Research has long shown a correlation between substance addiction and mental health. It is estimated that people diagnosed with mood or anxiety disorders are twice as likely to suffer from a substance use disorder, as well. The same is true for those with antisocial and conduct disorders. Similarly, individuals diagnosed with drug use disorders are […]
Author: Mark Casali
10 Key Tips for Recovery from Addiction
Substance addiction is a treatable and manageable condition. Anyone can achieve recovery. Recovery is defined as a process of change, through which individuals struggling with substance addiction (and/or mental health disorders) can improve their wellness, regain control over their lives, and strive to reach their full potential. Those in recovery learn how to live without […]
America is Facing a Youth Mental Health Crisis (2022 Update)
Did you know that we are in the midst of a national youth mental health crisis? In December 2021, the U.S. Surgeon General released an advisory to draw attention to this devastating public health emergency. His message came on the heels of a national declaration in October, published by the American Academy of Pediatrics, the […]
5 Common Mistakes Parents Make When They Find Out Their Teen is Using Drugs
Studies show that at least 45 to 50 percent of teenagers will try drugs by the end of high school. If you suspect your teen is using drugs, or have recently discovered evidence of drug use, it not too early for you, as a parent, to act. Parents play a critical role in preventing and […]
Co-Ed or Single-Gender Drug Rehab: Deciding Which is Right for Your Loved One
There are many factors to consider when it comes time to choose a drug treatment program. You must decide whether your loved one needs an inpatient or outpatient rehab facility, and how long they may need to stay in treatment. You will also need to decide whether to pursue a co-ed drug rehab or a […]
Addiction vs. Tolerance vs. Dependence: Is There a Difference?
There is a very fine line between drug tolerance, dependence, and addiction. Often, it is a line that even concerned loves ones cannot fully make out. Is my son addicted to drugs, or is his body just dependent on them? Is my daughter using higher dosages to better manage her condition, or just to get […]
Is Experimenting with Drugs Normal, or Should I Be Concerned?
Many young people believe that trying drugs once or twice, at a young age, is not a “big deal.” Everyone is doing, right? As a parent, you may not know what to think or how to react when you find out your teen has tried an illicit drug or drank alcohol underage. You may remember […]
Dangerous Medications: Do They Really Exist?
Many people assume that, because a medication is prescribed by a doctor, it is 100% safe. The truth is, even prescriptions can be dangerous and addictive. If a medicine is misused, or used in a way other than prescribed, there may be a chance for addiction or even overdose. While we often question common side […]
Is Being Sober Worth It? 5 Reasons to Get Sober
“A bend in the road is not the end of the road… unless you fail to make the turn.” – Helen Keller When we come across difficult circumstances in life, such as a struggle with mental health or substance abuse, it is easy to succumb to feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness. Many people who use […]
How to Develop a Relapse Prevention Plan
Substance addiction is a chronic, relapsing disease. This means it is possible for people in recovery to relapse, or return to drug or alcohol use after a period of abstinence. However, there are several prevention methods that individuals can take to reduce their chances of relapse significantly. For example, long-term drug treatment programs often make […]