Whether it is deciding to break open the gifted bourbon from a grateful client, sipping Aunt Sue’s holiday eggnog all evening on Christmas eve, or having more than a few cocktails at the never-ending string of holiday parties, we know that this season of comfort and joy may find us going a little heavier on the “comfort,” which can be especially troubling for those with a substance use disorder.

The holidays certainly offer plenty of occasions to use alcohol in a celebratory fashion. However, multiple studies have shown that levels of unhealthy drinking habits skyrocket during the holiday season. This can take the form of justifications such as, “It’s fine! I always have a few glasses of wine when we decorate,” to “It doesn’t really count. It’s the holidays!” Regardless of the rationale used, even those who are moderate drinkers throughout the year can be found giving themselves permission to consume more alcohol during this time of year than what is usual for them at other times.

Substance Use During The Holidays Statistics

According to a study conducted by the American Psychological Association (APA), 38% of people surveyed said their stress increased during the holiday season. Increased stress levels can lead to physical illness, depression, anxiety, and substance misuse. The reasons attributed to this behavior were lack of time, financial pressure, gift-giving, and family gatherings to name a few.

Interestingly, a separate survey reported that that the average American drinks 27% more during the holiday season as compared to the rest of the year. The Distilled Spirits Council of the United States notes that a quarter of the $49-billion-a-year distilled spirits industry’s profits come from the month between Thanksgiving and the New Year.

On an even more serious note, New Year’s Day is the deadliest day for alcohol-related crashes, with 58% of crashes being alcohol-related according to the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). They also report drunk driving-related deaths spike 116% above the baseline average, making it the most dangerous holiday of the year for drunk driving. Other causes of alcohol-related deaths during the holidays include alcohol poisoning and incidents at home such as falls, domestic violence, or accidental deaths due to firearms.

Given these surveys, statistics, and behaviors, the question then becomes: why? Why during the season that promotes so much romanticized idealism, magical folklore, and messages of peace and goodwill do we report experiencing so much stress and anxiety? Perhaps the following categories reported by individuals experiencing holiday stress can provide some insight.

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Comparative Thinking/Unrealistic Expectations

The perception of the “perfect holiday” looms large in the minds of those who find themselves responsible for pulling together all the festivities. The pressure, whether self-imposed or imposed by others, is to have “the best holiday ever” with no hiccups or let downs. When reality doesn’t meet our expectations, it is inevitably a disappointment waiting to happen. Comparative thinking is a fast track to depressive thinking, and resentments are fuel for our entitlement to indulge ourselves in any number of behaviors.

Holiday Events

The increase in entertaining, social obligations, and the demands on our time during the holidays almost goes without saying. Friends, family, co-workers, and everyone in between may have parties, dinners, or events they’d like for you to attend, all of which may present the opportunity to be surrounded by triggers.

The likelihood that we can attend every event is unrealistic. What’s worse is choosing whom you’re willing to disappoint can be stressful and produces a lot of anxiety. The logistical challenge of an overly committed calendar creates opportunities for conflict as well as a level of tension that can drive many to self-medicate with drugs or alcohol.

Stressful Family Dynamics

Most everyone is familiar with the common saying, “you can choose your friends, but you can’t choose your family.” Family dynamics can certainly be a recipe for triggers, over-drinking, and relapses. For many, the anticipation of encountering certain situations can cause panic even weeks before the actual events. Ruminating on old wounds and unreconciled trauma can be a source of pain that justifies self-medicating in the minds of those who experience it. Holidays often force us to engage in family situations we can keep at bay during other times of the year.

Busy Schedules

Many people report feeling “over-committed” during the holidays. Living into the demands of our schedules is exhausting physically as well as emotionally. Without proper time to decompress we will most often return to our medications of choice. An overly-filled calendar leaves no time for self-care or the practices that go along with a healthy recovery or daily life.

Traveling

The mere thought of airports during holiday season can cause even the most well-tempered individuals to experience panic and frustration. The anxiety of catching flights, rescheduling cancelled flights, and long layovers in airports can create stressful scenarios where drinking can become more than just a pastime in the airport lounges.

Holiday Shopping/Overspending

Finding the perfect gift, staying within the agreed budget for spending, and the general atmosphere in most retail establishments during this season can be daunting. Watching the credit card balance go up daily can also create a sense of angst and overwhelm. Financial pain is often in the top reasons for relapses and is what many in treatment cite as a motivator for continuing to self-medicate. Creating healthy spending limits not only helps our finances, but also minimizes opportunities to feel triggered by the stress of overwhelming credit card debt.

Alcohol Related Family Traditions

Many families have holiday traditions that lean heavily on alcohol consumption. Nana’s sangria, Uncle Bob’s spiked cider, or simply the obligatory cocktails before a big dinner can create the perception that partaking is a part of belonging and connecting. This subtle sense of expectation to join in can derail our recovery if we buy into it.

Grief/Nostalgia

The first years without certain loved ones we have lost is beyond disheartening, and is something many people are unable to comprehend. Grief and looking back at years past where there were more people around the table, the family was a bit larger, and the laughter a little louder can be a very difficult adjustment to navigate. Grief and disappointment can give way to despair which can certainly open the door to drugs or alcohol.

Isolation

The reality that some people have very few, if any, loved ones to share holidays with can be a silent pain that they are reluctant to share. For those people, isolation is an alienating pain that often has no empathetic witness. Isolation is very often the catalyst for over-drinking and self-medicating. Being alone in our pain is never going to produce a best outcome.

Don’t Let The Holidays Ruin Your Sobriety

These reported scenarios can explain why a season that proclaims comfort and joy on one hand can result in anxiety, frustration, and a desire to escape on the other. What we may refer to as the holiday blues is often the hangover of a combination of these experiences coming together to create the perfect emotional whirlwind. Without support, boundaries, and an intentional game plan to help us navigate these realities, we can be very susceptible to overmedicating or a relapse with consequences that live far beyond the holiday blues.

If you or someone you know is struggling with drugs or alcohol, don’t wait until the holidays are over to get help. If you’re ready to take the first step, contact a treatment provider today to get started.

The post Why Does Drug And Alcohol Use Spike During the Holidays? appeared first on Addiction Center.

While the holidays can be a magical time for many of us, for those in recovery (especially early recovery) they can be a source of anxiety, fears of relapse, and a time of feeling even more conspicuous than usual. While our families and friends continue to enjoy the usual parties and traditional libations of the season, many of us in our first holiday season of sobriety can find ourselves feeling isolated, alienated, and overwhelmed by the fear of potential triggers and temptations.

So, how can we adopt a more empowering mindset in what can be some of the most challenging weeks of the year while still allowing ourselves to enjoy the true essence of the season and successfully emerge with our sobriety intact? Here are some mindful strategies and practices to consider to remain engaged in our traditions without succumbing to triggers, temptations, and traps that no longer serve us.

