Holistic treatment of substance use disorder and addiction-related mental health conditions requires personalized treatment at each stage of recovery. While addressing social factors and the client’s overall physical health is essential, a deep understanding of each stage of the recovery process is also paramount for both patients and providers. Together,…
Generally considered to be the gold standard of therapeutic counseling methods, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) aims to help clients cope with many of life’s hurdles by assessing the connection between thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. CBT is particularly well-known for offering clients coping strategies that work well outside of therapy. CBT…
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, marijuana is the most commonly used federally illegal drug in the United States (though it is now legal on the state level in the majority of states) – with 48.2 million people, or 18% of Americans, reportedly using it at least…
Nicotine-containing products, alongside caffeinated beverages like coffee, are some of the most commonly used psychoactive substances in the U.S.—though we rarely think of them as drugs. Even though tobacco and nicotine use has steadily dropped in the U.S. since 2005, many of us know someone who smokes, chews, or uses…
It’s estimated that more than 50 million adults in America will experience some form of mental health condition in their lifetimes. That’s around 20% of the entire adult population of the United States. In addition, a recent Pew Research study found that, though self-reported religious affiliation rates have declined in…
If you find yourself wondering “should I see a psychiatrist?” chances are you are experiencing uncomfortable symptoms or dealing with a tough situation that is interfering with your ability to live your life the way you want. Deciding whether or not you should see a psychiatrist can feel like a…
There’s something in human nature that is drawn to gambling. Even children bet on who can hold their breath the longest or who will dare to jump over a small stream. It’s no wonder casinos and betting shops do big business. As adults, we still crave the buzz, the adrenaline,…
This time of year is exciting and special for many, as families come together to celebrate the holidays. However, it isn’t exciting for all. In fact, it can be a very difficult time for people in addiction recovery. Here are a few common issues for those in recovery during the…
Sex addiction is characterized by a compulsive need to engage in sexual acts. Symptoms include obsessive sexual thoughts, preoccupation with having sex—even when it interferes with day to day responsibilities—and an inability to control their sexual behavior. Fortunately, over time, sex addicts can recover and heal from their addiction. This…
I have been sober for over four years. I am in amazement as I type that, but I also reflect on the terribly long and hard road it took me to get to where I am today. I used to be known as a “chronic relapser.” In other words, I…
Incorporating healthy habits into your life can aid addiction recovery and benefit your overall health and wellbeing. In recovery, it is important to both treat addiction and attend to the entirety of your mental health, as those who fail to pay attention to their mental or emotional health are more…
Steroid use could increase the risk of cocaine use and addiction among teens. This, from researchers at the University of Puerto Rico who studied female rats. The team first exposed half of the rats to nandrolone, a performance-enhancing steroid commonly used by teens. After ten days, they split all of…
