hard work, and self-help.

What substances does Cslhg.org focus on?

Cslhg.org specializes in helping people stop using cannabis, “Spice” analogue cannabinoids, and “legal highs” Novel Psychoactive Substances or NPS.

Is drug addiction support permissible in Islam?

Yes, helping individuals overcome addiction to harmful substances is highly encouraged in Islam, as it leads to the preservation of intellect, health, and dignity, which are core Islamic values.

Are the testimonials on Cslhg.org verifiable?

The testimonials listed on the homepage are presented only as codes and names e.g., M0117 Steve without any accompanying text, making it impossible for visitors to read or verify them directly from the website. Bastionsafe.com Review

Does Cslhg.org have a clear privacy policy?

Based on the website’s homepage, there is no readily visible or detailed privacy policy outlining how user data is collected, stored, or used.

What are some ethical alternatives to addiction for personal growth?

Ethical alternatives for personal growth that align with Islamic principles include mindfulness practices, productivity planning, online learning, physical fitness, creative arts and crafts, gardening, and various forms of spiritual development and community engagement.

How can I contact Cslhg.org?

You can contact Cslhg.org via voicemail/text at 007379 915 1900 or by email at [email protected].

Does Cslhg.org offer online meetings?

Yes, Cslhg.org states that in addition to their regular in-person meetings, they also offer online meetings, increasing accessibility for members.

What is the Bridge Project in Bradford?

The Bridge Project in Bradford is an organization that supported the formation of Cslhg.org and continues to support its management and execution of group activities.

How many members has Cslhg.org served?

As of October 2017, Cslhg.org had seen over 200 members attending their weekly meetings, with over 1500 individual instances of attendance.

What percentage of Cslhg.org members are focused on cannabis addiction?

Approximately 90% of Cslhg.org’s regular attendees seek support for cannabis addiction.

What are the rules for attending Cslhg.org meetings?

Cslhg.org has a strict policy of not allowing drug use on the day of attendance and prohibits children, drugs, or paraphernalia at the venue.

Is Cslhg.org supported by other organizations?

Yes, Cslhg.org is supported by the Bridge Project and The Change Programme. They also refer clients to AIM group SMART and NA.

What is the average attendance at Cslhg.org’s weekly meetings?

Cslhg.org regularly sees attendances between 15–25 individuals at their weekly meetings. Ravellobytoscano.com Review

What are the main principles of Cslhg.org’s recovery model?

Their recovery model is based on abstinence, mutual aid, self-help, and sharing personal experience and best practices, emphasizing commitment and hard work.

Does Cslhg.org engage in community outreach?

Yes, Cslhg.org takes its support model out to local universities and healthcare establishments to raise awareness and provide information.

Where can I find statistics about drug use in the UK mentioned by Cslhg.org?

Cslhg.org cites statistics from the Home Office Crime Survey for England and Wales 2015/16, which are typically available on official UK government websites like the Office for National Statistics ONS.