If you have a “cold one with the boys” once in a while, chances are you won’t experience signs of alcohol withdrawal if you suddenly stop drinking. However, if you’ve been a heavy drinker for a long time, that’s a different story. If this is you, you have to watch for signs of alcohol withdrawal. Signs of Alcohol Withdrawal So…what causes alcohol withdrawal in the first place? Alcohol is a depressant. You might be thinking,…
You may be wondering, “how long does alcohol withdrawal last?”. The best answer is: it depends. Everyone’s body and situation are different, which is why the duration of alcohol withdrawal also varies. For example, heavy drinkers who’ve been drinking for the better part of a decade will take longer to detox than those who’ve been doing so for a couple of months. Read on to find out what to expect (depending on your situation) and…
I was in a store the other day and I noticed that Halloween costumes were already put out on the shelf. In full disclosure, as a kid, Halloween was always one of my favorite holidays, behind Christmas of course, and so seeing the costumes brought back fond memories of walking through the cool October night, going door to door to get as much candy as my pillow case could handle. This year will be the…
If someone you love is struggling with drug or alcohol abuse, you’ve probably spent a good deal of time researching treatment options and looking for information on addiction recovery resources. Finding the right treatment and recovery programs for your loved one’s individual needs can be a difficult task; however, many addiction recovery resources are available to help you through the process. Understanding Addiction Recovery According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA),…
Dave Franco and Abby Jacobson star in new Netflix original, a father broadcasts telling his son his mother died of heroin overdose, and Obama talks the heroin epidemic with Macklemore for “Prescription for Change: Ending America’s Opioid Crisis” all in this week’s roundup of substance addiction news stories. 1. A new study has found that the risk for alcoholism is associated with impulsivity or what is referred to as “sensation seeking” in adolescents. 2. Yet…
Halloween marks the first of many Fall-Winter holidays that are socially centered around drinking. While a lot of Americans will say otherwise, we think that the holiday can be so much more than an excuse to dress up and get wasted. There are so many ways that you can still have fun without drinking being the main draw. Here are just a few ideas to inspire you this Halloween season. How to lose the booze this…
Most people use the terms substance abuse and drug addiction interchangeably. Although both can adversely affect your life, they are not synonymous. Drug abuse, also called substance abuse or chemical abuse, is a disorder that is characterized by a destructive pattern of using any substance, including alcohol, that leads to significant problems or distress. Those who abuse drugs and alcohol still have control over their lives. Drug addiction, also called substance dependence or chemical dependency,…
The “Snapple Lady” reveals battle with cocaine addiction, Mental Illness Awareness Week, and reasons why being sober is totally the new black all in this week’s addiction recovery weekly roundup. 1. Wendy Kaufman, better known as “The Snapple Lady” opened up this week on “Oprah: Where Are They Now?” about her struggle with cocaine addiction. She said her position with the company became so much more than a job – it became her lifeline to staying…
In order to continue my sobriety I have had to find ways to motivate myself, even when I don’t feel like doing any of the things that I have to. – Rose Lockinger Rose Lockinger Guest Blogger for Recoveryas.com Staying motivated has really become the name of the game for me now that I have been sober for a little while. Or as a friend put it staying sober long-term is really a battle against…
Substance abuse can ruin your life. You get it. But, are you aware of what it does to your body? Drugs are chemicals, and depending on their structure, can affect your body in different ways. Some drugs can permanently change your body–long after you’ve stopped taking them. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) points out that drug addiction is a brain disease. Drugs affect your gene expression and brain circuitry. This change affects your ability…
An alcohol insta-experience gone right, Michele Obama talks about mental health, and a #RecoveryMonth shoutout from Forbes Magazine all in this week’s addiction recovery weekly roundup. 1. We talked last week about Seattle implementing supervised injection clinics and now NYC might be next in line to try out a similar experiment. New York City city council has allocated $100,000 to a 9-month long study to decide whether it will make sense to launch the program…
From inpatient drug rehab programs to intensive outpatient treatment programs, individuals can choose substance dependency therapies that can complement their lives and needs. Ideally, it’s best to meet with an addiction specialist at a rehab facility in order to discuss the nature of your addiction. This specialist can recommend a customized treatment plan that suits your specific needs and overall health. Both inpatient drug rehab and outpatient drug rehab treatment plans can generate positive results;…
