Once considered a novel pastime called “audio blogging,” podcasts are now a popular form of entertainment, news, and inspiration. At this writing, there are more than one million podcasts, and approximately 68 million people in the U.S. listen to a podcast every week. What’s the Appeal? Podcasts are easily accessible and transportable. Many people appreciate...
Here’s a fast fact: exercise and substance use both activate the release of dopamine, endorphins, and serotonin. So if you’re considering new sober living choices, the natural “runner’s high” you get from regular movement is one of your best tools for long-lasting recovery. Exercise: Good for Body and Mind How can something so simple have...
While many people eagerly anticipate the togetherness and good cheer of the holiday season, it’s important to understand that not everyone feels joyful and bright this time of year. If you or a loved one has trouble with substance abuse and think substances are the only option to make it through the next few weeks,...
There you are, standing by the buffet table at your grandmother’s house, when Uncle Fred slips up beside you and says, “So! You’re fresh out of rehab! How ya’ feelin’?” Now what? Whether you’re gathered with family during the holiday season or helping your cousin move across town, don’t be surprised if people want to...
About Depression There’s a strong connection between depression and substance use disorder (SUD) and alcohol use disorder (AUD). Depression is one of the most common mood disorders in the nation. The American Academy of Family Physicians referenced a 2018 National Center for Health Statistics report that indicated one out of every 12 American adults has...
Even if you haven’t been diagnosed with anxiety disorder, it’s normal to feel anxious when faced with challenges in life, unexpected twists and turns, or events over which you have little control. Many individuals are experiencing such anxiety during coronavirus. Controlling What You Can What’s important to remember is you do have control over how...
Everyone Experiences Stress Stress is perhaps one of the most common ailments we deal with on a daily basis. Money, relationships, work, school, and countless other factors contribute to our stress levels. For some people, having a drink seems to make those stresses disappear, at least for a short while. Others need a more powerful...
The Winter Months In the winter–when temperatures drop, daylight lessens, and holiday stress overwhelms–it is pretty common for people to feel sad. But there’s sad and then there’s SAD—or seasonal affective disorder. For those struggling with this mood disorder, wintertime can feel especially difficult. For some people, the overwhelming negative feelings associated with SAD can...
Even during our sunniest moods, there can be a slight shadow. It might be for something minor: “Geeez, I was rude not letting that driver pass.” Or a situation more major: “I’m sure the boss thinks I’m an idiot for speaking up like that.” Negative Self-Talk is Common Few of us are immune to negative...
Recovery Health There are dozens of ways to maintain your health. You can eat nutritious food and exercise on a regular basis. Spending quality time in nature is always a good boost. Building a supportive community is also beneficial to your wellbeing. Another way to influence your health is to volunteer. Giving back helps define...
