Being afflicted with a mental health or substance use disorder can cause great challenges to a person’s life. When someone struggles with both at the same time, it’s referred to as a dual diagnosis or co-occurring disorder. Perhaps not surprisingly, research data has shown that substance use and mental illness are associated. For example, one…
A November 2021 study published in Clinical Psychology Review has tentatively concluded—after analyzing the results of nearly 100 studies published over the past 46 years—that a concurrent recovery model, when contrasted with “addiction substitution” (a.k.a., addiction replacement), provides the best overall treatment results.[1] The study’s authors define addiction substitution as “the practice of increasing the…
Addiction is a Complex, But Treatable Disease – 6 Principles of Effective Treatment For those struggling with a substance use disorder (a.k.a. addiction to alcohol and/or drugs), seeking treatment can at times seem like a daunting, even overwhelming task. This is especially true when it comes to finding a well-established treatment center that you can…
We in recovery know that unexpected situations—“life on life’s terms”—can arise at the drop of a hat… but this is especially so during the holiday season. Whether it be while you’re making plans for a holiday gathering, doing some extra cooking, having guests over, visiting relatives, or simply gift-shopping, the additional stress and anxiety so…
There are many options for psychiatric treatment programs. However, when seeking mental health treatment for yourself or a loved one, the possibilities may appear overwhelming at first. That said, with a bit of guidance, finding the best course of treatment for your situation can be much more manageable. Are you looking for psychiatric treatment programs…
Physicians, nurses and other healthcare professionals (HCPs) are commonly known to care more than most about maintaining healthy habits, and they generally live healthier lifestyles than the general population. This is backed up by research data showing, among other examples, they smoke less and exercise more than the average American.[1] Still, the rate at which…
It may be surprising to learn that doctors are at increased risk of alcohol addiction or substance abuse. While medical settings are characteristically intense, the spread of COVID-19 and the ongoing pandemic has over-extended an already strained medical system. This strain results in greater pressures on doctors and other medical professionals. Rising cases of alcohol…
In the latest Surgeon General’s Report on Alcohol, Drugs and Health, it’s pointed out that, “Remission from a substance use disorder can take several years and multiple episodes of treatment, recovery support services (RSS) and/or mutual aid.”[1] The good news, however, is there are increasing numbers of mutual aid groups and newly emerging recovery support…
A longitudinal research study of more than 900 physicians struggling with substance use disorders (a.k.a., chemical dependency or addiction) enrolled in 16 confidential, state-run Physicians Health Programs announced an 80 percent success rate — significantly higher than the typical 50 percent success rate of the general population.[1] Given the noteworthy outcomes of these physician-tailored programs,…
Doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals may abuse alcohol or drugs for various reasons. Some may need to cope with the pressures of the job. Others may be trying to stay alert during long, demanding shifts. Whatever the reason, there is an increasing demand for drug rehab for medical professionals. While addiction can be isolating,…