In light of the upcoming presidential debate between Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump, we thought it would be a good idea to revisit where each of the candidates stand on the issue of the heroin epidemic. As you may or may not have heard by now, the heroin drug use in the U.S. has grown dramatically in the last few years. According to the UN’s “World Drug Report 2016,” heroin users have grown to about…
As we engage in a process of drug addiction recovery, it’s important to consider what our role is within the family dynamic. An individual’s role within a family dynamic allows for a better understanding of how each individual within the family system develops their understanding of life and their ability to make choices. At the Guiding Hearts with Hope’s 2014 Annual Community Recovery and Wellness Conference, Virginia Satir, Claudia Black and Sharon Wegcheider explained how…
Seattle’s plans for heroin injection sites, the latest celebrity recovery news, and addiction training for first responders all in this week’s addiction recovery weekly roundup. 1. When you think about heroin, safety is not usually something that you associate with it. Officials in Seattle want to make it safer by implementing supervised heroin injection clinics around the cities and suburbs alike. Only two other such clinics exist (both are in Canada) and they’ve seen some pretty compelling…
Entering drug addiction rehab can be a terrifying experience for many. You might be wondering what you can expect during the process of starting addiction treatment so here, we’ve included a step-by-step guide to how it generally works. Drug addiction rehab centers have a wide array of treatment options at their disposal. A comprehensive selection of viable treatments allows addiction specialists to recommend customized treatment plans that are ideal for each person seeking recovery. Everyone…
There have been times in my sobriety when I have found it difficult to muster up the willingness necessary to do what was expected of me. This may mean that I start to slack on my meetings, I don’t call my sponsor or support group as much, or I start to place other things in my life above my sobriety. Regardless of where my motivation is lacking the result is usually me being discontent until…
If you think you (or someone you care about) need help with either drug or alcohol addiction, it’s important to know what your addiction treatment options are. Start with this short yet helpful guide on what you need to know before you choose an addiction treatment program. Anyone can become addicted to alcohol or drugs. Fortunately, scientific advances have helped us better understand the impact of these substances on the brain’s chemistry, and research has…
The lack of addiction education in our country at the moment is startling and with everyone quick to give their opinion on the controversial subject that addiction has been in the past year, it’s more important than ever before that we educate the general public on what addiction really is and what we can do to help. It’s something that Officer Thomas McWain of the West Deptford Township Police Department has decided to take into…
If you are new to sobriety, weekends can be tough. Back in your using days you’d probably meet up with a friend or two and go on a bender to really let loose after a hard week. Now you want to put these days and your addiction behind you so you can really focus on and embrace your new sober life. But you still want to have fun, right? Absolutely! The key to having fun…
Drinking alcohol or experimenting with drugs has become synonymous with the higher education experience. In fact, 60 percent of college students between the ages 18 and 22 stated that they drank in the past 30 days, according to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. It’s been almost like a right of passage for decades now and it’s something that Jake White of Party.0 plans to change. We had the chance to catch up…
Alcohol addiction, or alcohol dependence, is a disorder in which an individual is addicted to alcohol either physically or mentally, and continues to use alcohol despite their own dysfunction and the negative consequences of their drinking. It’s not always obvious to those who are drinking that they have crossed a line from being moderate social drinkers to becoming problem drinkers. Substance abuse experts at the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, NCADD, make a…
If you look up the death count for the 9/11 tragedy, you’ll find that close to 3,000 people were killed. If you look a little closer, you’ll realize that it’s not that simple. The impact of the events that occurred that day had a ripple effect that still affects many people to this day. Following any traumatic event, some survivors are plagued with mental health problems that sometimes end in death. When it comes to…
I spend 40 hours a week reading, writing, and producing content for addiction treatment facilities. I’ve been doing it for almost a year and I love it but to say it was an unexpected turn in my career would be a huge understatement. I started my writing career in the fashion and lifestyle realm of the internet, first writing about fashion designers and shows eventually leading me to lifestyle topics like eco-fashion, consumerism, sustainability, as…
Kelly Fitzgerald’s story starts out like many others who struggle with alcohol or drug addiction. She grew up in a small town, graduated with not one, but two undergraduate degrees, and had four successful seasons of soccer – all while honing her drinking skills. Her story is proof that anyone can be addicted at some point. Now, just over three years sober, she shares her stories and thoughts on sobriety on her blog, The Sober…
