Stepping away from stress to focus on recovery indicates dedication and maturity in individuals with substance use disorder (SUD). Some stresses, however, are unavoidable–financial troubles, small relationship spats, and other emotional strains happen every day. You are strong, confident, and capable of overcoming any challenges to your mental health. When confronted with unexpected stress, draw […]
Author Archives: Alta Loma
20
Sep
Sep
The CDC reports that by 12th grade, approximately 60% of students have tried alcohol and that young people aged between 10 and 20 consume about one-tenth of alcohol sales in the country. Additionally, about half of high school students reported using marijuana, and one-fifth of high school seniors have used prescription medication without a prescription. […]
20
Sep
Sep
Substance abuse in adolescents can hinder physical and social development, increase the risk of mental health disorders, and lead to dangerous or reckless behaviors such as engaging in unprotected sexual activity, according to the Center for Disease Control (CDC). Studies report that “the earlier teens start using substances, the greater their chances of continuing to […]
18
Sep
Sep
In the United States, more than 63 million adults lived with a substance use disorder or mental illness in the last year alone. A closer look at these staggering numbers shows that 20 million people were dealing with a substance use disorder, while 43 million struggled with their mental health. Out of the 328 million […]
17
Sep
Sep
A friend or family member can enjoy regular alcoholic beverages without developing an alcohol addiction; however, if that person begins to display abnormal behavior and engage in more frequent drinking, they may be showing signs of early addiction. Know the signs of addiction and appropriate strategies to approach this person with your concerns. Signs of […]
17
Sep
Sep
Your recovery support system will instill you with invaluable life skills such as stress management or mechanisms to cope with a crisis, but you may not get the guidance you need to complete daily activities like cooking or paying bills in therapy or group meetings. As you transition from recovery to living outside the treatment […]
16
Sep
Sep
Recent studies show that the overwhelming majority—approximately 85%—of people in recovery from substance addiction will relapse within the first year. This statistic should not discourage your efforts to adhere strongly to your recovery plan, but it should bring comfort to know that the community in recovery shares your fears of relapse and may be able […]
16
Sep
Sep
Enrollment in a rehabilitation program is the most effective early treatment strategy for individuals struggling with a substance or alcohol use disorder, but these programs can be expensive. American Addiction Centers reports that less than 2% of the 17 million Americans diagnosed with an alcohol use disorder (AUD) in 2014 received treatment and only 1% […]
14
Sep
Sep
The excitement of initiating your recovery journey is pervasive. Now that you’ve decided to seek treatment for substance abuse, you’re ready for some more changes in your social circles, workspace, and your own home. Wanting to reinvigorate the environments you inhabit shows optimism that will benefit you as you progress through recovery. Keep that spirit […]
14
Sep
Sep
Experiencing a traumatic event during recovery may severely harm your mental health, causing you to seek comfort from substances. Trauma elicits unique reactions from each individual, but people in recovery from addiction are more likely to respond to a crisis by engaging in substance abuse. You deserve to respond to a traumatic event honestly and […]