People with a substance use disorder can also struggle with other mental health conditions, like depression. These two conditions often co-occur, meaning one can lead to the other and vice versa. Many people experience depressive symptoms due to a substance use disorder, while others turn to substances to try to self-medicate their depression. If you…
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Studies show many people with addiction will also experience a co-occurring mental health condition at some point in their lives. Common co-occurring disorders include mood disorders like depression and bipolar disorder and anxiety disorders like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Mental health conditions and addiction occur bidirectionally, meaning one can contribute to the development of the…
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As the warm summer season transitions into a colder fall and winter season, many Americans experience a drop in happiness levels. You might start feeling gloomier and more unmotivated as the seasons change. Some people go to the extreme of overacting and isolating themselves indoors. Even though often overlooked, these are some of the symptoms…
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When recovering from alcohol and drug addiction, holidays can be pretty challenging. There are numerous addiction triggers during the holidays. Fortunately, you were taught how to recognize relapse triggers and develop a strategy for managing them during your addiction treatment sessions. Family/friend connections, festivities, and familiar places can all spark an emotional connection to your…
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Marijuana is one of the most popular illicit substances in the world and continues to become more prevalent in many societies as medical and recreational marijuana become more common. If you listen to some proponents for marijuana legalization, you’ll hear that pot cures cancer as well as a host of other benefits and is completely…
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Your general emotional well-being can be affected by several things throughout your life. Taking substances, whether legally prescribed or illicit, is one of the rising causes of mood disorders among people. Understanding the effects of substance use on your mood will equip you with the signs of misuse and show you how to prepare for a mood…
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The rehabilitation process for individuals with addictions can be a taxing time for those involved. Naturally, the strain mostly falls on the person in rehabilitation, but if you are someone they trust and are going through the process with them, you need to take care of yourself as well. If you need assistance on this…
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Being around family during the holiday season is a time for celebration and joy. However, if you’re trying to achieve an alcohol-free holiday, you can take steps to maintain your sobriety if you struggle with it. The following guide will assist you with actionable steps to avoid the temptation of being around alcohol while staying…
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An addictive personality is a set of certain personality traits that put individuals more at risk for addiction — it’s not an actual medical diagnosis. In fact, experts debate whether or not an addictive personality type actually exists. The reality is that substance use disorder is a disease that can affect anyone, regardless of their…
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While you may think it a harmless practice, reaching for a beer or a glass of wine after a stressful day puts your health at risk. Alcohol and stress often go hand in hand, becoming an unhealthy coping mechanism that can turn into alcohol dependence. Luckily, there are healthy alternatives to help you cope with…
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