Do you know what recovery from addiction takes? The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Commission (SAMHSA) defines recovery from addiction as “a process of change through which individuals improve their health and wellness, live self-directed lives and strive to reach their full potential.” One can never achieve recovery from addiction on their own. Sustainable … Read more
Will marriage or relationship problems disappear after sobriety? Most people would answer, “No.” In fact, you can expect there to be more marital tensions to work through after a partner has recovered from addiction. Often, there will be a “honeymoon” phase when both partners are on their best behaviors for each other. After all, you … Read more
The relationship between sex, addiction, and sobriety is complex. Among the many stress triggers in life, sexuality may be a hidden one. Sexual desires and orientation can contribute to addiction. Drugs and alcohol use can increase risky sexual behaviors. Sometimes people use drinking and drug use to achieve their highest level of sexual activity. Many also use … Read more
Have you been using drugs and alcohol as a way to cope with the pains of past trauma? Do you notice a loved one resorting to substance use because of unresolved traumatic experiences? Trauma is understood as an intense emotional response to some life-threatening or dangerous events such as fatal accidents or abuse. Scientists and … Read more
Most people who get addicted probably do not plan on making substance use an addictive habit. They might wonder when and how using drugs and alcohol turned into an addiction that is so hard to break from. If you can identify the warning signs of an addictive tendency, substance use does not have to become … Read more
Have you found yourself caught up in internal dialogues that make you anxious? Do you sometimes feel that unhelpful thoughts are racing through your head and negatively impacting your mood? At an addiction recovery treatment center, you might be encouraged to work with a therapist to relieve these depression or anxiety-inducing symptoms. It is important … Read more
If you have decided to quit drugs or alcohol, congratulations! You’ve already made a big step. It means you are heading in the right direction. But now, you might ask: Can I quit substance use without entering a rehab center? The answer to that question depends on a few factors, including the duration and regularity … Read more
