By: Sarah Surrey, LCSW, CRAADC Remember the lofty goals that you had for 2020? The books you were going to read, and career-climbing you were going to do? Remember the massive nutrition overhaul you were going to take on, and the worldwide travelling you were going to complete? 2020! This is the year! …
The return of a loved one after time in a residential treatment program is a joyous occasion. But it’s not without its share of uncertainty, too—including how the readjustment process will go for both of you. Knowing what to expect can be helpful when it comes to navigating this happy but often also challenging time….
In recent years, knowledge about the relationship between substance use and mental disorders has continued to grow. According to the epidemiologic Catchment Area (ECA) study, the prevalence of a psychiatric disorder is 44 percent among people with alcohol disorders, and skyrockets to 64.4 percent among people with other drug-use disorders. Furthermore, research shows that the…
Addiction is a terrible condition that can take over your life. The decision to take control and work toward sobriety is a monumental one, as is the journey that follows. When we talk about substance use treatment, we usually talk about finding the right rehab program, medication assisted treatment options, and a strong support system….
Addicts undergo a great deal of pain during the recovery process. Guilt, shame, anger, disappointment, and regret are just a few of the many emotions that enter into the equation. What’s critical to overcoming these and other feelings that can impede your journey to recovery? Forgiveness. Here’s a closer look at the role of forgiveness…
By: Sarah Surrey, LCSW Moving from active addiction to recovery isn’t like flipping a switch. It isn’t immediate or fast. It often isn’t even linear. There are endless methodologies for categorizing and organizing the process, but it will always remain a process. This article reviews four stages of addiction and recovery beginning with active use,…
Many people with substance use disorders think that their creativity is enhanced by their drug use. It’s natural, therefore, that they might also worry about losing their creative spark in sobriety. If you or someone you love is in this position, here’s a closer look at what you need to know about the connection —…
Substance abuse is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon. Just as many factors go into creating addiction, many factors also impact treatment and recovery. While medications, behavioral therapy and counseling, and support groups often come first to mind when we think of substance abuse treatment plans, another element also comes into play when it comes to…
Addiction is an equal-opportunity affliction. It can and does impact people from all walks of life. For certain careers, however, substance use and abuse can present special challenges. One such path is the military. Here’s a closer look at the topic of military service and addiction. An Official Position The Department of Defense is firm…
The COVID-19 pandemic is leading to increased levels of anxiety among Americans, according to a national poll conducted by the American Psychiatric Association (APA). Specifically, 36 percent said they felt the coronavirus was having a serious impact on their mental health, while 59 percent felt it was having a serious impact on their everyday lives….