About teenagers and college students additions
If you have a loved one who struggles with addiction, you might have heard the word “codependency” come up a lot. It’s a word that can sound a little vague. Still, if you’re stuck in a cycle of putting someone else’s needs first, neglecting what’s essential for you to do, or feeling like your well-being … Read more
If you’ve ever tried to support someone struggling with addiction, you probably know it can be tough to find the right words. The things people say, whether out of concern, frustration, or not knowing what it’s like, can affect someone trying to recover. The wrong words sometimes do more harm than good. I’ve seen firsthand … Read more
Forgiveness is a word that comes up often in therapy and recovery conversations, but actually living it out is an entirely different challenge. When you’re in the middle of addiction, or even standing on the other side trying to rebuild your life, the idea of forgiving yourself—or forgiving others who may have hurt you—can feel … Read more
Spotting addiction in social situations takes more than just a quick glance—it requires sensitivity, honesty, and the ability to notice the little things that others might overlook. While many people imagine addiction as something obvious, marked by dramatic behavior or a certain “look,” the truth is often far more subtle. In group settings, the signs … Read more
Vaping has become a significant topic of discussion in both public health circles and everyday conversations. One of the most talked-about concerns is its alleged link to a lung condition commonly nicknamed “popcorn lung,” a term that has spread widely through news articles, social media, and word of mouth. The discussion often blurs fact and … Read more
It feels like almost everyone is glued to their phone these days. People scroll through feeds, like photos, and watch stories for hours. I know the draw of social media all too well. But sometimes, what starts as fun or a quick distraction can feel more like a trap, where isolation sneaks in and real … Read more
If you’ve ever struggled with addiction, you know how tough it can be to see a way forward. Everyone’s story is different, but one thing I often notice in recovery circles is the power of support groups. Whether you’re just considering giving one a try or you’ve been attending for years, these groups offer more … Read more
Gaming can be an excellent way to relax, challenge yourself, and have fun. But gaming can also start taking up more time and energy than you want, and that’s when things can get tricky. Here, I’m unpacking the fine line between gaming for fun and gaming because you’re hooked, plus how to spot the warning … Read more
Supporting a loved one with addiction can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re unsure where to start or afraid of making mistakes. Addiction often brings confusion, guilt, and worry, leaving family and friends uncertain about how to help. From my own experiences—through learning, speaking with professionals, and supporting friends—I’ve found that while the path is challenging, … Read more
The emotional path through addiction recovery has many twists, turns, setbacks, and victories. Every stage of recovery, from taking the first step to learning new ways to cope, comes with feelings that sometimes feel overwhelming, confusing, or hopeful. Knowing what emotions might pop up, how they appear in daily life, and practical ideas for handling … Read more