Depression. The word conjures images of someone withdrawn, lethargic, and unable to cope with daily tasks. But what about those who wear a smile while battling an internal storm? This is the reality of high-functioning depression, a condition often misunderstood. High-functioning depression, sometimes referred to as “smiling depression” or persistent depressive disorder (PDD), describes a state where individuals experience significant depressive symptoms yet maintain a facade of “normalcy” in their personal and professional lives. They go to work, socialize with friends, and fulfill familial ..read more

In your journey toward mental health or substance abuse recovery, finding hope and healing often comes from unexpected sources. For many, encouragement and glimmers of hope can sometimes be found in the kitchen. Cooking is often about more than just making a meal, it’s a pathway to nourishing both body and mind. With its blend of creativity, accomplishment, and the inherent joy of sharing, engaging in the art of cooking can become a deliciously therapeutic cornerstone in your recovery process. The Therapeutic Kitchen The kitchen, often considered the heart of the home, can be transformed into ..read more

It’s no secret that alcohol misuse can do a number on our mental health, potentially stirring up issues like depression, anxiety, and mood disorders. Studies show that alcohol misuse and mental health challenges often go hand in hand. About 20-40% of people dealing with anxiety also grapple with alcohol misuse, while depression is similarly linked, affecting 27-40% of those with alcohol issues. The overlaps between alcohol abuse and mental health conditions are inarguable. Starting to make sense of alcohol’s impact on mental health means spotting the signs that there’s a problem. Whether it’s ..read more

As we welcome in April, we also usher in Stress Awareness Month, an important time set aside to shine a spotlight on the dangers of stress and the importance of managing it, especially for those seeking recovery from substance abuse or mental health struggles. The key to healing is building a foundation for a healthier, more resilient life. Managing stress is a cornerstone of this foundation. Stress can be particularly challenging for individuals in recovery. It’s not just an emotional discomfort — it can be a trigger, a hurdle on the path to sobriety, or a threat to one’s mental health. Unde ..read more

If you have overcome a substance abuse addiction, take a moment to congratulate yourself. It takes hard work and commitment to conquer a physical and psychological dependence on drugs or alcohol. But as you move beyond the initial stages of your recovery, it’s important to recognize that the hard work is never over. You must be continuously diligent to maintain your sobriety. Never, ever taken it for granted. As you continue your journey to stay clean and sober, here are some steps to improve your odds for success. Develop a Support Network You don’t have to go through your sobriety journey a ..read more

Embarking on your journey of recovery from alcohol or drug addiction or addressing mental health issues is a brave and transformative path. As you navigate this process, incorporating the therapeutic benefits of nature can significantly contribute to your mental health and overall well-being. The healing power of nature during winter and various outdoor activities can complement your recovery or mental health journey. Embracing Nature’s Serenity Nature offers a serene and enchanting environment that can serve as a powerful backdrop for self-reflection and healing. regardless of the season. Im ..read more

Spring brings warmer days and bursts of color, signaling a fresh start and sparking hope. It’s the perfect time to reflect on growth and renewal, especially for anyone dealing with codependency. This season, let’s gently explore what codependency means, how it affects our well-being, and how the spirit of spring can guide us toward healthier, happier relationships. Diving Into Codependency Codependency can be seen as a sort of tangled garden. It’s when we water everyone else’s flowers but forget our own, losing ourselves in the needs and happiness of others. This pattern often starts in child ..read more

National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week takes place March 18–24th in 2024. It’s a time to share information, dispel common myths, and continue the important nationwide conversation about addiction. While this is an important conversation to have any time of year, this designated period of observance encourages opportunities for scientists, researchers, healthcare providers, educators, community partners, and other key figures to bring attention to drug and alcohol abuse, specifically among young people. In the spirit of the week, here are common myths about addiction debunked. Myth 1: Overcoming ..read more

You might be proud of your Irish heritage or simply love all things Irish, but if you are a recovering alcoholic, celebrating St. Patrick’s Day can potentially destroy your progress. There are many ways to ignore the worst (and best) of this 24-hour holiday, and plenty of options to celebrate without threatening your sobriety. Avoid the Lure of St. Patrick’s Day Plenty of people love St. Patrick’s Day. Green beer, camaraderie, shamrocks, even leprechauns signify the luck and folklore of this culture on one special day every year. For someone who is newly sober, however, the tried-and-true alc ..read more

Are you concerned about a pattern of addiction that runs in your family? Perhaps it’s a history of alcoholism that has extended from a grandparent to a parent to a sibling. Or you may have several relatives in your extended family — an uncle, an aunt, several cousins — who have struggled with drug abuse. What do these multiple addictions in your family mean for you? Are you destined to have substance abuse problem as well? If your family history is causing concern about your risk for addiction, educate yourself about genetic and environmental factors that could have an impact. If you are show ..read more