Blogs

Deciding whether or not you need a medical detox is not something to enter into lightly. Detox is often the first step in the recovery from drug or alcohol abuse. However, it is not always medically necessary. Medical alcohol detox is not the right decision for everyone. There are a lot of factors involved in […]

Speaking about addiction, especially your addiction, is always difficult. It is even more challenging when talking to a child. Not only do you want your children to maintain hope and happiness, but you don't want to burden them with something so complicated, no matter their age. Addiction is an illness that affects every part of […]

Inpatient programs treat individuals with substance use disorder (SUD) and related mental health conditions. Most people attend shorter 30-day programs, but some require long-term residential care. The severity of your symptoms and side effects will determine which program is best for you. Facilities like California Care Detox and Treatment use prescreen and admissions assessments to […]

Alcoholism and anxiety may seem like totally different experiences, but they are often linked more than people realize. Having anxiety can make alcoholism worse, and abusing alcohol can make anxiety worse. About half of people who experience a mental illness will also experience a substance use disorder and vice versa. What is Anxiety? Anxiety is […]

Everyone goes through ups and downs. Sometimes you are sad, and that can last for a while. But depression and sadness are not the same things. Sadness is an emotion, while depression is a mental illness that affects more than 20 million people in the United States alone. You can feel extremely down in the […]

Addiction is a disease that impacts a person’s brain and behaviors, leading to a lack of ability to control the use of drugs or alcohol. Understanding addiction, though, is much more than that. Addiction is a condition with a cause and solution. There are a lot of situations, experiences, and medical reasons why addiction becomes […]

It is no secret that addiction and mental health go hand in hand. Many symptoms of both substance use disorder and mental illnesses are interchangeable. Even with similarities, they are also different for many reasons. That’s not to say they can’t co-occur. However, based on information from the National Institute on Drug Abuse, many people […]

If you feel like you’re drinking too much, you might think cutting back is a good idea. Instead of binge drinking or drinking every day, just reducing your intake should be good, right? Maybe not. Drinking regularly is a common aspect of modern society. Even drinking too much is sometimes viewed as normal. With the […]

Addiction recovery is never easy, and there are a lot of aspects of it that may seem impossible when you’re in the thick of it. Recovery is a unique process for everyone. Therefore, the most complex parts of recovery will vary from person to person. There isn’t any part of recovery that is easy. Every […]

If you are considering going to rehab, congratulations. That is a huge step in the right direction. Maybe you are already scheduled to enter rehab, but you want to do some more research on what to expect from detox. Detox can sound intimidating. Without proper care and supervision, detoxing from drugs or alcohol leads to […]

Drug and alcohol addiction is more common than you probably realize. To give you an idea of how common it is, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration estimated that in 2018, approximately 20.3 million people aged 12 or older had a substance use disorder. Addiction is not something rare or out of the […]

Whether you're in the midst of recovery or just getting started, learning as much as you can about what to expect will offer you a leg up. Knowing how detox and treatment work, understanding what you need to do, and staying on the right path now will help you later. Recovering from an addiction to […]

If you grew up with a parent addicted to alcohol, you had a unique experience that impacted you throughout your life. The unpredictability or anger becomes your norm. Your sense of self and life is drawn from a childhood filled with challenges many children aren’t aware of. The impact of an alcoholic parent on a […]

The dangers of fentanyl within the opioid crisis are vast. Since coming on the market, this drug has made waves and not good ones. It can be a savior for patients with chronic pain but is highly addictive and dangerous. You’ve probably heard about fentanyl busts, drugs laced with fentanyl, and how risky it can […]

For most people, anger can be a healthy emotion when expressed safely, however, it often becomes excessive and unhealthy when in collaboration with addiction. Unmanaged anger can both lead to addiction and be a symptom of it. Someone may turn to substances to avoid or suppress angry emotions, but the interaction of drugs or alcohol […]

Recovery is a lifelong process of sobriety and growth. Having come through treatment is a major milestone in your journey. Accepting your addiction, facing it, and moving forward takes a lot of courage. You’ve accomplished a lot. Once you are out in the world trying to maintain your sobriety, finding activities that are safe and […]

With all the research done concerning addiction, the causes still baffle many experts. It is challenging to nail down the specific cause of someone’s addiction. What makes someone more susceptible to that path? Genetics has always been linked to addiction, but what about experiences? Things you’ve gone through, even as a child, can leave a […]

