Addiction is often misunderstood as personal choice or lack of willpower. Still, in reality, it connects deeply with actual health conditions that create lasting impacts well beyond the initial use of a substance or addictive behavior. Over decades, researchers and doctors have come to see diseases tied to addiction as complicated, affecting not just the … Read more
Misunderstandings about fentanyl seem to pop up everywhere, from social media to regular conversations. With all the noise out there, it’s pretty easy to get tangled up in scary stories or rumors that don’t match what experts actually know. Here, I’m taking a clear-eyed look at the most common myths about fentanyl, why the facts … Read more
Self-compassion often takes a back seat in most recovery programs, yet it can be one of the most transformative tools in healing. For many of us, the inner voice we carry is far harsher than we’d ever be to someone else. When you’re rebuilding after addiction, anxiety, depression, or any major life setback, that critical … Read more
Living with PTSD and addiction can feel like fighting two battles at once—one in your mind and one in your body. The constant waves of anxiety, flashbacks, or emotional numbness can drive a person to seek relief in substances, creating a cycle that’s hard to break. However, emotional resilience—the ability to adapt, heal, and move … Read more
Abstaining from alcohol or drug use, a supportive home environment can make all the difference. But when your partner still drinks or uses, things get complicated fast. Every day triggers, such as seeing a drink, smelling alcohol, or watching them use, can stir up cravings and stress. You may wonder if their habits are holding … Read more
Food cravings can feel overwhelming and unpredictable, especially during recovery from addiction, illness, injury, or surgery. When the body is healing, it’s not just the mind seeking comfort—your hormones are shifting, too, and that can send strong signals to eat certain foods. I’ve found that understanding what’s going on inside my body helps me respond … Read more
Parenting a child facing addiction struggles is challenging and can feel overwhelming at times. Figuring out what works best for your family often means learning as you go. With the right strategies and understanding, you can take practical steps to support your child’s well-being and keep your family connected through tough times. Below are supportive … Read more
The ongoing steroid crisis is having a real impact on today’s youth, reaching far beyond gyms and locker rooms. Steroid abuse is tied deeply not just to the world of sports. It has become a concern in schools, on social media feeds, and in everyday conversations about body image. I’m going to walk you through … Read more
Teen dependency begins with a harmless activity used to manage stress, boredom, or loneliness. Later, these behaviors activate the brain’s reward system, releasing dopamine that reinforces pleasure and relief, turning occasional coping into a habit and eventually emotional reliance. As this cycle continues, teens may find it harder to focus, sleep well, or engage meaningfully … Read more
If you’ve ever caught yourself second-guessing your accomplishments, feeling like a fraud among colleagues, or worrying that someone might call you out for not being as skilled as you appear, you’re certainly not alone. Imposter syndrome often creeps in for people at all levels—from students just starting to seasoned professionals leading the way. That sense … Read more