Express Gratitude

Most people who have participated in any type of formal recovery program are familiar with the concept of a gratitude list. For those that may not be familiar, a gratitude list is exactly what it sounds like: a list of all the things you feel grateful for. Many addiction recovery programs incorporate a gratitude list into their treatment regimens, typically in the early days of recovery. Creating a list of things you’re grateful for can be extremely helpful in maintaining sobriety and motivation throughout treatment.

While gratitude lists can be effective tools to help keep the momentum of treatment moving, meditating from a place of true gratitude, however, changes the brain and the way the brain functions. When done properly, anxiety diminishes, the focus of our thinking changes, and best of all, we can look at the life we’ve been given in a way that recognizes its worth.

Practicing gratitude is not an exercise in the denial of difficult circumstances in our lives, nor is it the practice of taking inventory of our material possessions. Instead, it is simply remembering that there is value in everything, that life itself is a gift, and that the humility it requires to express thanks makes us more “right-sized” in our perceptions of ourselves. Gratitude is the cornerstone of serenity which is often scarce this time of year.

Confront Resentments

Nothing can lead us to entitlement faster than resentments. This time of year, there are countless opportunities to harbor, nurture, and rehearse them in our minds. Everything from the extra obligations we take on to the lack of appreciation we may experience for all our efforts to create the perfect holiday backdrop for our loved ones can take center stage.

Take time to take inventory of all your resentments. Name them, list them, and acknowledge them. Then; surrender them. They have the potential to convince us that we deserve whatever we want in the moment regardless of the outcomes. Nothing says “relapse” like holiday entitlement.

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Confront Unrealistic Expectations

Everyone has a wish list for the holidays, but far too often that list becomes a set of expectations rather than wants. When we live in a state of expectation, we will almost always be disappointed. Not only do our expectations serve to rob us of the joy of the moment, but they also have a way of getting transmitted to those around us. Expectations set the stage for our feelings of entitlement.

Anticipation, on the other hand, is living with a loose grip and being willing to accept the gift that is the moment at hand. Expectations demand; while anticipation waits in wonder. During the holiday season, remember to regularly take stock of what unmet expectations could be robbing you of your holiday joy. Accepting life on life’s terms requires living with the loose grip of anticipation rather than the tight fist of expectation.

Navigating Social Gatherings

It is important, especially in early sobriety, to never feel trapped at any holiday social gatherings, especially since there are likely to be temptations or triggers that need to be averted. Having an exit strategy for these events is imperative. Driving ourselves to a party or being sure we can access a car service should we carpool is an important detail to keep in mind. Sharing rides with friends who will want to stay the entire evening is too risky if we begin to feel uncomfortable.

In early sobriety, it may be that we allow ourselves a half-hour at the beginning of the event to simply make an appearance, say our hello’s, and slip out quietly. Once we make a lap around the room to greet everyone, we can feel fairly certain that we won’t be missed once others are into their second, third, and fourth martini, at which time we will be back at home safe and sound. If it feels safe to stay at the party into the night then by all means enjoy the evening, but if feeling triggered or tempted starts to enter the picture we need to have a plan to exit without excuse.

Manage Self-Care

Taking care of our personal needs is always an important component of recovery, but during the holidays it is even more important. Time demands can cause us to skip our contemplative practices, miss our exercise times, and grab far too many treats from the office goodie table at work and call it “lunch.”

Our lack of self-care can often cause us to lose our focus and discipline, and ultimately find ourselves in self-loathing, restlessness, irritability, and discontentment; all of which have the potential to cause us to slip. Recognizing that self-care is as important as the other tasks on your to-do list can help put yourself at the top, and stop you from succumbing to holiday temptations.

Initiate Connection

All of us need connection and support in our recovery; especially during the holidays. Make your recovery meetings a priority, find time with friends who enrich you, and surround yourself with those who make you feel known and loved. The holidays can be a very lonely time for many. Depression spikes and relapses escalate during this season. Maintaining our connections to others is part of staying present and accountable for our recovery.

Seek To Serve

Volunteer, serve at an event for underserved people, and make an intentional effort to express gratitude by sharing time and effort that benefits others. Engaging in service work is far more beneficial for our sobriety than simply writing end-of-the-year checks to our favorite charities. Sacrificing for others is the fastest way to take our focus off ourselves and shift it to the world around us. Being a part of the bigger story is where we find purpose and hope which shifts our gaze away from the self-centered fear of our addiction.

When we allow ourselves intentional connection with others, a mindset of gratitude for the life we have been given, continue to practice self-care without feeling self-centered, and experience our traditions with anticipation rather than expectation, we can embrace the true essence of this season of peace (sober serenity) and goodwill (service to others) with genuine comfort and joy.

Get Help Before The Holidays

The holidays can be an incredibly stressful time for anyone, especially those struggling with a substance use disorder or mental health condition. While the New Year is a popular time to make a change for the better, waiting to get the help you need is never the best option. To get started on your recovery journey, contact a treatment provider to learn more about your options.

The post How To Celebrate The Holidays While Staying Sober appeared first on Addiction Center.

Mikey Tableman, a mental health activist and public speaker, is a proud proponent of open discussions of mental health and treatment. Founder of “A Mind’s Pursuit,” a non-profit mental health foundation, Tableman would strike anyone as someone who is full of life and actively shares his positive energy with anyone he speaks to. His compassion and dedication to destigmatizing mental health are fueled by his own story of mental health, substance use, and healing. 

Tableman began drinking at an early age and started using substances during college. His condition worsened once he entered the Los Angeles nightlife scene, where he found success professionally. His adaptable and energetic demeanor served him well in his ventures in nightlife hospitality, which he began in his early 20s. However, with the intensity of nightlife comes some dark patrons that stay long after the club plays its closing tune. Constant exposure to substances, a nonexistent sleep schedule, and unsustainable workplace expectations led Tableman to some of the lowest points of his life both mentally and physically. 

“The nightlife industry impacted my mental health massively. The whole industry is based on ego, and it’s very cutthroat,” Tableman said. “You have to put on such a facade in nightlife to keep your position and to keep your status, which is awful.”

Tableman struggled with debilitating depression and was “addicted to not feeling,” which led to him using substances like Cocaine and Xanax during this period of his life. There were multiple points in his life where continuing to live did not seem attainable or wanted, but these feelings intensified in 2018 with his first suicide attempt. This event catapulted Tableman to seek treatment with the guidance of his sister and therapist. 

If you or someone you love is experiencing thoughts of suicide, please call the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline or the National Suicide Prevention Line at 1-800-273-8255 for 24/7 assistance.

“It took me such a long time to talk about my mental health. I’m 33 years old. I didn’t start opening up and talking about this until I was 28 after my first suicide attempt. Because even though I knew something was wrong, it was so ingrained in me that you don’t speak about this.”

