Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of behavioral therapy that helps manage a variety of conditions. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), CBT can treat “depression, anxiety disorders, alcohol and drug use problems, marital problems, eating disorders, and severe mental illness.”[1] Some people also use CBT to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and post-traumatic […]
What Does it Mean to Quit Drugs Cold Turkey?
/0 Comments/in Drug Addiction /by George MavrookasAddiction is a chronic and progressive disease that affects millions of Americans each year. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), 48.7 million people suffered from a substance use disorder in 2022.[1] When you have an addiction, that means your brain and body are relying on the substance to function properly. […]
How to Choose a Sponsor in AA
/0 Comments/in Alcoholism /by George MavrookasIf you are in addiction recovery, you are probably familiar with 12-step programs. You might even be active in a group like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA). No matter what 12-step meetings you attend, you will eventually need a sponsor. NA and AA meetings are highly beneficial to recovery. Some are centered around […]
What is the Difference Between Crack and Meth?
/0 Comments/in Drug Addiction /by George MavrookasWhen comparing crack cocaine and methamphetamine, the two substances do have similarities, such as their addictiveness and stimulating effects. Both are linked to serious health risks as well, but they originate from different substances. They also affect the brain and body a little differently from one another. This article explores the differences between crack and […]
6 Useful CBT Techniques for Addiction Recovery
/0 Comments/in Drug Addiction, Recovery /by George MavrookasCognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of behavioral therapy that helps manage a variety of conditions. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), CBT can treat “depression, anxiety disorders, alcohol and drug use problems, marital problems, eating disorders, and severe mental illness.”[1] Some people also use CBT to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and post-traumatic […]
What is a Dry Drunk?
/0 Comments/in Alcoholism /by George MavrookasAlcohol is the most commonly abused substance in America. Many people are unaware that they have a problem with alcohol because it is so heavily ingrained into our society. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) reports that nearly 30 million people struggled with an alcohol use disorder in 2022.[1] Attending and completing […]
The Relationship Between Trauma and Substance Abuse
/0 Comments/in Alcoholism, Drug Addiction /by George MavrookasAddiction and trauma are heavily intertwined. First, many people who go on to develop substance use disorders have an extensive history of childhood trauma. The traumatic experiences they endured during their early years made them more likely to lean on drugs and alcohol to self-medicate the lingering effects. Another way that trauma and addiction are […]
5 Tips for Obtaining Employment After Rehab
/0 Comments/in Recovery /by George MavrookasOnce you complete a drug and alcohol rehab program, it’s time to start rebuilding your life. While some people have a job to return to, you might not have employment immediately. Trying to find work might be daunting if you have a long gap in employment history. Thankfully, there are plenty of ways to make […]
5 Alternatives to 12-Step Programs for Sober Support
/0 Comments/in Recovery, Sober Living /by George Mavrookas12-step programs have been helping alcoholics and drug addicts recover from their substance use disorders for years. Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) are the most common 12-step programs, offering support and a step-by-step program for their members to achieve long-term sobriety. While they can be incredibly effective for the right person, some people […]
What are My Drug Rehab Aftercare Options?
/0 Comments/in Recovery /by George MavrookasA substance use disorder is a chronic and progressive disease that must be managed long-term to maintain sobriety. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), the addiction relapse rate is between 40 to 60%.[1] Without keeping up with your recovery maintenance techniques, relapse is possible. Thankfully, there are actions you can take after […]