Your loved one has completed treatment for alcohol use disorder and seems committed to living a life of sobriety. However, you start to notice that their behavior seems just as problematic as it did when they were in active addiction. They’re angry or depressed; they have dramatic mood swings; they isolate themselves. What’s going on? […]
The United States has seen a huge uptick in drug and alcohol addiction over the past few years. Densely populated cities are not the only areas affected by the disease. From rural communities to the seemingly safe suburbs, substance abuse does not discriminate. It has affected millions nationwide and thousands in Iowa state alone. Rising
During addiction recovery, many experience depression, lethargy, and mental fogginess. Some may even experience insomnia, digestive abnormalities, and a slew of other symptoms while transitioning to a sober lifestyle. Fortunately, advancements in medical research suggest potentially therapeutic steps we can take to combat some of these unwanted conditions–starting with diet and nutrition. The Importance of
Chronic misuse of alcohol may have far greater health effects than many people realize. When alcohol is heavily and regularly consumed over time, the body becomes impaired in many ways. These disruptions to natural bodily processes can cause a waterfall effect of health concerns, including the often misdiagnosed or under recognized Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome. About Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome
Music: A Universal Language Music is a universal language that any and all can enjoy. The diverse selection of genres offers unique experiences for listeners, including some health benefits you may have not known about. Music has the power to improve our emotional state, increase self-esteem and positive body awareness, and enhance our cognitive abilities.
Addiction recovery professionals and those who have lived the experience first-hand can both attest to the potential complications of dating in recovery. A feeling of loneliness and seclusion, especially at the beginning of recovery, can compel people to fill that emptiness with romance, dating, and committed companionship. However, many advise abstaining from new romantic relationships
Our current times are filled with immense uncertainty and tension. The COVID-19 health crisis and political uproar have caused even more stress in an already disturbed environment. It is not abnormal to be experiencing a bit of fear and hopelessness in the wake of these events, especially while moving through the addiction recovery process. Using
It’s Almost Summer! Summertime is just around the corner. As much as many of us look forward to summer months, traditional summer events can be a trigger for those trying to maintain sobriety. Outdoor barbeques, beach hangouts, and late-night soirees may cause many in recovery to feel vulnerable to potential slips or relapses. Although this
What Is Mindfulness? Mindfulness is a practice of awareness that allows us to connect deeper with self and with others. It can help reduce stress and teach us to be more patient, compassionate, and empathetic–qualities that come in handy as we adapt to social distancing while also focusing on our addiction recovery journey. Mindfulness incorporates