gambling

The Link Between Gambling and Substance Abuse

In general, gambling in moderation is a largely socially-acceptable behavior. But having a gambling addiction is a different matter. If left unaddressed and untreated, a gambling addiction can have destructive effects on your life and negatively impact your financial security, personal relationships, emotional and mental health, and employment stability. What is Gambling Disorder? Gambling disorder…

holiday stress

De-stressing and Staying Sober During the Holidays

The Importance of Staying Stress-Free for Those in Recovery The month of December can be difficult for those in recovery from alcohol and substance abuse. With the season full of holiday festivities and parties, it can be difficult to remain stress-free and sober. Although traditions may vary based on family, culture, or religion, one thing…

mindfulness

How Can Meditation and Mindfulness Help the Recovery Process?

What Do Mindfulness and Meditation Have to Do With Addiction and Substance Abuse? Mindfulness and meditation practices have become increasingly popular in recent years. For some people, the ideas of such practices may still seem a little “out there.” But for others, especially professionals who work in addiction recovery and substance abuse, meditation and mindfulness…

myth fact

5 Myths About Substance Abuse and Addiction

Debunking Myths That Might Hinder Someone In Recovery Although addiction and substance abuse are widespread, there are still many myths that dominate our cultural understandings of them. Some myths are related to stigma while others are simply incorrect facts. Often times, myths about drug and alcohol abuse come from the ways that movies, TV shows,…

childhood 1

Childhood Trauma and Addiction

It is well-known that childhood trauma and addiction have an important connection. Since the results of substance abuse can temporarily mask pain caused by early childhood traumas—both emotional and physical—many with unhealed trauma turn to addiction.  When a person has a traumatic experience, especially as a child, the individual’s brain is rarely able to process…

halloween

Staying Sober in October

Now that summertime has ended and the fall months have begun, October rolls in. It often feels ruled by an anticipation of Halloween and its festivities. For those in recovery, this season (and holiday seasons in general) can be a source of anxiety because of Halloween’s association with parties, alcohol, and late-night activities.  But by…