Drinking alcoholic beverages is a socially acceptable practice, so it’s no wonder that many people may not be aware when they themselves or a loved one crosses the line that divides moderate drinking from alcoholism. Yet there are signs of alcoholism that are unmistakable. Alcoholics generally exhibit telltale characteristics that should not be ignored as alcohol abuse can lead to a powerful addiction. Understanding Alcohol Addiction Many people may not completely understand the disease of…
After a string of high-profile overdoses in Ohio and West Virginia, New Jersey has felt the cold hands of the heroin epidemic again, thanks to what people are calling Batman heroin. Dozens of overdoses were reported over the past week, adding to an already inflated triple-digit number for the past couple of weeks. Heroin has caused hundreds of overdoses within the last month, some of them fatal. Fortunately, responders generally have access to the antidote…
Deaths from heroin have more than doubled within the past five years. All across the United States, towns are being hit increasingly hard with unprecedented levels of overdoses. The heroin epidemic is unlike anything people have seen. Cincinnati was hit especially hard over the past week, with the county seeing a massive 174 overdoses in 6 days. Thanks to quick responses, good supplies, and good training for emergency personnel, there were only three deaths. As…
This story was submitted anonymously for our Recovery Stories series in honor of National Recovery Month 2016. The first time I was ever drunk I was with my mother. I was 15. We were sitting on the patio of a good family friend’s place with a 2-liter wine cooler. My brother, who was just a year older than me, was also there drink in hand. My mom thought it was funny, two kids getting their…
Recoveryas.com will join dozens of organizations in the U.S. and abroad participating in the 2016 International Overdose Awareness Day on Wednesday, August 31. The day honors and remembers those who have lost their lives to an overdose. About International Overdose Awareness Day Wearing silver on International Overdose Day can signify the passing of someone held dear and sends out a message that the tragedy of overdose death is preventable. It also acknowledges the grief felt…
Alcohol addiction can lead to major health problems. Some of them, such as cirrhosis, can be deadly. In fact, an alcohol-related death is the third-most preventable type of death in America. While that’s dire news, there is also a positive message there—many alcohol-related deaths can be prevented. By overcoming your addiction to alcohol, you can safeguard your health and ward off conditions that could become life threatening if you continue to abuse it. The key…
Drug overdoses are the leading cause of injury deaths in the U.S. at nearly 44,000 per year, or five deaths per hour. These deaths have more than doubled in the past 14 years, and half of them are related to prescription drugs (22,000 per year). The drug problem in the US has reached epidemic proportions. It discriminates against no one and touches the lives of so many people in each and every state. States like…
Addiction is a tough thing to write about and even more tough to make light of. Few people have been brave enough to try to venture into the uncharted territory of finding the funny within drunken escapades and even fewer people have succeeded without disrespecting sobriety or recovery. When Tig Notaro did her bit about breast cancer, the way she brought humor to grief-filled experiences was revolutionary, and now the addiction recovery world has a…
Do you know what a drug overdose might look like? How about what actions you should take in the event that someone you know and love is experiencing an overdose? Overdose is always a risk with people who suffer from substance use disorders and the tips below should help you to know the steps to take in case it happens to a loved one. How Does Someone Overdose? An overdose happens when a person takes…
Naloxone is an overdose reversal drug that can help prevent deaths from opioid overdoses. Recently, we lost the lives of celebrities such as Phillip Seymour Hoffman, Joan Rivers, and the rock legend Prince. There were also 28,000 people that lost their lives to heroin or prescription opioid overdoses in 2014. When it comes to opioid addiction, anyone can get affected. Who Needs Naloxone? Naloxone prevents overdoses of opioids from drugs like heroin, morphine,…
One of the most difficult things that a person can learn to do in life, and addiction recovery, is to set boundaries. Whether this is at work, with friends, or with families, the act of setting healthy boundaries can sometimes feel like the end of the world, or at least I know that is how it felt for me. Setting Boundaries in Addiction Recovery For many years I allowed others to dictate the boundaries of…
As our first installment of our Recovery Stories series, we talk with Tawny from Sobrietea Party about her decision to choose sobriety, how it changed her life and relationships, and how it ultimately lead her down a path of self-discovery she would never have imagined. How long have you been in recovery/sober? I’ve been sober since November 30th, 2015. About a month later, I started digging into the recovery side of sobriety. When you…
From long-term residential care to spiritually based programs, there are more than 14,500 specialized rehab treatment centers in America that provide treatment of all kinds. While some may or may not be proven to work better than others, there are a few things that should be present in the structure of any rehab treatment center. What kinds of accreditation does the rehab treatment center hold? If a rehab center is accredited, you know they mean business. There…
