Before sobriety, we rarely gave much thought to taking the time to appreciate the simple pleasure of life. However, in recovery we begin to take notice of the small joys and beauty in our lives. Practicing gratitude and mindfulness of the present moment allows us to feel better and carry a sense of awe with…
DetailsOpioids are one of the most addictive substances a person can use. The current opioid epidemic is due, in part, to many people who begin using prescription opioid painkillers, but move onto harder drugs like heroin after they develop physical dependence. Their addictive nature comes from their ability to change brain chemistry very quickly, as…
DetailsGoing to a treatment facility is a frightening prospect. We have made a resolution to rid ourselves of our addiction, but we don’t know what to expect. The effectiveness of our treatment depends largely on our willingness to allow ourselves to be helped and engage in our treatment plan. Here are four things to try…
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Experiential therapy allows people to address psychological issues through immersion in fun and active situations. These situations can range from creative activities such as painting, dancing, and music to outdoor activities like horseback riding, river rafting, and yoga. The aim is to help patients learn how to express their emotions, manage stress and interact with…
DetailsEveryone is concerned with their appearance. In active addiction, we are often unable to see the damage we have caused to our looks. It can be quite a blow to finally see ourselves the way that others have seen us. The natural progression of sobriety usually repairs the harm we have done to our appearance.…
Details12-Step recovery programs focus on spirituality as a tool to achieving sobriety. Newcomers to 12-Step recovery programs often see the word “God” and assume that the program must be religious in nature. While spirituality and a belief in a higher power are necessary to the program, there is a strong distinction between “spiritual” and “religious”.…
DetailsMany men and women suffering from drug addiction choose to insufflate, or snort, substances because it provides a quick effect and is seen as less harmful that other routes of administration. As the opioid epidemic continues to grow, many people struggling with pain-killer addiction choose insufflation because it allows the drug to enter the bloodstream…
DetailsRecovery is often a complete upheaval of our life. Our addictions consumed us and determined nearly every aspect of our daily lives. It is only natural that when we give up what was once such an integral part of our life, our subconscious still remembers the familiar feeling of being intoxicated and we have dreams…
DetailsIt’s important to keep in mind that recovery is a healing process. There is not quick fix for addiction treatment. We must be honest, open-minded, and willing if we want to change our lives for the better and break free from our addiction. Recovery is possible, but it takes time for our mind, body, and…
DetailsEveryone needs to unwind from the stress of life every now and then. Making time to focus on relaxation and self-care can be crucial in recovery. After all, stress and anxiety were often major factors in our decision to begin using drugs and alcohol. When we take time for ourselves by engaging in relaxing activities,…
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