Different issues during recovery
Mind-altering drugs affect more than temporary mood or perception—they alter how the brain regulates emotions, decision-making, memory, and reality interpretation. By disrupting neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin, these substances can influence personality, behavior, and judgment. Early changes may be subtle, appearing as mild irritability, reduced motivation, or increased risk-taking, and often go unnoticed at … Read more
The seven stages of intoxication describe the step-by-step way alcohol affects the brain and body as blood alcohol levels increase. Intoxication develops gradually, beginning with subtle relaxation and reduced inhibitions, then progressing to impaired judgment, decreased coordination, confusion, and, in severe cases, dangerous slowing of breathing and heart rate. Because alcohol depresses the central nervous … Read more
The 2-2-2 rule for alcohol use is a simple, structured approach designed to promote mindful decision-making and healthier drinking habits. Built around three checkpoints—two questions before drinking, two limits during, and two reflections after—this framework helps individuals pause, think intentionally, and stay aware of their choices. Alcohol use can easily become automatic or emotionally driven, … Read more
The 80/20 rule, also known as the Pareto Principle, offers a practical lens for understanding alcohol use patterns by suggesting that a small percentage of behaviors often accounts for the majority of consequences. In the context of drinking, this means that a limited number of high-risk situations—such as certain social settings, stress triggers, or emotional … Read more
The 3-3-3 rule in relationships during addiction recovery provides a clear, memorable framework that supports emotional healing and relational stability. Recovery often strains communication, trust, and boundaries, making structure essential. By emphasizing three daily stability habits, three emotional check-ins, and three protective boundaries, this approach helps individuals strengthen their connection without compromising sobriety. It encourages … Read more
The Rule of 3’s in addiction recovery is a simple yet powerful framework that makes the healing process more manageable and less overwhelming. Recovery often involves navigating complex emotions, triggers, and lifestyle changes, which can feel daunting without a clear structure. By organizing key concepts into groups of three—such as triggers, coping strategies, or daily … Read more
Survivors of human trafficking who have also struggled with addiction carry layered experiences of trauma, survival, and resilience. Substance use is often intertwined with trafficking—sometimes used as a tool of control, other times as a coping response to overwhelming psychological distress. In this context, addiction is not weakness but often a survival mechanism. Recovery involves … Read more
The idea of using addiction as a source of creativity has long been romanticized, with many artists, musicians, and writers citing their struggles with substance use as a catalyst for some of their most profound work. Substances, in this view, are seen as a way to break through creative blocks, liberate emotions, or transcend reality. … Read more
In the realm of addiction recovery, the difference between advocacy and exploitation is both significant and nuanced. Advocacy in addiction focuses on empowering individuals, amplifying their voices, and ensuring that they receive the support and resources they need to recover with dignity. In contrast, exploitation takes advantage of individuals’ vulnerabilities for personal gain, whether that … Read more
Healthy political dialogue in the context of addiction is about more than discussing policies or opinions—it’s about protecting emotional stability, relationships, and recovery progress. Political conversations can easily become intense or divisive, which may increase stress, trigger emotional dysregulation, or create interpersonal conflict for individuals managing substance use challenges. Because recovery depends heavily on psychological … Read more