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.

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.

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In the midst of a global pandemic the United States is also dealing with an epidemic. The devastating synthetic Opioid (primarily Fentanyl) use and overdose epidemic is taking lives at astounding rates.

For starters, let’s do a quick review of the 4 categories of Opioids commonly seen in Opioid overdose:

• Natural Opiates (including Morphine and Codeine) and semi-synthetic Opioids (drugs like Oxycodone, Hydrocodone, Hydromorphone, and Oxymorphone). Commonly prescribed as an analgesic (pain reliever).
• Methadone, a synthetic Opioid. Typically used for medication assisted treatment of Opioid use disorder and also pain management.
• Synthetic Opioids other than Methadone (drugs like Tramadol and Fentanyl). Commonly prescribed as an analgesic (pain reliever). Fentanyl is a synthetic and short-acting Opioid analgesic that is 50-100 times more potent than Morphine.
• Heroin, an illicit (illegally made Schedule I) Opioid synthesized from Morphine that can be a white or brown powder, or a black sticky substance. Schedule I substances under the Controlled Substances Act have a high potential for abuse and no currently accepted medical use for treatment in the United States.

For most of my 30-year career in the field of substance use treatment, I have seen the impact of this epidemic morph, grow, and just like the disease of addiction itself, it has become insidious and progressively worse.

The Opioid epidemic predates the pandemic with the first wave beginning in the 1990’s with increased prescribing of Opioids. Most overdose deaths during this time involved prescription Opioids (natural and semi-synthetic Opioids and Methadone).

In 2010, the second wave began with rapid increases in overdose deaths involving Heroin.

The third wave began in 2013, with significant increases in overdose deaths involving synthetic Opioids, particularly Fentanyl manufactured illicitly in clandestine ways. Fentanyl was initially developed in 1959 and introduced to the United States in the early 1960’s as an effective anesthetic to be used during medical procedures.

As a foreshadowing of sorts, my first introduction to the potency of Fentanyl was even earlier than 2013 when I worked for health practitioners’ monitoring program from 2003-2007. I had anesthesiologists on my caseload whose drug of choice was Fentanyl. I recall one instance where the anesthesiologist, during surgery, had one IV line going into a patient and another line going into themselves under the table; they overdosed during surgery.

It was during this time frame when we would say that the first sign that someone had relapsed on Fentanyl was death. Meaning, most people did not have the same progressive use and tolerance leading to overdose and subsequent revival stories we would typically see with other Opioids/Opiates. Instead, their first return to Fentanyl use was immediate overdose and death.

Deaths From The Synthetic Opioid Epidemic

The market for illicitly manufactured Fentanyl continues to grow and change. Fentanyl can be found mixed in Heroin, pain killers, and Cocaine. Synthetic Opioids, illicitly made Fentanyl in particular, are the primary driver of the increases in overdose deaths.

According to the Center for Disease Control’s (CDC) National Center for Health Statistics, there was a decline in Heroin overdose deaths 4.1% from 2017 to 2018; however, the Fentanyl related overdose deaths continued to increase as Heroin users were introduced to the more potent Fentanyl. Sometimes they unknowingly had Fentanyl mixed in their Heroin as drug dealers sought more profit. Other times Heroin users abandoned Heroin for what they thought and hoped was Fentanyl which led to their demise.

The number of overdose deaths increased 18.2% from the 12-months ending in June 2019 to the 12-months ending in May 2020.

Overdose death estimates indicate that the largest monthly increases in drug overdose deaths occurred in the 12-months ending in April 2020 (77,842 deaths) to the 12-months ending in May 2020 (81,230 deaths). These one-month increases of 2,146 deaths and 3,388 deaths, respectively for the 12-month periods, are the largest monthly increases documented since 12-month estimates began to be calculated in January 2015.

Where Is The Synthetic Opioid Use And Overdose Epidemic Now?

