Millions of Americans are affected by mental illness every year. Since 1949, Mental Health America has led the observance of Mental Health Awareness Month in May as an effort to spread the word and provide resources to those impacted by mental illness. Mental Health in America According to MentalHealth.gov, mental health includes our emotional, psychological, … Read more
Mental health and substance addiction often go hand in hand. According to the Journal of American Medical Association, 50% of individuals with a severe mental health condition also have a co-occurring substance abuse disorder. Those suffering from mental health illnesses are more likely to abuse drugs or alcohol in an effort to self-medicate. Comparatively, those … Read more
Trauma and Addiction Psychological trauma occurs when a person experiences a particular stressful event or situation in their lifetime. Sometimes, these individuals find themselves unable to cope with the feelings associated with trauma. This is why there is such a connection between trauma and substance addiction, as people turn to substances to numb these feelings. … Read more
Individuals who have experienced trauma and struggle with post-traumatic stress disorder encounter challenges every day. Fortunately, there are treatment programs specifically designed to help these people regain control of their symptoms and lead normal, healthy lives. Post-traumatic stress disorder is a serious condition that is debilitating to the lives of trauma victims. What is PTSD? … Read more
An individual battling a substance abuse issue or addiction along with a mental disorder is suffering from a co-occurring disorder. A co-occurring disorder, previously referred to as dual diagnoses, can be any combination of mental illness and substance abuse or addiction. This includes anything from alcoholism and anxiety, cocaine addiction and eating disorders, post-traumatic stress … Read more
Often times, family and friends find themselves feeling helpless when a loved one is battling addiction. While it is true that you cannot help someone who refuses help, there are ways to encourage them to want to get help for themselves. Because this situation is difficult, emotions tend to run high. The families of individuals … Read more
Co-occurring Symptoms Are Finally Recognized People who suffer from an addiction like alcoholism or substance abuse are often also experiencing another malady like depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, high anxiety, or obsessive/compulsive disorder. They are stricken with what the mental health industry calls ‘co-occurring disorder’, formerly known as ‘dual diagnosis.’ If your family member or friend … Read more
Holidays can be a difficult time for those in recovery. With Memorial Day approaching, you may be wondering how to stay sober during social gatherings like parties and barbeques. Whether you are newly sober or years into recovery, it can be difficult to face triggers during holidays. We’ve put together 10 tips for sobriety this … Read more
Substance abuse disorders affect every individual differently. For this reason, treatment programs are most effective when they offer care tailored to individual needs. Patients seeking this type of personal, individualized treatment may consider treatment with gender-specific programs. Addiction can cause a variety of negative effects on an individual’s life, impacting daily life like work, family … Read more
Alcohol and substance addiction treatment options vary depending on the place. However, they usually fall into two major categories- inpatient and outpatient. Similarly, both options are meant to help patients get better, and both are focused on patient’s well-being and recovery. For those struggling with addiction as well as their loved ones, it is vital … Read more
