Alcoholic drinks have long been associated with a weakened immune system. Studies show that heavy drinkers are more likely to catch colds and other infections. Is it really the alcohol that weakens your immune system, or is there another explanation? How Does Alcohol Impact Your Immune System? Experiencing the adverse effects of alcohol consumption onRead More
When taken as directed, benzodiazepines are safe and effective drugs. However, they can be addictive and dangerous when misused. Because benzodiazepines are central nervous system depressants, they have the potential to be abused. According to the journal Drug and Alcohol Dependence, abuse of benzodiazepines is becoming a common cause for concern. Some individuals abuse theseRead More
You’ve decided you have a problem with substance abuse, a mental health disorder, or a behavioral addiction. Hopefully, you came to this conclusion with the mindset that you want the best possible outcome. Recovery from any of life’s addictions or mental health challenges is a difficult path to find yourself on. The prospect of achievingRead More
People who aren’t familiar with mental illnesses may think of them as pure emotions. In their perception, depression is sadness, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is anger, and anxiety is nervousness. Not only is this a fundamentally incorrect understanding of mental illness, but it also ignores the existence of psychosomatic symptoms. Understanding Psychosomatic Symptoms Psychosomatic symptomsRead More
Setting out on the path to sobriety is always a good idea. There has never been a case when substance abuse was the better option. When we finally get to that sober lifestyle, whether through a treatment center or another method, it can be demoralizing when a relapse happens. Relapses can happen. It’s an unfortunateRead More
Teenagers and young adults most frequently use inhalants out of every age group. According to the Substance Use and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), 1.5% of people aged 18 to 25 used inhalants in 2020. In this blog, we’ll explore factors that could explain the motivation for inhalant use among young adults. Understanding Inhalant UseRead More
It is common for a person to be in recovery and have low self-confidence. Often, many people develop unhealthy habits that decrease their positive feelings about themselves. You may have felt like you do not deserve to live your best life or that you are undeserving of happiness. The cycle of negative thoughts will eventuallyRead More
Dual diagnosis may sound like a terrifying prospect. People shudder at the thought of having one diagnosis; having two may seem insurmountable. Fortunately, treatment for mental health issues and substance use disorder (SUD) has come a long way. Treatment centers are embracing the idea that both disorders can be treated at the same time. InRead More
Content warning: This blog discusses physical and mental self-harm. If you or someone you love is considering self-harm or suicide, please call the national crisis line at 988 or text HOME to 741741 for help. Self-harm is a term that can encompass many negative physical and mental acts meant to bring harm to a person.Read More
A dual diagnosis occurs when a person has both a mental health and a substance abuse issue at the same time. Someone who struggles with both depression and alcoholism is more likely to experience drinking triggers that are also common among those who struggle with a depressive disorder. Similarly, someone with an eating disorder mightRead More