Author Archives: Alta Loma

What Is It Like to Live with Someone Who Is Battling Addiction?

When Friends Aren’t Supportive of Your Recovery

One of the hardest parts of living with someone who struggles with addiction is that change doesn’t come easy. The way that addiction affects the inner workings of the brain makes it incredibly difficult to overcome. The person in question likely has little control over realizing that they have a problem to begin with – […]

Sleep and Routine: Finding Stability in Recovery

Tips for Dealing with Your Year of No Romance|

Whether we realize it at the time or not, addiction truly does throw our body and mind out of balance. Our lives become chaotic and unmanageable at times – and once the ball has started rolling, it can be impossible to get back on track. We may fail to follow through with our responsibilities, struggle […]

How Do I Build a Healthy Support System

Seasonal Affective Disorder and Substance Abuse

Perhaps the Beatles said it best – “I get by with a little help from my friends.” Letting go of toxic, unhealthy relationships is an important part of recovery. But learning how to let new people into our lives who can help make us better is equally important – and sometimes it’s easier said than […]

Making Friends in Treatment

Making Friends in Treatment

It’s been said that a friend is a gift we give ourselves. Before seeking treatment, your past support system may have been quite unhealthy. You likely spent time with individuals who encouraged your substance use, and felt more comfortable being around people who didn’t necessarily want you to seek out sobriety. Developing new friendships in […]

How Do I Know if My Relationships Are Unhealthy?

How Do I Know if My Relationships Are Unhealthy?

Sometimes addiction provides us with a circle of people to spend time with, but they’re not necessarily what’s best for us. They may stick around when we’re up for partying – but quickly fade away from the scene once sobriety is sought. One of the more challenging aspects of recovery is learning to let go […]

Why Anxiety Can Cripple Us in Addiction Recovery

Why Anxiety Can Cripple Us in Addiction Recovery

When we experience anxiety, we often go through a number of physical symptoms – headaches, nausea, rapid heartbeat, shakiness, dizziness, paranoia, and more. When anxiety hits, it can truly feel like you’re having a heart attack. People in addiction recovery often struggle with anxiety for a number of reasons. Multiple studies have found that about […]

Are There Different Types of Group Therapy?

Researchers Develop a Mental Health Website for the LGBTQ2+ Community and Their Mental Healthcare Providers

Recovery involves so many different aspects of healing and restoration – therapy is just one way that people in recovery can grow. Group psychotherapy sessions provide a unique, safe space for those seeking sobriety to build a larger connection with others who are pursuing the same goals. Group therapy is also a way to share […]

How Drug Abuse Affects Families

How Drug Abuse Affects Families

Millions of families across the nation are being impacted by drug abuse, as their loved ones quickly slip into the firm grip of addiction. Addicted family members may become so desperate for their drug of choice that they will steal money, medications, or other valuable items from the home. Families who are too afraid for […]

What Is Mindfulness and How Can It Help Me?

What Is Mindfulness and How Can It Help Me?

Mindfulness has become a sort of “buzzword” across social media recently. Nonetheless, it is an incredibly important practice that can shape your life if you allow it to. Mindfulness is defined as the ability to stay tuned into the present moment. This can be unnerving at times, especially if you struggle with anxiety, depression, or […]

Five Ways That Meditation Can Improve Mental Health and Recovery

Five Ways That Meditation Can Improve Mental Health and Recovery

“Your mind is a powerful thing. When you filter it with positive thoughts, your life will start to change.” -Buddha Meditation has become a common practice in the United States, but it wasn’t always that way. Eastern cultures have embraced this type of holistic practice for thousands of years. Now we are finally discovering the […]