Odds are you’ve heard of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as it is one of the most common types of therapy available today. Still, that label doesn’t exactly clarify what it is, how it works, or what it does. CBT is a psychotherapy treatment that focuses on patterns of thinking and the beliefs, attitudes, and values that […]

Emotional wounds are not as simple as they may sound. When you get your feelings hurt, some may say you should get thicker skin or stop being so sensitive, but emotional wounds go deeper than that. Emotional wounds impact you the same way a physical wound does. It aches at all times. It can be […]

A panic disorder is not the same as anxiety. Although anxiety can be severe, a panic disorder is even more debilitating. You aren’t only thinking of fear but feeling it physically. Maybe you have heart palpitations, perhaps you’re sweating, or are struggling to breathe. Sure, this sounds like an anxiety attack, but when it occurs […]

There are a lot of misleading assumptions regarding bipolar disorder. Society has misled many of us in regards to mental illness. You may have seen a movie or TV show that portrayed a character with bipolar disorder, but that doesn’t mean that is how it will manifest in you. Although bipolar disorder has its characteristics, […]

Anxiety and addiction do not discriminate. Anyone can be affected by either. And, yes, you can have both. The symptoms of both anxiety and addiction can be similar, so how do you know which you’re struggling from? Understanding Anxiety Anxiety is a term used to describe the feeling of worry or dread. This can be […]

Body image is complex. A lot goes into it, and a lot comes out of it. Society’s impact on one’s body image is immense and, often, damaging. Body image makes up so much of how you see yourself. Someone’s body image can change so many aspects of their life. Mainly, negative body image can be […]

Wondering how to talk to your kids about mental health? It can be an overwhelming and heavy topic. You don't want to freak your kids out, but you want them to understand what mental health is, why it's so important, and how to spot signs they're struggling and learn to ask for help. Whether you […]

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a behavioral disorder associated with an ongoing pattern of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. This was once considered only a problem for children, and they were believed to grow out of it in adulthood, but that has since been disproven. Not only can ADHD last well into adulthood, but it […]

Substance abuse and depression are often co-occurring disorders. Does one lead to the other? Many people assume that it is always depression that leads to self-medication and, eventually, addiction, but it can work the other way as well. Someone who uses drugs or alcohol as a way to ease mental health struggles may further their […]

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a highly misunderstood mental disorder. The media has made it seem silly with television shows and skits, but it is a serious disorder that impacts its sufferers’ daily lives. Although humor can be a helpful release and even a healthy coping mechanism for those struggling with OCD, it is not a […]

Codependency is a prevalent issue in romantic and familial relationships. People often don't recognize it within themselves, yet it can cause many mental health problems. Depending on the lives and happiness of others, to fill your need for joy means lowering your self-esteem. It also leads to struggles in all aspects of your life. When […]

It is no surprise that your quality of sleep impacts your mental health. Your sleep pattern can lead not only to fatigue and lack of focus but also serious mental health struggles. A big part of taking care of your mental health is prioritizing your sleep, but it isn’t as easy as it sounds. As […]

Depression and anxiety, although they seem like opposites at first glance, are not mutually exclusive. You can experience both, even at once. Of course, this sounds overwhelming, and it can be, but it is also treatable. It is so important to remember that both these mental health disorders will not take over your life. With […]

Yoga is both a physical and mental practice that began in India and has since taken off in western cultures. Yoga is the fastest-growing natural therapy, with nearly 21 million people practicing it as of 2017. Yoga is often used for exercise and flexibility, but it goes beyond exercise and physical health. It connects a […]

Students are facing mental health issues at alarming rates. Even before the COVID pandemic, these rates were increasing, however, since 2019 they've become a major cause for concern. Parents, teachers, and of course, students have been struggling more than they have in the past to balance their education, social lives, home lives, and their mental […]

What is mental health? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make healthy choices.” Clearly, mental health and wellness are essential to living […]

Many people don’t receive the treatment they need in addiction recovery because they are in denial. Denial is what prevents change. No matter how your addiction has influenced your life, denial means you are avoiding feelings of guilt and shame that can come along with acceptance. Beating addiction is overwhelming. It is a lifelong journey […]