There is an ease with which he shares his experiences now; each sentence serving to reduce stigma around mental health, but this wasn’t always the case. Tableman and other men in the US and across the world often face additional stigma concerning their mental health due to cultural and individual factors. Men are less likely than women to pursue treatment for mental health concerns or substance abuse because of societal norms and a reluctance to voice their concerns. This outdated social and cultural dogma is what Tableman hopes to challenge through his organization, “A Mind’s Pursuit.”

“A Mind’s Pursuit”: Destigmatizing Mental Health

Tableman created “A Mind’s Pursuit” to make a change in the way we talk about mental health. Dedicated to raising awareness of the importance of mental health care and changing the stigma of how mental health is viewed, the organization hosts multiple events to bring individuals together to share their stories in a supportive community and space.  

“So many people feel alone in their suffering, and so many are suffering. “A Mind’s Pursuit” lets others know that it is okay not to be okay, and it is even more okay to talk about it.“

Tableman created a charity event series, “The Alchemy,” to create spaces for individuals to join together to be open and vulnerable and feel safe doing so. The events include activities like gratitude booths, manifestation boards, and live performances from artists hoping to inspire others. Tableman’s candidness about his life positively impacts those who listen to his story and has become a cathartic experience for him as well. 

“I truly believe that you go through life for a purpose. I love helping people; I love being a part of watching it click, but it’s also very healing for me,” Tableman said. “You heal yourself by helping heal others.” 

Lessons Learned Through Mental Health Treatment

Through the guidance of his sister and his therapist, Tableman decided to go to a treatment facility in 2018 to address his mental health concerns and understand the factors that potentially led him to abuse substances.

“It was an opportunity to understand why I felt the need to mask so much of my life, why I felt the need to take drugs to feel anything, and why I felt so empty inside,” Tableman said.  

Through guided meditations, visualizations (also called guided imagery), and therapy, Tableman addressed his depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. Guided meditation and visualization techniques can help individuals feel grounded in the moment and better control their emotions, which can be helpful with anxiety symptoms. These techniques, coupled with individual therapy, helped Tableman develop a compassionate, optimistic view of his mental health; he now views recovery as a lifelong endeavor, not something that is “one-and-done.” While he has faced multiple relapses over the years, he overcomes them by “radically accepting” that some of his mental health concerns are things he will continue to live with. He also has an “amazing support system and tribe of people” to support him on the incredibly daunting days. 

“I deal with depression and anxiety regularly, and I still have suicidal thoughts, but the difference is that now they are just thoughts that pass by because I’ve radically accepted my life.”

During his treatment, there was one specific experience that radically changed how Tableman viewed his own life. This experience included partaking in his own funeral through the practice of visualization with a therapist. For some, this experience may be uncouth, but for Tableman, visualizing the scene of him laying in his own coffin and listening to his loved ones read their final remarks was an experience that was “necessary” for his healing.

“It was in that moment that actually made me see how me not being there would affect other people, because I really thought my life didn’t mean anything. I broke down like I have never cried before,” Tableman said. 

The visualization of his funeral helped Tableman understand and “see” that his life had meaning despite the hardships and challenges. 

Recovery Through Art

In addition to the multiple events that “A Mind’s Pursuit” hosts, Tableman continues to work to destigmatize mental health in his own life. Through his upcoming poetry concept EP, “My Manic Maze,” music, and his podcast show, “Chaos Controlled,” Tableman continues to explore what living in recovery with mental health concerns looks like. According to Tableman, “It’s not going to get easier, but you’re going to get better at handling it. Have patience…” Recovery from substance abuse is possible, and resources will always be available. 

If you or a loved one is experiencing substance abuse concerns, contact a treatment provider here. 

The post Radical Acceptance: Mikey Tableman’s Mental Health Story appeared first on Addiction Center.

Drug and alcohol addiction can affect anyone. However, men face specific challenges when it comes to substance abuse that many are unaware of. Men are more likely to abuse drugs and alcohol than women for several reasons, many of which stem from cultural “norms” or stereotypes. These factors can all contribute to the negative affect substance use can have on men’s physical health and mental health.

From a young age, many men deal with pressure to suppress or ignore their emotions, often being told to “man up” when they’re struggling their mental health. This causes many to turn to drugs and alcohol to cope, which can lead to a severe physical dependence if left untreated.

Men are also at a higher risk for many health conditions related to drugs and alcohol. This can not only complicate addiction treatment but can also make it difficult to spot an addiction in the first place.

Men Are More Likely To Abuse Certain Substances Than Women

Biology plays a significant role in how drugs and alcohol affect both the body and the development of addiction in the brain. Due to the general body composition of men, being larger on average than biological females, men typically require more of a given substance to feel its effects. In the case of alcohol, on average, it takes biological males an average of 7 drinks to become intoxicated, compared to 4 for biological females.

Because of this, men are also much more likely to abuse substances than women. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 58% of adult men report drinking alcohol in the last 30 days compared to 49% of adult women. Men are also more likely to binge drink than women, with nearly 21% of men reporting they binge drank in the last 30 days compared to just 13% of women. This pattern of excessive alcohol use directly contributes to the number of men who report having an alcohol addiction, with 13% of adult men reportedly suffering from alcohol use disorder compared to 9% of women.

Alcohol isn’t the only substance that men are more likely to abuse. Across the board, men are more likely to abuse most types of illicit drugs than women. Below is a chart of the rate of illicit drug use between men and women.

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Substance Use Disorders And Infertility

One of the major differences in how drug and alcohol abuse affects men and women is infertility caused by substance use. Both prescription and recreational drugs can impact your ability to create a pregnancy. Fortunately, in most instances, this can be reversed once you’ve stopping using the substance, however, this is not always the case.

There are several substances that can affect both your sexual performance, health, and fertility, some of which may be legal and even necessary for your health, which is why it’s always important to talk with a doctor or addiction specialist before making any decisions about starting or stopping substance use.

Some substances that can affect men’s fertility and sexual health include:

Antidepressants

Antidepressants are not only legal but may be a necessity for your mental health. However, if your goal is to become a parent, you may want to consult your psychiatrist or primary healthcare provider before doing so. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, more commonly referred to as SSRIs, are the most common medications prescribed for depression and anxiety. However, they can cause sexual dysfunction, specifically lack of arousal or inability to preform sexually.

Opioids

Long-term Opioid use can cause a decrease in your body’s testosterone production, which lowers both the quality and quantity of your sperm. Like most health conditions caused by substance abuse, the severity and impact depend largely on the extent to which your substance use has progressed.

Anabolic Steroids

Anabolic Steroids can severely harm male fertility by disrupting the process by which your body produces sperm. Many athletes and bodybuilders sometimes use these drugs to enhance their performance, however, their impact on the body can be detrimental. Fortunately, most people recover sperm production within 12 months after stopping, although for severe users, sperm production may never fully recover.

