About teenagers and college students additions
Losing custody of my kids because of drug use changed my life. It forced me to face the reality of addiction—not just how it affects me, but how deeply it impacts the people I love most. You can think you’re in control, but addiction can take over and leave consequences that cut deep. Sharing this … Read more
HIV remains a serious public health concern, but many people don’t realize how closely it’s linked to drug use. Whether through injection, sharing equipment, or risky behaviors that happen while under the influence, drug use can significantly increase the chance of contracting HIV. Understanding these risks is essential for staying safe. I want to highlight … Read more
Stimulant addiction occurs when drugs like amphetamines, cocaine, or prescription stimulants alter the brain’s reward system, leading to dependence and compulsive use. It often begins as a way to boost focus or manage stress but quickly turns into a harmful cycle of craving and tolerance. Preventing stimulant addiction requires a holistic approach—through self-management strategies that … Read more
I used to think a stiff drink after work was something everyone deserved, a little ritual that helped me unwind and celebrate the end of the day. For years, I brushed aside warnings, dismissing them as worry or overreaction. It wasn’t until I found myself in a doctor’s office, staring at scans, blood panels, and … Read more
Shame can feel incredibly heavy and isolating, especially for anyone navigating addiction. It’s not just embarrassment—it’s that deep, lingering belief that something is wrong with you at your core. And unlike passing emotions, shame tends to stick, quietly influencing how you see yourself and the choices you make. For many people struggling with addiction, shame … Read more
Pain and struggle often come hand in hand with addiction recovery. But pain can pave the way to some of the most powerful changes in our lives. I’ve learned that real progress happens not by avoiding pain, but by learning how to use it for something that gives us meaning and direction. In this guide, … Read more
Grief is a profoundly personal journey, and giving yourself real space to experience it can completely shift how you process and heal. So many people feel pressured to “move on,” stay busy, or pretend they’re okay, but pushing past grief too quickly often makes the pain linger beneath the surface. Creating space for your grief—whether … Read more
Emotional suppression can quietly stall your progress, especially if you’re working through recovery—whether from grief, addiction, or a major life change. Pushing down uncomfortable feelings might seem harmless at first, even helpful, like a way to stay in control. But over time, it becomes a barrier to real healing. You can only hold so much … Read more
Rebuilding trust after a relapse isn’t about grand gestures or smooth talking. It’s about taking steady action, maintaining honest communication, and exercising considerable patience. For anyone who’s slipped back into old habits, the path to rebuilding trust can feel overwhelming. I know from my own experience supporting others in recovery that it can be a … Read more
Cravings can hit out of nowhere, and when they do, it often feels like your willpower disappears in seconds. I’ve been there—whether it’s late-night snacking, the sudden urge to smoke, or the impulse to reach for something you’re trying to avoid. Cravings tend to emerge at your weakest moments, often fueled by stress, boredom, or … Read more