One of the most challenging hurdles for an addict is learning how to deal with stress without alcohol. In fact, studies have shown that 50% of people relapse within the first 12 weeks after leaving treatment. A fight with their partner, a stressful day at work or a bad encounter with a stranger could send a person ... Read More
Overcoming Codependency in Relationships and Finding Independence
Codependency. This subject, in particular, invokes painful memories from not only my childhood but even well into my recovery. Long before I ever picked up a drink or a drug, codependency in relationships was a significant part of my story. In fact, codependent, toxic relationships were my solution - until they weren't ... Read More
The Pitfalls of Replacing Addiction With Another Addiction
Good ole cross-addiction, the act of laying down one addiction and picking up another. Drugs, alcohol, gambling, sex, toxic relationships, shopping, and even eating all stimulate the brain's "pleasure center." For most of us in recovery, we can all recall a time when we convinced ourselves we needed to take a break ... Read More
How to Detect the Warning Signs of an Impending Relapse
Relapse. It's a word that is discussed a lot in recovery, as expected. It's our worst fear whether we are newly entering recovery or an old-timer of 30 years. The absolute worst thing anyone in recovery could do is pick a drink or drug up again. Sadly, relapse rates are very high across the board. Why is ... Read More
Four Mental Health Tips for New Mothers
I was 20 years old when I had my first baby. I was a kid, preparing to have a kid. All of the wonderful women in my life did their best to throw their best mom hacks my way in preparation for this new role I was taking on. However, I’m not sure anyone prepared me for the toll becoming a new mom would take on my mental ... Read More
Choose Your Words Carefully: Why Stigmatizing Mental Health Prevents People From Getting Help
The impacts of mental health effect over 48.3 million Americans in a single year. This startling number pales in comparison to the over 60% of these Americans who never receive treatment for their mental health conditions. While the availability of evidence-based treatment continues to increase, there continue to be ... Read More
5 Effective Self Care Strategies to Ease Depression
Depression is a foe that I have danced with for as long as I can remember. The common misconception about depression is that this mental illness is only found in the suicidal, can’t get out of bed or shower group of unfortunates - this couldn’t be further from the truth. I have battled with depression for years and ... Read More
6 Tips to Recalibrate Life Goals in the Virtual Era
Let me be the first to shamelessly say it has been one heck of a year. Navigating through this seemingly apocalyptic COVID-era has been anything but rejuvenating. I know I’m not alone when I say that this season of isolation has shed light on many painful but necessary areas for self-improvement while also limiting ... Read More