As stated above, the increases in drug overdose deaths appear to have accelerated during the COVID-19 pandemic. We are learning that many variables during the pandemic are the cause of this increase (e.g. social isolation, decrease in healthcare insurance for substance use treatment, waiting list for substance use treatment, increase in untreated mental health disorders, changes in access to medication and subsequent drug supply, financial strain, stress, pre-existing medical conditions exacerbated, poor coping skills, etc.).

Data from the CDC National Center for Health Statistics indicate that there were an estimated 100,306 drug overdose deaths in the United States during the 12-month period ending in April 2021, an increase of 28.5% from the deaths during the same period the year before.

Overdose deaths from psychostimulants such as Methamphetamine also increased in the 12-month period ending in April 2021.

Official CDC Health Advisory Recommendations

The CDC has generated many health alerts and health advisories related to the pandemic and the epidemic as they both are significant public health concerns. Below is an abbreviated sample of the Emergency CDC Health Advisory #CDCHAN-00438 entitled, “Increase in Fatal Drug Overdoses Across the United States Driven by Synthetic Opioids Before and During the COVID-19 Pandemic.”

1. Expand the provision and use of Naloxone, a medication that can immediately reverse an overdose to an Opiate, and overdose prevention education by:
2. Increasing awareness, access, and proper administration of the general public through the use of public health departments and community-based organizations.
3. Increasing awareness about potency of drugs, consequences of mixing drugs and using drugs alone.
4. Healthcare providers:

• Talk to patients about the changing illicit risks for overdose and exposure to highly potent Opioids such as illicitly manufactured Fentanyl.
• Prescribe Naloxone to individuals at risk for Opioid overdose.
• Co-prescribe Naloxone to patients with high Morphine milligram equivalents and those receiving Opioids and Benzodiazepines.
• Expand locations in which overdose prevention education and take-home Naloxone are provided.
• Counsel patients that multiple doses of Naloxone may be needed for a single overdose event because of the potency of illicitly manufactured Fentanyl and Fentanyl analogs.

1. Harm reduction organizations:

• Increase the provision of overdose prevention education and take-home Naloxone to people who use drugs, their friends, and others likely to witness or experience an overdose.
• Ensure that individuals have sufficient doses of take-home Naloxone to account for the potency of illicitly manufactured Fentanyl and Fentanyl analogs.
• Call 911 immediately after recognizing an overdose or resuscitating a patient. Naloxone available in the field may not be sufficient to reverse the overdose.
• Prioritize Naloxone distribution to people who use drugs following periods of abstinence and during transitions where Opioid tolerance may have waned. There is a higher risk of overdose during these periods.

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A Look Ahead

March 28, 2022, President Biden called for increased funding to address addiction and the overdose epidemic. “A core component of President Biden’s Unity Agenda is beating the Opioid and overdose epidemic that claims an American life every five minutes,” said Dr. Rahul Gupta, Director of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP).

“The requested increased funding would support the expansion of evidence-based prevention, treatment, harm reduction, and recovery support services, with targeted investments to support underserved communities, reduce the supply of illicit drugs like Fentanyl and stop drug trafficking,” says the March 28, 2002 press release.

Finding Help

If you or someone you love is using illicit drugs, there is no guarantee for safety. Illicit drugs can contain dangerous levels of Fentanyl that is unrecognizable by the human eye. Ceasing drug use is the only real way to protect yourself from an overdose. As the synthetic Opioid epidemic continues, take advantage of free resources available to you, and reach out to a treatment provider here. A treatment provider can have a confidential conversation with you about the admission process into a licensed treatment facility.

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The post The Synthetic Opioid Epidemic appeared first on Addiction Center.

When we take a look a look around, we cannot escape the fact that there are many things happening in our lives, homes, communities, states, countries, the world, and our planet that are having an effect on us. It can often be difficult to manage stress.

In my 30 years as a substance abuse counselor, life recovery coach, employee assistance professional, and corporate trainer, I have never seen such a dramatic collective increase of stress, anxiety, and depression.

Building resilience is one effective way to improve symptoms related to these mental health concerns.

Merriam-Webster’s dictionary defines resilience as, “An ability to recover from or adjust easily to misfortune.” Most people think of resilience as the ability to bounce back after adversity or a stressful situation.

