When life feels overwhelming or your emotions seem tangled, talking to someone is often a huge relief. But what happens when words won’t come out—or when you’re simply not ready to share what’s on your mind? This is when journaling might be a better outlet. For many people, journaling isn’t just a daily habit or...

In August 2025, WJBF in Atlanta reported that “the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities reveals suicide is the leading cause of death for young adults in the state, with more than 60% of those deaths occurring in the 20–24 age group.” Even more tragic? “The data also shows suicide is the second...

Addiction is a complex, emotional topic—especially when it touches the people you know and love. Whether your child asks about a struggling relative, your own experiences, hears rumors at school, or sees signs in the community, talking openly about substance use helps reduce fear, confusion, and stigma. The key is tailoring the conversation to their...

Sugar is prevalent in the modern diet, hidden in everything from salad dressings to breakfast cereals. While a little sweetness in life can be enjoyable, too much added sugar can have serious consequences for your physical and mental health. And, interestingly, the more we consume, the more we tend to crave it—creating a cycle that...

Completing inpatient treatment for substance use disorder (SUD) or alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a major achievement—but it’s not the end of the journey. To strengthen the recovery foundation built during rehab, many treatment plans include moving into sober living environments, also known as extended treatment or transitional housing. These centers serve as a bridge...

In recovery—whether from substance use, mental health challenges, PTSD and trauma, or complicated grief—finding stability, meaning, and comfort is essential. While therapy, community, and structured routines play vital roles, many people discover another unexpected but profoundly helpful source of healing: their pets. From wagging tails to soft purrs, animals can offer powerful emotional and mental...

In a world buzzing with notifications, to-do lists, and constant stimulation, the idea of simply being in the moment may sound strange—even unproductive. But that’s exactly what mindfulness invites us to do. And despite its simplicity, practicing mindfulness has powerful effects on mental clarity, emotional resilience, and overall well-being. As you try to make the...

Making amends is a cornerstone of the recovery process in Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA). Rooted in these 12-Step programs, Steps 8 and 9 specifically address the need for individuals in recovery to acknowledge the harm their addiction caused others and to take responsible action to repair that harm where possible. Making amends...

The journey through addiction touches far more than one life. When a parent struggles with substance use disorder (SUD) or alcohol use disorder (AUD), children often bear the emotional, mental, and developmental fallout. While you may feel guilt or shame as you begin rebuilding family relationships, these emotions—though natural—can impede your healing. At Willingway, our...

Whether you need new vacation inspiration or want more creative opportunities for family fun, Georgia, Northern Florida, and Eastern Alabama offer a rich mix of culture, outdoor beauty, and small-town charm. Whether you’re looking to hike in the Appalachian foothills, explore freshwater springs, or dance at a music festival with your kids in tow, this...