Category Archives: Motivation

Starting a Gratitude Journal Rewires Your Thoughts

writing journal

It’s easy to dismiss the idea of using a gratitude journal as part of recovery. If you’re not familiar with one, it may sound like an exercise in faking happiness. This kind of journal does not negate any negative feelings. Instead, it teaches you to count the positives that happen as you work on your […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

Learning Life Skills Outside of Your Treatment Center

Learning Life Skills Outside of Your Treatment Center

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 […]

How Can I Redesign My Home to Make It More Positive?

How Can I Redesign My Home to Make It More Positive?

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 […]

What Types of People Do I Need in My Support Network?

What Types of People Do I Need in My Support Network?

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 […]

How Can I Manage My Anxiety at Work?

How Can I Manage My Anxiety at Work?

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 […]

When Friends Aren’t Supportive of Your Recovery, It’s Time to End the Relationship

When Friends Aren’t Supportive of Your Recovery

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 […]

Mental Health Benefits of Video Journaling

Mental Health Benefits of Video Journaling

Journaling is a popular practice among individuals recovering from substance addiction, but the activity isn’t for everyone. Taking pen to paper can be tedious, and even typing becomes a chore when you have a lot to say. In the time of high-definition phone cameras and free media editing software or apps, it’s time to explore […]