Coming across depressing song lyrics on a friend's social media status or seeing what appears to be an insinuation that ending their life would be the best course of action can be unnerving. After all, about 800,000 people worldwide, including 45,000 people in the United States, die annually from suicide. In fact, this ... Read More
Learning Center
FHE Health is dedicated to educating the American public—especially individuals, families, and communities—about mental health and substance abuse topics. In our Learning Center, you'll find articles on alcoholism, substance abuse, behavioral and mental health, and other treatment-related issues. Our articles are written both for the person in need of treatment as well as loved ones seeking more information. We also provide information for those who have gone through treatment and are building a new life in recovery.
What to Do When Someone Is Posting Hints at Suicide
How to Tell Your Loved Ones You have Addiction Issues
Admitting you're an alcoholic is the first step in a 12-step program, and for good reason. Doing so allows you to accept your dependence on alcohol and begin to forgive yourself. It also gives you the opportunity to reach out to friends and family whose support you will need during recovery. Even if you understand ... Read More
Mental Health Tips for Pregnancy, from a Mom-to-Be in Recovery
I’ve been in long-term recovery for years. Being pregnant, on the other hand, is mind-blowingly new. That may be one reason people have asked me what it’s like to navigate the mental health challenges unique to pregnancy as someone in recovery. They seem to be asking, “How are you staying sane and sober through the ... Read More
What Is an Addiction Specialist?
Many people at an alcohol and drug rehab facility deal with physical and mental health symptoms. During the detox phase, they may experience severe withdrawal and need medical care to minimize the effects of stopping alcohol or drug use. Approximately half of all people with alcohol and substance use disorders also ... Read More
How to Cope with Guilt After Losing a Loved One to Addiction
Receiving the devastating news that a loved one has been lost to addiction or suicide is an experience that's never forgotten. Many people worry that they could have done more to help their loved one and prevent the tragedy, which can bring on mental health crisis. During this time, it's important to remember that ... Read More
Drug Profile: Pethidine (Meperidine/Demerol)
Pethidine is a drug that familiar to anyone who has given birth in a hospital. Also known as meperidine or by the brand name Demerol, it has been prescribed as a pain relief medication during labor since it was first licensed in 1943. The once popular synthetic opioid has fallen out of favor in the medical profession ... Read More
12 Signs That It’s Time to Get Help for Addiction
Life sometimes gets in the way of drinking and drug use, especially if the pattern of behavior is the direct cause of serious consequences. While it is difficult to know when to draw a line, for others or yourself, when the thought occurs that, "Maybe I need some rehab," it could be a sign that it's time to get help ... Read More
What Is a Group Facilitator?
High-quality addiction treatment centers employ various professional and semi-professional individuals to operate treatment programs. Within the umbrella of "addiction specialists," there may be medical doctors (including general practitioners or psychiatrists), nurse practitioners, psychiatric professions (i.e. ... Read More
