Methamphetamine

Meth is a highly addictive, dangerous illicit substance that affects your body in many ways, all of which are harmful. Meth use can increase blood pressure and respiratory rates, which can lead to death in some case. While the extent to which Meth use has been researched on fertility is limited, it has been shown in some studies to reduce sperm motility, which can negatively impact the likelihood of pregnancy.

Peer Pressure And Stigma Lead Many Men To Substance Abuse

While many think of peer pressure as something that exclusively effects young adults, the fact of the matter is that many adults face the same pressure to use drugs or alcohol. Friends, coworkers, family members, and even media personalities can all affect a person’s attitudes and decision making.

Your coworkers may invite you out for a drink after work and say ‘Everyone is coming, it’ll be fun.’ In other instances, a television show or movie may portray drinking or drug use to prove “how manly they are.” These subtle, yet harmful, societal pressures lead many men into a life of drug and alcohol use.

Some men are taught from a young age to be “tough” or “emotionless,” often being told that feelings of sadness or insecurity are weak and make them less of a man. Drug and alcohol use can often be a way to escape these pressures. Some men also use drugs or alcohol in social settings to help them relax or feel more comfortable around others, especially those who are using. Others may use drugs or alcohol to suppress pent-up emotions to appear fine when they’re not.

Sadly, drug and alcohol abuse can lead to a lifetime of health complications, many of which are more common among male users.

Don’t Let Substance Abuse Ruin Your Health

The social pressure and stigma that cause many men to turn to drugs or alcohol can be extremely damaging; both to their physical and mental health. Fortunately, this stigma has been chipped away at in recent years, making it easier for men to get the help they need without the fear of being labeled “weak” or “less of a man.”

Addiction is a pervasive disease, affecting not just the person using, but everyone around them as well. Don’t let addiction ruin your health, or the health of those around you. To get the help you deserve, free from judgement, contact a treatment provider for free today.

The post Substance Abuse And Men’s Health appeared first on Addiction Center.

As we continue to trudge through the COVID-19 pandemic, for just over 2 years now, more and more workers, especially younger ones, are re-evaluating what it is they want out of their employment, particularly when it comes to benefits. What they want, in large part (82% of employed Generation Z workers) are mental health days built into their compensation packages.

The Impact Of COVID-19 On Employee Burnout

Considering the global shutdown and otherwise completely altered way of living since 2020, it’s no surprise that across-the-board, mental health has been less than stellar. Employees are dealing with burnout, fatigue, and other stressors that prohibit them from getting their best work done. TalentLMS and BambooHR recently polled the youngest working generation, colloquially referred to as Gen Z (which includes anyone born between 1997-2012) and asked them about their ideal working conditions. A generation sculpted by technology and the vast interconnectedness of the internet, they are also reporting some of the highest levels of mental duress according to the American Psychological Association (APA). In a 2018 press release, the APA found that 91% of individuals between 18-21 reported experiencing at least 1 physical or emotional symptom related to stress. However, they are also the generation most likely to seek some sort of treatment or assistance for their mental health; 37% followed closely by Millennials at 35%.

The push for more inclusive mental health care is not just coming from Gen Z. Online job seeking platform, Monster, found that nearly 1 in 3 people believe that their work poorly impacts their mental health and overall wellness. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that depression and anxiety (2 of the most common mental illnesses) cost the United States roughly $1 trillion dollars in lost productivity every year and if organizations took intentional steps to rectify and maintain mental wellness, overall output and morale might increase. For example, for every $1 that is invested in quality mental health care, the return on investment/general health and productivity is $4 dollars.

Mental Health And Substance Abuse In The Workplace

Many people who struggle with mental health may also struggle with substance abuse issues. Studies show that roughly 1 in 4 adults struggles with both. Substance abuse and mental disorders can occur simultaneously for several reasons, including self-medication to ease the symptoms of certain health conditions or, on a larger scale, the state of the world or workplace stress. However, if untreated, both substance use disorders (SUD) and mental conditions can worsen and deeply affect all aspects of life, including employment. If you or someone you love is struggling, take the first step by reaching out to a treatment provider today.

New Work Culture Warrants New Policies

During the height of the pandemic, amidst closings and quarantines, many companies prioritized the mental health and wellness of their employees by offering mandatory vacation days, flexible or hybrid schedules, and access to apps that promote wellbeing. However, with the worst part of the pandemic seemingly in the past, the emphasis on overall health as a priority has slowly diminished, leaving some workers feeling burned out.

In a survey conducted by Mind Share Partners, it was revealed that 84% of workers (across several demographics) reported workplace-induced mental distress in 2021. The largest contributing factors leading to this steep 84% were emotionally draining work itself, challenges with work/life balance, and a lack of recognition from executives. Historically, United States workers are among the most stressed in the world, certainly exacerbated over the last few years. According to Gallup’s Global Workplace report, 57% of Americans (a makeup of 62% women and 52% men) reported feeling daily stress compared to 43% of the rest of the world. Fortunately, however, there are practices Monster suggests companies could consider implementing to remedy the widespread feelings of burnout and mental unwellness:

1. Invitation To Be Open About Mental Health

Thanks to younger generations and the slow beginnings of a shift in perception surrounding the legitimacy of mental health, it is more common than before to be open in discussing concerns relating to one’s inner wellbeing. One survey reported 65% of employees had discussed their mental health at work in the past year, but in order for this trend to continue, employers need to be cognizant of the ways in which they approach and handle mental wellness as well as provide adequate solutions to address the concerns brought to their attention. If organizations continue to encourage their employees to be honest and transparent with their individual needs, and employees know there is no threat of termination or other negative impacts, mental health and the normalization of its prioritization might eventually become common practice.

2. Monitor The Wellbeing Of Employees Through Regular Check Ins

Though much of the world is operating in a nearly normal capacity, many are still suffering from burnout and other lasting effects from the past few years. By scheduling time to speak with workers about not only their workloads and the feasibility, but also about their overall health and state of mind, employers have the opportunity to create a network of support in which their employees feel truly cared for. This practice could be beneficial in encouraging employees who are hesitant to take time off for their mental wellbeing, too. If higher ups reassure the importance of self-maintenance, those who are unsure of the implications of said time off understand there is no penalty or shame associated with that preservation.

3. Implement Company-Wide Days Off

Many employees fear taking time off for the pile of emails, deadlines, meetings, and any other important information they might have missed while they were away. To combat this, Monster suggests companies schedule time throughout the year where everyone is off at the same time. That way, all employees, from CEO to entry-level, are sure they won’t miss anything.

Mental Health Days In Practice: LinkedIn’s “LiftUp!” Initiative

In the early days of the pandemic, LinkedIn reached out to its employees and asked them how they were feeling. After employees responded with strong feelings of burnout, overwhelm, overall discontent, and other negative experiences, the company launched the LiftUp! program. This new implementation contained a series of policies that fostered a culture of care and concern among all employees. Arguably the most notable of the new policies was titled “RestUp!,” an initiative that included a company-wide, week long closure in April 2021 alongside allocated “Well-Being Days” and Friday half-days throughout July and August.