As resilience research has evolved, we have come to understand that resilience is the ability to successfully adapt and effectively cope in the face of adversity such that recovery is beyond bouncing back or “surviving” to an improved state of being or “thriving.”

The experience of stress, anxiety and depression is not only emotional but also physical and physiological. Learning healthy ways to cope and manage has never been more important. This article provides practical and healthy suggestions for building resilience by managing symptoms related to stress, anxiety, and depression.

23 Actions You Can Take Today

1. Do a physical activity for at least 20 minutes, 3 to 4 times a week.

Taking a walk, dancing to your favorite playlist, cycling, roller skating, yoga, swimming, carefully going up and down stairs, or jumping jacks are a few options. Our bodies have a natural desire to relieve or release stress-related hormones, like cortisol, adrenaline, and norepinephrine. Doing a physical activity, regularly and consistently, releases stress hormones versus having them build up inside in our body which can lead to toxicity and stress-related illness. It also increases “feel good” chemicals like endorphins, serotonin, dopamine, and stress neutralizing chemicals like oxytocin.

2. Spend time in the sun to re-energize.

The sun increases Vitamin D, a necessary nutrient to boost immunity, bone health, and improve cognition and symptoms related to depression.

3. Body of water.

Try looking at a lake or pond, laying on the beach, swimming, or being on a boat. Stay in the present by focusing on what you are experiencing through your senses (What do you see, hear, smell, and feel?). This is a mindfulness practice that can quiet your thoughts by shifting your focus.

4. Take a bath or foot soak with Epsom salt (minimum 20 minutes).

The magnesium in the salt will help to ease muscle tension and promote sleep. Add an essential oil like lavender to boost results.

5. 4-7-8 Breathing.

This breathing technique has been scientifically proven to decrease symptoms of stress, anxiety and help with sleep if practiced regularly. Proper form is important: Sit up straight or lay down on your back. Start with a 4 second inhalation through your nose. Keep your shoulders and chest down and expand your belly with air; this is called diaphragmatic breathing. Hold for 7 seconds, then exhale through an open mouth for 8 seconds. Do 4 repetitions at least once a day. Doing a breathing exercise increases oxygen in our blood and decreases a build of carbon dioxide.

6. Drink chamomile tea.

Chamomile tea can naturally promote sleep and help with relaxation.

7. Limit caffeine, Nicotine, and sugar.

These chemicals have a stimulating effect.

8. Unplug to recharge.

When we see and hear too much fear-provoking or violent information (news and social media) it causes the release of stress hormones. Just as your phone needs time to recharge, so do we. Disconnecting by taking a digital detox each day can help you manage stress, sleep better, and spend time doing other activities.

9. Listen to music.

Happy, soothing, dancing, or sing-along music. Listening to the right kind of music can improve our mood.

10. Do some gardening.

Whether it’s pulling weeds or planting seeds, both can be helpful in relieving stress.

11. Release oxytocin.

Oxytocin is a chemical that neutralizes stress hormones. Release it by laughing, hugging a loved one, eating chocolate, and petting a pet.

12. Meditation, used for thousands of years, is very effective to help you center and relax.

There are many free apps and videos for beginners. Put your earbuds in and limit distractions. Beginner meditations are less than 15 minutes. Developing a regular meditation practice will give you a few minutes of mental rest.

13. Try a weighted blanket.

Adding heaviness to you comforter or buying a weighted blanket can help ease anxiety, manage stress, and promote sleep.

 14. Use essential oils or candles.

Lighting a scented candle or diffusing essential oils like lavender, ylang-ylang, and chamomile can promote relaxation and take the edge off nerves.

15. Focus on gratitude.

When negative thoughts become overwhelming, focusing on gratitude can help to neutralize them. Write a daily gratitude list of 5 things you are thankful for (try to make them different each day).

