Author Archives: Alta Loma

When Is It Time to Take a Mental Health Day?

When Is It Time to Take a Mental Health Day?

Our professional and social obligations keep us busy every hour of every day, and the constant stress of satisfying the needs of others without catering to your own needs takes a toll on mental health. Irritability, difficulty focusing, resentment toward others, sleeplessness, and loss of interest in work and social activities are all indicators that […]

Shake Up Your Self-Care Routine

Shake Up Your Self-Care Routine

Simple acts of self-care like preparing your favorite healthy meal or taking a few minutes to meditate may seem insignificant, but those little acts go a long way! Caring for your mind and body is important in recovery. The work you do in therapy is difficult, and you may find yourself feeling exhausted and, after […]

What Role Does the Political Climate Play in Substance Reliance?

What Role Does the Political Climate Play in Substance Reliance?

According to a June 2020 study conducted by the American Psychological Association, approximately 83% of Americans find the future of the nation to be a significant source of stress. Today’s political climate is tense, and the entire country is susceptible to mounting anxiety caused by constant exposure to local, national, and global politics. How Does […]

Explaining Addiction to Children

Explaining Addiction to Children

Children may not always understand the principles of substance use disorder (SUD), but they will realize when a parent is absent from their lives. Toddlers and young children may not be equipped to handle conversations involving addiction, even when substance abuse is presented as a disease equatable to a bad cold or other physical illness. […]

Does Adopting a Healthier Diet Help in Recovery?

Does Adopting a Healthier Diet Help in Recovery?

Consistent and long-term substance use can cause the body to develop poor eating and drinking habits that do not satisfy nutritional needs. The body reacts differently to different substances, but a balanced diet plan can provide the nutrients that were previously missing, benefitting both mind and body. Alcohol Alcohol use disorder depletes the body of […]

Setting Healthy Boundaries at Home and Work

Setting Healthy Boundaries at Home and Work

Returning to work and home life is exciting, but individuals in recovery need to reassess their situation and make the adjustments necessary to ensure their mental and physical health. As you reintegrate into society, understand that your situation before recovery was unhealthy and you need to make big changes to your routine to avoid slipping […]

Can Spending Time on Your Smartphone Increase Symptoms of Anxiety and Depression?

A 2017 study conducted by psychologist Dr. Jon Elhai reveals a correlational relationship between frequent smartphone use and depression, anxiety, and stress, meaning either the symptoms of a mental health disorder cause increased usage or smartphone exposure increases these symptoms. Whether smartphones are a coping mechanism or a catalyst, spending too much time on them […]

Learn to Manage Necessary Stressors in Your Life

Learn to Manage Necessary Stressors in Your Life

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 […]

How Should Schools Handle Illegal Substance Addiction in Students?

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. […]

Signs of SUD in Your Children and How to Recognize Them

Signs of SUD in Your Children and How to Recognize Them

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 […]