Avoid Words of Fear and Consequence When talking to someone suffering from addiction, keep in mind that they are going through one of the most trying times in their lives. Using the language of fear is nothing new and most likely has already been on repeat in their minds. Rather, keep things positive. Instead of […]
Monthly Archives: May 2020
We met someone. They came out of nowhere when we were least expecting it. Fireworks go off! The connection is instant! The time together flies, the conversations are intense, powerful, and beautiful! It feels magical, and bliss sets in! The relationship status on social media changes. Love is amazing! Our whole outlook on life changes! […]
For those who have received services and support for mental health and addiction issues, it can feel like the struggle was a huge setback in life. It can be hard to figure out how to get back on track with a career or work that brings us joy. A compounding concern involves the fact that […]
Undiagnosed and untreated mental health issues can lead to substance use, as the need to alleviate painful and misunderstood symptoms increases. Unfortunately, this method of coping can have dire consequences, as addictions and lethal dependencies develop. The situation becomes compounded, as now both mental health and addiction need to be addressed and tended to. […]
Whatever we are healing from issues with mental health or struggles with substance abuse, the process requires tremendous commitment, vigilance, determination, and courage. Health and recovery are more than full-time jobs and ask so much of our spirit, mind, and body. While this complete focus on health and wellness is necessary, it puts other […]
The LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning) community is at higher risk for substance abuse than the heterosexual population. This risk is due to issues surrounding homosexuality in the United States. Consequently, the LGBTQ community is at a higher risk of having mental health disorders that lead to substance abuse and addiction. Contributing factors […]
Addiction impacts the entire family. Substance abuse co-occurring with psychiatric disorders can make matters even worse, taking a toll on everyone involved. Substance abuse affects the family unit emotionally and financially, destroying relationships once central to the addict’s life. Emotional Impact Family members experience emotions ranging from guilt and embarrassment to confusion, denial, […]
Living with undiagnosed and untreated mental health issues, or experiencing severe substance abuse without any support, can cause severe internal and external confusion. Our bodies and minds can confuse chaos with the feeling of being alive. We confuse drama and intensity for real adventure and excitement. We suffer swings of serious depression or ecstasy […]
The struggle with mental health and addiction can leave our lives in chaos and uncertainty. In addition to our own experience and feelings of sadness and depression, this struggle can profoundly impact our loved ones, families, and friends. Once we commit to recovery, it can be challenging and painful to reflect on the damage we […]
While being in nature benefits everyone, it’s essential for people in recovery. Being in nature allows people to unplug and disconnect from their typical environment. Mental health disorders and addiction frequently occur together, and getting back to nature is a helpful addition to any treatment program. People use substances to cope with suffering and underlying […]