As the opioid epidemic soars to new heights in the United States, researchers are exploring more effective options in treatment. Due to the nature of opioid addiction, most treatments include some form of medication-assisted treatment to help overcome withdrawal symptoms and cravings. While some people claim that using medication to treat addiction is counterproductive, research shows that the use … [Read more...]
Dealing With A Son Or Daughter Addicted To Drugs: How To Sleep Again
When your child is addicted to drugs, it is scary. There are many illicit substances that could be potentially misused, and each drug comes with its own set of concerns and risks. It can be difficult to cope with a child’s drug addiction, especially when you start to reflect back and consider where it could have “gone wrong.” When children are young, it feels like we have more control. You are … [Read more...]
Dealing with an Alcoholic Son or Daughter: What to Do in Crisis Mode
The holidays are not exempt from the damage alcoholism can inflict. In fact, this time of year can be more problematic for those who struggle with alcohol abuse due to its very nature. The emphasis on family, friends, coming together, and sharing special moments can be particularly difficult for both those with addiction and their loved ones. While the holidays are a time for togetherness, it can … [Read more...]
10 Tips for Staying Positive in Early Recovery
Everyone experiences positive and negative moments in life. For many with addiction, the negative moments can play a substantial role in the development of substance abuse. Navigating negative situations in recovery can be trying. A person may have previously turned to drugs and alcohol to try to escape a slump, but that is no longer an option. Developing new ways of coping with negative … [Read more...]
Gratitude: A Daily Routine | The Benefits of Gratitude in Recovery
People most frequently discuss gratitude and being thankful during the holiday season. They are often acknowledging the benefits they have or received or will receive. While it is possible to express insincere gratitude, most people give thanks because they are truly happy with something in their life. This positive mindset is beneficial for both mental and physical health. It can provide people … [Read more...]
PTSD, Trauma and Addiction Recovery
Experiencing trauma does not mean a person will develop an addiction, but studies suggest those who have suffered trauma are more at risk. Trauma does not have to be a catastrophic life-altering event to have a substantial impact on someone. While trauma may involve experiencing physical harm, it is more often linked to the emotional response of a person following an event. How Can PTSD and … [Read more...]
#FitLife: Regaining Health Through Exercise
It seems as though every day is the new World [fill in the blank] Day. This month, posts about World Mental Health Day flooded social media. These posts spanned from general mental health awareness to “call me if you need a friend” messages to heartfelt stories of individuals who know or are someone personally struggling with mental health issues. For many, these troubles end in drug or alcohol … [Read more...]
How Do Drugs Damage Your Brain? Common Neurological Risks of Drug Use
Substance abuse can negatively affect the brain in numerous ways. The risks associated with use vary from person to person and can range in severity depending on the substance used. Almost all mind and mood-altering substances pose some risk to physical and mental health, but some can carry more damaging consequences. Neurological damage is associated with nearly all drugs or alcohol, and chronic … [Read more...]
Myths & Truths about Addiction Recovery: Breaking the Stigma of Addiction
Addiction is a hot topic for discussion and it’s ripe with misinformation and myths. It is a highly charged topic and many tend to have strong opinions about it, even if it has not affected them personally. These myths create stigmas about substance abuse that make it difficult for people to seek help. Common misconceptions about addiction and the character of a person can make it difficult for … [Read more...]