About teenagers and college students additions
Addiction is often misunderstood as personal choice or lack of willpower. Still, in reality, it connects deeply with actual health conditions that create lasting impacts well beyond the initial use of a substance or addictive behavior. Over decades, researchers and doctors have come to see diseases tied to addiction as complicated, affecting not just the … Read more
Misunderstandings about fentanyl seem to pop up everywhere, from social media to regular conversations. With all the noise out there, it’s pretty easy to get tangled up in scary stories or rumors that don’t match what experts actually know. Here, I’m taking a clear-eyed look at the most common myths about fentanyl, why the facts … Read more
Living with PTSD and addiction can feel like fighting two battles at once—one in your mind and one in your body. The constant waves of anxiety, flashbacks, or emotional numbness can drive a person to seek relief in substances, creating a cycle that’s hard to break. However, emotional resilience—the ability to adapt, heal, and move … Read more
Abstaining from alcohol or drug use, a supportive home environment can make all the difference. But when your partner still drinks or uses, things get complicated fast. Every day triggers, such as seeing a drink, smelling alcohol, or watching them use, can stir up cravings and stress. You may wonder if their habits are holding … Read more
Parenting a child facing addiction struggles is challenging and can feel overwhelming at times. Figuring out what works best for your family often means learning as you go. With the right strategies and understanding, you can take practical steps to support your child’s well-being and keep your family connected through tough times. Below are supportive … Read more
Grief can strike without warning, unraveling routines and shaking how I see myself and connect with others. The pain can feel so heavy that I start searching for anything to ease it, even briefly. What many don’t realize is how easily that search can lead to substance use—a drink to calm the nerves, a pill … Read more
Teen dependency begins with a harmless activity used to manage stress, boredom, or loneliness. Later, these behaviors activate the brain’s reward system, releasing dopamine that reinforces pleasure and relief, turning occasional coping into a habit and eventually emotional reliance. As this cycle continues, teens may find it harder to focus, sleep well, or engage meaningfully … Read more
Talking about addiction isn’t always easy, but it makes a massive difference for everyone involved. Honest conversations can spark real understanding, reduce shame, and set a positive path, whether someone is struggling personally or supporting a loved one. Many families, friends, and even workplaces don’t know where to start, so I’m putting together practical steps … Read more
If you’ve ever caught yourself second-guessing your accomplishments, feeling like a fraud among colleagues, or worrying that someone might call you out for not being as skilled as you appear, you’re certainly not alone. Imposter syndrome often creeps in for people at all levels—from students just starting to seasoned professionals leading the way. That sense … Read more
If you’ve ever thought about getting help for something challenging going on in your life, you’re definitely not alone. Still, there’s a whole lot of misunderstanding and confusion out there about what it actually means to reach out for support, especially when it comes to mental health, emotional struggles, or even just feeling stuck. I’ve … Read more