According to an article published by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), five specific rules can help those suffering from a Substance Use Disorder (SUD) to focus on their recovery. Understanding that recovery is a lifelong process and following these simple rules can help protect against relapse. Cravings for the substance, whether it be…
Relapse is common in addiction recovery. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, between 40 and 60 percent of people relapse within a year of treatment. [https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugs-brains-behavior-science-addiction/treatment-recovery] The nature of addiction makes relapse common. It combines deeply ingrained habits, physical dependence, and neurological changes that all tend to keep you trapped in addictive behavior.…
Often, people assume that self-harm and suicide are the same things. They are not, although separating one from the other can be difficult. With suicide, the goal is to end the pain with death while self-harm is more of a coping mechanism. Most people who attempt suicide live, but carry the scars (physical or emotional)…
Are you ready to get sober? Is this a passing thought or is it a commitment? Moving beyond active addiction requires more than a purposeless fancy- it requires dedication and diligence. You have to want it, and you have to commit. First, find the viable resources. Maybe your job offers insurance to help pay for…
A vacation is a time to relax and take a break from the daily grind at work. Whether you plan to go to the beach, go camping, or visit another country, a vacation is beneficial to your mental health. During your vacation, you can spend quality time with loved ones, relieve anxiety, and recharge. Sadly,…
Addiction is complicated and affects all aspects of a person’s life. The journey to sobriety is unique for everyone. We are all made up of our own personalities, families, relationships, painful experiences, emotions, physical and mental health conditions and more. These elements that make up who we are will influence the way we perceive ourselves…
Alcohol use disorder is the most common substance use issue–except, perhaps for smoking–in the US. While more than 70,000 people died of overdoses from all drugs in 2017, with nearly 50,000 of those being opioid-related, more than 88,000 people die every year of alcohol-related causes. Alcohol is actually the third leading cause of death in…