Author Archives: Alta Loma

Life After Meth: 6 Strategies To Keeping You On The Right Track 

Life After Meth: 6 Strategies To Keeping You On The Right Track 

After completing treatment for methamphetamine addiction, the next stage is recovery bringing with it some difficult challenges, especially in the first few weeks. Those recovering from long-term meth abuse will experience cravings and triggers in various forms and will need immense support and coping skills to stay committed to their sobriety. Here are some tips […]

Do People with Social Anxiety Disorder Fear the Dinner Table?

Do People with Social Anxiety Disorder Fear the Dinner Table?

Mealtimes can be anxiety-provoking for practically anyone. There are many social eating situations over which people sometimes experience anxiety. Many people anxiously anticipate meals with coworkers, clients, a wedding rehearsal dinner or an attractive coworker’s birthday bash. But for people with social anxiety disorder (SAD) and related eating disorders, dinners with others can be both […]

MDMA: The Neurobiology and Dangers of Ecstasy  

MDMA: The Neurobiology and Dangers of Ecstasy  

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), “MDMA (methylenedioxymethamphetamine), or commonly referred to as “ecstasy” or “molly,” is a synthetic drug that alters mood and perception (awareness of surrounding objects and conditions). It is chemically similar to both stimulants and hallucinogens, producing feelings of increased energy and pleasure as well as distorted sensory […]

Visiting a Loved One In Rehab – Do’s & Don’ts

Visiting a Loved One In Rehab – Do’s & Don’ts

Friends and family members try hard to support the ones they love in rehab and want to see them as often as possible. However, often times friends and family don’t understand what’s expected of them or how to act once they enter a facility. And even with the best intentions, visits in rehab can sometimes […]

Why are 12 Step Meetings an Important Part of Any Aftercare Program?

Why are 12 Step Meetings an Important Part of Any Aftercare Program?

Aftercare takes place following the completion of a drug/alcohol rehabilitation program. Each aftercare is designed to help the completing client to extend recovery beyond the safe confines of the initial treatment program. While the drug and alcohol counselor helps in crafting the client’s aftercare, the client has an equal say in what will be included […]

Bi-Polar Disorder and Addiction – What You Need To Know

Bi-Polar Disorder and Addiction - What You Need To Know

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, “bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive illness, is a brain disorder that causes unusual shifts in mood, energy, activity levels, and the ability to carry out day-to-day tasks.” Imbalanced chemicals in the brain, genetics, and trauma can cause bipolar disorder. Those who suffer from a mental health […]

How are Marijuana and Anxiety Related?

How are Marijuana and Anxiety Related?

No one enjoys the feelings produced by a state of anxiety, and for some anxiety suffers those feelings can become excruciating. It is tempting to seek out substances that, when ingested, will provide the anxiety relief we so desperately want. Because marijuana is has become popularly accepted as a natural remedy for many ailments, some […]

Staying Sober After A Death of a Loved One 

Staying Sober After A Death of a Loved One 

It doesn’t matter your socio-economic background, race or religion – losing a loved one is a painful human experience. Dealing with all of the grief surrounding death is brutal and for those in addiction recovery, grief can trigger a major relapse. Grief-related sadness, anger, and pain can cloud our ability to think clearly, and those […]

How do I Choose a Sponsor Who is Right for me?

How do I Choose a Sponsor Who is Right for me?

When we are newly sober and just beginning the journey of recovery, we are in need of a guide and mentor to help us navigate the unfamiliar waters of twelve step recovery. It is our responsibility to ask a member of our twelve step fellowship to sponsor us. Choosing a sponsor who is well suited […]