Veterans working through recovery often face tough challenges, especially when unexpected triggers show up and threaten to throw everything off course. These nightmare triggers aren’t always obvious, but can pull the rug out from under steady progress. I’ve learned how surprising and powerful these triggers can be, so understanding what they are and how they … Read more
PTSD and alcohol cravings can be challenging hurdles for women veterans, but with awareness, support, and practical strategies, recovery is absolutely possible. I know how stories from other female vets and finding the right resources can change everything when it comes to managing posttraumatic stress and handling the urge to drink. Here’s how women veterans … Read more
Alcohol is more than just a drink for many veterans. It can become a comfort, a distraction, or a way to quiet memories that linger after military service. I’ve seen how reaching for a bottle often feels like the quickest path to relief after returning home from the deployment chaos. For a lot of folks, … Read more
Generational trauma—also called intergenerational or ancestral trauma—refers to emotional pain and coping patterns passed down through families, often without anyone realizing it. It can shape how people communicate, handle conflict, express love, and manage stress. You might see it in recurring family patterns like emotional distance, fear of vulnerability, or cycles of addiction and abuse. … Read more
Childhood experiences with trauma, such as neglect, abuse, or family conflict, can lead to emotional patterns that carry into adulthood, affecting trust, communication, and closeness. Many people repeat cycles such as people-pleasing, emotional withdrawal, or fear of abandonment without realizing these are learned coping mechanisms. The good news is that healing is possible. Recognizing how … Read more
If your new relationship feels perfect on the surface but leaves you anxious, confused, or emotionally drained, you may be dealing with more than typical relationship ups and downs. Narcissistic relationships often start with charm, attention, and intensity—making it easy to overlook early warning signs. Over time, though, that excitement can give way to manipulation, … Read more
Addiction is a complicated topic, and it’s something I’ve seen affect people from all walks of life. There’s often a question that comes up: why does addiction seem to get its hooks into some people more deeply than others? I’m checking out some of the main reasons, spanning biology, environment, mental health, and personal experience, … Read more
The adventure toward freedom from addiction is a deeply personal and winding path. It’s not something I ever imagined I’d travel, but learning the art of letting go has been one of the most powerful things I’ve done for myself. For anyone stuck in the struggle, stepping away from addiction might seem almost impossible at … Read more
Building a personal support system is one of the most powerful ways to strengthen your mental and emotional well-being. While society often celebrates independence, true resilience usually comes from connection—the people, routines, and tools that help you stay grounded when life feels overwhelming. Whether you’re facing recovery, managing stress, or simply trying to maintain balance, … Read more
Emotional intelligence pops up regularly when talking about personal growth and healthy relationships, but its true power often shines during recovery from addiction. The patterns leading to addiction go deeper than just substances or behaviors; a big part centers on emotions and how we handle them. I find the link between emotional intelligence and addiction … Read more