“It started in my late 20s. In hindsight, I can see blips on the radar during my teenage years.” 47-year-old John C. was talking about when he first developed a substance use disorder. What Triggered the Substance Use Issues Was there one event that triggered it or multiple causes? “I believe I was born an ... Read More
The Experience Blog
FHE Health is comprised of a team of professionals dedicated to improving our patients well-being. In this section our experience is used to weigh in on current events including legislation and trends as well as expert opinion articles directly contributed by our staff. The proof of our program is our Alumni, so we often feature articles from those who have completed our program. They offer real-life stories of struggle, hope and a new life. In our blog you’ll also find out about upcoming events and community impact efforts FHE Health is taking part in.
No More Shame: John C.
This National Recovery Month: One Expert’s Challenge
September is National Recovery Month, and according to SAMHSA, it started in 1989 as “a national observance held every September to promote and support new evidence-based treatment and recovery practices, the nation’s strong and proud recovery community, and the dedication of service providers and communities who make ... Read More
Critical Stress Debriefings: An Expert’s Take
Critical stress debriefings, a preventative intervention after exposure to trauma, have grown in use among police and fire departments across the country. That may be because it is now widely known that when regular exposure to trauma goes unaddressed, that can lead to mental health issues like depression and PTSD, ... Read More
The Gender Gap in First Responder Mental Health
First responders are routinely exposed to traumatic events and high-stress situations that have a profoundly negative effect on their mental well-being as a whole. While employee mental health is crucial in any industry, it's even more important for those who work tirelessly to protect and save others. Yet first ... Read More
Alumni Outlook: Do Men “Cry for Help?” How to Spot The Signs
Growing up, I always heard about ‘what a man should be.’ My dad would talk about it, TV and movies would preach it, and other kids in school would talk about it. Generally, a man should be the strong, silent type who never complains and takes care of their own personal problems. This was an ideal that was widespread ... Read More
6 Mental Health Challenges for Mental Health Workers
Healthcare workers face disproportionate mental health challenges compared to those in other careers. According to a survey done in 2020, 93% of health workers report feeling stressed out, while another 82% reported feeling emotionally and physically exhausted. Another 45% said they weren't getting enough emotional ... Read More
What Being Sober Really Feels Like
Updated April 24, 2020 When you're addicted to drugs or alcohol, the notion of getting clean and then staying sober over the long haul can be frightening. One reason for this is the understandable and very common fear of what being sober feels like. Life in the absence of the self-medicating highs and euphoric ... Read More
Empowering Mental Health Stories: Minority Voices Inspiring Community Healing
Battling mental illness can be lonely, especially if you keep your struggles to yourself. That's why when well-known figures from minority backgrounds are willing to open up about their mental health difficulties, it can have a positive ripple effect and promote real community healing. Read on for mental health stories ... Read More
