artistic rendering of the sun setting in the mind of a woman

The Role Substance Abuse Plays in Mental Health

Substance abuse and mental health issues are deeply interconnected, often creating a cycle that is challenging to break. Substance use can worsen existing mental health conditions, while individuals struggling with mental health disorders may turn to substances as a way to self-medicate. Addressing both issues simultaneously with integrated mental health and substance abuse treatment is…

an empty wine glass sits on a table

Does Alcohol Cause Depression and Anxiety?

Mental health issues like anxiety and depression are often closely linked to alcohol misuse, each worsening the other. Many people use alcohol to self-medicate emotional distress, but this often makes mental health symptoms worse over time. Effective treatment must address both mental health conditions and substance abuse together, as treating one without the other can…

a woman confronts a loved one she suspects has been self medicating

What to Do if Your Loved One Is Self-Medicating

Self-medication can often lead to worsening health conditions or unintended side effects, making professional treatment vital. If you find a loved one self-medicating to cope with stress, anxiety, or other issues, seeking substance abuse treatment can be a valuable step toward recovery. Professional treatment provides the necessary support and resources to address the underlying causes…

a woman practices yoga and meditation for holistic addiction recovery

What Does Holistic Recovery Mean?

Incorporating holistic therapy into mental health treatment aids recovery by addressing the mind, body, and spirit as interconnected. By fostering a deeper connection with oneself and the environment, holistic therapy empowers individuals to achieve lasting mental wellness. Nurturing inner resources helps manage symptoms and encourages overall well-being and resilience. To learn more about our holistic…

a veteran struggles with substance abuse and is in need of treatment

Why Does Substance Abuse in Military Families Occur?

Members of our nation’s military and their families live very different lives than their civilian counterparts. The unique demands and challenges of military service and the culture of military life create a lifestyle that seems foreign to civilians and includes stressors exclusive to this population. These differences result in significantly higher rates of substance abuse,…

a group of people sit in a circle and learn about the benefits of 12 step program

Can a 12-Step Program Benefit Me?

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) was the first 12-step therapy program, founded in 1935. Since then, 12-step programs have helped millions of people worldwide manage and maintain their sobriety. AA was created to help those suffering from alcohol addiction. Because of the approach’s effectiveness, the 12-step program philosophy has been used as the model to create programs…

a woman discusses with a therapist how a harm reduction program saved her life

What Are Harm Reduction Programs?

Many opinions are being thrown around these days about the best ways to combat the opioid epidemic. Our President recently told us that the best method was going to be anti-drug advertisements. Other people say it’s funding more opioid addiction treatment centers. Others even say medication-assisted programs are the way to go. With all of…

folks preventing relapse for mental health

Things You Learn in Relapse Prevention

Recovery from drug or alcohol addiction is a lifelong process. After successful detox and participation in a residential or outpatient substance abuse treatment program, you must be prepared to face the challenges of everyday life without resorting to old patterns of behavior that can lead you to use again. Relapse is a return to addictive…