Simplifying 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…
Understanding 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,…
Alcohol 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…
Five 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…
Alcohol 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…
The 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…
Staying 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…
Are 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…
Inpatient 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…
5 Benefits of Group Therapy in Treatment for a Substance Use Disorder
Many people are reluctant to enter group therapy. Sharing your problems, fears, and emotions with a group of strangers can be intimidating. However, many people are pleasantly surprised by how beneficial the group dynamic is during their recovery process. Group therapy is an essential component of many drug and alcohol treatment programs. Research has consistently…
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