In an interview with CNN, Chief people advisor for the company, Teuila Hanson emphasized how leaders in the organization approached the current and bizarre work culture:

We looked at our survey results…the executive team put our heads together to figure out how could we systematically address these themes we are seeing with our employees. [LiftUp!] was really intended to figure out, what can we specifically do from a program perspective—benefits, perks to address burnout, work family balance, people feeling alone and isolated—how could we bring some surprise and delight, how can we bring some levity to our employees?

Executives noticed that these programs were incredibly beneficial for the overall morale of the company culture. Vice President of benefits and a lead in initiating the LiftUp! policies, Nina McQueen said, “It has been absolutely incredible to see employees talking about what their experience is and how they feel cared for. We see the sentiment and participation, and we’re measuring things up.”

Other Companies Like Bumble & Hootsuite Have Followed Suit

While LinkedIn may have been the first company to attempt a complete organization-wide shut down, they are hardly the only one. Roughly 2 months after LinkedIn, founder and CEO of Bumble, Whitney Wolfe Heard gifted her company’s 700 employees one full week away with paid vacation; a bonus to the allotted vacation time granted each year. The goal, as with LinkedIn was clear cut: to give workers paid time to themselves without the guilt and burdensome worry that they might return to an even bigger pile of “to dos.”

Research shows that the average person has around 8 social media accounts on various platforms and spends nearly 2.5 hours on social media alone (not including the hours of additional time spent online). In response, Hootsuite decided to stagger a portion of their workforce so the business remained open, while mandating a week off for all other employees. Company founder, Ryan Holmes believes strongly in the “interval training” model in which periods of hard, focused work are offset by time to rest, reset, and recover. Listed as “inaugural” and most likely based on other companies’ collective success, this event provides an interesting thought experiment for those continuing to navigate the work/life balance amidst the ever-evolving societal landscape.

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Mental Health Is Physical Health

Despite the clear and encouraging strides we have made in the realm of mental health over the last decade or so, there is still a long way to go in legitimizing the very real nature of all that goes on inside our minds. Where physical health is often blatant and usually understood, mental health remains largely in the dark theoretical space of presumption and misunderstanding.

Just as you would care for a broken bone or a contagious cold, be sure to care for your mind, too. If you have began or increased the use of drugs or alcohol in an attempt to remedy mental health struggles, take a moment to evaluate the motives behind substance use. While substance abuse may provide a temporary relief, they typically worsen mental health struggles in the long-run. Reach out to a treatment provider to confidentially ask any question you might have and they will help guide you forward.

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The month of May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and while the open discourse on mental health has changed drastically over the past decade, there is still a distinct disconnect between men and mental health. The problem goes well beyond the misconception that men don’t want to express their emotions; barriers like stigma, masculine norms, and societal factors directly impact the way men think about, approach, and treat their mental health.

Although all genders are affected by mental illness, it is often overlooked in men as they are less likely in comparison to women to speak of or seek help for their mental health. This is alarming in context to the statistic that in high-income countries, 3 times as many men as women died by suicide in 2018, according to a World Health Organization (WHO) report.

These barriers that men often face when addressing and treating mental illness are nothing new. However, expanding conversations on why such barriers exist can bring awareness to the issue and help alleviate the feelings of shame or “otherness” that many men face regarding mental health.

Men’s Mental Health Statistics

According to Mental Health America (MHA), there are 5 primary mental illnessnes that men in the US face, including depression, anxiety, psychosis and schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and eating disorders.

What Is Stigma?

In theory, addressing one’s mental health with others should be similar to discussing a broken bone or any other physical ailment, but stigma silences many men. Stigma not only bars men from speaking to their loved ones about mental illness but also from addressing it themselves or seeking help. Several types of stigma affect men’s relationship with mental health, including social stigma, self-stigma, professional stigma, and cultural stigma.

Social Stigma

Social stigma refers to the negative attitudes or stereotypes directed toward a person or group experiencing a mental illness. An example of this would the negative attitude that “those who have depression are weak.” This external form of stigma is rooted in the misconception that mental illness represents a person’s character. This misconception leads to discrimination, avoidance, and rejection of a person experiencing a mental illness.

Self-Stigma

Self-stigma, also known as perceived stigma, is an internal form of stigmatization that one imposes on themselves. An individual experiencing self-stigma will internalize the negative views and opinions of mental illnesses, which leads to judgment and shame about one’s symptoms.

Professional Stigma

Professional stigma occurs when healthcare professionals perpetuate stigmatization toward their patients through negative attitudes. These attitudes are often based on fear or misunderstandings of the causes and symptoms of mental illness. Additionally, professionals themselves can experience stigma from the public or other healthcare professionals because of their work and connection with individuals experiencing mental illness.

Cultural Stigma

Cultural stigma involves how an individual’s culture interprets mental illness. Culture shapes one’s beliefs, values, and norms, and it directly relates to how people attribute meaning to certain illnesses. Culture also affects whether people seek help, what type of help they seek, and their coping style and support.

Masculine Norms Shape Discussions On Mental Illness

Another barrier for men facing mental health issues is the indoctrination of masculine norms in US culture and society. Masculine norms are the social rules and expected behavior associated with men and manhood within a given culture. The phrases “toughen up,” “man up,” “men don’t cry,” etc., perpetuate the idea that men are not supposed to express sadness, grief, or pain, and to do so is the ultimate sign of weakness or femininity (at times considered one of the same). These masculinity standards contribute to men not seeking professional help for their mental health in fear of their masculinity being diminished.

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Moreover, men are less likely to seek treatment than women due to downplaying their symptoms, a result of self-stigma, and a reluctance to talk about their mental health. Men in America, and throughout many cultures, are often not taught or socialized to discuss their emotions or troubles. If anything, it is discouraged. In contrast, most women are taught how and in what way to express themselves, while most men are left out of the conversation entirely. In context to men’s mental health, this lack of emotional acceptance leaves many in the dark: unable to speak of their troubles, and some are even unable to name them to themselves.

Specific Barriers For Men Of Color And Mental Health

Beyond stigma and masculine norms, men of color face additional challenges and risk factors that have historically affected their mental health and how they approach it. Risk factors that affect men of color include higher exposure to poverty and violence, absence of economic opportunity, and higher incarceration rates. The result is a compounding hit on mental health; between the stigmatization of all men seeking help and unique stressors, men of color are at higher risk for isolation and mental illness. However, this higher risk does not correlate to higher treatment admission rates. In a recent study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), only 26.4% of Hispanic and non-Hispanic Black men went in for mental health treatments compared to 45.6% of non-Hispanic White men.