Witnessing one of your dearest friends in need of drug addiction help isn’t easy. Real friends are there for you no matter how good or bad your life is. In fact, it’s when things turn bad that you’re able to see who your true friends are and who is there to support you no matter what. But you have been there, you’re still there, providing all the drug addiction help you can. 5 Ways to…
There’s no doubt that we are seeing a boom in what concerns to adult coloring books. Filled with mandalas, enchanted forests, secret gardens, or any intricate pattern you can think of. Many people believe coloring has a positive effect on them. They don’t only feel more relaxed as it also helps them practicing mindfulness, which improves not only the mental and physical health as well as it involves concentration and focus. How Coloring Books Can…
Beginning treatment at substance addiction programs can be a very scary experience. It’s a journey filled with uncertainty and people simply don’t know what to expect. So, they experience different types of fears that can lead them to postpone their entrance in drug treatment centers. However, you don’t need to be afraid. And we’ll explain to you why. Here are the 4 most common fears of substance addiction programs: #1: Fear of Being Alone in Substance…
When you are receiving alcoholism treatment, you will have your down moments. Even though you are doing the best thing for your recovery, sometimes, you may need some cheering up, something to remind you about the importance of your journey. Finding online addiction support can be very comforting on these occasions, when you’re fighting with all your strength to defeat alcoholism. Here are 10 alcoholism blogs to read when drug treatment gets tough: #1: Addiction Blog…
Knowing if you need drug treatment is an important question to ask yourself but first, do you know what addiction is? Addiction is the continued, compulsive need to regularly have or do something that is harmful. Despite the harmful consequences, the compulsive behavior continues, and that is known as the state of being addicted. Those who are addicted might not be aware that their behavior is out of control, might not be aware of destructiveness to…
The best way of dealing with any kind of situation or problem in life is to get as much information as possible regarding it. If you find yourself face to face with drug addiction, it is best to get your facts straight and steer clear of any myths that can become a hurdle on the journey towards recovery. Why Knowing Drug Addiction Facts Vs. Myths Matters Having knowledge about drug addiction facts and myths can…
Recovering from alcohol abuse is an ongoing process. After your alcohol rehab ends, you should join an aftercare program. These programs will help people who suffered from substance abuse and addiction to learning new patterns of living, by creating daily routines, for example. These programs can also include family members and teenagers, and they usually include 12-step meetings. The aftercare programs tend to focus on providing vocational training and activities, anger management classes, and outings….
In order to an alcohol addiction therapy to be effective, it needs to focus on different aspects of the addicted life, and not solely abstinence. A good alcohol addiction programs need to look at the patient’s life as a whole. When the patient is in good health, is motivated and has the strong social support he or she is more likely to reach long-term recovery. However, when someone who struggles with addiction doesn’t have a…
The road to recovery from drug and alcohol abuse and then onto alcohol rehab is one which is long and tiring; with speed bumps and obstacles that need to be overcome – but it is not an impossible one to travel on. Breaking the entire rehab process into small steps makes the whole process less daunting, more manageable and more practical. Step by Step: Getting Help for Drug and Alcohol Abuse The various steps involved…
Contrary to what our minds tell us, feelings are not facts. This a difficult thing to come to terms with because many times when we are stuck in our emotions we cannot see past them and they shade our perception of reality. If we are having positive emotions then this can be a good thing, but when our emotions are negative the implications on our daily lives can be undesirable. This is especially true someone…
Most addiction rehabilitation programs can be placed into one of two categories: outpatient drug rehab or inpatient drug rehab. If you’re ready to begin therapy for substance abuse, you’ll find you have to make a few essential decisions about your treatment. Both types of treatment have their merits, and it’s important to understand the difference between them before you start researching addiction treatment centers. Outpatient vs. Inpatient Drug Rehab The key difference between outpatient drug…
Addiction treatment is usually divided into two different categories, residential drug rehab, and outpatient drug rehab. As the National Institute on Drug Abuse, or NIDA, explains through its extensive research; residential drug treatment offers some distinct advantages over other approaches. Once you are ready to make the commitment to drug detoxification, it is important to study the research and understand which approach is correct for you as an individual. Drug Addiction Explained Drug addiction is…
