Wish Recovery’s Blog Category

When you or a loved one finally come to the realization that a problem is more than a problem, and a habit has become a disorder it is time to take the next step and determine how, where, and by whom those issues can be treated.

If there were any truth to the misconception, some people have, that all anyone must do if they genuinely want to stop drinking or using drugs is to say, “No,” “I’m done,” “That’s it. I quit,” then, there wouldn’t be nearly 35 million people in the U.S. today diagnosed with a substance use or alcohol use disorder.

When a person has an addiction to drugs or alcohol, substances alter their brain functions. With continued substance use, one of the body’s most essential molecules gets depleted. The molecule is NAD+. Addiction recovery is not impossible but, it can be difficult. With the aid of NAD+ treatment, a relatively new holistic IV infusion that boosts natural amounts of NAD+, recovery is not only more of a possibility. It promises to make recovery more successful and sustainable.

It may be challenging to identify when drinking has gotten out of control, despite how obvious it is when it affects the most important aspects of life—relationships, money, mental stability, health and happiness. When is it appropriate to look for help? For rehabilitation that's even imaginable, you must first identify your problem. Friends, coworkers, or family members may bring up your issues, but only you can assess yourself.

Because of the varying degrees of substance use disorders (SUDs), many individuals suffer from addiction and alcoholism, which are the most severe manifestations of SUDs. Even after treatment, ONLY 40 to 60% of people who try to stop drinking or using drugs succeed. For many people, it is practically inevitable. This reality can discourage some, but relapse prevention like what you'll receive at residential rehab can help you develop coping skills to avoid or deal with triggers to use more flexibly and productively. This adaptability makes the chances of preventing a relapse more significant, and you'll be less likely to return to previous behaviors and substance use once you leave inpatient treatment.

Here are four ways your stay at a residential rehab can help you cope with or avoid relapse along your recovery journey:

Many people believe that it’s OK to drink and drive because they are responsible people. But the truth is, getting behind the wheel after drinking alcohol can have devastating consequences for those around you, as well as yourself. Drinking and driving can have severe impacts on not just your safety but also others—from minor injuries to severe injuries to fines to jail time to death. Too many people believe in the fallacy of immunity that it can’t happen to them. Even if you’ve never had an accident because of drunken driving, it doesn’t mean that you aren’t responsible for other people’s lives when you drink and drive.

Silicon Valley is frequently associated with technology, the internet and riches. It is the birthplace of Facebook, Apple and Google. Peeling back the veil of technical progress reveals a culture of drugs and excess that all too frequently leads to drug addiction and overdose.

We all have different ideas about making resolutions at the start of the year. One of the most common resolutions, other than losing weight, is to quit smoking, drinking alcohol, or doing drugs. These are noble goals that can be hard to stay motivated to achieve without help.

Quitting drugs can be a complex process because the initial withdrawal symptoms may seem impossible without help from family members and friends or residential detox. Relapse could turn your resolution into remorse or regret. But there are different approaches you can take to make a lifestyle change to sober living.

Cannabis has long been used in traditional medicine as a sexual stimulant. The National Commission on Marijuana and Drugs found that 44% of marijuana users felt marijuana significantly increased their sexual drive. More than two-thirds of the marijuana users, men and women, said it increased sexual desire. Many of them smoked only about one joint per week.

Many people in recovery feel embarrassed or ashamed. Because of how others treat them, many people have problems talking about their drug use, which causes dread and prevents them from obtaining the care they genuinely need. This article will discuss five things to avoid when dealing with such a circumstance and how to communicate to your loved ones without making them feel worse or wanting to clam up and stop getting therapy.

NAD+ refers to Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide. Every cell in your body has it. It is a coenzyme of vitamin B-3 or niacin, making it a small molecule that helps activate enzymes by binding to protein molecules. Enzymes are necessary because they handle over 5,000 biochemical reactions within the body.

Addiction to drugs or alcohol can have a profound, negative effect on a person’s ability to live a healthy, fulfilling life. Its consequences impact every aspect of a person’s well-being, from their physical and mental health to their safety and ability to have healthy relationships.

The abuse of drugs and alcohol can cause some very dramatic changes to brain chemistry, affecting how emotions and feelings are processed.

