It is common for individuals to believe that the only individuals at risk of developing substance use disorder (SUD) are those with addictive personalities. Further, they may believe that addictive personalities develop only when addiction or SUD runs in the family, or when direct relatives have also struggled with substance abuse. Although biological vulnerabilities often…
Starting a new life in recovery can be challenging but also incredibly rewarding. Taking control of your sobriety requires hard work, dedication, and, most importantly, self-awareness. You must reflect on the past while looking forward with optimism and hope. By focusing on proactive strategies to combat addiction, you can maintain sobriety, increase motivation, and improve…
Codependency and substance abuse are two issues that are often linked together. But what exactly is the connection between these two issues, and how can both problems be addressed simultaneously? Learning more about the correlation can help individuals identify problematic behaviours and work towards successful treatment outcomes. What Is Codependency? Codependency can create a tangled…
Recovery from substance use disorder (SUD) can be a challenging experience, and many people struggle to transition from active addiction to sobriety without help. Establishing a positive relationship with an experienced and trusted professional can be vital in achieving success and improving the overall quality of life. With this support, individuals struggling with SUD can…
Finding sobriety during early recovery is a huge accomplishment. But while the path to recovery can be a rewarding experience, there can also be obstacles. One of the biggest challenges is maintaining relationships with friends and family while seeking treatment or early in recovery. As you move through this journey, finding healthy ways to stay…
When a person has substance use disorder (SUD), the effects of their substance abuse rarely ever impact just them. Addiction is often termed “a family disease” because it leaves tremendous impacts on family members. Likewise, these impacts often stretch even beyond the family unit, affecting peers, friends, and other loved ones. It is more than…
Taking the time to focus on one’s well-being can help people make positive changes in their relationships, work performance, and overall mental health. The commitment needed to stay focused on recovery can be challenging, but it is worth it in the long run as it sets a foundation for success in other areas of life.…
Addiction recovery is a lifelong process that requires individuals to develop and maintain new coping skills. Grounding techniques are a powerful tool for managing urges and overwhelming emotions that can make recovery challenging. By focusing on both external and internal sensations, grounding gives individuals a tangible, holistic focus during times of distress when unhelpful thoughts…
While some may consider the labels “alcoholism” and “alcohol dependence” to be outdated, alcohol abuse may still be an issue that requires treatment.If you’re seeking a distinction between alcoholism and alcohol dependence, you might be surprised to learn that the two have more resemblance than differences. In reality, the medical world has gradually shifted away…
The Christmas season ought to bring happiness and reunions, but unfortunately, it can often lead to escalated stress levels, an upsurge in alcohol consumption, and more incidences of domestic abuse. We should be alert for signs that such acts are occurring in order to protect our family members from danger this holiday period. In this…