Building a support network in recovery is critical to your journey. Your network will offer guidance, comfort, relief, and some tough love as you progress in your recovery from substance abuse. When selecting the friends, family, and mental health professionals to comprise your support network, make sure to choose people who will help you move […]
Author Archives: Alta Loma
13
Sep
Sep
In times of struggle, many people turn to religion for reassurance and strength. Managing substance addiction can be difficult, and individuals in recovery may join a religious or spiritual organization for the support and structure offered by the institution. Not all individuals in recovery want to incorporate faith into their lifestyle and they find fulfillment […]
12
Sep
Sep
Social restrictions implemented to fight the spread of COVID-19 are successfully lowering rates of disease across the nation, but individuals in recovery from substance addictions may find forced isolation to be as dangerous as the pandemic. Mental health facilities and recovery centers are adjusting treatment strategies, offering virtual consultations and new appointment hours to help […]
11
Sep
Sep
“Peer pressure” is most commonly associated with misbehaving high school students, but the phenomenon can occur at any age. As you continue on your journey in recovery, you may find friends, coworkers, and other acquaintances urging you to engage in group activities that involve substances despite your efforts to maintain sobriety. When the pressure to […]
10
Sep
Sep
Humans are social creatures, and after spending some time by ourselves, we’re eager to jump into the social world and find companionship. Dating is an exciting experience that allows us to explore new places, enjoy different foods or activities, and, most importantly, develop an intimate relationship. Looking for a romantic relationship during your 12-Step program, […]
10
Sep
Sep
Studies of children and adults reveal a correlation between poor body image and substance abuse. Willingness to change one’s physical appearance to achieve an unhealthy and unrealistic body type can lead individuals to replace food, social time, or sleep with alcohol and other substances. Negative self-image can also cause depression, anxiety, and other mental health […]
09
Sep
Sep
Balancing your work life and your social life during recovery can be difficult. Even if you love your job, the workplace can cause stress that erodes your mental health. When long hours, demanding deadlines, or frustrating customers start to take a toll on your health, engage mechanisms for stress relief that can put you back […]
Addiction, Motivation
When Friends Aren’t Supportive of Your Recovery, It’s Time to End the Relationship
09
Sep
Sep
When you confront your substance addiction and begin your journey to recovery, most friends and family members will be extremely supportive. The people in your life who truly care about your wellbeing will be excited to see you pursue a life path that will bring you emotional and spiritual fulfillment. Some people, however, might pose […]
07
Sep
Sep
Pets can bring joy and fun into anyone’s life. If you find yourself looking for an animal companion to walk with you on your journey to recovery and mental health, you should know the responsibilities and rewards associated with a furry (or not so furry) friend. Types of Emotional Support Animals An emotional support animal […]
07
Sep
Sep
The American Psychiatric Association reports that nearly 5% of adults living in the US experience Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a major depressive disorder that manifests symptoms during some seasons, namely fall and winter, but not all. Individuals with untreated SAD are at a higher risk of substance abuse, but knowing the symptoms and treatments for […]