The repercussions of trauma can impede recovery from substance use disorder. If you are dealing with trauma and substance use issues, it can be challenging to resolve them effectively. It's important to know that trauma and substance use can work in tandem to exacerbate the effects of both conditions. Still, overcoming them and moving on towards authentic recovery by addressing both issues simultaneously is possible.

When you or a loved one finally come to the realization that a problem is more than a problem, and a habit has become a disorder it is time to take the next step and determine how, where, and by whom those issues can be treated.

The detox stage in a treatment program is often the most significant challenge on a patient's journey toward recovery. Patients at a rehab facility are presented with inpatient or outpatient treatment options.

Part of the decision for or against inpatient vs. outpatient is mainly determined by a preliminary physical examination, toxicology report, and other factors concerning a patient's medical history. Still, there are key treatment outcomes and other considerations.
 

When considering addiction treatment options, it's critical to look at how the treatment center approaches detoxification. Detoxing involves many risks, sometimes life-threatening when attempting cold turkey at home or without medical supervision. The safest and most effective approach is to have a medically supervised detox at a treatment facility.

Acupuncture is one of the most popular alternative therapies for treating substance and alcohol use disorders. This ancient practice has been gaining popularity in the West in recent years. Acupuncture has many benefits, including reducing pain, improving sleep, boosting the immune system, and calming anxiety. 

Luxury rehab centers often use this therapy to help patients with withdrawal symptoms and cravings during detox and relaxation during rehabilitation. Despite its reputation as physical treatment, acupuncture can help heal on spiritual, psychological, and emotional levels.

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) reports that 8% of the United States adult population has a mental health disorder. If you look at half of those people, they also live with a co-occurring substance use disorder (SUD) or alcohol addiction.
 

Let’s face it: as human beings with feelings and vulnerabilities, none of us is impervious to pain and suffering. Research shows that people who have experienced traumatic events are more prone to addiction. However, what makes the difference between those who give up and those who continue fighting in their recovery is self-care. Let’s look at why self-care is critical to staying sober and being one step ahead of a possible relapse.

The spooks, ghosts, and goblins of Halloween are gone. As the collected assortment of candies starts to dwindle, the air of the season shifts to cooler, longer nights, and the turkey and tinsel of the holidays begin to appear everywhere. This can bring about stress and mental health conditions like seasonal affective disorder. Many people respond to emotional distress in many ways, from food to sex to drugs or alcohol. 

When someone has experienced trauma or is in a negative situation, how they react to this will be different for everyone. Some people respond in ways that make matters worse for themselves and the parties involved, and some respond unhealthily, like drinking or misusing drugs.

In the last post in this series, we spoke about two types of emotions: primary and secondary. As we discussed, secondary emotions are easier to regulate or alter if required. An alternative response might be to be reluctant and agree in some aspects, "yes," then invalidate and defend with "but."

If you're among the brave souls who take on the daily challenges of being a first responder, you understand that your profession can wear on your mental and physical well-being. You bear witness to some of the most heartbreaking aspects of humanity, and you often put your safety at risk to help others. It's no wonder first responders have some of the highest rates of PTSD, alcohol use disorder, substance misuse, and other mental health disorders.

Residential, resort-style luxury rehab is a kind of inpatient treatment for substance abuse. In addition to CBT, patients have several therapy options and may choose from various treatment regimens to address their mental health concerns. Most high-end addiction treatment centers offer a restricted number of beds and provide housing for individuals who must continue working.

Co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders (SUDs) may be burdensome. If you have this problem, you know how tough it is to live a regular life. The National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics reports that 165 million Americans, or 60.2% of the population over 12, currently abuse drugs, including alcohol and cigarettes. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, about 8 million people, or 17.5% of those with mental health difficulties, abuse drugs. This article will discuss dual diagnosis, signs, and how to manage both conditions.

NAD+ therapy is an IV treatment that is often used to combat the degenerative effects of aging, however, it is quickly gaining popularity as a treatment for drug and alcohol addiction. This trendy treatment is able to reduce withdrawal symptoms, alleviate drug cravings, boost energy levels, and improve mental clarity by healing your body at the cellular level.

The United States is a highly medicated country, and doctors are willing to prescribe medications to help with any ailment or pain. But these medications come with the risk of addiction and dependence. While these medications might be effective in the short term, they can be devastating to your health in a long time. Those patients prescribed narcotics should think twice before using them because there are many other options.

