When we think of stress, it often involves work demands, obligations we can’t ignore, sudden life changes, and other external factors. But sometimes people contribute to our stress in recovery, too, by wanting or asking more than what we’re capable of in the moment. So knowing how and when to say no while reinforcing boundaries...

There are many reasons why someone might use alcohol or drugs to excess. Trauma, adverse childhood experiences, grief, and other catalysts are just a few of the underlying factors that come to light during addiction rehabilitation treatment. But sometimes, people use substances to cope with social anxiety and often have trouble building better social skills...

There are a lot of great jokes about parenting. Comedian Jerry Seinfeld said, “A two-year-old is kind of like having a blender, but you don’t have a top for it.”  Humorist Erma Bombeck wrote, “When my kids become wild and unruly, I use a nice, safe playpen. When they’re finished, I climb out.”  Screenwriter Judd...

Recognizing the need for drug or alcohol treatment is a critical first step: finding the right recovery center is the vital second step. Whether you’re searching for yourself or for a loved one, the questions to ask a rehab center’s admission team should be detailed so you develop a sense of confidence and trust that...

The board-certified professionals at Willingway follow distinct protocols to help active service members, first responders, Veterans, and their families receive the attention they deserve. Through the Tactical Recovery Support Services, we create a culturally competent and trauma-informed environment, using evidence-based, customized practices to help individuals learn effective condition management and create long-lasting recovery. The Threat...

Why is asking for help so hard? There are numerous reasons, but to continue to thrive in recovery and in life overall, it’s essential to recognize when to seek out the support you need. This is a learned skill that not only gives you vital reinforcement during critical times, but also strengthens relationship bonds—especially when...

Now that you’ve moved past the fear of treatment and are crafting a new life in recovery, you’ve learned there are many tools you can use to prevent relapse. Most likely, you’re part of a peer support group such as one of the 12-step programs—Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Narcotics Anonymous, and others—and have the help of...

When people struggle with trauma, they often strive to project an aspect of normalcy. If they haven’t sought professional treatment to remedy the effects of trauma, or a therapeutic approach wasn’t successful, or they have addiction in the family, they frequently default to coping mechanisms as a shield. The connection between trauma and substance use...

All of us are unique beings with strengths and challenges. That said, once you’ve moved past fear and into treatment, your recovery toolbox might benefit from other people’s inspiring stories as a compass to help maintain healthy life choices. Here are some of our favorites that may add to your motivation.  Your Inspired Self  What...

Once one of the most widely-prescribed drugs in the U.S., Vicodin was a fixed-dose combination analgesic containing hydrocodone bitartrate and acetaminophen. Then in 2011, the Food and Drug Administration put new restrictions on its formulation, along with that of Vicodin ES and Vicodin HP, and those three particular brands were discontinued.  However, there’s still a...