Did you know that September is National Recovery Month? While addiction recovery is something that should be promoted throughout the year – not just during one month – this is a time to focus your efforts and join together with others to make a difference and raise awareness. The theme for 2017 is “Join the…
Rebuilding your life in recovery can be challenging but also very rewarding. It is important to develop healthy routines and not fall back into old habits that could lead to relapse. Many people use this as an opportunity to explore new activities and hobbies, trying things they haven’t done before, or want to get better…
When many people think of addiction recovery, their focus is on stopping use of drugs and alcohol. While this is critical, it is not something that happens in a silo. Effective recovery requires changes throughout one’s lifestyle. Proper nutrition is a key element for repairing damage from substance use, curbing cravings, boosting mood and energy,…
There is no “quick fix” for addiction. Treatment takes time, and recovery is long-term effort. You must make conscious choices every day to reduce the risk of relapse and stay healthy. That being said, if you do have a slip, that does not mean that treatment or recovery have failed. It is a warning sign…
When a loved one enters an addiction treatment program, you may feel a sense of relief that they are finally getting the help they need. You may also be anxious about what will happen once they return home. Will they be able to maintain their sobriety? How will your lives change? What can you expect?…
No one starts using drugs or alcohol with the intention of becoming addicted, but it happens. It can be incredibly difficult watching a loved one struggle with addiction, and you want to do everything you can to protect and help them. Some people realize that they have a problem and are open to entering rehab…
Not everyone who drinks or uses drugs develops an addiction. There are plenty of people who can have a drink or two while out with friends, and it becomes nothing more. However, there are others for whom this behavior becomes problematic, and they’re not able to stop after one or two drinks. It can be…
The opioid epidemic is nothing new – it has been an issue for several years. But with more drugs such as fentanyl and carfentinil popping up and overdoses increasing, people are taking notice. This is especially true in Maine where a recent study found that the most Googled health condition in the state was none…
No one likes to see someone they love struggle. It is a natural tendency to want to help and protect them. However, when it comes to addiction, what you perceive as “help” may actually be enabling the person to continue their drinking or drug use. You may have the best of intentions, but things don’t…
Opioid addiction is a growing concern for many people given its prevalence and risks. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), approximately 2.1 million Americans were addicted to prescription pain relievers in 2012, and there were nearly 207 million prescriptions written for opioids in 2013. While these drugs can be safe and effective…