Therapy has helped so many people, yet it is still something many people don't quite understand. In 2019, 19.2% of adults received mental health treatment. Not understanding what happens in therapy adds to the stigma surrounding mental health treatment. When someone doesn't know what to expect from therapy, it may delay or prevent treatment. You […]

Addiction recovery begins with detox. This is a major physical aspect of recovery, but there is a lot to come. The emotional aspects of recovery are vital to staying sober and preventing relapse. Making amends is more than something to check off your to-do list. It isn’t just the right thing to do but can […]

Unfortunately, addiction is a disease that is often heavily judged by the public. Even when someone is in recovery, there is a lot of judgment regarding the addiction itself and how it started or its effect on others. Even though it is common, many people don’t understand it. Recovery focuses heavily on self-love and forgiveness, […]

When someone struggling with substance use hears the word sobriety, they may think of boredom or a lack of fun. Sobriety can seem overwhelming for someone addicted to drugs or alcohol. Why do you need to have one extreme or another? Can't you cut back? You might think cutting down on candy or sugar is […]

Boundaries can sound like limits, but setting boundaries is essential. Consider your yard. A fence keeps out harmful impacts like deer or intruders and keeps the good stuff in like your pets or kids. Boundaries do not have to be physical limits, they can also include emotional ones. These can protect your mental health, independence, […]

Panic disorders are more common than most people realize. A study from Harvard Medical School estimated that 4.7% of adults in the United States experience a panic disorder at some point in their lives. The commonality of panic disorders, although unfortunate, is one of the reasons they are so well-treated. There is a lot of […]

When you experience anxiety, it can feel impossible to explain. You want to let others know how you're feeling but aren't sure how to articulate it. You might worry that they'll judge you or misunderstand you when you just want support. It doesn't help that simply by having anxiety, you may feel nervous about sharing […]

Congratulations, you did it! You finished rehab. That is a huge step on your recovery journey. As amazing as it is, there is still a lot of work to continue as you adjust to living outside the walls of a treatment center. Recovery does not mean you’re cured, so ensuring that you focus on your […]

Peer support groups are a beneficial recovery aid for those with substance use disorder (SUD). They provide self-awareness, understanding, knowledge, and motivation. Although such groups alone are not usually enough to treat SUD, they are a positive source of encouragement for members. What Is a 12-Step Program? By interacting with others in a similar spot […]

Entering a rehab program can be overwhelming. This can seem intimidating. You’re already going through a difficult time, and now you need to find comfort in a new atmosphere. Whether you choose an inpatient or outpatient program, there are a lot of challenges and adjustments to come. Suppose you’ve never been to rehab before. In […]

Addiction recovery is a lifelong journey. It helps you grow and move forward in your substance-free life. There are a lot of struggles through the recovery process, one of which is cravings. It is not always an uphill battle but rather a winding road. After detox, rehab, and treatment, cravings arise throughout recovery. Even someone […]

Anxiety is extremely common. Whether it be an anxiety disorder or not, anxiety is a part of most people’s lives in some way. Because some level of anxiety is bearable and normal, anxiety disorders are often misunderstood and undertreated. With that, treatment can change the life of someone suffering from anxiety, and acknowledging it is […]

An anxiety attack or panic attack is a brief experience of intense fear or anxiety. It can be overwhelming and often feels like it is happening for much longer than it is. Anxiety attacks are also much more common than many people realize. About 35% of people in the United States will have a panic […]

A variety of individuals use substances. For some, this use leads to a severe addiction with many consequences. For others, addiction does not seem to be a concern. Understanding how addiction begins and the signs to watch for that may indicate addiction can help you and others to catch the potential of addiction early on. […]

Entering detox is a big step that is full of unknown factors. When preparing to enter a detox program, there can be a variety of concerns that arise. Understanding some simple information before beginning this process can help drastically alleviate stress and help you adapt to the changes that are about to be implemented. Understand […]

Worrying about everyday topics such as family, money, and health is normal. What happens if someone in the family becomes gravely ill or your own health becomes compromised? Do economic insecurities keep you up all night while you stare at the ceiling fan? How about worrying if the dentist will find a cavity? If you […]

While many of us are familiar with the term depression, most individuals do not fully understand the severity of the disorder. When you hear that a peer is struggling with depression, you may want to help but don't know where to begin. To best support them, it is important to understand what depression is and […]

