Author Archives: Alta Loma

How the Stigmatization Behind Schizophrenia Can Affect Individuals Getting Help

Portrait of a bearded man

It is no secret that there is a significant amount of stigma surrounding mental illness. Mental health disorders such as schizophrenia that are not generally understood by modern society are especially at risk of facing prejudice, discrimination, and stigmatization. This can impact those struggling with the disorder, especially in terms of seeking help. They don’t […]

When Too Much Alcohol is Never Enough

Have you found yourself drinking more than you mean to on a regular basis because the usual amount you consume is never enough? What happens when you begin drinking what would be considered “too much,” and that still isn’t enough? It can be easy to overlook your drinking habits and live in denial of having […]

What Can Kids Do to Become Mentally Strong?

Mother consoling her upset son

Mental strength is all about being aware of the way you think, act, and feel. Building your mental strength in thinking outside the box, feeling good, and being confident is a very important part of growing up. Kids need to partake in mental health exercises just like they would for their physical strength to ensure their […]

Genetics Behind Substance Use Disorders

illustration-dna-strand

There are several reasons that a person may develop an addiction. These are often related to mental health disorders, trauma, environmental circumstances, and social circumstances. However, genetics can also play a significant role in one’s risk of developing an addiction. By understanding the role that genetics play in addiction, you can begin taking proper precautions […]

What are Appropriate Text Messages to Send to a Friend with Anxiety?

painting Melancholy III (1902) by Edvard Munch. Original from The Art Institute of Chicago.

Anxiety can send you to a dark place where you feel alone, overwhelmed, or completely consumed with worry. Sending a text message to a friend with anxiety may not cure anxiety, but it can offer your friend relief or a bit of hope. When you send a non-judgment text message to a friend with anxiety, they […]

How To Overcome the Stigma Surrounding Addiction

asian-man-blocking-sun-from-face

Undergoing the consequences of addiction is hard enough on your own, especially as the disease wreaks havoc on your health, professional life, family life, and more. However, the way others treat you because of your addiction can add to this pile of negativity in your life. The stigma surrounding addiction is rampant due to inaccurate and […]

What is the Difference Between a Substance Use Disorder and Addiction?

Diverse people in a rehab session

A Substance Use Disorder is a diagnostic and legal term to define someone’s need for treatment due to the action of someone abusing drugs, whereas addiction can result from drug abuse. It is important to remember that not everyone who abuses substances develops an addiction. What Is Substance Abuse? Substance abuse is when someone overuses […]

How Do You Deal with Separation Anxiety Once Your Partner Goes Back to the Office?

social-distancing-workplace

When you were living with your partner during quarantine, you were used to spending every second with each other. If you have to go back to the office, you may feel anxious about leaving your partner. If you and your partner make an effort to adjust to this new routine, the transition back into normal life […]

How to Cope With a Mental Health Diagnosis

mental-health-diagnosis

Receiving a mental health diagnosis can prompt an influx of emotions in the aftermath. For some, receiving the diagnosis will result in a sense of relief as they finally have a name for the symptoms they have been experiencing. For others, receiving the diagnosis can result in feelings of shame, embarrassment, denial, anger, or hopelessness. […]