For individuals struggling with substance use disorders, 12-Step programs such as Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous often play a vital role in the recovery progress. Taking the time to understand the benefits of a 12-Step approach can help you decide how to best structure your continuing care plan. 5 Key Benefits of 12-Step Programs The [...]
The gender-based differences in addiction are hard to ignore. According the National Institute on Drug Abuse: Men have higher rates of binge drinking and alcohol abuse in most age groups. Men more likely to use almost all types of illicit drugs—including both illegal street drugs and misused prescription drugs. Men are more likely to need [...]
The opioid epidemic was first declared a public health emergency in 2017. If you are struggling with opioid abuse or believe a loved one may be in need of addiction treatment, there are some important facts to consider as you decide how to best proceed with the recovery process. 1. Over 100 People Die of [...]
Your first year of recovery will be full of many challenges, including how to best celebrate the holidays as someone who is newly sober. The risk of relapse is higher during this time, but remaining vigilant about your recovery will help you stay on the right track. Focus on What Brings You Joy There are [...]
With the opioid epidemic making headlines every week, it's understandable to be worried about the risk of addiction if you or someone you love has been prescribed opioids. However, you must remember that opioid medication does play a vital role in the management of chronic pain for certain individuals. It does these patients a disservice [...]
Certain personality traits have been proven to be associated with the development of substance use disorders. Exposure to trauma and a lack of a strong support system can also contribute to the development of unhealthy coping mechanisms. In some cases, this can include the development of substitute addictions after completing a drug or alcohol rehab [...]
Being in recovery means rethinking every aspect of your daily routine, including how you use social media. Your time online has the potential to either be a tool for sobriety or a threat to the recovery process. Advantages of Social Media in Recovery In some cases, social media can be an aid in the recovery [...]
If you're struggling to make the 12-Step process work for you, don't give up hope of a lasting recovery. Although Alcoholics Anonymous and other similar groups play a vital role in keeping millions of people clean and sober, these organizations aren't right for everyone. SMART Recovery is one AA alternative that you may wish to [...]
"Continuum of care" is a phrase that's commonly used in addiction treatment, but many people seeking help for a substance use disorder find themselves wondering exactly what this means. Essentially, continuum of care refers to having a detailed plan for what services a person needs to help him or her stay sober after seeking residential [...]
The relationship between addiction and poverty is complicated. Lower income people are slightly more likely to struggle with drug or alcohol abuse, but this doesn't necessarily mean that poverty causes addiction. In some cases, financial troubles are the result of a substance use disorder. Poverty Increases Addiction Risk Factors There are several ways in which [...]
