About mental illness and addiction
If you’re someone who tends to need alone time to recharge, it’s easy to wonder whether you’re just introverted or if there’s something else going on, like social anxiety. Both terms show up a lot in conversation and on social media, but they don’t actually mean the same thing. While introverts and people with social … 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
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
Detox programs are often seen as the first big step toward breaking free from substance use. There’s a lot of focus on getting through those first intense days, handling withdrawal, and starting to feel physically better. But finishing detox can sometimes set up a false sense of security. It might feel like the battle is … Read more
When you or your coparent faces a health challenge and needs treatment, daily family life looks a lot different. Managing kids during this time can feel like a juggling act with not enough hands to help. I’ve pulled together ways to map out a plan, keep routines steady, and get the right support so your … Read more
If you’ve ever watched someone struggle with addiction, it can feel heartbreakingly tough to see them resist help even when things are clearly falling apart. Maybe it’s a family member, a friend, or even a coworker who just won’t budge, no matter how many conversations you have or how obvious the consequences seem. When addicts … Read more
Managing loss while staying sober can feel overwhelming. Grief hits hard, and if you’re used to turning to alcohol or other substances to deal with pain, learning healthier coping skills takes real effort. In my own experience and in conversations with others in recovery, I’ve seen how loss, whether it’s the loss of a loved … Read more
Learning that women may face distinct risks for drug overdose can be concerning, but understanding the factors behind these differences is essential. Biological differences, mental health conditions, trauma, pregnancy and postpartum changes, patterns of substance use, and barriers to treatment can all influence a woman’s vulnerability to overdose. Looking beyond the statistics helps families and … Read more
Addiction can affect families in ways that often go unnoticed, especially when it comes to financial hardship. The costs of treatment, rehabilitation, counseling, legal expenses, missed work, and everyday living needs can quickly overwhelm parents who are trying to help a child struggling with addiction. Some families drain their savings, accumulate credit card debt, borrow … Read more