The backbone of motivation is reinforced by the power of small wins. Whenever you set a series of incremental goals and achieve them, you’re living your intentions, developing a growth mindset, and propelling positive momentum. But the goals you choose to set and celebrate should be driven by what matters to you–not to anyone else....

While news outlets continue to focus on growing concerns about the fentanyl epidemic (and rightfully so), it’s essential to also point out positive outcomes in addiction science. This is exactly the intention behind National Recovery Month, a public awareness program that happens every September. This critical movement provides positive reinforcement of the lives saved with...

Few of us want to have “the talk.” Whether the topic is sex, consent, birth control, drug and alcohol use, or other sensitive topics, it’s challenging for many adults to sit down with the teens they love and address any one of these issues. Yet we know it must be done—especially when talking with your...

There are numerous reasons why people develop alcohol use disorder (AUD) or substance use disorder (SUD), but one thing is clear: no one sets out to become addicted. Uncovering the “why” of addiction is critical to healing but challenging. Nevertheless, when you know deep down that you’re not living the life you deserve, it’s time...

Okay, so you see that title and it’s easy to think that, if you want to maintain a healthy recovery, a big, thick, juicy cheeseburger or gooey piece of chocolate cake should never pass your lips ever again. It’s not quite that bad! But to make feeling your best easier, it helps to follow a...

In March 2023, Georgia Public Broadcasting (GPB) reported that “the total number of opioid-related overdose deaths in Georgia increased by 101 percent from 853 in 2019 to 1,718 in 2021.” In some counties, such as Bibb, Crawford, Monroe, and Peach, deaths were twice that percentage in the same time period. The primary dangerous drug now...

If you’ve been through Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or another 12-Step program, you’re aware of the tenet that recommends single people who are newly sober shouldn’t have romantic relationships within the first year. Does this mean they can cultivate other relationships? Is being single better than being in a committed union? What are some of the...

When you’ve worked hard to achieve sobriety, daily life is easier in many ways. But few of us are completely stress-free. Often through no fault of your own, any number of circumstances can interfere with your desire to maintain a peaceful life. However, what’s in your control is the ability to recognize stressors early on...

Everywhere you turn, there’s a new podcast. How did these programs become so popular? One reason is the ease of listening: instead of sitting down and tuning in at a particular time, you can switch one on at your convenience and take a walk, do some chores, or work on a hobby. Another reason is...

When making the conscious choice of sobriety, staying dedicated to your health sometimes feels like a lonely path. There will be times when you want to connect with people who fully understand what you’re going through, and maybe even get reassurance that your decisions are worth the time and effort. This is when continuing care...