IMPORTANT THINGS TO UNDERSTAND WHEN BECOMING SOBER
There are some very important things to understand when becoming sober. Sobriety can be uncomfortable, and sometimes even boring. We don’t like to focus on that for fear of encouraging relapse, but the truth is that recovery is all about acknowledging both the good and the bad. Recovery from any addiction is hard in vast […]
HOW STRESS TIES INTO ALCOHOLISM
After a hectic day, it may seem as though there is nothing more relaxing than having a few drinks to help you unwind. However, though it is a little known fact, drinking alcohol can actually make you feel more stressed! People generally talk about having a drink to help them calm down when they are […]
SEASONAL DRUG AND ALCOHOL ABUSE
For anyone struggling with substance use disorder, the stress of the holidays can be overwhelming, but those diagnosed with co-occurring Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) can find it especially challenging. Seasonal Affective Disorder is a type of seasonal depression that is common during the dreary winter months. It is closely related to other co-occurring conditions such […]
HOW NEGATIVE CHILDHOOD EVENTS CAN LEAD TO ADDICTION
Studies have found that children who have experienced traumatic events undergo grappling physical changes involving the brain (mainly size and shape). This disrupts a child’s normal growth pattern at a time when they’re simultaneously being forced to adapt to mature situations prematurely. With that said, it’s no surprise that childhood trauma survivors have increased vulnerability […]
STRONG SUPPORT SYSTEMS EQUAL SUCCESSFUL RECOVERY
Developing a network of recovery partners during recovery can help you find people who will not only support you but provide accountability when you need it and positive encouragement. Finding people who have been through the same experiences in you, perhaps having similar substance use disorder stories as you, can be a great first step […]
HOW YOUR MINDSET CAN SHAPE YOUR RECOVERY JOURNEY
Substance use disorders are not simply physical addictions. Underlying unresolved issues, trauma, emotional, and mental health often occur alongside substance use disorders. Many find themselves at a loss as to where to start when it comes to mental health, but the path to recovery begins with what you’re hoping to achieve. There isn’t a better […]
MOVING FORWARD FROM A RELAPSE
Experiencing yourself return to substance use can be highly discouraging, but it isn’t the end of the world. It is important to remember that a relapse does not automatically equal a moral failure, and it also doesn’t mean that you can’t get clean again. While a relapse is frustrating and can make you feel like […]
ALCOHOL ABUSE AMONG OLDER WOMEN
A study recently published in the journal Alcoholism, Clinical and Experimental Research found that binge drinking by women over 60 in the U.S. has increased considerably within the past decade. The National Health Interview Survey has found that binge drinking in women over 60 rises about 4% per year, while the rate for older men […]
REMEMBERING YOUR FREEDOM FROM SUBSTANCE ABUSE
The Fourth of July, or Independence Day, is a day that we celebrate across our nation every year. Independence Day celebrates our unity as a country and our freedom from the British Empire which are both great reasons to celebrate! But, if you’re in recovery, there is a more important Independence Day – the day […]
SHARING YOUR RECOVERY STORY
One of the greatest reasons to share your decision to cut back or to stop drinking is to gain the support of those closest to you. A strong support network can go a long way in helping you accomplish your goals, and reduce or eliminate your alcohol consumption, especially at the start of your recovery. […]