Overcoming substance abuse is a long and gradual process, from the early days of intervention and detox through to the later stages of rehab and aftercare. The entire treatment process can be divided into a number of separate stages depending on the individual and substance in question, with each stage integral to the overall process. Medical detox is often administered at the outset of drug treatment, followed by inpatient or outpatient rehab and aftercare support…
Many addiction treatment centers have begun offering yoga as a complement to their traditional therapy for substance abuse. This ancient practice has shown to provide numerous benefits for individuals in drug therapy or alcohol therapy for substance abuse. Here are just a few ways yoga can help with recovery from drug and alcohol abuse: 1. Yoga promotes physical fitness Daily exercise is an essential component of any recovery program. Physical activity improves your mood, helps…
When some people think of drug rehabilitation centers, they may remember movies or TV shows centered on them and pull up some negative imagery about life behind the walls of these facilities. But in real life, drug treatment centers are nothing like the movies and they can really benefit those seeking treatment in a private setting where they can get help from top-notch professionals to overcome their addictions. The Process of Beginning Treatment in Drug…
Making the choice to seek drug programs and to starting the journey from drug addiction to recovery is a big step. If you’ve made this choice, we congratulate you! This is huge. You may not realize it at first, but your life is about to change in many ways. 5 Ways Drug Programs Can Change Your Life Here are just a few of the ways your life will improve when you break free from the…
Fathers are often viewed as the “rock” of their families, so it can be heartbreaking to watch yours struggle with drug abuse and addiction. However, you don’t need to stand by and feel helpless. There are effective ways to treat addiction, and your love and support can help guide your father toward the addiction treatment services he needs. Here are a few ways to help a parent get drug addiction treatment and turn their life…
An effective addiction alcoholism treatment program should be comprehensive in nature, with different components aimed at treating the diverse facets of the disease. Understanding some of the key elements of addiction treatment can help you choose a rehab center and treatment plan that’s right for you. 6 Effective Elements of Alcoholism Treatment Addiction treatment centers are staffed with trained experts to handle the various types of drug addiction treatment. Every case of addiction is slightly…
If you’re living with a spouse who suffers from drug addiction, it’s normal to feel powerless in this situation. However, there are several things you can do to help your husband get the treatment he needs. The right substance abuse treatment can help your husband overcome his struggle with drug and alcohol abuse and turn his life around. Here are a few ideas to consider: How Drug Addiction Has Affected Your Relationship Dynamic Before you…
If you’re struggling with drug or alcohol addiction, you are not alone. A recent National Survey on Drug Use reveals that over 21 million adults in the United States abuse a substance. Unfortunately, only about 10 percent of those people receive appropriate substance abuse treatment each year. Alcohol and drug addiction is a condition that needs to be taken seriously. Only by taking action and getting help can you reduce the risk of the personal,…
If you’re starting a substance abuse treatment program, you probably have lots of questions. Some of your questions may be about what to pack. The admissions staff at the treatment center you go with will be able to provide some helpful suggestions about what to bring with you; however, it’s also important to know what to leave at home. What You Should Never Bring to a Treatment Center Rehab centers maintain strict rules about what…
Co-occurring disorders involve the co-existence of a mental health disorder and a drug abuse disorder. Also known as dual diagnosis, co-occurring disorders require professional evaluation and treatment. Common co-occurring disorders include depression disorder and alcoholism, panic disorder and sedative abuse, and methamphetamine-induced psychosis. Treatment for Drug Abuse and Co-Occurring Disorders Treatment for dual diagnosis conditions depends greatly on the substance of abuse and mental illness in question, with pharmacotherapeutic and psychotherapeutic treatments both used in…
If you’re going through addiction treatment, you probably entered rehab with the best of intentions. You were ready to work hard and overcome your problems with drug and alcohol abuse. However, many people unconsciously make mistakes that can render their treatment less effective and sabotage their recovery. 5 Things That Sabotage Your Addiction Treatment Here are a few common errors that can derail your recovery efforts: Thinking You Can Do Addiction Treatment Recovery Alone Recovery…
Opiate addiction is a huge issue in modern society, with professional treatment often needed to break the bonds of dependence. Commonly abused opiates include the illegal drug heroin and the prescription medications codeine, morphine, oxycodone, hydrocodone, and fentanyl among others. Opiate drugs are central nervous system (CNS) depressants, with these highly addictive substances capable of causing both physical-somatic and emotional-motivational withdrawal symptoms upon cessation of use. Opiate addiction is a significant problem with young people,…