Anxiety is one of the most prevalent mental health disorders today, affecting millions of people of all ages and backgrounds. It is a condition that can be both debilitating and isolating, with many individuals turning to alcohol to help alleviate their anxiety symptoms. However, while alcohol may temporarily relieve anxiety, it can also be a double-edged sword, exacerbating the condition in the long run.

This blog post will explore the precarious relationship between alcohol and anxiety. We will examine how alcohol affects the brain and how this can impact anxiety levels. We will also discuss how alcohol affects the development of anxiety disorders, such as genetics, self-medication, and other factors. Furthermore, we will provide evidence-based information on coping without resorting to drinking to ease anxiety.

Knowing the differences between the misuse and abuse of drugs or having a dependence on or an addiction to psychoactive substances like alcohol or pain relievers can help you communicate to others, particularly medical and mental health professionals, about your relationship with substances. These affiliated terms of substance use may seem to represent the same thing, and you'll find that some providers use a few of them interchangeably. But, if you want to understand the breadth of your relationship with psychotropic substances, the descriptions of these terms below may be informatively revealing.

Many people start the year with a new mindset and a commitment to quitting drugs, alcohol, or other bad habits. Unfortunately, many of them relapse before the end of the first month.

The first month is crucial to the recovery process when you quit drugs. The odds of you staying sober for a month are the same as staying sober for a year. So, what can you do to increase your chances of success during your drug recovery?

Consider two individuals enrolling in a rehabilitation program to address their addiction. One treatment center conducts a thorough assessment and identifies a co-occurring mental health disorder for one person. In contrast, the other center overlooks or fails to adequately address the apparent signs of psychological and emotional issues underlying the other person's substance use disorder. Which individual is more likely to achieve sustained recovery in the long run?

Alcohol consumption is a socially and culturally ingrained phenomenon that has been a part of human history for centuries. This has led to the development of cultural alcoholism, which is a term used to describe excessive and problematic drinking within a culture or social group. Social norms and ideas around drinking have shaped the history of many societies, leading to the risk of developing alcohol use disorder (AUD), chronic relapsing brain disease, compulsive alcohol use, loss of control over drinking, and negative emotional states when not using alcohol. Cultural norms about drinking alcohol can affect how and why a person drinks and feels about it. This can have a considerable effect on alcohol-related problems.

Quitting drugs or alcohol can be a difficult life path, but with the proper preparation and the right knowledge, there is no reason why it cannot be done. There are many misconceptions about quitting drugs. Drug rehab can be overwhelming. It's important to know what happens when you stop drugs before committing to it. This article will take a close look at detoxification and break it down.

An essential thing to remember about recovery is that it is a process. There are two ways to recover from alcohol use and substance use disorders: passively and actively. Passive recovery involves abstinence from drugs or alcohol without treatment. In contrast, active recovery requires both abstinence and professional care. Between the passive and active ends of the recovery spectrum, exists variations in degree and many combinations of both extremes—depending on the individual in recovery. The choice between these two methods usually depends on the severity of the condition and the support system in place.

Substance use disorder (SUD) and alcohol use disorder (AUD) are a chronic disease characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use despite negative consequences. Because of the condition's complexity, each person diagnosed requires a unique and personalized treatment plan. Your therapeutic approach should consider your physical, social and psychological needs. Proper treatment is determined by the intensity of your addiction, as well as whether you have a mental problem or a chronic medical ailment. Understanding treatment principles will assist you in making the most of your program.

Mobile-based health (mHealth) technologies such as smartphone recovery apps can help people with substance use disorder manage their recovery in more ways than once thought possible. For example, a person can monitor their reaction to triggers, create new habits, track moods along their recovery journey and join virtual supportive communities. Mobile-based health (mHealth) technologies such as smartphone recovery apps can help people with substance use disorder manage their recovery in more ways than once thought possible. For example, a person can monitor their reaction to triggers, create new habits, track moods along their recovery journey and join virtual supportive communities.

The term "addiction" has historically had Latin roots, with translated meanings ranging from deity devotion to attachments to enslavement.

If you have substance use disorder or suffer from alcoholism but want to stop drinking or using drugs, you may have thought about stopping cold turkey. That’s when you abruptly stop using the substance you're addicted to. While it is commendable to want to quit drinking or using drugs, the problem with the cold turkey approach is that your body has grown accustomed to having the substance in your system, which means that your body may have started to develop a physical dependency.