16. Grounding technique.

While there are many others, the Five Senses technique is a common grounding technique. In this exercise, you’ll identify 5 sights, 4 sounds, 3 physical sensations, 2 smells, and 1 taste (say them out loud). This increases awareness of your surroundings and can make you feel more present and connected versus future focused which often increases anxiety.

17. Practice progressive muscle relaxation technique.

Tighten and relax muscle groups in your body from head to toe. For example, starting with your forehead, tighten and squeeze your facial muscles, hold for 10 seconds (breath in and exhale) and release, then work your way down your body (shoulders, biceps, triceps, hands, etc.).

18. Clean and organize.

Cleaning a drawer, closet, or room exerts energy and relieves stress. The result helps us to feel accomplished, have clearer thoughts, and feel at peace.

19. Sound therapy.

Listen to white noise, rain, ocean waves, or the song of a singing bowl. All of these can be found with a search online. Find one that is soothing and relaxing.

20. Use a heated a blanket.

If you don’t have a heated blanket, you can put a towel, robe or blanket in the dryer for 15-20 min. Take it out and wrap yourself in it like a warm hug. Feel your stress melt away.

21. Herbal Supplements.

Talk with your health provider about taking natural herbal supplements: St. John’s Wort (depression), or Ashwagandha (managing stress and anxiety), melatonin (sleep), or valerian root (stress and anxiety).

22. Find your words.

Check out an online resource designed to make it easier to open up about mental health and empower more people to ask for help, take action, and support others like FindYourWords.org

23. Shift your focus.

Remember that your peace of mind can be determined by your point of focus. What you chose to focus on will determine how your feel. Focus on positivity, health, and healing.

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Help Is Always Available

24/7 hotlines are always available to you. Access the National Suicide Lifeline at 1-800-643- TALK (8255) or the Anxiety/Panic Disorder Information Hotline at 1-800-64-PANIC (72642). To get in touch with someone to discus rehabilitation options for substance abuse or mental health disorders, call a treatment provider for free here.

The post 23 Tips For Building Resilience And Managing Stress appeared first on Addiction Center.

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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“Swiping right” on modern dating apps can bring users one step closer to matching with a potential partner, but drug dealers in Florida are abusing this opportunity to sell their wares. Detectives with the Polk County Sheriff Office alleged that 52 people used the LGBTQ dating apps Grindr, Scruff, and Taimi to sell Methamphetamines, Cocaine, Fentanyl, Marijuana, and other drugs.

Detectives created undercover profiles and were able to buy nearly a pound and a half of Marijuana, one of the most commonly sold drugs, and 280 grams of Meth through online sales. This operation, dubbed “Swipe Left for Meth,” illustrated how individuals explicitly promoted drugs on their dating profiles. Potential buyers only had to swipe left on a photo to express their interest or send a direct message, with little to no moderation from the platform.

Grindr, self-described as the world’s largest social networking app for the LGBTQ community, saw more sales than the other 2 investigated apps. Grindr, Scruff, and Taimi strictly prohibit the selling and promoting of drug use, but users have previously accused Grindr of not doing enough to police illegal drug sales. Users across all platforms are encouraged to report suspicious and threatening activities, but many profiles slip through the radar.

Secret Language On Dating Apps

Individuals selling or looking to buy drugs on dating apps and social media discreetly use emojis and code words to conceal their sales and inquiries. Usually, app algorithms will flag or delete the content that explicitly discusses drug use before users see it. A typical loophole to avoid detection is to use emojis or code words. Common emojis used include snowflakes or snow for Cocaine, diamonds for Crystal Meth, and an electrical plug for a drug dealer or “plug.” These emojis signify the amount of the drug, the type, the strength, and the purity. Recognizing the double-meaning of emojis is imperative to monitoring and identifying potential drug sales.

However, using emojis is not the only way drug dealers and buyers identify their interests. Individuals can just look for a capital “T.” Profiles that include what seems to be randomly capitalized Ts or acronyms in the title or bio are signaling that they are looking for or selling “Tina” – Meth’s street name. This capitalization also appears in terms like “parTy and play” or “PNP,” which describes a term used by some gay men to describe a sexual encounter while under the influence of drugs. Some Grindr users even report receiving messages “nearly every day” from someone asking them to participate in “PNP.”

