Different issues during recovery
Addiction often feels confusing and overwhelming, not just for people experiencing it but for anyone trying to figure out what actually goes on. It’s more than just using a substance or chasing a certain behavior. These patterns can be surprisingly deep-rooted. Knowing the main traits that define addiction is important for spotting early warning signs … Read more
Addiction affects millions of people around the globe, but there’s still a lot of confusion and stigma surrounding what it really means. Learning more about addiction can not only help you support someone you care about, but it can also make a big difference in understanding your own habits or behaviors. I’ve pulled together 10 … Read more
If you’ve ever wondered why some people seem more likely than others to struggle with addiction, you’re not alone. Addiction isn’t just about personal choices; it can be shaped by a mix of background, environment, and even biology. By spotting the key risk factors, it gets easier to understand how addiction shows up in real … Read more
Being there for someone with addiction during a healthcare crisis can feel intimidating at first. There’s often a lot going on, and it’s easy to feel lost when you step into a hospital or help find your way through community care. When a friend or family member is dealing with both addiction and a medical … Read more
Talking about addiction within families can feel complicated, emotional, and even uncomfortable. Loved ones may carry fear, frustration, guilt, or confusion, while the person struggling with addiction may feel shame or judgment. In the middle of all this, stigma quietly grows — negative beliefs and attitudes about addiction that can create distance instead of connection. … Read more
If you’re caring for someone close who’s struggling with substance use, the idea of them having an overdose can be frightening. I know that feeling of wanting to do everything you can, just in case something goes wrong. Getting prepared ahead of time isn’t about expecting the worst; it’s about making sure you’re ready to … Read more
Relapse is something many folks deal with at different points in their recovery. If you’ve experienced a relapse, whether it’s with substance use, unhealthy habits, or mental health routines, you might feel stuck, discouraged, or even a little ashamed. In reality, relapses happen, and knowing how to handle that episode makes a big difference in … Read more
Cravings can pop up out of nowhere. Those sudden urges to eat something specific, even when you’re not actually hungry, can hit hard. For me, those moments used to feel pretty overwhelming, but over time, I’ve picked up a few tricks that help handle cravings fast—sometimes in as little as five minutes. In this guide, … Read more
Addiction is far more than repeated substance use or harmful behavior—it is a complex condition that reshapes how a person thinks, feels, relates to others, and understands themselves. Beneath the visible actions lies a powerful cycle driven by brain chemistry, emotional needs, learned habits, and life experiences. Through studying what happens below the surface, it … Read more
Addiction isn’t some random twist of fate. Plenty of research shows that certain risk factors make some people more likely to develop a substance use disorder. Genetics, experiences like childhood trauma, how early someone starts using a substance, and even co-occurring mental health issues all play a big part. Understanding these factors is really important … Read more