According to a just-released estimate by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), a record number of drug overdose deaths were reported this past year—93,000—a 29% increase over the previous record (in 2019).[1] Brandon Marshall, a Brown University public health researcher who tracks overdose trends, said, “This is a staggering loss of human life. The nation…
Medical partnerships are a great way to grow business, expand your client base, and forge relationships with key partners for medical referrals. The first step in building professional partnerships is connecting with other doctors and specialists. The best kind of referral partnerships are mutually beneficial for each practice and ultimately improve health outcomes for patients.…
In a recent article in The Atlantic entitled, “America Has a Drinking Problem,” author Kate Julian begins by pointing out alcohol consumption in the U.S. has risen steadily since 2000, and the longstanding societal effects of COVID-19 have shifted our nation’s drinking habits in the ‘more so’ direction. “(Prior to the pandemic) you might have…
In 2017, Hurricane Maria devastated Puerto Rico and other parts of the Caribbean. Since then, this island has dealt with battered buildings, a lack of necessities like food and water, and a rampant problem with addiction. The addiction crisis in Puerto Rico has led to unsuccessful efforts for those struggling with addiction. Fortunately, there is…
So often in recovery circles we hear someone say, “I’ve had to preserve my self-image at all costs. Because if anyone found out about my problem (with drinking and/or drugs), it would ruin me.” And more often than not, it’s a professional in some field—typically a doctor or nurse or lawyer or business executive—with a…
Given the culture we live in today, with what seems to be its increasing tendencies toward commercialism, materialism and secularism, many of us who seek recovery from a substance use disorder (a.k.a. chemical dependency, addiction to alcohol or drugs) find it surprising to hear that developing spirituality, living according to spiritual principles, and/or nourishing our…
Very rarely do we see people come into recovery from addiction brimming with positivity, honesty and a caring attitude toward others. Instead, it’s much more typical to find “newcomers” feeling weighted down by distrust and defensiveness, callousness and alienation (if not resentment and malevolence), and a substantial amount of self-centeredness. However, as the saying goes,…
As we enter into the month of June, it’s time once again to recognize Men’s Health Awareness Month. Every June since 1994, people across the country have dedicated this month to men’s health initiatives. It’s an important time to remember the many health issues that men face. Whether it’s physical, mental, or emotional, as we…
Recovering from an addiction is challenging. Recent studies show that more than three-quarters of people who receive addiction treatment relapse within the first year. Nonetheless, healing is possible for everyone. Because of how common addiction setbacks can be, particularly in the first weeks following treatment, it is critical to understand and recognize potential addiction setbacks…
According to research published in the Journal of Addiction Medicine, most physicians who abuse or become addicted to prescription drugs describe their motivation, not as being pleasure- or recreational thrill-seeking, but rather: To relieve stress To diminish physical pain To cope with emotional challenges or upset To cope with undiagnosed depression Nonetheless, if you are…