In many countries, drug addiction carries with it a negative stigma. Some drugs, such as marijuana, have recently been garnering national attention with discussions surrounding their use and possible benefits, but other drugs, such as cocaine and heroin, are rarely ever given a positive spin. These illicit substances tend to be at the top of the list when discussing negative stigmas associated … [Read more...]
The Problem with Pessimism: Is Negativity an Addiction?
Addiction is most frequently discussed and understood as an addiction to a physical substance. Drugs, alcohol, gambling, and even food addictions are well-known; however, there are other types of addiction that can be just as difficult to combat. Emotional addictions are often overlooked and go unnoticed. One of the most debilitating forms of emotional addiction is addiction to negativity. … [Read more...]
Extra Cheese: The Current State of Food Addiction
Drugs and alcohol are most commonly referenced when discussing addiction. Most people are aware of addiction to these substances and acknowledge the need for education and treatment in addressing it. More recently, the topic of food addiction has become widely discussed and debated, and many question whether or not it is possible to be addicted to food. Food is essential to survival; it impacts … [Read more...]
Top-5 Reasons People Relapse in Long-term Recovery
Individuals in early recovery exude ambition and are highly motivated to achieve a healthier life. The endless possibilities of the recovery process seem to instantly replace the misery of addiction. However, as newcomers accumulate clean-time and the desperation fades, the motivation for continued recovery can deteriorate. From fellowshipping with members of various support groups to … [Read more...]
The Relationship between OCD and Addiction
One of the most common factors in the development of drug and alcohol addiction is the presence of a co-occurring disorder. Nearly 6 in 10 individuals who struggle with addiction are also affected by at least one co-occurring disorder. Whether the co-occurring disorder was a preexisting condition, or the disorder developed as a result of substance abuse, treatment of mental health disorders in … [Read more...]
Dabs: The Scary New Face of THC
Marijuana is one of the most commonly abused drugs in the United States. It is reported that over 104 million people have tried marijuana at least once in their lives. Besides alcohol, it is often the first substance tried by adolescents. Statistics show that the earlier an individual begins experimenting with drugs, the more likely they are to struggle with addiction later in life. With … [Read more...]
Workaholic: What is Work Addiction and how is it Dangerous?
People work hard for a variety of reasons. Some work hard to ensure they can provide for their families, while others may work hard for financial gain or perks. In many cases, people confuse working hard for being a workaholic. Although people may use the terms interchangeably, being a hard worker does not make you a workaholic. There is a significant distinction between the two. Someone who works … [Read more...]
Co-occurring Disorders: When Addiction is not the only Problem
For many dealing with substance abuse issues, staying abstinent requires addressing co-occurring mental disorders such as PTSD, anxiety, or schizophrenia. Taking on the challenges that come with recovery is difficult; so it is not surprising that most people feel apprehensive or even downright gloomy during the first few months of sobriety. For a large percentage of the recovering community, … [Read more...]
Marshall Mathers’ Story and Sobriety Through Exercise
Marshall Mathers, most commonly known as the rapper Eminem, is one of the most famous musicians on the planet. He’s sold millions of records, sound tracked movies, and has won an Academy Award, but at the end of the day he is just like every other human being. No amount of money or fame can ever buy someone perfect health and just like so many other musicians, Mathers suffered from a crippling … [Read more...]