Navigating the complexities of treatment for individuals struggling with severe substance use or emotional challenges can be overwhelming. In Virginia, there are legal mechanisms to help individuals receive the care they need, even if they are initially unwilling to participate. One such mechanism is the process of involuntary treatment. Whether you’re seeking help through mental…
What does it mean to have a dual diagnosis? Many people with mental health issues also suffer from addiction. Sometimes it is because people turn to drugs or alcohol as a way to cope with their mental health issues. In other cases, it is because addiction can lead to mental health issues. For example, people…
Whether you are out with friends, celebrating a holiday or milestone, or at a party, there will likely be alcohol. It can be easy to get carried away, especially when you are more focused on the people you are with and not what you are consuming. This can be dangerous, as drinking too much alcohol…
Between work, relationships, and other daily tasks, there are a lot of stressors that people have to take on each day. It is normal to find ways to decompress and relax. However, not everybody makes the best decisions when it comes to winding down. It may seem harmless to partake in a recreational drug like…
Addiction affects the person with or recovering from a substance use disorder and the people in their lives. Family and friends want what is best for their loved ones, and it hurts them to see someone they care about struggle with addiction. It’s not always easy to figure out the best course of action when…
One of the hardest things to do is stay sober during the pandemic. Addiction is a disease that puts individuals in recovery at a high risk of relapse. While many in addiction recovery already know to steer clear of emotional and physical triggers, the COVID-19 global pandemic has created new twists to maintain sobriety. Fortunately,…
Holidays are a time for relaxation and celebration. But for many individuals, it can be a time of stress, anxiety, and dread. Planning parties, meeting people’s expectations, and juggling different priorities can significantly affect one’s mental and physical health. However, with the right help and support, managing holiday anxiety shouldn’t be difficult. If you or…
Individuals struggling with a substance use disorder often feel isolated and that they are fighting their battle alone. While it is true that those suffering from addiction or mental health disorders tend to withdraw from friends and family, their problems do not occur in a vacuum. Addiction is a disease that impacts the lives of…
Studies have shown that 28% of the population has an alcohol use disorder. However, only 6% of that population meets the criteria in which they would have to give up alcohol completely. Remarkably, 90% of treatment facilities have programs that make their patients abstain from alcohol, ignoring that perhaps alcohol moderation is the key to…
When you struggle with addiction, it can be hard to recognize the many ways that substance abuse affects your life. Because substance abuse may change behavior, this can lead you to take risks you may not otherwise take when unimpaired. The repercussions of risk-taking behavior can lead to serious problems like legal troubles, financial issues,…