GABA ("gamma-aminobutyric acid") is a naturally occurring amino acid that operates as a chemical messenger in the brain. Chemical messengers in the brain, or "neurotransmitters," carry messages between cells in the brain. GABA is known as an "inhibitory" neurotransmitter, because it blocks certain brain signals, ... Read More
A Step-by-Step Guide for Starting Over After Rehab
Addiction can disrupt virtually every aspect of an individual's life, from their financial stability to their interpersonal relationships. After completing rehab, they may feel overwhelmed by the changes they need to make. Change is an essential aspect of sobriety—not just ending the cycle of addiction itself, but ... Read More
What Does Little Empathy Say About Your Mental Health?
Empathy has become something of a buzzword in today's increasingly polarized society. Years ago, the only time most of us would hear the word "empathy" was when psychologists talked about sociopathic serial murderers like Jeffrey Dahmer or Ted Bundy on TV crime shows. But what do psychologists mean when they make ... Read More
What to Do if Your Family Wants to Force You into Rehab
"You can't force me to go to rehab!" Every day, people are confronted by family members and well-meaning friends who are desperately worried about their drug or alcohol use. If you're wondering, "Can I be forced to go to rehab?," the answer is "yes, in certain circumstances." Here is one example: If a person's drug ... Read More
Recovery Insights from Judaism
Many people in long-term recovery from substance abuse and addiction have attributed their success to an active spiritual and/or religious life. For example, they might be heavily involved in a local church, mosque, or synagogue, where they've found spiritual support, an outlet for service, and/or a sense of belonging. ... Read More
Avoid Texting When Drunk.
Whether it's bar hopping with your closest friends, relaxing at home with a glass of wine, or another context in which alcohol is involved, drinking can lead to unintended consequences. Many of us have done things we regret when we've had a bit too much to drink. Consider this all-too-common experience: You wake up ... Read More
The Real Dangers of Fentanyl Exposure for First Responders
“Broward County is expecting to lose nearly 1,000 people in 2022 to opioid-related overdoses, based on the most current available data. This is a substantial increase from last year. Heroin-related deaths are on the decline, but fentanyl deaths are on the rise. Nationwide we are forecasting about 120,000 overdose ... Read More
Couples Therapy: What Makes a Good Marriage Counselor?
If you and your partner seem to be having the same arguments day after day or sense a strange sense of distance or lack of romantic interest, it may be time to seek out professional help. A great marriage counselor can be the difference between overcoming struggles and forging a stronger bond or splitting up over ... Read More