Recovery

SMART Recovery (Self-Management and Recovery Training) is a science-based, self-empowering, and secular program designed to help individuals overcome substance use and various behavioral addictions. This non-12-step approach utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and a 4-Point Program (Motivation, Coping with Urges, Managing Thoughts/Feelings/Behaviors, and Lifestyle Balance) to provide practical, evidence-based recovery tools. By focusing on behavioral […]

This article discusses how to enjoy a meaningful and fun St. Patrick’s Day while in recovery by focusing on Irish culture and traditions instead of alcohol. It provides practical tips for navigating the challenges of social pressure, such as planning responses and connecting with a sober support community. The guide also suggests alcohol-free activities like […]

This guide offers support and practical strategies for maintaining sobriety while navigating the intense and overwhelming pain of grief, which can threaten hard-won recovery. It emphasizes that grieving sober is possible by strengthening your recovery support network, developing healthy coping mechanisms like physical activity and mindfulness, and seeking professional help from a grief-informed addiction therapist. […]

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 […]

For years, Kevin used alcohol to cope with who he was and who he thought he needed to be. His drinking eventually spiraled into alcoholism, and he found at risk of losing everything. In this article, Kevin shares how accepting who he is has played a critical role in his recovery.

Addiction recovery offers a new breath of life, but it is a journey with countless challenges and uncertainties along the way. Establishing a structured daily routine is one crucial element that can provide a stabilizing force and help people find lasting sobriety. By following a schedule in sobriety, people can reclaim control, foster self-discipline, and […]

One of the most difficult scenarios of addiction is the constant need to feel the effects that medication provides, especially when it has worn off. The comedown, crash, and rebound effects refer to the body’s physical and psychological response once the effects of drugs have subsided. They are the body’s way of adjusting to its […]

About a third of veterans with substance abuse disorder also have PTSD. Learn the side effects and how to help yourself or a loved one.

It’s important to practice an “attitude of gratitude” in your life - not to fake happiness, but to find real joy that can enhance your physical, spiritual, and mental health

Men in sobriety face unique challenges that can be hurdles to long-term success. See what issues sober men endure and how to handle them.

Ezra overdosed on marijuana but still continued to use the drug. Learn how he found sobriety, became an AA supporter, and is living a life he never thought possible.

After losing her loved one to an overdose, Chelsea wanted to get sober but didn’t know how. Chelsea shares how she found recovery at Mountainside and all the gifts that came alone with it.