A common question about substance abuse is whether it’s hereditary. Yes, there can be a genetic predisposition to substance abuse. In fact, the American Psychological Association (APA) states that “at least half of a person’s susceptibility to drug or alcohol addiction can be linked to genetic factors.” However, understanding the other half of that equation...
While many people overcome their fears to triumph over drug and alcohol addiction, recovery can also be a frightening experience. Choosing a Sober Life Choosing a sober life requires perseverance. Your decisions to stay the course are authentic, but that doesn’t mean there won’t be moments when you feel isolated. Creating a network of resources...
Although it may be hard to admit, your adolescent son or daughter, or another teenage loved one, may have a substance abuse problem. Typical Teen or Trouble? It’s important to know the difference between indicators of drug or alcohol use and typical teen behavior. Early detection and intervention are two critical tools to helping young...
If you’re experiencing sleeplessness after substance abuse treatment, you’re not alone. Many Americans have sleep deficits. Unfortunately, because you’re in recovery, you have a greater chance of suffering from insomnia than most people, at least temporarily. Sleep deprivation can be serious, so it’s important to develop a bedtime ritual, adapt good sleep hygiene, and embrace...
After dealing with the challenges of addiction and braving the journey to recovery, it’s heartening to think life has new possibilities. This is important for you to remember each day as you choose sobriety. It’s also a necessary component for rebuilding the bonds between you and the people you love. It’s often hard to think...
When you’ve completed rehabilitation for substance abuse disorder, it’s a major life event. Does this mean that everyone needs to know about it? That’s totally up to you. There are many reasons why you may need to reveal this transition, and yet other situations don’t require any explanation. You’ll have to evaluate each circumstance and...
At the end of the day, all you may need is a good forest bath to help you stay well. Forest Bathing A topic that made national news not too long ago, the concept of forest bathing is just one of many back-to-nature practices that provide therapeutic benefits. And there’s no time like the present...
There’s a strong correlation between 12 Step programs and addiction recovery. Probably the most famous is Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), “an international fellowship of men and women who have a drinking problem.” Founder Bill W. developed a book in 1939, now known as the Big Book, which outlined a 12-Step Program for someone recovering from alcoholism...
Throughout history, medical professionals have struggled to understand how people experience pain. The difference between an individual’s perception of pain and a physician’s assessment of that perception have made this a challenging task. The popular care response has been to provide whatever medication comes close to alleviating the most symptoms. This gives the patient a...
For many people, spirituality is often the same as religion. Some individuals rely on faith to provide awareness, cope with challenges, teach them to seek a calling, and show support for others in their community. Spirituality can also be techniques to help you stay present, interact positively in the world, have a guiding purpose, and...
