Substance use can have very real and adverse effects on families and relationships. Those affected by a loved one with substance use disorders often carry an emotional burden and have feelings of anger, anxiety, guilt, and shame. They may experience economic stress due to job loss or money spent on substances. All of this can […]
SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) published its Working Definition of Recovery in 2012. It includes 10 Guiding Principles, one of which is peer support. The guide highlights several of the benefits of peer support, especially the role of helping others in recovery, when it says, “Through helping others and giving back to […]
Finding Joy in Sobriety
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“I’ve been struggling to find joy in anything since I got sober.” If you’ve ever felt this way, you are not alone. Many people in sobriety feel this way at some time or another. While not a good feeling, it is not uncommon, and there is science behind it. This article will explain why finding […]
Two words often used when discussing substance use disorders (SUDs) are sobriety and recovery. They are closely related but represent different aspects of a person’s journey through addiction. This blog will explain the difference between sobriety and recovery, how they are related, and why both are important for lasting wellness. What is Sobriety? Sobriety is […]
When it comes to mental health treatment and therapy, you have probably heard of traditional “talk therapies” or psychotherapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), or interpersonal therapy. These therapies are effective treatment options. Another innovative category of therapy you may be less familiar with is experiential therapy. Unlike traditional psychotherapies, […]
Whether we realize it or not, harm reduction efforts are all around us. Some examples of harm reduction include seat belt laws, outdoor safety campaigns promoting skin protection through sunscreen use or encouraging life jackets for water safety, or mental health and suicide prevention education. Harm reduction as a concept has been around for nearly […]
Cravings are an inevitable part of the recovery process. Whether you’re recovering from substance abuse, food addiction, or other behavioral addictions, the urge to indulge in old habits can be overwhelming. These cravings can strike at any time and may feel uncontrollable, but with the right coping strategies, it is possible to manage and overcome […]
Cocaine is a well-known substance, and while its effects on the body and brain can be complex, understanding them can pave the way for better awareness. Many wonder if cocaine acts as a stimulant or depressant, as individuals can have varied experiences. Classified as a potent stimulant, cocaine energizes the central nervous system (CNS), leading […]
The journey through substance abuse treatment is challenging yet transformative. But what happens when treatment ends? For many, finishing formal treatment is an exciting milestone, but it also raises questions and uncertainty about what’s next. Knowing what to expect can help you prepare for ongoing success and personal growth as you move on to life […]
Recovery brings healing to the body, heart, and brain. Clients embark on this road under the impression that overcoming harmful behavior involves the sheer withdrawal of any substance. However, one critical aspect of recovery is accepting your emotions in recovery. Continue reading to learn about the importance of accepting your feelings during substance abuse treatment. […]
Preventing Substance Misuse
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In our everyday lives, it’s common to overlook small issues that gradually creep into our routine. This is often how substance abuse begins, and it’s a serious problem affecting many people. But the good news is, there is hope and a way to overcome it. Join us as we discuss preventing substance misuse, particularly how […]
The word “addiction” often brings to mind images of struggle, the challenge of quitting, and a never-ending reliance on something or someone. But beyond the dramatic portrayals in popular media, the reality of addiction is much more complex. The question “What are the different types of addiction?” opens a Pandora’s box of insights into how […]