Another significant barrier for many men of color is cultural stigma and mistrust of the healthcare system. Historically speaking, documented racism and bias within the healthcare system have led some Black people to be wary of seeking treatment. According to research by the National Library of Medicine and Dr. Neal-Barnett, a leading expert on anxiety disorders among Black Americans, there is a collective mistrust of healthcare and medical providers among Black patients. This mistrust is linked to the abuse Black patients have historically experienced under the guise of medical testing and advancement, like in the case of the US Public Health Service Syphilis Study at Tuskegee. Factor in the cultural stigma of Black masculinity norms that make it difficult for Black men to be vulnerable and express emotions, and it makes sense why it is difficult for many Black men to pursue professional help for their mental health.

Dual Diagnosis Among Men: Mental Health And Substance Abuse

A dual diagnosis, or co-occurring disorder, is when an individual has one or more mental health disorders combined with a substance use disorder (SUD). Often, mental health disorders and SUDs concurrently occur because some struggling with a mental illness will use substances to self-medicate, and substance abuse can sharply increase or even trigger new symptoms related to a mental health disorder. While co-occurring disorders can affect anyone regardless of gender, certain substance use disorders are more prevalent among men. 

For example, the National Institute on Drug Abuse found that men are more likely than women to use almost all illicit or illegal drugs. Regarding alcohol use disorders (AUDs), 1 in 5 men will develop alcohol dependence during their lives. Another point of concern is since men are less likely than women to seek treatment for health concerns and substance abuse, the presence of co-occurring disorders among men could potentially be under-reported. 

Moving Forward

Despite the norms, stigmas, and specific risk factors that contribute to men struggling with their mental health and receiving treatment for it, more and more men are coming forward to share their personal experiences. Male athletes and celebrities, like Michael Phelps, Chance the Rapper, and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, have come forward with stories about their experiences with anxiety and depression. Speaking up about one’s experiences with mental illness directly challenges the stigma around it, opening the doors for others to come forward.

Regardless of societal, cultural, or even self-expectations, what’s most important is for individuals to receive the help and treatment they may need for their mental health. Asking for help is the first step, and if you’re not sure where to start, contact a treatment provider today for more information.

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It’s long been established that the food we eat directly correlates to our overall physical health, but there has been more research in recent years about the mind-body connection, specifically as it relates to nourishment. In the field of study coined “nutritional psychiatry,” scientists are investigating the relationship between food and mood, how what (and even when) we eat can directly influence our mental health and overall wellness.

For many, it can feel challenging to eat with healthful intention. To not only prioritize and maintain proper, helpful eating habits for optimal body functioning, but to also be aware of the connectivity between physical and mental health. However, with knowledge comes power and in the case of personal wellbeing, intention.

The Importance Of Healthy Eating For Those With Addiction

For those struggling with addiction, nutrition is that much more important. Often, when someone suffers under the weight of any substance abuse or addiction, their priorities are skewed and the desire to seek and use substances overpowers even the most basic human needs, like eating. The issue of malnutrition and poor health is twofold in these cases; not only does the pursuit of drugs cause a neglect in proper eating and nutrition, but the substances themselves significantly impact overall body health.

Alcohol, for example, the most used substance in the world, has been linked to various forms of cancer and numerous other conditions when consumed in excess. Methamphetamines alter the production and quality of saliva which makes it a challenge to properly chew and digest food; Cocaine is an appetite suppressant and many times when individuals who use the drug do get around to eating, they’re filling up with carbs and sweets and other empty calories. It is for these reasons that recovery programs must address proper food and nutrition, particularly with an emphasis on education so that patients may learn about the importance of healthy eating for their overall mind and body wellbeing.

How Healthy Eating Relates To The Mind

According to Dr. Drew Ramsey, a leader in the emerging branch of nutritional psychiatry, the American diet (traditionally very heavy in saturated fats and high in nutrient-lacking calories) is a huge contributor to the increasing prevalence of depression. It is ironic that for a country historically concerned with diet and health as it relates to the body, many Americans aren’t even aware that what we eat can influence how we feel.

While the brain houses and controls mental health and overall functioning, there is also a direct relationship between the gut and the mind through the vagus nerve. The GI tract has been referred to as “the second brain” as it is estimated to produce between 90-95% of the body’s serotonin, a chemical that aids in mood regulation and is thought to be a contributor to various mental health disorders like anxiety and depression. Thus, the food we are fueling with matters a great deal. The human brain requires various nutrients like fatty acids and a range of different vitamins to operate most optimally, many of which can be found in various plant-based foods. And yet very few people consume adequate amounts, if any at all. According to a study published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), only 10% or 1 in 10 adults eat the recommended 1.5-2 cups of fruit and 2-3 cups of vegetables per day.

What Should I Eat?

In general, professionals advise individuals to minimize their meat and dairy intake and focus on whole foods like those that contain healthy fats, whole grains, legumes, and other veggies. An emphasis placed on color and variety of natural, nutrient-rich foods ensure that we receive an array of healthy victuals that help us function and perform at our best. One of the biggest problems in today’s society is the reliance on highly processed (but easily/readily available) foods. Many of the preprepared snacks and meals are high in sugar and while sugar can cause a temporary spike in various “feel good” chemicals like dopamine, it actually inflames the gut which feeds the bad bacteria, resulting in mood and energy fluctuations.

Since the brain and nervous system rely on nourishment to build new products like cells and tissues, it is important to feed the body the various carbohydrates, proteins, and minerals it requires. For optimal body and brain health, specialists suggest incorporating (and prioritizing) these food groups into your daily diet:

• Complex carbohydrates: these are foods that consist of sugar molecules that the body turns into glucose; a compound that the body uses as energy. Foods like legumes, beans, whole grains, and various starchy vegetables have high nutritional value and help you stay satisfied longer.
• Lean proteins: proteins work hard to build muscle mass and take care of important functions; lean proteins contain less saturated fats without compromising the nutrients and lead to sustainable energy. Most poultry and fish are lean, but there are plant-based foods like soybeans (in all forms), various nuts, and seeds.
• Fatty acids: healthy acids and oils help to lower cholesterol and aid in the proper functioning of bodily systems; they can be found in various fish and meat products as well as eggs, flaxseeds, and nuts.

There are innumerable diets and paradigms out there on the ultimate, proper health management, but the general consensus agrees on a combination of more fruits and vegetables (high in fiber and antioxidants), equal amounts of proteins and whole grains, and a small amount of natural fat.

How We Eat Also Matters

Our culture is increasingly becoming touch and go, rushing about and scheduling responsibilities and playtime strategically throughout our busy days. Often, we don’t allot the time to savor the foods we’re eating; we watch TV while scarfing down dinner and rarely make mealtime its own destination. What once was an act of necessary, life-giving sustenance is now (for many) merely a pesky pit stop we must make lest we wish to forgo everything else we actually want to do.

Intentional mindfulness (throughout all areas of life, but particularly when eating) can be a great way to get more in tune with your body and the present moment you’re experiencing. Much of health and wellness comes down to an awareness. Once we are attentive, it becomes slightly easier to make decisions that are healthy and wise and right for our own minds and bodies.

