Psychological Triggers of Addiction

Getting to the root of addiction isn’t just about substances or habits. It has much to do with what’s happening in the brain and how certain experiences or emotions can drive someone to use or repeat a specific behavior, even when it’s clearly hurting them. I’m going to dig into the common psychological triggers of … Read more

Signs of Addiction Denial

Figuring out whether you or someone you love has an addiction can feel overwhelming. Denial often gets in the way—it can look like minimizing the problem, blaming stress, or comparing yourself to others who “have it worse.” Sometimes it’s simply avoiding the topic because admitting the truth feels too painful. Honesty about addiction can stir … Read more

Hidden Signs of Dependency

If you’ve ever worried about dependency—on substances, habits, or even relationships—you probably picture obvious symptoms, like cravings or withdrawal. But the reality is, plenty of subtle signals often fly under the radar. Spotting these early can help you or someone you care about avoid bigger problems. So, I’m unpacking some uncommon signs of dependency that … Read more

Are You Enabling an Addict?

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

Words That Hurt in Addiction

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

Addiction in Social Settings

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

Popcorn Lung and Vaping Facts

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

Finding Hope in Support Groups

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

Supporting Someone with Addiction

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

Emotional Side of Recovery

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