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 […]
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 […]
What Is the Difference Between CBT and DBT Therapy?
Key Takeaways: This article explains the distinctions between cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). While CBT focuses on changing unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors, DBT, a specialized form of CBT, emphasizes both acceptance and change, particularly for individuals with intense emotional dysregulation. The article details their core differences in philosophical approach, treatment […]
A Hidden Addiction: Online Gaming
This article discusses the dangers of online gaming addiction, including mental and physical health issues, strained relationships, and academic/career impacts. It also explores the role of social media in exacerbating these issues and the intersection of substance use and gaming. The article concludes by offering strategies for finding balance, such as setting limits, engaging in […]
Are CBD and THC Different?
Key Takeaways: This article explains the key differences between THC and CBD, both compounds derived from cannabis. THC is psychoactive, causing a “high” and carrying potential risks like addiction and anxiety, while CBD is non-psychoactive and offers therapeutic benefits such as pain relief and anxiety management. The legal status of THC and CBD varies, and […]
Personal Inventory: Navigating Steps 4 and 5
Key Takeaways: This article discusses Steps 4 and 5 of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA), focusing on the importance of self-reflection and accountability. Step 4 involves conducting a moral inventory, while Step 5 involves sharing that inventory with a higher power, oneself, and another person. These steps are crucial for personal growth, overcoming […]
Exploring the 12 Steps: Surrender - Steps 1 Through 3
This article discusses the first three steps of the 12 Steps program for addiction recovery, known as the “Surrender” steps. It emphasizes admitting powerlessness, believing in a higher power, and making a decision to turn one’s life over to that power. The article also provides practical advice on how to work through each of these […]
What Are the 7 Stages of Grief? A Guide for Those in Recovery
Key Takeaways: This article discusses the seven stages of grief, as popularized by Elisabeth Kübler-Ross, and how they relate to individuals in addiction recovery. It emphasizes that grief is a personal and non-linear process, affecting both emotional and physical health, and suggests coping strategies such as seeking support and practicing self-care, particularly for those maintaining […]
When Your Addiction Is a Secret
Secret addiction affects millions of Americans, with only a small percentage receiving necessary help due to shame and fear of exposure. Innovative solutions, such as outpatient programs and telemedicine, are emerging to provide flexible and discreet pathways to recovery. Overcoming shame and building trust are crucial steps in healing, and future trends such as psychedelic-assisted […]