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Healthy Eating Doesn’t Cure All

Healthy eating can go a long way. However, it does not cure all. If you or someone you know struggles with mental health concerns or uses substances like alcohol or drugs to self medicate, help is available. Know you are not alone and there are treatment providers waiting to answer your questions and get you the help you need. Reach out today for more information.

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Officially established in 1976, February as Black History Month recognizes and celebrates the lives, accomplishments, and contributions of Black lives and minds throughout the years. While certainly not exhaustive (nor fully extensive by any means), here is a list of Black scholars recognized as more or less pioneers in the fields of psychology, mental health, and addiction medicine.

Dr. Francis Cecil Sumner, PhD

Thought of as the “Father of Black Psychology,” Dr. Francis Cecil Sumner, PhD was the first Black man to earn a PhD in the field in the 1920s. Largely, his interests were in understanding the racial injustice and disparities and working toward educational equality. He was curious as to the way Black individuals were seen in the criminal justice system and the differences between races (specifically Black and White) in terms of mental health.

Dr. Sumner worked in multiple colleges and universities from Louisiana’s Southern University to West Virginia Collegiate Institute (presently West Virginia State College), but interested in improving conditions for Black Americans, accepted a position at Howard University in 1928. Like many other historically Black institutions at the time, the school’s philosophy department housed the psychology classes and Dr. Sumner firmly believed that psychology needed its own faction in order to properly train and educate the future of Black psychologists. A few years later, in 1930, Howard University established its psychology department and Dr. Sumner taught the next generation of Black scholars for 20 years.

Jacki McKinney, MSW

A founding member of the National People of Color Consumer/Survivor Network, Jacki McKinney earned an advanced degree in social work after persevering through numerous traumas in her own life. McKinney used her experience of feeling unheard and underrepresented in the mental health and addiction sector to become an advocate and voice for communities of Color. As a spokesperson, she worked to develop policies against seclusion and restraint (usually seen as a method of detainment for those suffering a mental breakdown), stood for intergenerational family support, and fought for the inclusion and prioritization of mental health care in minority populations. She received several awards and recognition throughout her life, the most notable of them, Mental Health America’s Clifford W. Beers Award which celebrates individuals with a fierce dedication to the overall improvement of widespread care, conditions, and awareness of mental health.

Dr. Altha J. Stewart, MD

In 2018, Dr. Altha J. Stewart became the first Black person and the fourth consecutive woman to lead the American Psychiatric Association (APA). Her career spans nearly 30 years across various sectors and institutions with a primary driving force throughout all: enhanced awareness and care for mental health in minority communities. A member of Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA) National Network to Eliminate Disparities in Behavioral Health (NNED) committee, Dr. Stewart and others work to address the mental health and substance use needs of racially and ethnically diverse communities. During her term as APA president, one of her primary goals was to increase the presence and accessibility of organized psychiatry as she believes there is a level of social responsibility to respond to and improve issues such as racism, sexism, homophobia, and ageism that deeply affect the overall wellbeing of various demographics within the United States.

The recipient of numerous awards and holding a multitude of various titles throughout her life, Dr. Stewart currently teaches at the University of Tennessee and serves on the JED Advisory Board. The JED Foundation is a nonprofit organization that promotes emotional health and wellbeing and works to prevent suicide in young people, providing tools and coping mechanisms to endure life’s hardest moments.

Dr. Andrea G. Barthwell, MD

Recognized as one of the leaders in the addiction treatment field, Dr. Andrea G. Barthwell has taken care to blend research with practice, ensuring that those suffering from addiction feel seen, despite their illness. From practicing clinically to serving as the Deputy Director for Demand Reduction, Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) for President George W. Bush, Dr. Barthwell has a lifetime of experience advocating for communities struggling with addiction and abuse. She has integrated governmental policy with demonstrated community work in health care organizations and published her own research across a widespread assortment of journals.

After serving as president of the American Addiction Society of Medicine (ASAM) she was awarded Fellow status and has since developed and opened holistic treatment centers in several cities across the country. This list is hardly thorough; Dr. Barthwell has numerous other accomplishments and titles to her name and status further proving her admirable dedication to her field. Currently, Dr. Barthwell’s work is centered around expanding access to Opioid treatment and preventing substance use disorders in both individuals and families.

Dr. Gayle K. Porter, PsyD

A licensed clinical psychologist, Dr. Gayle K. Porter’s work has primarily centered on “providing culturally competent information and training on effective and evidence-based interventions, models, materials, resources to reduce emotional and physical health disparities especially in relationship to minority children and adults.” Alongside Dr. Marilyn Gaston, MD, Dr. Porter co-founded The Gaston & Porter Health and Improvement Center which oversees programs such as the Prime-Time Sisters Circle, a curriculum geared toward middle-aged African-American women. Focusing on mental health and positive decision-making, research has shown that participants were able to manage high-risk health behaviors more effectively; the program has received multiple rewards. Dr. Porter is also a member of SAMHSA’s NNED, serving as a trainer and working to improve connections between underserved communities and quality health care.

Delbert Boone

Using his own experiences with Heroin addiction and incarceration, Delbert Boone has been recognized for his notable video contributions as well as his work with various institutions on implementing quality addiction and abuse treatment services. Primarily, his work lies in educating individuals on the intrinsic connection between substance abuse and criminal behavior and his informational videos have won him numerous Telly Awards. A certified substance abuse counselor, Boone speaks with candor and empathy and a deep sense of understanding of what it is like to suffer under the weight of a dependence on drugs and alcohol.

Dr. Howard C. Stevenson, PhD

A clinical psychologist, professor, and overall leader in the racial equity and emotional literacy field (with particular attention to education and literacy), Dr. Stevenson has developed and directed numerous projects and programs that teach children how to develop “healthy racial identities through racial stress management.” Dr. Stevenson is perhaps most widely recognized for his work in creating the Preventing Long-term Anger and Aggression in Youth (PLAAY), a course that empowers youth and their families to mitigate the chronic stress and trauma widely impacting Black boys. Through basketball and “racial socialization,” PLAAY has aided in higher levels of school attendance, reduced suspensions, and overall improved relationships among African-American youth and their peers and teachers. Currently teaching graduate students in Pennsylvania, Dr. Stevenson continues to promote racial awareness and the importance of outreach and emphasized emotional education in underserved communities.

Dr. Lula A. Beatty, PhD

Once a leader in the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), Dr. Lula Beatty’s work has largely centered around ensuring communities of Color receive quality education, care, and treatment, particularly regarding addiction and abuse. From encouraging underrepresented scholars’ participation in drug abuse related research to facilitating programs on strength and mental health awareness in Black families, Dr. Beatty has served on multiple committees and held many positions throughout her career. As the director of the Special Populations Office, Office of the Director at NIDA, her primary responsibilities included cultivating research on ethnic and minority communities as well as developing health disparities programs. She has also overseen projects such as the Diversity Supplement Program, a Historically Black Colleges and Universities Initiative, “an African-American initiative on HIV and criminal justice,” among others.