Dangers Of Buying Drugs Online

Fake prescription pills, commonly laced with Fentanyl and Methamphetamine, are sold across most social media platforms, making them attainable to anyone with a smartphone or internet. This accessibility of illegal substances is alarming on multiple fronts, but of most concern is the risk of lethal overdose due to laced or counterfeit drugs. According to the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), for every 5 pills the DEA seized in 2021, 2 out of the 5 pills contained a lethal amount of Fentanyl which is 50 to 100 times more potent than Morphine. Often, individuals purchasing drugs online or in-person trust the dealer and the product at face value, but many dealers cut their product with other substances like Fentanyl. Being able to purchase drugs through apps only expedites this risk of exposure and increases the reach of drug distribution.

Since teens and young adults are the most prevalent demographic amongst social media platforms, parental figures can help guide and monitor online activities for younger children and teens. Behavioral signs that may signify an individual is purchasing illicit drugs online include:

• Displaying secretive behavior when online such as switching between web pages or quickly exiting a page when someone walks into the room.
• Lying or deceitful behavior.
• Increase in spending money or missing money.
• Increase in received packages.
• Spending more time alone in their room or locking the door.
• Changes in behavior or changes in sleep habits.

Apps And Drug Distribution

Dating platforms are not the only apps experiencing high rates of drug distribution; Snapchat and Instagram are facing growing concerns with drug dealing. The nature of social media and its algorithms is to push content that they believe an individual wants based on their activity on the platform. For example, if individuals are actively searching for a particular drug through hashtags, they are likely to connect with a dealer or someone affiliated. Once a point of contact is made, it only takes a couple direct messages to make a sale. Additionally, the disappearing chat and photo feature on Snapchat can make some drug deals nearly untraceable. These innovative features like hashtags, trending pages, “Quick Add” contacts, and disappearing direct messages can build a hidden web of drug distribution that police officials have difficultly tracking.

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Cracking Down On Online Drug Dealing

In a 2016 study of gay dating apps, LGBTQ blog WEHOville reported that only Grindr “allowed its users to openly include emojis and text in their profiles that indicated they were drug users or sellers.” One month after the report, the app censored a few well-known drug emojis and words, but the app’s drug market is still present today. A Grindr spokesperson states that the app “prohibits the promotion of drug use in its user-profiles and is committed to creating a safe environment through digital and human screening tools to help its users connect and thrive.” The common thread throughout most social media apps is that they rely on their users to report inappropriate content, but police departments across the country are aiming to investigate more cases of drug selling and promotion on apps and other social media platforms.

The post Drug Dealers Use Dating Apps To Peddle Drugs appeared first on Addiction Center.

By and large, winter festivities are meant to be a time to relax and unwind. They can afford us a crucial opportunity to rest, recharge, take stock of our lives, give thanks, and plan for the next year. However, for some, staying sober during holidays can seem like a Herculean task.

It doesn’t have to be. Those who are afflicted by substance use disorders or mental health conditions of any kind may have at least 2 options when the holidays roll around: choose to spend time with family and/or friends in as healthy a way as possible, or elect to go one’s own way — and in so doing, potentially make the most of this important period of rejuvenation and reflection.

Ideas about how to pursue either course most effectively are below. No matter your faith or lack thereof, your country of birth, or your personal history, you deserve to enjoy a well-deserved break.

Tips For Family & Friend Gatherings

The most strongly-held resolves and most closely-protected recoveries can seem to shatter when you are around potentially triggering elements like people you knew while you were using, the stressors of having to plan or attend large social gatherings, and/or environments where a lot of alcohol is being consumed.

Following some of the advice below may not only help you with staying sober over the holidays, but may also lead to feeling — if not “merry and bright” — far better than you would have otherwise.

