Short Biography

Dr. Katerina Zacharopoulou is a medical doctor who lives and works in Germany for almost 25 years. She is originally from Athens/Greece. After her specialisation in internal medicine she worked in different hospitals and departments in Germany. Currently she works as a senior consultant for internal medicine in a psychiatric and psychosomatic clinic, but also in a rehabilitation center for addiction recovery in Dusseldorf.
She is additionally an expert in palliative care medicine and acupuncture. In 2021 she got a certification as a psychology consultant and a tobacco cessation counselor. She completed different courses in health coaching, nutrition and lifestyle medicine. In 2021 she became an ELMO Country Representative for Germany.
She is interested in the promotion of Healthy Lifestyle in many ways, focusing primarily on behavior change. She has a strong interest in the field of trauma, complex post traumatic stress disorder (CPTSD) and the way they are connected with chronic somatic diseases.

Workshop Title: How lifestyle interventions are useful in addictions

Short description of the workshop (WGF4):

Here are three practical lifestyle interventions that can help combat addiction:

• Structured Routine/Time Management: Creating a daily routine helps reduce idle time, which can be a trigger for addictive behaviors. Planning your day with specific tasks, work, exercise, social activities, and relaxation can bring a sense of control and purpose, reducing the likelihood of relapse.
• The Emotions Wheel is a tool designed to help you identify and better understand your emotions.
• Support Networks and Social Engagement: Building and maintaining a strong support system is critical for addiction recovery. Participating in group therapy, engaging with a community of people who understand the challenges, or maintaining strong relationships with family and friends can provide encouragement, accountability, and emotional support.

I could then show in the workshop a small group therapy session, where Truth telling, Vulnerability and the use of the emotional wheel is practiced.