Despite the wide range of health concerns that addiction can pose when it is left untreated, there are several barriers that keep individuals from accessing and participating in treatment services. For example, consider stigma. Contrary to what a person may believe, stigma is more than the intentional judgment of a person or group. Oftentimes, habitual patterns of language can perpetuate harmful stereotypes related to those with addiction. Moreover,…

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) can be very difficult to overcome, especially without professional treatment. If an individual has been drinking for a long time, they may have developed a high tolerance to alcohol. Persistent use of alcohol can increase one’s dependency, which eventually leads to addiction. Then, when an individual chooses to stop consuming alcoholic beverages, they may experience withdrawal symptoms. Cravings may begin to surface. When this…

Facing the challenges associated with bipolar disorder can be difficult. It can be tempting to try to deal with this disorder alone. However, receiving treatment can create many advantages. There are many treatment options, and everyone can find what best works for them. For instance, some people may only need therapy sessions and medication, while others need a more intensive approach. Fortunately, a variety of outpatient programs are available…

Several risk factors can increase an individual’s vulnerability to substance abuse and substance use disorder (SUD). Specifically, the link between trauma and substance abuse is well-established. The complex experiences of trauma can reshape an individual’s entire worldview. Therefore, it is no surprise that unresolved traumatic experiences can also increase an individual’s risk of developing mental health disorders. Effective treatment for SUD, mental health disorders, and underlying trauma calls…

Living with bipolar disorder can come with many different challenges. An individual facing challenges with this condition may experience extreme changes in certain areas. This may include their energy levels, sleep patterns, and even in their ability to process their thoughts. The negative effects associated with this mental health condition can impact a person’s mood significantly. Part of bipolar disorder is having episodes of mania, which can increase…

Individuals seeking recovery from substance use disorder (SUD) and co-occurring mental health disorders often face a plethora of challenges on their healing journeys. One of these challenges involves establishing reliable social support. When a person actively engages with alcohol or other drugs, they may unintentionally hurt their friends, family, and other loved ones. Navigating relationships in recovery can be difficult. Luckily, it is an opportunity for individuals to…

Patients every day are prescribed narcotics by professionals in healthcare settings to treat chronic or severe pain. This is beneficial for those who need it most, but unfortunately, it can backfire. It is quite common for some patients to then misuse the opioids they’ve been prescribed. In some cases, they may even sell their prescription medications to others. This is unfortunate because opioids can come with severe side…

Is your loved one exhibiting problematic warning signs of substance abuse or substance use disorder (SUD)? If this is the case, you may feel overwhelmed by your lack of knowledge or personal experience with SUD. Even if this is true, you don’t need to worry. Above all, understand that SUD is a treatable mental health condition. While your loved one will experience a number of challenges on their…

Living with bipolar disorder can come with many challenges. One day an individual can wake up on top of the world! Sometimes even feeling like a superstar. Feeling like somebody highly important with a major increase in confidence. Tremendously full of euphoric thoughts. So much, so that the individual may even feel invincible. Ready to tackle the day’s tasks. For a week he or she may act out…