Each drug addiction treatment center that we work with includes a range of options to help people in need, including crisis intervention, medical detox, inpatient rehab, outpatient rehab, and aftercare support. Depending on the individual and substance in question, the treatment process needs to last for a period of weeks, months, or even years to ensure successful drug discontinuation and recovery. What a Great Drug Addiction Treatment Center Consists Of Overcoming a drug or alcohol addiction is…
Substance abuse and addiction exact a high toll on modern society. From binge drinking and prescription medication abuse through to street drug addiction, all substance use disorders benefit from professional addiction programs. While addiction programs seem overwhelming at first glance, they provide people with the practical and psychological support needed to break the bonds of drug addiction. 5 Things About Addiction Programs That Might Surprise You Mythology often surrounds the treatment process so let’s take…
People with drug and alcohol problems are often living with secondary conditions or what is called a co-occurring disorder. A co-occurring disorder can include additional substance use disorders, behavioral addictions, and mental health problems. The co-existence of a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder is known as a dual diagnosis or a co-occurring disorder, with this single term used to describe a wide range of complex interactions. Dealing With an Addict Struggling With…
People can get addicted to many psychoactive substances, including alcohol, prescription medications, and illicit street drugs. Opiates are one class of highly addictive central nervous system (CNS) depressants, including the illegal drug heroin and the prescription drugs Oxycontin and Vicodin among others. While overcoming an opiate addiction is never simple, things are much easier for people who have access to professional treatment and support systems. 5 Quotes to Make Opiate Rehab Just a Little Easier…
Alcohol consumption has been on the rise in the United States, and with that increased consumption comes higher rates of alcohol abuse and alcohol addiction. Although alcoholism affects Americans of every demographic and geographic location, some states are hit harder than others. 5 States That Are Most Affected by Alcohol Addiction The following states have the highest rates of alcohol dependence or abuse in the country: Alcohol Addiction in Montana The state of Montana tops…
Overcoming a drug or alcohol addiction can be a long and difficult process and addiction support throughout the process is vital. If someone you know is struggling with a substance use disorder, it’s important to find professional help as soon as possible. The drug treatment process can be split into three separate yet integrated components: detoxification, rehabilitation, and aftercare support. Why Addiction Support is Important During Addiction Rehab Detox enables the cessation of drug use…
Overcoming alcoholism and starting alcohol rehab is a process that takes ongoing commitment and professional support. From the early days of crisis intervention and detox through to the later stages of aftercare, each element of treatment has an important role to play. The entire treatment process is often referred to as rehabilitation, with this term also used to describe specific medical and psychotherapeutic interventions. Access to individual recovery programs depends on many things, including the…
Making the decision to enter substance abuse therapy is one of the toughest steps on the path to recovery. However, there’s no need to be intimidated by the idea of drug addiction rehabilitation–it’s the key to successfully recovering from drug abuse and establishing the life you want. Here are just a few of the ways that rehab for substance abuse can help you live a better life. 6 Ways Substance Abuse Therapy Can Help You…
If you’re beginning rehab for substance abuse, you’ve already taken a major step on the road to recovery. It’s important to learn as much as possible about the rehab process before starting treatment. 10 Things to Know About Rehab for Substance Abuse Here are a few key facts about drug and alcohol rehab that every recovering individual should know: Your Loved Ones Are Telling the Truth If your friends and family have held an intervention…
If you’re looking for the best therapy for substance abuse, it’s important to get the entire family involved in treatment. There’s a good reason addiction is known as a “family disease”–it affects everyone who is close to the person with the substance abuse problem. Not all drug programs are the same, so be sure you choose a substance abuse treatment center that offers family therapy. Here are just a few of the many reasons to…
Do you want to reduce alcohol cravings? To recover from alcoholism, you need time, your full commitment, and a lot of external support. This is because successful recovery depends on many systems working together. This includes detox, medication therapy, behavioral therapy, and aftercare support systems. Detox helps people stop drinking by cleansing the body of waste. Rehab helps addresses the emotional and environmental aspects of alcoholism. Aftercare promotes long-term recovery and helps you transition into…
