Recovery from substance use disorder (SUD) and addiction requires more than merely abstaining from behaviors associated with substance use. Long-term sobriety requires a person to find personal motives and meaningful goals. These deeper purposes need to outweigh the temporary “high” of alcohol or other drugs. In other words, identifying a deeper meaning and purpose for […]
Five Strategies for Meaning-Making in Sobriety Read More »
Many people don’t realize there is a significant difference between substance use and substance abuse. Substance use has its risks, however, substance abuse can contribute to worsening risks and consequences. One of these risks is the development of a substance use disorder (SUD). Differentiating substance use from substance abuse is a necessary skill to reduce
When Does Substance Use Become Substance Abuse? Read More »
When an individual with substance use disorder (SUD) surrenders to treatment, such as an intensive outpatient program (IOP), it can bring on a wave of emotions. Many mental health facilities offer treatment options for addiction and co-occurring mental health conditions. Treatment may consist of therapy, support groups, medications, and more. During treatment, an individual focuses
Balancing an IOP While Pursuing Education Read More »
The family unit is often the most influential source for growth and development throughout an individual’s life. When one family member is affected by trauma or disease, all other members are also affected. The same can be said when one member has substance use disorder (SUD) or another mental illness. Lasting recovery calls for family
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Recovery from substance use disorder (SUD) and co-occurring mental health disorders is a process that requires strengthening an individual’s self-awareness. Gaining self-awareness can be a tricky thing, however, because it involves learning how past traumas have contributed to an individual’s cognitive dysfunction. Traditional therapies, such as talk therapies, are often insufficient to help individuals stay
What Is Holistic Therapy? Read More »
Contrary to what people may believe, anyone can develop an addiction, whether that be to alcohol, other drugs, or addictive behaviors. However, there are specific circumstances that can make individuals more vulnerable. These are known as risk factors. Becoming familiar with addiction risk factors is essential to preventing substance abuse before it happens. These risk
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There are many reasons why people use drugs. Some use them to ease curiosity or social pressures. Others use them to self-medicate. Recreational drug use, regardless of the reason, poses risks. Self-medicating practices bring about challenges throughout treatment and recovery, though. It is essential to understand what self-medicating is and what it has to do
What Does Self-Medicating Have to Do With Addiction? Read More »
Throughout life, challenging emotions, such as anxiety and stress, are bound to surface from time to time. While these are normal and natural emotions, leaving them unmanaged can hinder well-being and especially challenge an individual’s sobriety journey. Fortunately, many coping strategies can help individuals better address and overcome adversity as it arises. One of these
What Benefits Can Mindfulness Have on Well-Being? Read More »
Substance use disorders (SUDs) are complex disorders of the brain, with addiction being the most severe form of SUD. These disorders range in severity and intensity, affecting every individual differently. However, what all SUDs have in common is that they affect an individual’s brain and behavior in long-lasting ways. While it is often common knowledge
How Does Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Affect the Brain? Read More »
Chronic stress associated with mental illness can be detrimental to an individual’s health. Some people find stress relief from a big nap, binge-watching television, or listening to music. These, when used in moderation, are relatively healthy coping mechanisms. However, when used in excess, they become harmful. In unhealthier situations, a person might use substances or
The Benefits of Yoga on Mental Health Read More »
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