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 […]
23
Sep
Sep
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 […]
Depression, Mental Health
Can Spending Time on Your Smartphone Increase Symptoms of Anxiety and Depression?
21
Sep
Sep
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 […]
21
Sep
Sep
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 […]
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 […]
