Brilliant creativity often comes with turmoil, and many artists claim they do their best work when they're struggling mental health-wise. Probably the most well-known example of this is Vincent van Gogh, who cut off his left ear while arguing with fellow artist Paul Gauguin. Today, it's widely accepted that Van Gogh ... Read More
What Demi Lovato Means by “California Sober”
An Early Rising Star "My dad was an addict and an alcoholic. Guess I always searched for what he found in drugs and alcohol because it fulfilled him and he chose that over a family." Demi Lovato entered the acting industry at the tender age of 10 when she first appeared in Barney & Friends from 2002 to 2004. ... Read More
How Working Out Improves Memory and Brain Function
As science has taught us more about the network of human systems, we're beginning understand that no two function completely separately from each other. Several studies highlight a connection between exercise and memory, showing that physical and mental health are important to treat in tandem for a healthy life. In ... Read More
What to Know About Survivor’s Guilt After an Overdose
Losing a close friend or family member to addiction is traumatic, especially when the loss is unexpected. For addiction survivors, the pain is often compounded by overwhelming guilt, feelings of responsibility or even wondering why they should live while their loved one died. Survivor's guilt is profound and left ... Read More
Recovery Insights: How to Build a Better Life in Recovery
In this month's Recovery Insights Q & A column, Alumni Director, Molly Mammen, shares personalized advice and specific ways to build a happy and successful life in recovery. Here are her specific responses to recently submitted alumni questions: How will I come back from this? Of course you will come back ... Read More
Dethroning the Stigma of Suicidal Thoughts, a la Meghan Markle
In a 2021 exclusive interview, Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, sat down with Oprah Winfrey to discuss Prince Harry, mental illness and their exit from the royal family. The two-hour interview was packed with shocking reveals that left even Oprah, the queen of prime time, nearly speechless. Among these ... Read More
Overcoming Codependency
If you're using drugs or alcohol, it can be difficult to support yourself and meet your own needs while sustaining your substance use. Addiction is a disease — it can affect anyone, and no one is immune to the damage it does. On the other hand, leaning too hard on the people around you for help can be unhealthy for ... Read More
How Hemingway Never Met a Martini He Didn’t Like
The author of classic works like The Old Man and the Sea, For Whom the Bell Tolls and The Sun Also Rises, Ernest Hemingway is looked upon as a literary titan. But in many circles, his writing isn't what he's best remembered for. Hemingway's drinking and macho reputation are revered long after his death — but what ... Read More
