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 […]
The Realities of Compassion Fatigue
There are times when caring can feel exhausting. This experience does not mean that someone is insensitive, but rather that they feel burned out emotionally. It can be difficult to cope with compassion fatigue, especially in the wake of Covid. Staying Sensitive During Global Disaster The 2020 global pandemic uprooted the lives of every person […]
Waiting It Out Until Spring: Holding Onto Hope When Things Are Hard
For many, winter tends to be the most challenging time of year. The days are shorter, and it’s unbearably cold. The wind feels like it rips straight through to the bone. It can feel downright miserable. This tends to be more noticeable after the holidays when there isn’t anything to distract from those winter winds. […]
Why Is Comedy So Effective in Improving Mental Health in Recovery?
Whether you’re a comedian or you love watching stand-up specials, laughing about life difficulties can raise the mood. Many recommend watching something funny when you are feeling down. Here’s why laughing out loud lifts your mood and how it can help with long-term recovery. What Laughing Does to the Brain The brain releases pleasure chemicals […]
