Addiction |

The people we surround ourselves with—our circle of influence, if you will—really matter for our continued well-being. But what about individuals who help us aspire to improve and grow? Where does that influence come from, and why? Let’s explore why personal heroes are important for your recovery. What a Hero Is—and Isn’t. When we were...

The time between October and January is filled with dozens of holiday and cultural celebrations all around the world. One common component between them all is family. While many people can’t wait to be together, others might have some challenges. How can you have a balance of peace and community? Thoughts from the Experts on...

When’s the last time you did something that brought you joy? Or felt so relaxed that you really believed you deserved it? The scope of self-care is broad and inviting, and is especially vital to recovery health. How Would You Define Self-Care? The simple act of making a diverse salad for dinner instead of a...

Individuals who strive for self-improvement and have the courage to seek treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD) or substance use disorder (SUD) eventually uncover a number of reasons for their behaviors. One particular emotion that’s not only a root cause but also a symptom of substance use issues is anger. Anger, the “Secondary Emotion” Psychology...

Although human beings have suffered trauma for their entire existence on earth, it wasn’t until 1980 that post-traumatic stress was acknowledged by the American Psychiatric Association (APA). That year, the organization added post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) to the third edition of its Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-III). What Defines PTSD? Even after...

With all the focus on opioid addiction in the past decade, it might appear that other drugs no longer pose a threat. Unfortunately, that’s not true. Not just a notorious 80s drug, cocaine is still a grave problem in the U.S. What Is Cocaine? The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) of the U.S. Department of Justice...

Many people in early recovery wonder if they can still have fun without drugs or alcohol. They feel life might not be as exciting or interesting without some type of social lubricant. But how do we define what’s fun anyway? Let’s find out! What Is Fun? Like humor, what you might consider pleasurable, amusing, lighthearted,...

One of the most common misconceptions about addiction is that anyone should be able to quit if only they put their mind to it. As advances in addiction science continue to educate all of us about this brain disease, it’s easier to clarify at what point willpower plays a role in sobriety. Understanding Willpower What...

Clonazepam—also referred to by the brand name Klonopin—is a central nervous system depressant often prescribed to help people manage conditions such as anxiety disorder, insomnia, panic disorder, seizures, and social phobias. Considered a controlled substance by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), clonazepam might cause emotional and physical dependence. Clonazepam: What You Need to Know...

Military veterans and active service members put their lives on the line for the benefit of others. However, when their lives are at risk due to addiction or mental health disorders, many of them feel they have nowhere to turn for confidential, evidence-based treatment. The Difference You’ll Find at Willingway Our inpatient rehabilitation facility, outpatient...