After having a year of extreme emotional highs and lows, Demi Lovato is celebrating her fourth year of sobriety. The “Stone Cold” singer has been open about her struggles with substance abuse, self-harm, and her eating disorder. “I couldn’t go 30 minutes to an hour without cocaine and I would bring it on airplanes,” she shared with Access Hollywood. “I would smuggle it basically and just wait until everyone in first class would go to…
The path to addiction recovery isn’t always easy and some days, you’ll feel like you’re in survival mode. While it’s normal to crave sugary treats or fast food when you’re having a tough day, recovery is a time when your food choices matter more than ever. Drug and alcohol abuse can wreak havoc on your body: Alcohol abuse can make it difficult for your body to properly break down nutrients, and opiate drugs can cause…
It can be hard to tell if you or someone you love has a drinking problem and needs alcohol addiction treatment. Denial is common, and the line between acceptable and excessive drinking isn’t always clear. A problem drinker may not have a true alcohol addiction at the moment, but their risk of dependence grows with every passing day. If you or a loved one display some of the following signs, it’s probably time to research…
Addictions wreak havoc in the lives of millions of Americans and their families. Yet most addictive substances are more dangerous for the masses than others simply due to the powerful dependencies they create. While treatment can help those who struggle with an addiction to alcohol or drugs manage the disease of addiction, relapse is always a threat, especially for the following substances that are among the most addictive substances on the planet. Heroin Derived from…
If you are a child of an alcoholic parent, you deal with emotional scars that can last a lifetime, and it can be hard to separate the past from the present. Growing up with alcoholism or other forms of addiction in your family isn’t easy. Understanding the impact that an alcoholic parent had on your life can help you and other adult children of alcoholics take the first steps toward healing. The Alcoholic Parent: A Lifelong…
Sometimes when you are recovering from drug abuse, all you need to hear is just one person say “You got this.” The trouble is, as you enter this new stage in your life you might look around to see that you don’t have as many friends or intimate relationships as you did before you chose this road to recovery. It’s on these days when it feels like no one is on your side that you’ve…
Making the decision to start on your path to drug addiction recovery is a huge step. Once you enter a treatment program and begin therapy for substance abuse, you can be sure that your life is about to change in many positive ways. Here are just a few of the changes you can expect when you’re in recovery: 5 Ways Drug Addiction Recovery Changes Your Life 1. Drugs won’t be your main focus anymore Once you…
Choosing the best drug abuse treatment center plays on many factors and the decision should never be taken lightly. One of the most common things we get asked is whether or not an addict should look for a residential treatment facility located in their home state or if they would benefit more from packing up and travelling to one in another city or state. While many people think it would be easier to stay where…
America is currently facing a major drug epidemic and the need for rehab for substance abuse couldn’t be more dire. It’s the fastest growing threat to our nation and the bulk source of the drug problem can be specifically attributed to the rise of prescription painkillers and heroin. Here, we’ve put together a list of states that are having the most problems with heroin. In no particular order: 9 States That Need to Go to…
The mere mention of insurance is enough for anyone to run for the hills, but when you are searching for rehab for substance abuse it’s one of those things that you’ve just got deal with. Whether you are seasoned with the lingo or you’re more of amateur when it comes to insurance terms, the helpful recoveryas.com addiction specialists can help you sort through the information about your insurance policy’s drug rehab coverage. Help Finding Rehab…
The United States has the world’s largest prison population in both total population, and relative to the nation’s population. In fact, the U.S. prison population dwarfs the rest of the world’s. The U.S. currently has about 2.2 million individuals in prison. Compare that to 2nd place, China, a country that has a 3 times as many citizens, and only has 1.5 million incarcerated individuals. Almost 50% of the yearly sentenced prisoners in the U.S. are there…
We all have bad days, especially if you are in drug addiction rehab or even if you’ve been recovering from drug abuse or alcohol for many years. It’s vital to your recovery to have some cool sober friends in your corner but we know all too well that sometimes good friends are hard to come by in early recovery. Don’t worry though, we got you. We are here to let you know that everything is going to…
You’ve admitted you have a problem and you are ready to start looking for drug rehab centers so you can begin your path to recovery. This. Is. Huge. Seriously, this space that you are in right now may not feel too great but you’re headed in the right direction and we are so glad that you have taken the first step toward an addiction free life. We know what you’re thinking. What’s next? You’ve made…
Deciding to seek out alcohol addiction treatment is a huge step. Sadly, some put it off far too long and thousands of people suffer loss daily as a byproduct of alcohol abuse and addiction. As someone who is having trouble with alcohol, you may ask yourself when, if ever, is a good time to begin searching for alcohol rehab facilities? We’re here to let you know that anytime is a good time to start your…
