Posts by Jason Simmons
Tips for the Best Summer in Recovery
As the days get longer and the weather gets warmer, many of us are looking forward to all the festivities of the summer months. For people in recovery, especially early recovery, summer can be a major relapse trigger. The good news is that there are some simple ways you can embrace your summer in recovery,…
Read MoreSimplifying Self-Care: Tips for Practicing Self-Care in Recovery
Self-care has been trending for years. The term ‘self-care’ has taken on a life of its own, covering a plethora of activities from expensive spa trips to guided meditation practices. While the concept of self-care has become somewhat engrained in our culture, the idea can feel completely foreign to people in early recovery from a…
Read MoreUnderstanding the Relationship between Substance Use and Mental Health Disorders
Research has shown that there is a strong link between substance use and mental health disorders. It is estimated that over half of those who develop a substance use disorder will also experience mental illness over the course of their lives1. When a substance use disorder and mental health disorder occur in the same individual,…
Read MoreAlcohol Use Disorder: When Drinking Becomes a Problem
Like other substance use disorders, alcoholism – also called alcohol use disorder (AUD) – impacts the pleasure centers of the brain. This means that when you regularly use alcohol, the brain begins to associate consuming alcohol with feelings of euphoria, relaxation, and lowered inhibitions. Over time this can result in cravings and, in some cases…
Read MoreFive Hard Truths About Early Recovery
Recovery is a transformational process. From repairing wounded relationships to gaining confidence and self-esteem, the gifts of recovery can seem never-ending. However, those gifts don’t arrive at our doorstep just because we made the decision to enter recovery; we have to work for them. Countless hours of hard work and a steadfast dedication to self-growth…
Read MoreAlcohol Awareness Month 2022
Alcohol use is the third leading cause of preventable death in the United States. In 2019, approximately 14.5 million Americans met the criteria for an Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD)1. To help raise awareness and the risks associated with alcohol use and abuse, The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD) established Alcohol Awareness Month…
Read MoreThe Real Impact of Excessive Alcohol Use
It’s no secret that alcohol is treated differently than other addictive substances. Alcohol has remained heavily associated with celebrations and relaxation in the lives of many adults, with excessive alcohol consumption being condoned under the ‘right’ circumstances. Due to the prevalence of alcohol use, its inherent risks are often overlooked or ignored. Despite alcohol’s availability…
Read MoreStaying Motivated in Early Recovery
You made the decision to change your relationship with substances, entered a treatment program, and are now facing the prospect of re-entering society as a newly recovering person. Trying to navigate an entirely new lifestyle, utilize recently learned coping skills, and resume your usual responsibilities might feel overwhelming. The motivation that initially pushed you to enter recovery may start…
Read MoreAre You Enabling an Addicted Loved One?
Six Questions to Help You Recognize Enabling Behaviors It is basic human nature to want to help someone you care for. When we see a loved one in pain or distress, the desire to offer support is instinctual. Watching a loved one battle a substance use disorder is a painful experience – one that often…
Read MoreInpatient vs. Outpatient Rehab: Understanding the Differences
Making the decision to change your relationship with drugs or alcohol is the first step towards recovery. From there you may be considering what treatment options are available to you. With so many available treatment options, it can be difficult to decide what will fit your life the best. Treatment for substance use disorders is…
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