There is nothing wrong with discussing one’s past during treatment and recovery. The problem arises when our discussions turn from a frank and honest examination of our past to romanticizing our addiction. Often, addiction has consumed our lives to such a degree that we have little else to talk about. When we begin telling “war…
Famed author Fyodor Dostoevsky, in his 1863 essay Winter Notes on Summer Impressions, said, “Try to pose for yourself this task: not to think of a polar bear, and you will see that the cursed thing will come to mind every minute.” Dostoevsky was noting the fact that when we actively try not to think about…
Nobody wants to admit that they have a problem with drugs and alcohol. We are often trying to convince ourselves that we do not have a problem just as much as we are trying to convince others. Through all forms of self-deception, we will try to prove to ourselves that our drinking or drug use…
Grounding techniques comprise a variety of practices that can limit negative thoughts and emotions by connecting one back with the present moment. Grounding techniques are often used for those suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and dissociation, but can also be helpful in managing anxiety, panic, and addiction cravings. One of the great things about the…
Sometimes it can feel like we have so many racing thoughts that it’s impossible to think clearly. Getting our thoughts down on paper by journaling can be a great way to declutter our minds. Writing down our problems in a daily journal is a great way to gain an objective view of what is going…
A simple life is a happy life. When we have too much going on in our lives, we can easily get overwhelmed. However, if we can learn to embrace a life of simplicity, we will find our stress and anxiety melt away. Removing unnecessary things or distractions can aid us in creating a happier life…
Anxiety can be overwhelming in early sobriety. Many people in recovery are faced with increased anxiety and other mental health concerns after detox when their brains are beginning to heal. Many of us relied on psychoactive medications and other drugs as a way of self-medicating our anxiety problems, and are unfamiliar with healthy coping strategies…
New psychoactive substances (NPS) are a range of drugs that mimic the effects of other illicit drugs like LSD, cannabis, cocaine, and ecstasy. NPS are constantly changing in chemical structure as a way to circumvent national drug laws. These changes, however, also increase the unpredictability of the drug’s effects and potential to cause major adverse…
Thinking about or committing suicide are very real dangers that strike those suffering from the disease of addiction and alcoholism more than the general population. People often assume that early death from addiction will be the result of overdose or health complications directly resulting from substance abuse, but don’t consider the increased risk of suicide…
Music can have amazing effects on our mood and mental health. When we listen to music, it has a direct impact on our mind and body, and can mean the difference between a good and a bad day. Whether you like rock, rap, metal, country, or any other genre, you can start improving your mental…