To prevent relapse into addictive behavior, "burning bridges" is a skill that involves radical acceptance, determination, and action. To "burn one's bridges" is to cut off all links with anybody or anything that might trigger a relapse to the addicted drug or behavior. You effectively block that route out of your life by severing the tie that binds you to addictive behavior.

About two-thirds of the over 108,000 drug overdose fatalities in 2021 featured fentanyl or another synthetic opioid. In 2020, almost 43,000 overdose deaths were from fentanyl. This synthetic opioid is commonly used for managing pain in cancer patients and those who have undergone surgery or cannot tolerate other types of pain medication. Unfortunately, the dangers of fentanyl are numerous and well-documented at this point. The drug has been linked to countless deaths over recent years. Public health organizations have issued warnings about its use as an anesthetic, painkiller, and even a street drug. As an illicit substance, these organizations are seeing this as an issue of national security and appealing Washington to bring immediate attention before any more people die. But what exactly is fentanyl? How do you recognize it, and what are some things you need to know if you think someone around you might be using it? Keep reading to find out more!

If you or a loved one is suffering from substance use disorder (SUD) or addiction, it's understandable that you're looking for help on the internet. However, finding reliable and helpful information can be difficult due to significant misinformation, misunderstanding, and myths surrounding addiction and recovery due to rehab industry advertising, stigma, or the opinions of others who have not worked at recovering from addictive substances. This article will cover some common misconceptions about addiction and offer advice on coping.

Many people's decisions to experiment with drug or alcohol usage are heavily influenced by their feelings. Thoughts, emotions, and behaviors are all interconnected. As one changes, the other is impacted, and so on. A person's ideas and actions may become self-destructive when experiencing negative emotions like fear, anger, sadness, or isolation.

Supporting a loved one who is grappling with addiction can be a daunting task. The question posed is, "What do you say?" "What are the things that one must refrain from saying?" Even if you care about your loved ones and want the best for them, you could sometimes feel powerless in the face of their difficulties. Fortunately, there are a variety of ways you may assist them while they overcome their addiction and stay on the right track.

Although recovery from addiction is a deeply personal experience, it need not be solitary. Family support can prove to be an impenetrable network that is invaluable in aiding individuals to overcome addiction.

When a person has a substance use disorder, it can feel like they’re stuck in a horrible dream, and they are freefalling into an immense vortex of darkness with nothing to hold on to and nothing to protect them as the seemingly endless expanse draws them in. But addiction recovery is not like a never-ending fall from off a mountain cliff or plummet into the stratosphere after being pushed out of an airplane.

Each day of your sobriety is another day in which you are closer to your long-term recovery goals, with people all around bolstering you. It's an ascension, not a fall. You have a support network of providers, a supportive group of peers, and the often most complex but vital support systems, your family. Your loved ones are a pep squad of cheerleading relatives who can hold you accountable and celebrate your successes.

Millions of people worldwide are affected by addiction, a severe and complex disorder that can cause significant physical, emotional, and social problems. It's a challenging and daunting experience for individuals who face addiction, often struggling with shame and guilt. Addressing these emotions is crucial for successful recovery. Addiction is not a moral failure but a medical condition that requires compassionate and comprehensive care. Seeking help should never make individuals feel guilty or ashamed. In this blog post, we'll explore the impact of shame and guilt on addiction recovery and provide strategies for overcoming these emotions.

A clear mind is synthesized as the convergence point of a clean mind and an addiction mind. With a clear mind, you're sober, but you also recognize warnings and take precautions to avoid relapse.

To have a clean mind is to be sober and free from problematic addictive behavior for an extended time, yet to be utterly ignorant of the risks and desires associated with returning to it. Having a clean mind might make you feel like you can conquer your addiction and never give in to the urge to use substances or drink again. This is the fallacy of sobriety, in that there is the conviction that one is no longer affected by addiction.

Detox, also known as withdrawal therapy, is the initial step for many individuals battling substance use disorders to manage their physical dependence on alcohol or drugs. It helps them improve comfortably before beginning a rehabilitation program. Even though Northern California has a few alternatives for inpatient or residential treatment, you’ll find most California treatment facilities in the southern part of the state. San Diego, Orange County, and Los Angeles are all now popular rehab locations.

