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
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
Adjusting to life after rehab is a journey that blends hope, excitement, and a fair amount of uncertainty. Stepping back into everyday responsibilities—work, family, social situations—can feel like entering a new world, one where old habits may resurface and new expectations can feel overwhelming. I’ve seen how overwhelming this stage can be, but I’ve also … 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
Creating a safe space to talk about addiction is crucial for making real change possible in any community. Hard conversations can feel intimidating, but when people feel comfortable and heard, healing and help can actually happen. I’m excited to walk through what it takes to encourage open dialogue about addiction and how to turn these … Read more
Addiction can quietly reshape nearly every part of a person’s life, often in ways that aren’t immediately obvious. Even after the substance use stops, its effects can linger—emotionally, mentally, socially, and physically. Over time, addiction can erode self-esteem, strain relationships, and alter how a person experiences joy, motivation, and trust. It can change the brain’s … Read more
If you’ve ever tried to handle addiction on your own, you know how tempting it is to reach for a quick fix or try to manage symptoms without professional help. Self-medication happens when people use substances, over-the-counter pills, or even herbal remedies to cope with cravings, withdrawal, or emotional distress tied to addiction. It might … Read more
Shifting from using substances to escape pain to finding empowerment in daily life is one of the hardest but most rewarding journeys. Addiction often numbs emotions and erodes self-worth, making life feel like a cycle of survival. But recovery isn’t about perfection—it’s about rediscovering strength and learning to face life with courage. Over time, you … Read more
Motherhood and addiction struggles are two topics that don’t often get discussed together, but they actually cross paths a lot more than people realize. It’s easy to imagine motherhood as a time filled with baby giggles and sweet memories, but that’s not always the real story, especially when addiction is in the picture. Speaking from … Read more