Health and Wellness information for those in recovery from addiction.
You may think of detox, psychotherapy, and 12-step groups regarding addiction recovery. Do you know that life skills have also been part of a full spectrum of treatment programs? By learning essential self-management skills, recovering individuals can better integrate into family life, work, and society. This is particularly important for young people recovering from addiction … Read more
Addiction to alcohol and drugs is one of the deadliest diseases. However, addiction is not always treated or seen for what it is because of the stigma of addiction. There is a looming negative connotation regarding addiction to any drug and alcohol. Other life-threatening diseases are handled with vigilant care and compassion for those under … Read more
Cocaine misuse causes significant and sometimes permanent changes to the brain. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), “With repeated exposure to cocaine, the brain adapts so that the reward pathway becomes less sensitive to natural reinforcers. At the same time, circuits involved in stress become increasingly sensitive, leading to increased displeasure and … Read more
Recreation therapy is a burgeoning field full of promising yet simple interventions. It is also a safe, holistic approach that anyone struggling with mental health or substance use disorders can try. Relative to other treatments, recreational therapy poses little to no risk. Those with physical limitations must respect their bodies and can still participate. Today, … Read more
12-Step culture places heavy emphasis on the value of service or helping others. Yet many people enter recovery feeling broken, hopeless, and worthless. It is completely natural to be baffled by the concept of helping someone else when you know you need help first. But nobody expects you to be an expert in recovery. Most … Read more
Pain management patients walk a fine line when it comes to medications. This is particularly true of those prescribed opioids. Given the well-established crossover between prescription opioid consumption and problematic use, it is no small wonder patients are confused. The point of contention often arises from a misunderstanding of addiction and dependence. Those with chronic … Read more
Physical exercise reduces stress and keeps the body healthy. However, many people recovering from persistent mental health disorders struggle to maintain physical wellness routines. According to the Substance and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), “Research suggests that exercise and physical activity can help to improve symptoms of anxiety and depression.” Regular exercise enhances the effectiveness … Read more
Some people hesitate to attend support groups because they don’t know how to discuss their experiences. However, peer support is essential to recovery from substance use disorder (SUD) and mental health issues. BMJ Open states, “Peer support has been identified as an accessible, affordable, and easy-to-implement mental health resource that has beneficial effects across populations.” … Read more
Getting back to work in early recovery after getting sober is a challenge for many people. Yet, tackling this challenge is an opportunity for tremendous growth. By requiring you to forge a new approach to work, you build a foundation that allows you to exceed anything you expected at the start. There are strategies for … Read more
Finding the right treatment program can be challenging. Many treatment centers offer multiple levels of care and various services. Outpatient treatment is one of the most flexible types of programs and allows clients to return home at night and on the weekend. You may wonder, is outpatient treatment right for me? Every case is unique … Read more