Think you know all there is to know about substance addiction? Around here, we are firm believers that education is one of the major keys to understanding and healing addiction. So, we’ve put together a list of 5 truths about substance addiction and treatment that may shock you and possibly change your life. You’re welcome. Substance Addiction is Not a Choice Up until recent years, addiction has always been portrayed in society as a moral…
Having a drug abuse & addiction can be a lot like having a terrible, horrible, no good, very bad boyfriend or girlfriend. You scream and fight, then you hate it, then it calls to you, then you hate it again but you take it back anyway. Then you’re back to loving it and the cycle just continues. Am I starting to sound like a Taylor Swift song yet? How Does Drug Abuse & Addiction Happen?…
If someone you love is suffering from a substance addiction, you may wonder if they’ll ever be completely cured of the disease. Whether they are actively in treatment or not, addiction to drugs or alcohol is a chronic condition, and commitment to their recovery will be the most important thing if they wish to get better. The more you know about what addiction is, how it works, and how you can help, the better you…
We hear about substance addiction and the terrible things that people will do when they use but besides seeing breaking news in flashing red letters on the most recent under-the-influence act, what do we really know about them? For instance, what do they do to your mind and your body? What about your emotional and mental well being? We are big advocates of education when it comes to drugs and alcohol abuse and we thought you…
As we enter 2016, we must prepare ourselves for an election year and whether you plan on voting or not, it is important to know where each candidate stands on each issue, especially on alcohol and drug treatment. Due to the contents of this website, I’ll be sticking to each candidate’s stance on drugs and alcohol use. I would like to preface this blog by saying that this is going to be as unbiased as…
When you love someone who has an alcohol or drug dependency, everyday can feel like you live in the movie Groundhog Day. For those of you who haven’t seen this amazing movie starting Bill Murray circa 1993, it’s essentially about a guy who wakes up everyday and does exactly the same thing. Seemingly, he is the only one that notices that everyone is just doing the same thing day in and day out. The movie…
Many people who enter alcohol and drug treatment have endured trauma in their past. Some experiences of emotional and/or physical pain involve an isolated event, while others occur over a period of time. Whether the trauma occurred recently or many years ago, it can have a life-changing impact on the victim. The effects of distress need to be kept in mind when designing an effective addiction treatment plan for a trauma victim. Understanding Trauma in…
The path of addiction is a tough and all too-often traveled one and the effects of drugs and alcohol abuse on the family can cause long-term issues, generation after generation. Addiction in the family makes for an incredibly volatile environment that doesn’t allow for any kind of healthy relationship to grow and prosper. Here are some characteristics that are almost always present in relationships of the addicted. How Does Drugs and Alcohol Abuse Affect Friends…
There is no denying that addiction is all around us. It seems that every other day there is a drug bust, an overdose story, a family torn apart or lost to the disease of addiction. Maybe it’s closer to home for some. Maybe it’s in your home. With addiction affecting one in three families, it can be easy to feel helpless. What can we really do about the addiction crisis that is sweeping the U.S.?…
For an addict, or someone who loves an addict, it can be difficult to find viable rehabilitation centers for your needs. There can be endless hours of research, being on hold, and worst of all, trying to figure out if your insurance policy will cover the treatment that you need. That’s why we at recoveryas.com do what we do. We want to help you find the best available drugs or alcohol abuse treatment program so…
After years of living estranged from one another, twin brothers, Bobby Bailey and Chris Bailey, set out on a rocky adventure that began with Chris’ detox for alcohol and methamphetamines. For the better half of their twenties, Chris had fallen into an unhealthy path of addiction, joining the 23.5 million Americans who are addicted to either drugs or alcohol. Because of this, their strong bond suffered. For years they lived estranged from one another, only…
As someone who is in alcohol or drug addiction recovery, you may have heard some people say that addiction is reserved for only the most selfish of people. However, while one may choose to take their drug of choice, no one chooses addiction – it chooses you. This is why self improvement in drug addiction recovery is so important. Working toward a better you is key in alcohol and drug treatment because not only does…
As 2015 comes to a close and we look forward to a fresh new year, we’ve been thinking of inspirational recovery quotes that will carry us all the way through January. Whether you’ve decided to start the new year off with some resolutions or if you are just taking it one day at a time, we have put together a few of our favorites to encourage and motivate you in your recovery. Let Yourself Move…