Men’s Mental Health Month: Erasing the Stigma

While mental health affects all genders, it tends to be overlooked by men more than women. Men are more likely to view mental health struggles as a sign of weakness and therefore choose to ignore them. The stigma surrounding mental health, particularly in men, is leading to significant mental and physical health issues including substance […]

May is Mental Health Awareness Month

Preserving your mental and physical health is the key to reaping the full benefits of a long and happy life. That’s why it’s so vital to focus primarily on these entities if you wish to live life to the fullest.

Letting Go of Shame

Shame is a common emotion associated with addiction because of a strong stigma attached. If you feel ashamed of your addiction or things you have done in the past because of your addiction, it is vital to learn how to let go. Recognizing Inner Shame Shame is not always an easy emotion to identify as […]

What the Seventh Step Can Teach About Humility

The Seventh Step of AA, “Humbly ask your higher power to remove your shortcomings,” gives a lesson in humility. Learning how to ask humbly requires the acknowledgment that you are not the center of the universe. You are not more, and you are not less important than any other person. This lesson in humility can […]

When Your Client Continues to Put Up Walls

Sometimes, a client might start to put up walls, especially if they are discussing a subject that is difficult for them to talk about. Even if you have built a rapport with your client, they still might shut you out. There are many reasons why your client has stopped opening up. Why a Client Might […]

Planting Seeds: The Beginning of Goal Completion

You might have already forgotten your New Year’s resolutions, but it is early in the year, and there is time to get back at it. Whether your goal is to maintain sobriety, become or stay physically fit, or master a new hobby, there is always a critical starting point. It Isn’t Too Late to Start […]

Combating Mental Health and Substance Use Misinformation on the Internet

Online spaces can be a source of misinformation on all kinds of topics. Stigmas, myths, and lies can spread like wildfire. Clients and counselors alike need to take the steps they can to make sure individuals get the facts straight. Misinformation on Social Media If there is anything the last ten years has demonstrated, it […]

Is Medication Safe if I Have an Addiction?

Having a history of addiction can make taking medication a frightening experience. While the U.S. battles a major opioid addiction crisis, taking medication for pain or mental illness might be concerning, especially if that substance has the potential to be addictive. This article discusses how to use medicine safely and when and why taking controlled […]

Accepting What You Can’t Control

Hanging on to things that are not in your control can be detrimental to your mental and physical health. It is important to learn when to let things go and focus on what you do have control over. It can be challenging to notice the things that you do have control over, which is why […]

Comorbidity of Chronic Illness and Substance Misuse

Those who are chronically ill might need to rely on medication to function in their day-to-day lives. Yet, others might use alcohol or illicit drugs to cope with the pain. It is essential to know the facts about chronic illness and what factors might lead an individual to substance use. Knowledge about a person’s health […]