Depression is a serious issue in the United States. In 2015, over 18 million adults experienced at least one depressive episode, and around 5% of children are similarly affected. Living with depression can be devastating, with symptoms that include a disinterest in hobbies and pleasurable activities, a lack of ... Read More
Co-occurring Addiction and Mental Illness: The Complex Question of Which to Treat First
Mental illness and addiction are often linked, meaning a person who may have a substance abuse problem could also suffer from depression or anxiety. When mental health and substance abuse are evident, it’s called dual diagnosis. Such patients will need an integrated approach to treatment. It’s not possible to manage ... Read More
Drinking Responsibly: Can an Alcoholic Ever Control Their Drinking?
Have you or someone you know tried to stop drinking or attempted to cut down on drinking alcohol but failed to do so? Do you look forward to your next drink? Has drinking ever interfered with your job, school or family responsibilities? If you abstain from drinking for more than 48 hours, do you start ... Read More
Male and Depressed? Here’s How Recovery Is Possible
According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, anxiety and depression are the most common mental illnesses in America today. In fact, more than 40 million adults age 18 and older suffer from some type of depression or mental illness. While women are more likely to suffer from depression than men, ... Read More
How to Support a Loved One With Bipolar Disorder
All mental health conditions can be difficult to manage, but for a caregiver, living with a loved one who has bipolar disorder can be overwhelming and terrifying. The condition, which often manifests as shifts from dramatic highs to very lows in activity, energy and mood, is hard to handle, especially on a daily basis. ... Read More
Forgetting The Last Hangover (and Other Causes of Alcohol Relapse)
After spending a few days in detox and three weeks in an inpatient treatment center, it seems that all the hard work and effort has paid off. You’re sober and seeing life through clear lenses for the first time in a long time. You have done the work, attend your AA meetings and feel confident in your ability to push a ... Read More
The Dangers of Not Cutting Someone Off at the Bar – and How to Say “No” To Requests for More Drinks
For many people in the service industry, tending bar is a dream job. It's often easier physically than waiting tables, yields plenty of face time with happy patrons and offers the promise of big tips. However, like any job, bartending has its downsides, and that includes facing patrons too drunk to continue ... Read More
In Vermont, Burlington Screens Those Arrested for Substance Use Disorders and Brattleboro Nabs Drug Dealers
Vermont Cracks Down on Drug Trafficking While Encouraging Addiction Treatment The number of deaths related to opioids in Vermont has risen above the national average in recent years. Last year, more than 100 people lost their lives to an opioid overdose. Especially noteworthy is the increase in fentanyl-related ... Read More