Lyme disease is best known for causing fatigue, joint pain, and brain fog. But when it shows up alongside a substance use disorder, everything gets more complicated. I see a lot of confusion, both physical and mental, when Lyme disease and addiction overlap. Untangling these symptoms and figuring out the right treatment plan ask for … Read more
If you’re on a recovery adventure, you might notice that some friends seem to have a knack for showing up with “just one drink” or not-so-gentle reminders of the old days. It’s a tough situation, and it’s surprisingly common. Friendship is usually a source of strength, but in the context of relapse, those closest to … Read more
Fentanyl has become a headline topic in recent years, popping up in a lot more places than you might expect. Traditionally, this drug was seen mostly in hospital settings or prescribed for severe pain, but now, trace amounts are being found in drugs where you’d never expect it. That’s causing a whole new set of … Read more
Cheating in relationships is a tough topic, and when addiction is involved, things can get even more complicated. Addiction—whether it’s drugs, alcohol, gambling, or another issue—puts a huge strain on trust and communication. Having seen people close to me deal with these kinds of relationship challenges, I’ve learned that recognizing early red flags is really … Read more
Sobriety celebrations have become increasingly visible on social media, at gatherings, and within recovery communities. Recognizing milestones can provide encouragement, strengthen social support, and give people an opportunity to acknowledge how far they have come. However, recovery celebrations can also bring unexpected pressure, uncomfortable attention, difficult emotions, or even triggers for some individuals. Recognizing both … Read more
Addiction does not discriminate based on who you are, where you come from, or what you believe. It can affect people regardless of their career, income, age, social status, background, or political views. When addiction becomes surrounded by political debate or harmful stereotypes, we can lose sight of the reality that substance use disorders touch … Read more
When a parent struggles with addiction, the effects ripple through the entire family, but it’s especially tough on kids. Children may feel confused, alone, or overwhelmed by emotions that they can’t always explain. I’ve known families going through this, and supporting kids through these challenges is really important. Finding ways to help kids cope can … Read more
Naltrexone is prescribed for treating opioid use disorder and alcohol dependence, often leading people to wonder about possible side effects before starting a new medication. I see many folks curious about how it might make them feel and what they should watch for. Knowing what to expect helps you make better choices with your healthcare … Read more
If you’ve ever wondered how a brain affected by suicidal thoughts is different from one struggling with other mental health disorders, you’re not alone. It’s a complex area with lots of overlap and confusion, but understanding what really sets them apart can make things a lot clearer. I’m going to walk you through the basics, … Read more
Sometimes, it’s not easy to tell the difference between someone who’s genuinely healing and someone who’s just performing the idea of healing. I’ve seen a lot of talk about “self-care” and “wellness,” but not everything that looks like progress on the outside actually matches what’s going on inside. Understanding the differences between performance and real … Read more