In our culture, we almost take for granted that the way to unwind after a long week is to have a few drinks. The same may be true after a tough day or after hearing bad news. It’s a cliche … Read More
3 Reasons Men Don’t Ask for Help for Addiction
According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, only about 10 percent of American adults who need specialized help for a substance use disorder actually get treatment. That number is surprisingly low when you consider that there are now … Read More
3 Ways Addiction Changes Your Personality
When people think of all the bad things about having a substance use disorder, they typically think of negative outcomes–your health suffers, you spend too much money on drugs, you alienate people you care about, you get into trouble with … Read More
Should You Share Your Addiction History?
It can sometimes be hard to decide whether to share your addiction history. While having a substance use disorder is nothing to be ashamed of–indeed, overcoming addiction is something to be proud of–the public perception of addiction is complicated. One … Read More
Do You Have to Believe in God to Recover from Addiction?
If you only know a few things about 12-step programs like AA, you probably know they often meet in church basements and that relying on a higher power is a big part of the program. And that’s true; several of … Read More
4 Myths About Alcohol Use Disorder
For as long as there has been alcohol, there have been people with alcohol use issues. You might think that by now, most of the myths about alcohol use disorder would have been busted but many persist. Unfortunately, these myths … Read More
The North Wind Made the Vikings
“The north wind made the Vikings” is a Scandanavian proverb that reminds us that challenging circumstances can be a blessing rather than a curse. The Vikings were known throughout medieval Europe as fierce warriors and ruthless raiders but they were … Read More
“Asking for a Friend”
When people find out you’re recovering from addiction, they may have questions. Often, these questions come from a place of concern. People are often surprised to learn that a friend or a relative has a substance use issue and they … Read More
Under-promise and Over-deliver
When we are newly sober, the world is full of both fear and possibilities. We no longer have our crutches to rely on and are dealing with life on our own terms. Nonetheless, being actually IN CONTROL sounds incredibly liberating … Read More
Is There Real Hope in EMDR?
Our recovery is highly dependent on the quality of the aftercare we receive. Not that every case is going to be the same, but there is a good chance that if you or a loved one is reading this has … Read More