Narcissism and Addiction: Is There a Connection?
Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) and addiction are strongly linked, as underlying insecurities and emotional dysregulation in narcissistic individuals often lead to substance abuse as a coping mechanism. Both vulnerable and grandiose narcissism can contribute to addictive behaviors, with vulnerable narcissists seeking to self-medicate negative emotions and grandiose narcissists using substances to maintain their inflated self-image. […]
What is Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) & How Does It Aid in Recovery?
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a psychotherapy developed to treat severe psychosocial disorders, including borderline personality disorder, and has expanded to help with anxiety, PTSD, depression, and substance use disorders. It enables individuals to regulate intense emotions and manage self-destructive behaviors by striking a balance between self-criticism and the motivation for change. DBT achieves this […]
The Maintenance Steps of AA: Steps 10 Through 12
The Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) program’s Steps 10, 11, and 12 are crucial for maintaining sobriety and fostering spiritual growth. These “Maintenance Steps” involve daily self-inventory, consistent prayer and meditation, and helping others. Engaging in these practices reinforces recovery and contributes to long-term sobriety. In the journey of recovery from alcohol and substance use, the Alcoholics […]
Hippie Flipping: The Risks of Mixing MDMA & Psilocybin
The article discusses “hippie flipping,” the practice of mixing MDMA and psilocybin mushrooms, and warns of the significant risks involved, including increased anxiety, physical health problems, and potential long-term psychological effects. It highlights the unpredictable interactions between the two substances and emphasizes the importance of seeking help if someone experiences negative consequences. Ultimately, the article […]
Steps 8 and 9: Making Amends in Recovery
Steps 8 and 9 of Alcoholics Anonymous are crucial for recovery, focusing on making amends and repairing relationships damaged by addiction. Step 8 involves listing those harmed and becoming willing to make amends, while Step 9 entails making direct amends where possible, except when it would cause further harm. This process fosters accountability, reduces shame […]
The Prevalence of Gambling and Gaming Addiction Among High School & College Students
Gambling and gaming addiction are growing concerns among high school and college students, with high rates of engagement in sports betting and problematic gaming behaviors. These addictions, while distinct, share risk factors like family history and mental health conditions, and can severely impact academic performance and mental well-being. Effective intervention involves understanding the signs, utilizing […]
Recognizing the Spectrum of Traumatic Experiences
Trauma significantly impacts mental, emotional, and physical well-being, especially for individuals in drug and alcohol recovery, making it vital to recognize the spectrum of traumatic experiences for healing. The article explores various types of trauma—acute, chronic, and complex—and their associated symptoms, including emotional dysregulation and difficulties in relationships, as well as neurobiological effects on the […]
9 Tips to Cut Back on Alcohol: Your Guide to a Healthier You
This guide provides nine actionable tips for reducing alcohol consumption, emphasizing that it’s about reclaiming control and fostering a healthier lifestyle rather than deprivation. Key strategies include setting clear goals, tracking consumption, identifying triggers, exploring alcohol-free alternatives, practicing mindful drinking, building a support network, managing cravings with nutrition, taking breaks to reset tolerance, and leveraging […]
What Are the Myths About Kratom?
Kratom, often marketed as a natural remedy, is a dangerous substance with significant risks, including addiction, severe withdrawal symptoms, and serious health complications like liver damage and psychosis. Many pervasive myths surround kratom, such as its non-addictive nature or its safety as an opioid alternative, but the FDA warns against its use due to these […]
Celebrating Collegiate Recovery Programs: A Blueprint for Student Success
Collegiate Recovery Programs (CRPs) offer a highly effective student success model, boasting significantly higher graduation rates (nearly 90%) and GPAs (3.6) for students in recovery compared to institutional averages. These programs build social capital through peer support, mentorship, and leadership opportunities, addressing academic, career, and mental health needs holistically. Universities can learn from CRPs’ integrated […]
Steps 6 and 7: Becoming Ready for Change
Steps 6 and 7 of the 12 Steps in AA and NA are crucial for recovery, focusing on becoming ready to have character defects removed and humbly asking a Higher Power to do so. These steps involve deep self-reflection, identification of shortcomings, and a willingness to surrender behaviors that hinder personal growth. By practicing humility […]
Addiction & Related Topics
What Happens During an Adolescent IOP Program?
This article explains what happens during an Adolescent Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), which provides structured support for teens dealing with substance abuse while allowing them to maintain their daily routines. The program includes assessments, group and individual therapy, family involvement, educational components, skill-building activities, and ongoing progress monitoring. IOPs aim to help adolescents develop coping […]