• Make a plan. It’s been said that no plan survives contact with the enemy. But by outlining a few key things — like when you’ll arrive and leave, what transportation you’ll use, which words you’ll select to say “no” to a drink or a drug (“no,” by the way, being a fine option) — you can give yourself a strong foundation to lean on when the “enemy” of relapse rears its head.
• Get a Trojan horse. Grab a soda water with lime, a mocktail, a non-alcohol beer, a glass of fruit juice, or whatever you need to feel (and look) like you’re drinking while keeping your BAC on the ground floor. It might relieve the social pressure — and it might even taste good, too.
• Have a buddy. Let a sponsor, friend, relative, neighbor, or trusted coworker know that staying sober during holidays can be tough for you. Ask them if they wouldn’t mind your calling during the festivities to vent, check in, or ask for advice. If your list of contacts is short these days — and no one could blame you for that — then consider taking a break to spend time with a good book or a movie; additionally, thinking of a role model you have and imagining what they might do in the situation could be beneficial.
• Find a way to move. Sitting still can make us anxious and facilitate cravings. Get a reason to shuffle your feet and get your blood pumping: it can be dancing, cooking, cleaning, going for a walk, playing a game, or even just stretching. By getting into your body, you mitigate your mind’s ability to tell you stories you’ll regret believing tomorrow.
• Remember to HALT. You’re certainly at risk of not being entirely yourself when you’re peckish; additionally, anger, loneliness, and tiredness can make us act in ways that are out of character and maladaptive. Remember, when you’re hungry, angry, lonely, or tired, it’s time to halt — take no action until you meet those needs fully and have time to process what the “real you” really wants.
  
  

  

  

  

  

  

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Choosing To Do Your Own Thing

Sometimes, no matter the coping strategies available, being around others just isn’t on the menu; if that’s what you need to accomplish staying sober over holidays, so be it.

That could be a blessing in disguise; it’s possible that spending time alone or with new, likeminded people can be immensely beneficial. Here are some ways to do just that.

• Volunteer. Contact a local food bank, visit the Salvation Army’s website, consider charities like the Linus Project or Give Kids The World. Identify a cause that’s important to you, or people you care about, and go help. As a result, you might think about yourself less — and feel the warm glow of having acted out of compassion for no reason other than compassion’s sake.
• Get a room. Book a hotel room for yourself. Fill it with whatever you want: favorite movies, books, trinkets, photos, or memories. Be wary of being too isolated, however, and consider talking over the phone or videoconferencing with someone you know — or at the very least, making some chit-chat with the staff. But if you want to get away from it all until the hubbub is over and lock yourself away in sheets you don’t have to wash, you have that right.
• Attend a group. Support groups meet both in-person and virtually; holidays are especially important times for these groups, and they know to expect new visitors concerned with staying sober over the holidays. Alcoholics Anonymous (based on the 12 Steps and a higher power) and SMART Recovery™ (based on self-efficacy and less concerned with faith or belief) are 2 great options — they’re easily searched for online, and they’re free.
• Get out in nature. This may not be feasible everywhere! If you can, though, consider going for a hike or another activity that allows you to surround yourself with the great outdoors. If you’re somewhere frigid, bundling up as tightly as you can and going for a walk — provided it’s safe — could still be a good way to clear your head.
• Create your new year. Sit down with a pen and paper, or just your imagination, and draft your “mission statement” for the new year. Outline goals. Consider personal values and boundaries. Act like you’re the CEO of a company and you’re implementing a strategic action plan to increase the bottom line (your happiness). Visualizing helps. If you can see the possibilities, they’re already within your reach.
  

Staying Sober During Holidays And Beyond

You’re not in this alone (unless you want to be — and even then, just know isolation can be hazardous and that we’re all rooting for you.)

If you want more advice or more help on staying sober during holidays and beyond, consider learning some new traditions for a new year (and a new life) inside of a treatment center or via outpatient care.

Contact a treatment provider now, for free, for more information.

In the meantime, happy new year!

The post Guarding Sobriety Over The Holidays appeared first on Addiction Center.

