Recovering from a drug or alcohol addiction or any compulsive behavior is a challenging journey, often marked by momentary setbacks. Two standard terms used in the context of substance abuse recovery are "relapse" and "lapse," which describe two different types of setbacks that individuals in recovery may experience.

Overcoming addiction is more than just completing the detoxification and rehabilitation process. Recovery management and aftercare programs play a pivotal role in maintaining sobriety in drug and alcohol addiction recovery. Aftercare is a key component to overcoming addiction and fostering a fulfilling, substance-free life after rehab treatment.

Both holiday parties and the winter blues can contribute to an increased risk of drug and alcohol abuse, either as a means to celebrate or to self-medicate. Whether you're someone who struggles with substance misuse, is sober, or is in addiction recovery, finding healthy coping mechanisms is crucial for navigating the holiday season with ease.

As the temperatures continue to drop and daylight hours lessen, more and more people are experiencing shifts in mood and energy. Mood changes during the fall and winter months are often called the "winter blues" or seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Overcoming the winter blues is possible with strategies that promote physical and emotional well-being and support improved mental health during this time of year.

Recent studies have shown a significant increase in binge drinking and heavy alcohol consumption among women. In the last twenty years, women have had more alcohol-related emergency department visits, hospitalizations, and deaths than men have.

"K2" or "Spice" are lab-made chemicals designed to imitate the effects of cannabis, primarily tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Synthetic marijuana, while marketed as a "safe" and legal cannabis alternative, carries unpredictable side effects and risks, including psychosis, seizures, and organ damage.

While people-pleasing might seem like a harmless personality trait, it often masks more profound emotional struggles that can precipitate mental illnesses like depression and anxiety. Depression, also known as major depressive disorder (MDD), is associated with a range of symptoms, including feelings of hopelessness, persistent sadness, and people-pleasing tendencies.

Game days have become heavily associated with excessive alcohol consumption as a means to celebrate or enhance the fun. Whether you are watching football, basketball, or any major sporting event this season, here are some ways to do so without needing alcohol to have fun.

Despite its vibrant appearance, pink cocaine is a dangerous synthetic drug that contains mixtures of ketamine, xylazine, fentanyl, MDMA, and methamphetamine. Pink cocaine's side effects can be life-threatening, leading to long-term physical and psychological health risks, including overdose.

"Drunkorexia" is a term used to describe the comorbidity of alcohol use disorders (AUDs) and anorexia, where individuals restrict their food intake to "cancel out" the calories from alcohol. This dangerous pattern has begun trending mainly among college students and young adults, highlighting a growing demand for awareness, education, and intervention.

Treatment and recovery are two fundamental yet distinct stages in healing from substance use disorders (SUDs) and mental health disorders. Addiction treatment, often including detoxification, therapy, and medication, focuses on addressing immediate substance abuse and mental health issues. At the same time, addiction recovery is a long-term process of prioritizing health and well-being.

Whether you are in addiction recovery or looking to pursue a healthier lifestyle, sobriety is a transformative commitment. While sobriety offers numerous rewards, it also comes with challenges. Understanding common drawbacks you may face on the road to recovery can help you stay resilient and focused when presented with them.