We all play the role of a judge at some point. Opinions are another word for judgments, which may be excellent or negative. "That was the worst pizza I've ever eaten." "That cake seems to be laden with calories." Today has been a wonderful day to be outside.

Judgments about your self-destructive conduct are common among those with drug misuse or addiction issues. Addictions and substance abuse can hurt people's daily lives and interactions with others, so it's normal and natural that people be concerned. You'll simply make yourself feel worse if you judge yourself for being unable to quit or continue using despite the repercussions and the opinions of others.

Alcohol addiction or alcohol use disorder (AUD) is the most common form of substance abuse, afflicting an estimated 14.4 million American adults. Heavy or long-term alcohol use can lead to life-threatening diseases, affecting productivity and relationships.

Learn the five critical elements of a relapse prevention plan and how to create an effective strategy for long-term recovery. Watch this video now and read the article for practical tips and insights.

Recovery from addiction requires more than just eliminating the addictive behavior or substance. A positive outlook, proactive approach, and strategic mindset are essential to navigate each day successfully.

Taking the first step towards recovery is a crucial part of a transformative journey toward a fulfilling life of sobriety. Although it may seem daunting, you possess the strength to grow and improve daily.

Rebuilding a life after addiction requires immense courage, determination, and a supportive community recognizing the challenges ahead. It is a journey that necessitates introspection, progress, and the cultivation of healthy coping mechanisms to overcome obstacles.

The start of Thanksgiving heralds the approach of the holiday season and the holiday or winter blues for many. While the beginning of the holiday season can be exciting for some, luminous lights, cheerful music, and an infectious sense of goodwill can cause dread, anxiety, and even depression in others. For these people, the holidays can be a real challenge for the holiday blues or, in more severe manifestations, seasonal affective disorder (SAD), which is seasonal depression that starts manifesting during the fall and winter months. SAD affects up to 20% of the U.S. population. As with other forms of depression, many people with SAD also have co-occurring disorders or dual diagnosis of drug addiction, making the holiday blues even more disturbing and increasing the chances of relapse during this time of year.

Pain is difficult to handle because it is both something we want to avoid and something that can be useful. The experience of pain lets us know that we are injured or sick, which is valuable. However, even the mildest pain forms are unpleasant, so people often buy over-the-counter pain medications. These can help with everyday or occasional pain, but there are times when they are not enough. For example, store-bought medications might not effectively handle the pain after surgery or when dealing with cancer.

A comprehensive recovery program will give patients access to various treatments and forms of psychotherapy. Group therapy and individual therapy are integral components of any high-quality treatment center. This article will explore the differences between individual and group treatment, the advantages, and how both are critical to long-term recovery. 

Entering an inpatient rehab facility for alcohol detox, prescription drug rehabilitation, or some other detox for substance use disorder is an excellent first step in taking you down the right path headed to your recovery. The road to abstinence isn't easy, but it isn't that hard with the proper support.

Sobriety is just one aspect of recovery. A new life awaits you if you stop using drugs or alcohol. Self-care is at the heart of a significant transition.
We all require a tune-up when we become clean since drug abuse has ravaged our health. Drug and alcohol abuse is harmful to the body, mind, and soul. Those with substance use disorders who have been inactive in their recovery treatment for months or years must take the necessary steps to rehabilitate and preserve their health.

The journey toward sobriety is challenging, and for LGBTQ+ individuals, it can be even more difficult. The projected rate of substance abuse within the LGBTQ+ community is 30%, compared to 9% among the population. Facing discrimination, stigma, and rejection, these individuals may struggle to find the support and understanding they need. Addiction doesn't discriminate, but individuals in this subculture face unique challenges in addiction recovery, such as discrimination, stigma, and a lack of understanding and resources. Understanding these challenges and finding the proper support can make all the difference. In this article, we'll explore the unique obstacles faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in addiction recovery and provide helpful strategies for finding the support they need to overcome them.

The intricate web of the co-occurrence of eating disorders and substance misuse is a complicated dance of conditions that often pair together—creating unique challenges for individuals and health professionals alike. This tandem of troubles, known in the medical world as “comorbidity,” is a subject that is often shrouded in mystery and misconceptions. In this article, we aim to shed light on this complex connection, offering insights into how these disorders interrelate and their impact on the individuals caught in their grip.

