WHY FAMILY IS IMPORTANT IN RECOVERY

Addiction and substance abuse can alter family dynamics, damage trust, and weaken communication. Family members who experience a loved one undergoing the turmoil of a substance use disorder often endure many different painful emotions. Equally frustrating is the hopelessness loved ones feel in response to substance abuse. Family members may feel at a loss when […]
WHAT MAKES AN ALCOHOLIC?

There is no “one size fits all” cause for alcoholism. In reality, there are multiple risk factors that play a part in the development of an alcohol addiction. These factors interact differently within every individual, leading to alcohol abuse disorders in some but not in others. Both external and internal elements contribute to the development […]
HOW TO AVOID SUBSTANCE ABUSE WHILE PARTYING

Being in the party scene can be very dangerous; simply exposing yourself to triggers can pull you into relapse. If you are in treatment, it is highly recommended that you avoid direct triggers, which include sounds, smells and images. These are the things that can compromise your efforts and progress on your journey to reaching […]
Addiction to Ultram

Many people believe that because Ultram is a relatively low-risk, painkiller drug, it is non-addictive. However, they are very mistaken! Although the risk of addiction is much lower in comparison to some other pain medications, the truth is that Ultram can be habit-forming. Ultram has a chemical makeup that is similar to other opioids such […]
HOW TO TELL IF YOUR TEEN IS A “HIGH FUNCTIONING ALCOHOLIC” (HFA)

We tend to think of alcoholics as people who have trouble keeping jobs or who spiral out of control. However, many people, including teenagers, maybe abusing alcohol without the typical outward signs. Here are some common traits of high-functioning, alcoholic teens: –They’re able to succeed (they may keep their grades afloat or even hold a […]
REALISTIC EXPECTATIONS FOR SUBSTANCE ABUSE REHAB

Inpatient care initially begins with medical detoxification or can extend through residential detox. Either way, when you first arrive at a rehabilitation facility, you will be registered as a client, your medical history will be reviewed, and you will be given a thorough medical examination. Depending on when you last used drugs or alcohol, you […]
CONQUERING SELF DOUBT DURING RECOVERY

For recovering addicts, getting over the physical aspects of their disease is just the first obstacle. Once people move into recovery after detox treatment, they need to come to grips with an equally difficult reality. A negative mindset and low self-esteem play a large role in addiction and the threat of relapse rather than beating […]
TALKING ABOUT YOUR ADDICTION

Although not everyone drinks alcohol, it sometimes seems like society expects you to. When you pass on the opportunity for a drink, it can spark unwanted questioning. This is a situation that you’re almost guaranteed to encounter at some point in recovery, so it’s best to prepare ahead of time. If you’ve thought about how […]
HOW ALCOHOL AND STRESS ARE RELATED

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 […]
HOW TO IDENTIFY ALCOHOL ABUSE WITHIN YOURSELF

Thanks to social media, popular culture, and personal experiences, many people know what the typical signs of alcohol abuse within friends, family, and peers look like. However, it’s always a different perspective when you’re on the outside looking in. It may be easy to spot these red flags in other people, but what about when […]