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...]
Drip, Drop, Dead: The Truth about Morphine Abuse
Morphine is an opiate painkiller used to treat moderate to severe pain. It is a prescription drug that is sold under several brand names including Kadian, Avinza, and Roxanol. The drug works by acting on the Central Nervous System (CNS) to decrease painful sensations. When taken as prescribed, morphine is incredibly effective at helping patients feel more comfortable, but it has the potential for … [Read more...]
Rolling the Dice: Warning Signs of a Gambling Addiction
Addiction can take many different forms. While drugs and alcohol are the most common causes of addiction, there are many other vices that can be just as damaging to a person’s physical and mental health. Gambling addiction, for instance, is a compulsive behavior in which a person has the uncontrollable urge to gamble despite the negative repercussions it may have. Those with gambling addiction are … [Read more...]
How to Manage Holiday Depression
For many, the holidays are the highlight of the year. After Halloween passes, people eagerly anticipate the festivities of Thanksgiving, Hanukah, Christmas, and New Years. As the season changes, many people look forward to spending time with family and friends, reflecting on the past year together, looking ahead to everything that the New Year will bring. While many people are buzzing with … [Read more...]