Choosing the right addiction recovery program is crucial to healing, particularly when considering luxury drug treatment programs. Whether you choose a local or nationwide facility, aligning your needs with the most suitable approach is essential. If you're looking for a life-changing experience that can revolutionize your journey toward recovery, a luxury drug treatment center across the nation might be the best option for you. By selecting a nationwide luxury drug treatment center, you can reap several benefits that can significantly impact your recovery journey. There are pros and cons to traditional and upscale centers. So, take the time to assess your options carefully and make the proper selection for your future.

When it comes to addiction recovery, finding a suitable treatment program that provides comprehensive support is crucial. Outpatient treatment and transitional housing are highly recommended for individuals who have completed a 30-day inpatient care and are now prepared for the next phase of their recovery process. This article will explore the benefits of outpatient treatment with housing in Los Angeles County and highlight how it can create a supportive environment for individuals striving for long-term recovery.

Severe substance use disorder or addiction is a complex and widespread condition that has a devastating impact on millions of individuals and families across the globe. Addiction treatment centers offer a glimmer of hope by providing the necessary support and resources to overcome substance use disorders. However, with so many treatment options available, identifying a rehab center that excels can be challenging. The hallmark of such a center isn’t merely its luxury or expense but its personalized and comprehensive approach to addressing the multifaceted aspects of addiction.

This article aims to highlight the defining characteristics of top-tier addiction treatment centers. We will explain the key components that set these centers apart, focusing on their ability to foster long-term recovery and lasting sobriety. We aim to help individuals and their loved ones prioritize effective, reliable, and personally tailored addiction treatment.

The rising trend of incorporating animals into therapy and substance abuse treatment programs has sparked a valuable conversation about the policies of drug rehabs regarding animals. This article aims to delve into this intriguing subject, exploring the dichotomy between pet-friendly drug rehabs that embrace animal therapy and those that choose not to accommodate our furry friends.

The decision to exclude animals from drug rehabs can be influenced by various factors, including potential health risks, distractions that may impede the recovery process, and the risk of triggering cravings or relapse among individuals undergoing treatment. Additionally, the lack of scientific data and recognized animal models for preclinical studies may contribute to the reluctance of some drug rehabs that don’t take animals.

Addiction is a complex condition that significantly impacts an individual's life and can be challenging to overcome without professional help. The brain, a remarkable organ with neuroplasticity, can adapt and change throughout our lives. Still, substance use disorders can hijack its natural processes and alter the brain’s structure, making it difficult for individuals to resist cravings and impulses. Substance use disorder is a chronic and relapsing condition that requires ongoing care and support.

Researchers, doctors, pharmaceutical chemists, and others worldwide work hard to discover and manufacture a cure for every illness experienced within the global society. Even though addiction is a disease, unfortunately, it has no cure—with approximately 44,000 people dying of drug overdose each year in the United States.

Embarking on a path to addiction recovery is not for the faint of heart. It's a journey with ups and downs, requiring a whole heap of grit and a robust support system. One key component of this process is the establishment of structure and routine. It may sound a bit mundane, but trust us, it's like the scaffolding that holds up a skyscraper. Solidifying new habits for your sober lifestyle is essential to achieve lasting success—the bedrock of a stable foundation. This stability empowers individuals to develop self-discipline, enhance their mental health, and bolster their overall well-being.

Alcohol use disorder is a global public health crisis, with around 3 million deaths annually due to harmful alcohol use, accounting for 5.3% of all deaths worldwide. The journey to sobriety is complex and often requires professional help and guidance. Alcohol rehabilitation programs offer essential support, therapies, and tools to help individuals overcome their addiction and regain control over their lives.

The best alcohol rehabs provide a structured environment that fosters healing, growth, and transformation, from detoxification to therapy, aftercare, and relapse prevention. These rehabs are pivotal in helping individuals achieve their sobriety goals and lead healthier, happier lives. Recovery from alcohol addiction is a complex process involving factors such as social identity transition, commitment to sobriety, and the role of mutual aid groups.

Fentanyl overdoses remain a recurring topic in national and local news, with reports surfacing almost daily. According to the California Department of Justice, California witnessed nearly 4,000 fatalities in 2020 due to fentanyl overdoses.

Since 2013, the opioid crisis has been exacerbated by the emergence of illicitly manufactured synthetic opioids, including fentanyl and related compounds. These substances have been linked to a significant rise in overdose deaths. According to estimates, Fentanyl is believed to be 50-100 times more potent than heroin. When combined, the two substances may synergistically affect respiratory depression.

