Willingway Hospital blog articles on the topic of addiction recovery for individuals in recovery from drugs and/or alcohol. Here you will find information and resources on the subject.
In recovery—whether from substance use, mental health challenges, PTSD and trauma, or complicated grief—finding stability, meaning, and comfort is essential. While therapy, community, and structured routines play vital roles, many people discover another unexpected but profoundly helpful source of healing: their pets. From wagging tails to soft purrs, animals can offer powerful emotional and mental...
Making amends is a cornerstone of the recovery process in Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA). Rooted in these 12-Step programs, Steps 8 and 9 specifically address the need for individuals in recovery to acknowledge the harm their addiction caused others and to take responsible action to repair that harm where possible. Making amends...
Whether you need new vacation inspiration or want more creative opportunities for family fun, Georgia, Northern Florida, and Eastern Alabama offer a rich mix of culture, outdoor beauty, and small-town charm. Whether you’re looking to hike in the Appalachian foothills, explore freshwater springs, or dance at a music festival with your kids in tow, this...
Imagine a college campus with students rushing from one class to the next. The school has laid out a series of sidewalks, but those sidewalks do not always take the shortest routes between point A and B. Sometimes they meander, encouraging walkers to enjoy nature or the campus architecture. Sometimes they are arranged to meet...
Recovery is a journey of rediscovery—of your health, identity, purpose, and joy. For many people living with substance or alcohol use disorders, creating a daily recovery practice is a way to reclaim each day with intention. From improving sleep and nutrition to finding creative expression to preventing loneliness through social support, each element of a...
When an individual has made the determination that enough is enough, and they are ready to get the help they need for a substance use disorder, there are many things to consider.Is the program nationally accredited? Yes, accreditation is important as it demonstrates there is both oversight and standards to which the program must adhere.Does...
In 2024, the American Psychiatric Association (APA) reported that, according to its annual Healthy Minds Poll, “30% of adults say they have experienced feelings of loneliness at least once a week over the past year, while 10% say they are lonely every day.” The results also indicated, “Notably, younger adults are more likely than older...
This past weekend, April 25th and 26th, Willingway proudly hosted our annual alumni reunion—and what an unforgettable celebration it was! We were honored to welcome two incredible speakers whose recovery journeys both began right here at Willingway. On Saturday evening, Jim B. inspired us as our AA speaker at 8:00 PM, followed by his wife,...
Inspiration is a deeply personal experience—what lifts one person out of darkness might leave another untouched. For some, inspiration means discovering the strength to survive recovery, while for others, it’s the quiet realization that a healthier mindset is possible. Whether it’s rebuilding after trauma, finding purpose, or simply waking up hopeful, inspiration often begins with...
When you’re managing symptoms of alcohol use disorder (AUD) or substance use disorder (SUD), there will be challenges. But for many people, recovery isn’t just about stopping the use of substances or behaviors—it’s about reclaiming purpose and finding peace, even when there are struggles. One of the most powerful tools in this journey is faith....