Recovering from addiction is not linear. There are ups and downs, and sometimes a step forward leads to two steps back. Relapse is, unfortunately, a common part of recovery. According to the American Medical Association Journal, about 50% of people relapse within a year of treatment. Nearly half of the people recovering from drug, alcohol, or behavioral addictions may take several tries to kick a habit completely. 

Still, backsliding into substance abuse or a behavioral addiction is not something that happens overnight. It is a slow process that begins with a thought and then a few more until it leads to use. It can start weeks or months before an individual picks up a drink or drug. People in later stages of relapsing typically experience thoughts like, “One drink is okay,” or “I’m just hanging out with friends. It’s not a big deal if I smoke,” long before actually using. But during those moments of denial, a person has already entered the early stages of relapse. 

Signs Of Relapse

Though relapse is common, with the right tools and support of loved ones and treatment professionals, it is avoidable. Recognizing the signs is vital but not easy. It is easier to distinguish resurfacing toxic habits in some versus others. Still, there are some universal ways to identify if your loved one is amid a rebound. Below are some of the common signs of relapse, according to several medical studies and researchers.

High Levels Of Stress

If your loved one is experiencing high stress levels due to a significant change or a build-up of minor things, pay closer attention to them. Stress is one of the most powerful predictors of relapse, and unfortunately, there is a lot of it in the modern world. Circumstances like searching for a job, divorce, or even adjusting to life outside of rehab can lead to a slip. Other indicators like an over reaction to “spilled milk” or misplaced keys can also indicate your loved one is feeling overwhelmed by the smaller inconveniences of life. 

Attitude And Behavior Towards Sobriety 

When a loved one first leaves rehab, they may seem proud and excited to continue their journey towards recovery. They will attend support groups, engage with sponsors, and practice habits learned during treatments. But if you notice those practices are beginning to fall off, take note. If your loved one, for whatever reason, is participating less in their recovery program or seems less enthusiastic about their sobriety, something is wrong. If you see a change in their healthy routines or find their behavior defensive and avoidant, that is a red flag.

Social Avoidance And Isolation 

Right after leaving a treatment facility, it is normal for a person to feel uncomfortable around others. But if the individual is making no attempts to socialize or always has an excuse for why they can’t attend an event, something is off. Your loved one may even be cutting off people who support their sobriety. If you notice their hygiene is worsening whenever you do see them, a change in their weight, or that they look tired, take note.

 Risky Behavior And Exposure

For individuals to maintain and support their recovery, they have to make a complete lifestyle change. But when someone is relapsing, they may begin to fall back into old habits like making risky decisions. They make irrational choices like attempting social drinking or recreational drug use. If you notice your loved one is having trouble making healthy choices, seems confused, or has self-control issues, they may be relapsing. Another indicator is if they are hanging out with the same social circles who influenced their use in the first place. 

Ways To Prevent Relapse 

The symptoms listed above are only some of the common ways to identify relapse. Sadly it is not always easy to recognize when someone you love is backsliding. It could take weeks or months before anyone notices the problem. The phenomenon is intrusive, sneaky, and can happen to anyone in recovery. Still, there are ways to combat it. 

Below are some of the most common ways to help your loved one combat a relapse: 

• Encourage self-care.
• Please do your best to make them feel safe communicating with you.
• Identify their triggers and help your loved one avoid them.
• Keep things light and fun by suggesting new activities or travel.
• Have an open mind and avoid judgment.
• Ask them if they’d like you to attend therapy or support groups with them.
• Keep alcohol or drugs out of sight.
• Be honest about your struggles and how you overcame them.
• Offer support whenever possible.

Relapses happen; it is part of the recovery process. The path towards sobriety is achievable yet often messy. If you notice your loved one is possibly relapsing, do your best to help. Pay attention to the signs and intervene as soon as you can. But remember, if they do relapse, it is not because of anything you did or did not do. So be patient with them and with yourself. It’s all part of the process.

Find Help For Relapse Prevention

If you or a loved one are experiencing a relapse, there is help available. Treatment providers can answer rehab-related questions and provide treatment information. Reach out to a treatment provider today.

The post Signs My Loved One Has Relapsed appeared first on Addiction Center.