Are you struggling with addiction and looking for an effective way to recover? The key to successful recovery may lie in understanding the powerful connection between the mind and body. The mind-body connection in addiction recovery is an often overlooked yet essential component of regaining health and sobriety. It is important to understand the role of the mind in addiction and how the body can be impacted by addiction to create a comprehensive approach to recovery. With a greater understanding of the relationship between the mind and body, those in recovery can create an effective recovery plan that will help them achieve tremendous success and improve physical and mental well-being. This article will explore the connection between the mind and body in addiction recovery and provide strategies for utilizing this connection to facilitate a successful recovery.

The holidays are a time of celebration, nostalgia and family traditions. However, these same festivities can trigger feelings of loss or sadness for some people, and it can be a time of increased risk for substance use, even if you’ve been sobered for some time. Substance use disorders impact about 20 million people in the United States. And more than half of these individuals live with one or more mental illnesses, including depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. It can be hard to know how to cope with your recovery from substance abuse during all the festivities and stress that come with this time of year. The good news is that there are ways you can do this without feeling overwhelmed. These five tips to stay on track with your recovery plan can help you maintain your sobriety throughout this time of year.

The issue of substance abuse affects people from all walks of life. However, a new approach to treatment has emerged that recognizes the various factors that contribute to addiction. This holistic approach understands that drug addiction is not simply a biological problem but a complex issue involving social, cultural, spiritual, and developmental aspects. It acknowledges that a one-size-fits-all solution may not be effective for everyone and instead focuses on integrating the mind, body, and spirit connections to promote healing. Successful treatment programs pave the way for a brighter future by addressing the individual’s needs comprehensively and holistically. Recovery is about overcoming addiction and rediscovering a sense of wholeness.

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, people who have bipolar disorder are twice as likely to struggle with substance use disorder (SUD). Bipolar disorder and substance use disorder intersect at many levels for various people. Since having bipolar can lead to or worsen SUD symptoms, many people view the two as related.

When a person has a diagnosis of substance use disorder with bipolar, they have co-occurring disorders or dual diagnosis. Even though the term "dual diagnosis" is singular, people with co-occurring conditions must get integrated treatment for each illness for improved life quality.

Alcohol is a ubiquitous part of many cultures around the world. From champagne toasts at weddings to after-work happy hours, drinking is often seen as a social activity that brings people together. However, for some individuals, a drink is more than just a drink; it is a part of their cultural identity and can lead to alcoholism (severe alcohol use disorder).

According to the CDC, if you exclude traffic-related and intentional alcohol-related deaths, the total number of alcohol-related fatalities in the US in 2021 was more than 54,000. That's a staggering number, highlighting many people’s complicated relationship with alcohol. Cultural alcoholism and social drinking are two sides of the same coin. On the one hand, it can be a fun way to bond with friends and celebrate special occasions. On the other hand, it can quickly spiral into a dangerous addiction that wreaks havoc on both physical and mental health.

Recovery from addiction is an ongoing process that requires personal development and self-improvement. It involves recognizing one’s weaknesses, intentionally altering damaging behaviors, and releasing negative thoughts and limiting beliefs. A mindset focused on growth is essential for a satisfying life in recovery. Creating a purposeful life after recovery entails more than just avoiding addictive substances and behaviors. Below are seven “tenets of transformation” that provide practical methods for cultivating personal growth and attaining a healthier, happier existence. These principles, when embraced, empower individuals to reinvent themselves and become the best version of themselves, leading to a more fulfilling life in recovery.

Good mental wellness is essential for a successful recovery from addiction; an important part is setting boundaries and avoiding toxic relationships. It is impossible to ignore our relationships’ effect on our mental health and well-being. People have different needs and ideas of what is acceptable in relationships, and it is essential only to be healthy and positive. This is especially important in addiction recovery, as it is necessary to protect yourself from the potential of relapse. Additionally, certain people, often members of our own family and social circle, can be toxic influences and actively impede our recovery process. Therefore, understanding how to set boundaries and protect yourself from unhealthy relationships is essential for maintaining mental wellness and sustaining a successful recovery. This blog will discuss why setting boundaries and avoiding toxic relationships is necessary for good mental health and addiction recovery.