Plenty of science and research exists that looks at drug cravings post-recovery. This can be a difficult period for drug users. Lacking the tools to deal with cravings may lead to relapse. Drug use changes the brain in many ways, and it can be beneficial to learn more about how the brain changes due toRead More
How much of a role does genetics play in addiction? Substantial research has emerged that concluded it is more prevalent than one may think. There is a genetic link between whether a person’s habits will become addictions. This link is called epigenetics. Epigenetics is the study of changes in organisms caused by modification of geneRead More
Many couples dealing with substance use disorders or trauma exhibit behaviors of codependency. This is especially true for the spouse who does not use drugs or alcohol. Although codependency can affect any relationship, it is especially damaging to relationships that include addiction. It is important to give patients tools that they can use to helpRead More
Proper nutrition and hydration are crucial in recovery because they help restore physical and mental health and improve the chance of recovery. Individuals who suffer from substance abuse typically have depleted levels of vitamins, minerals, and essential amino acids and fats, which can lead to several mental and physical problems. Some drugs cause extreme withdrawalRead More
Breaking patterns of behavior seem tedious and nearly impossible for many. For those struggling with trauma or substance abuse disorder, the idea of changing patterns of behavior may seem like another impossibly massive boulder to carry on their journey to recovery. Yet in the pursuit of preventing relapse, recognizing unhealthy patterns of behavior is exponentiallyRead More
There’s something about the sight of horses munching hay. Stand there for a few minutes, and you may forget why you walked into the barn in the first place. You may have gone in there to get work done. A saddle needs slinging back onto its rack, or a harness needs hanging. But there isRead More
Meditation may be buried in the farthest corner of your mind when you enter a detoxification program. Following on from the initial treatment plan and as you head toward more long-term goals, meditation as a means to sustain mindfulness, inner peace, and calm reflection may be encouraged by your support counselor. Your first instinct mayRead More
A powerful antioxidant and water-soluble vitamin, vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, can be found in fruits and vegetables. Essential because it aids the body form and maintains connective tissue, blood vessels, skin, and bones; medical professionals agree that vitamin C is one of the most accessible and safest nutrients. While it may notRead More
Anxious thoughts or feelings of panic are perfectly normal when we are making significant changes to our behavior. You might have worked on mindful breathing while involved in a program of intensive therapy. Breathing is something we don’t think about – it just happens. We go through our life inhaling and exhaling without thinking anythingRead More
Following a long term intensive residency or outpatient program, you may be concerned that the progress you’ve made may relapse. This is understandable. In the real world, family, relationships, employment, and other matters will present distractions and challenges in building new habits. Peer support during this transitional phase is especially important. However, besides your therapistRead More