PTSD & Addiction
June is PTSD Awareness Month Remember, you are not alone in your journey. This month, take the time to reach out to the people in your life who might be affected by PTSD, and be the advocate for them, or take that first step for yourself. Do you know how to recognize signs and symptoms […]
Mother’s Day for with a son in recovery
In the past, while my son was an active user, I would be in constant fear of not hearing from him, or hearing from someone else calling to tell me he overdosed. That happened more than once. It has been a VERY long road with him. I have had many sleepless nights, many visits to […]
Advice for Mom’s in Recovery
Happy Mothers Day! There is a reason they call it the hardest job in the world. Managing being a mother while maintaining recovery is possible using these tools! Let Go of Resentment Resentment can be a killer for those struggling with substance use disorder. Holding on to bitterness keeps us sick and holds us hostage […]
Substance Abuse rises during COVID-19
Examining the physical, emotional and mental risks of substance abuse amid the global outbreak and how to seek proper treatment and support during this time.
Spirituality
By: Joshua Ansley, Spiritual Advisor at Relevance There is a somewhat famous quote ‘Religion is for people who are afraid of going to hell; spirituality is for those of us that have been there.’ When I present this quote, the people in the room that have experienced the most pain often times shake their heads […]
Coping with Drug Dreams
Early recovery comes with a lot of physical baggage that results from years of abusing substances. Even after being successfully detoxed at a medical facility, many times the patient suffers from various withdrawal symptoms known as post-acute withdrawal symptoms, or PAWS, for weeks or even months following. Drug dreams are no different. While not necessarily a […]
The Healing Power of Music
The 19th-century Danish author, Hans Christian Anderson, wrote “where words fail, music speaks.” Often times, it is difficult to verbalize our deepest thoughts and feelings. We simply cannot find the right words; however music provides a way to do just that. Music has the power to release our worries, fears and uncertainties, take us to […]
Dealing with Feelings in Early Substance Abuse Recovery
The emotional rollercoaster can be treacherous in early Substance Abuse Recovery but there are things that the individual can do to make the ride easier including: Attendance at a recovery group can be a great way to get support and advice during the early months of recovery. Here the newly sober individual can spend time […]
Language That Empowers
In today’s treatment programs, how often do we talk with addicts about what they want to gain in their lives, rather than what they must give up? Most group sessions focus on “abstinence” and the necessary “avoidance” of people, places, and things. Of course, these conversations are extremely important but talking about what sobriety can […]
Sitting on a Three Legged Stool
Imagine trying to sit on a three-legged stool. Eventually, if you are unlike me, you may be able to pull it off and balance for a little while. However, with any slight movement you will fall. It is inevitable. Successful addiction treatment needs to ensure that fourth leg is a vital component of the program. […]