Leveling The Field

Without the brilliance, dedication, and efforts of these individuals (and numerous others), mental health care would likely look different, especially as it relates to communities of Color. In a field where People of Color are largely underrepresented, the work of these scientists is beginning to close the gap.

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One Final Note

If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, abuse, or any other mental health crisis, there are resources to help you. Reach out to a treatment provider to find out more about your options for help and support. You are not in this alone.

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Euphoria is hardly the first TV show to depict substance use. The Wire, Breaking Bad, Ozark, Dopesick, and others all largely illustrate the overtly stigmatized yet simultaneously overlooked illegal drug trade currently plaguing the nation. What perhaps makes Euphoria different, and what D.A.R.E. (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) advocates are criticizing, is the setting and age group of which the series is based: teenagers in a high school. The show is many narratives in one; it follows a group of teens as they navigate love, loss, and deep personal traumas, but unlike most stories of similar caliber, Euphoria does not shy away from the darker sides of life: the gritty hard stuff like addiction, abuse, and the life-threatening nature of the drug trade.

Despite the intentional viewer discretion notices and messages warning of explicit content meant for mature audiences (and a screen sharing helplines open 24 hours for those struggling as well as an entire resource page on the network’s website), D.A.R.E. believes Euphoria “chooses to misguidedly glorify and erroneously depict high school drug use, addiction, anonymous sex, violence, and other widespread behaviors as common and widespread in today’s world.” This statement, released earlier this year around the launch of the second season of the show, certainly poses a few questions: is Euphoria’s content truly “glorifying” these widespread behaviors or is it accurately depicting a frightening world that teens of today’s generation face daily? One that is rife with reckless sex, varying forms of abuse, and the very real, very frightening underground drug market. Where is the line between promotion and exaggerated reality, especially for the sake of informing viewers of otherwise taboo topics?

Is Familiarity Dangerous?

There was a similar discussion when Breaking Bad received critical acclaim and widespread viewership; many felt that the series glorified Methamphetamine use, even when the show realistically portrayed the horror and self-destruction of those who fall victim to the allure of desperately seeking the next high. Prosecutor Blake Ewing argues that “while Breaking Bad may not glorify Meth in the sense of making it attractive to the average viewer, it does normalize the idea of Meth for a broad segment of society that might otherwise have no knowledge of that dark and dangerous world.” Largely, Ewing believes that what he calls a “false sense of familiarity” – a result of formed connections with the characters in the show – is dangerous because it makes the very existence and prevalence of an entire underlying culture a little less foreign and unknown.

Almost an antithesis to the everlasting adage, “knowledge is power,” the notion that familiarity is “inherently dangerous” (quoted from Ewing’s piece written for Time) is interesting. A technology-dependent society, more and more frequently we learn from the media; screens dictate and depict our inside emotions or that which we are curious to learn more about, often acting as a mirror or a window depending on how we’re feeling when we pick up the remote. Young people are especially perceptible to media and influence and the way different outlets portray and represent behaviors and subcultures such as partying and drug use. For instance, a recent study investigated adolescents’ exposure to various substances’ advertisements and found that there is a correlation between exposure to alcohol content (particularly pointed marketing) and early alcohol consumption.

However, as is the case with Euphoria, when the content is blunt, heavy, and raw, rather than glamorous or sophisticated, are teens more or less likely to relate to the underlying themes? Do they engage in the exhibited dangerous and reckless behaviors simply because they have a greater bandwidth of understanding or simply thank their lucky stars that the characters are behind a screen rather than at their school? It’s hard to know for sure; the show is not even 3 years old.

Is Euphoria A Fair Representation Of High School Today?

Unlike other teen-focused party culture dramas, Euphoria has managed to capitalize on the true and utter desolation of topics like severe teenage drug addiction and intense (and varied) sexual trauma without forfeiting sensitivity. While 13 Reasons Why was criticized for romanticizing suicide and promoting a false narrative that suicide is pointedly blamable, Euphoria is honest, albeit intensely dramatic, but not brooding; in many ways it’s hard to watch. And yet, with multiple storylines and deeply developed characters, the show provides an arguable 360-degree view of the varying conflicts and life choices the characters, and many high schoolers around the world, face.

One local news source in Toronto, Canada reached out to high school students asking if they felt that the show accurately depicted current high school life. Of the responses they received, most students agreed that while certainly exaggerated, thematically, it checks out. “I think our generation has really taken drinking to the next level. Bringing a bottle of vodka and putting it in your locker and being smashed during, like, all periods…that happens,” said one recent graduate from Ontario, Emily Clarizio. Another responder, Alessia Rescigno, age 15, says many teens post content online containing nudity, alcohol, and drugs they’re selling, citing that violence, particularly in cases involving drug deals, is common. “Three of my friends in the last 2 years have died, like, 3 of my friends and…I’m only in grade 10. I don’t think [Euphoria] is exaggerated. I think this is really what happens.”

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Euphoria Fans Defend The Show

While D.A.R.E. is upset that HBO, social media, and critics refer to the show as “‘groundbreaking,'” rather than recognizing the potential negative consequences on school age children who today face unparalleled risks and mental health challenges,” their cry is seemingly falling on deaf ears. The HBO network has not responded to offers of collaboration and many fans have met the claim with zealous criticism of their own stating that D.A.R.E. was the reason they became curious about drugs, while Euphoria scares them away entirely. Sam Levinson, creator, writer, and director of the show purposefully designed the narrator/main character, Rue, (played by Zendaya) based around his own experiences with substance abuse and addiction:

I think it’s crucial that film and television portray addiction in an honest way. That we allow for its complexities to play out. That we show the allure of drugs, the relief they can bring, because that is ultimately what makes them so destructive.

His main intention was to begin a conversation and create space for these issues that so often separate generations and build walls between parents and teens. By purposefully refusing to shy away from both the enticement and the simultaneous danger and devastation drugs promise, Levinson paints a powerful picture meant to replicate and reflect reality.

Art As Conversation Starter: Could Euphoria Encourage Sobriety?

Ultimately, Euphoria is sparking dialogue; precisely the goal. Addiction, assault, familial trauma, sex and gender expression/experimentation, and overwhelming loss are topics and matters of life that are hard and painful to process and work through. Perhaps consciously (and conscientiously) created art that legitimizes this pain is a solid first step toward widespread awareness and eventual recovery.

Get Help Today

Substance abuse and addiction are serious and scary and often leave those who suffer feeling alone. If you or someone you know and love is struggling with addiction, help is available; you don’t have to struggle in silence. Reach out to a treatment provider today to learn more about recovery and rehab options; you deserve to live your best life now.

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