Burnout is a common occurrence throughout recovery. Many of the signs of burnout can be similar to the symptoms of depression. Determining if you are struggling with recovery burnout or dealing with a co-occurring disorder can significantly impact your treatment plan. Signs of Burnout There are a few main signs to watch for that may […]

As each rehab program slightly differs in regulations and structure, understanding some basic rules can help you succeed and gain the full benefits from the program as you work toward sobriety. These rules can be used throughout any circumstance and with any treatment accommodations and provide you with some level of benefit when followed. What […]

Support plays an integral part in a successful and effective recovery. The good news is that support can come from various internal and external systems. Regardless of where it comes from, one truth remains the same: no one can fight addiction alone. That's why support is a cornerstone to success. Understanding your role in a […]

Detox, or detoxification, is often known for its physical side effects that accompany withdrawal symptoms. However, detox can unleash a barrage of hidden emotions we never knew existed, also known as triggers and unresolved trauma. Like physical side effects, emotions can’t be avoided and need to be confronted. It is necessary to confront our feelings […]

Human existence is grounded in nature. With that being said, there is no question that nature can do a number on our mental and physical health. Experiencing nature can be as simple as stepping outside. Being outside has proven to be beneficial for nearly all of our internal body systems. If simply being outside can […]

You may not be able to “see” mental illness, but it still hurts people and their loved ones. Like any other disease, they need love, support, and understanding. Additionally, mental illness is painfully misunderstood. However, like many other diseases, there is hope, and mental illness can be curable, if not manageable, through treatment, medication, therapy, […]

Whether you seek treatment for addiction or a mental illness, it is crucial to be your own advocate. Advocating for yourself encourages your growth and progress, it ensures your health and well-being. Yes, doctors have knowledge and degrees, but you know what is best for you. Advocating for yourself is also about asking for help […]

Addiction recovery is a lifelong journey that ebbs and flows. It is a complicated process with many aspects that require focus and attention. Within this is mental health treatment. Mental health and mental illnesses are not separate from substance use disorder (SUD). SUD is a multi-faceted mental disorder commonly linked to other mental conditions like […]

Finding joy in everyday life can feel impossible, especially when faced with mental health issues or addiction. There are a lot of things working against your happiness, but finding even a small bit of joy each day is so beneficial to your overall wellness. Research suggests that your physical health is connected to your outlook […]

Bipolar disorder is not what you see in movies and on television. It is a serious mental disorder with unusual and intense shifts in energy, concentration, and functioning. Even with growing research on the subject, it is still difficult to diagnose as the symptoms can vary from person to person. Bipolar disorder also commonly leads […]

You've probably thought about what your purpose in life is. Are you meant to save lives? Are you meant to be a parent? What is the meaning of every day? That is a loaded question. Your life is full of relationships, responsibilities, pains, and joys that make it what it is. How can you have […]

When self-medicating, it can be anything from taking over-the-counter cold medicine to drinking alcohol or using illegal drugs to treat some sort of unpleasant symptom. Anything you take without a doctor’s orders is considered self-medicating, even holistic measures. Of course, taking something for your headache or heartburn is going to be much safer than drinking […]

Staying motivated can be difficult, even in the simplest situations. Still, when you face everyday life and mental health or addiction recovery, it can feel like you're juggling a million balls at once and want to drop them. Even when things get overwhelming, motivation is a crucial aspect of change. Seeking treatment shows that there […]

If you've been struggling with a mental illness, getting a diagnosis could be your saving grace. But, just because you wanted answers doesn't mean accepting your diagnosis is going to be easy. Having a mental illness is not something to be ashamed of; unfortunately, society still isn't as aware as it should be. Still, your […]

You’ve probably heard of imposter syndrome and have likely experienced its symptoms, as 70% of adults have at some point. Although it is not a medical or psychological diagnosis, it is linked to mental illnesses like anxiety and depression. Imposter syndrome is not exclusive to a certain gender, race, or class. It can affect anyone […]

Stress happens. We all experience it at some point in our lives. Not everyone dealing with stress or a stressful situation turns to drugs or alcohol. But, for many, overwhelming distress without healthy coping skills can result in poor physical and mental health. From there, some people self-medicate to deal with such struggles, which can […]