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.
The holiday season is often described as the “most wonderful time of the year”. However, for someone in recovery from substance use disorder or alcohol use disorder, it can also be quite challenging. Between brokering peace during family gatherings, additional social stress, travel, and emotional memories, the next few weeks stir up powerful reactions that...
The road to recovery isn’t just emotional—it’s biological. Substance and alcohol misuse frequently depletes vital nutrients, disrupts digestion, and alters brain chemistry. That’s why a medically managed detox followed by a focus on better nutrition isn’t simply about “eating clean”—it’s about giving your body the raw materials it needs to repair and function well again....
Sugar is prevalent in the modern diet, hidden in everything from salad dressings to breakfast cereals. While a little sweetness in life can be enjoyable, too much added sugar can have serious consequences for your physical and mental health. And, interestingly, the more we consume, the more we tend to crave it—creating a cycle that...
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...