First responders frequently suffer a traumatic injury. Whether from a single event or the cumulative impact of several events over time, most first responders don’t realize or recognize the impact. How should first responders cope with trauma? A necessary approach to their life-saving work is: Do first, feel later. When drawing a weapon, running into…
Everyone overeats at some point. It could be an extra helping at dinner or sampling every dessert at a wedding or eating for comfort after a tough day. Others set a New Year’s resolution to lose weight but they start, stop and never really let a new eating program take hold. All of these behaviors…
Even the smallest childhood traumas can strongly influence our adult lives. We tend to think of early trauma as violence, sexual abuse, neglect and loss, or as something caused by major catastrophes, crimes or accidents. There are many different levels of overt trauma. However, there are subtle trauma effects that can lead to major consequences.…
“Teach your children well,” a Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young song famously advises. Children are impressionable, like tofu that absorbs the flavor of whatever it’s immersed in. But sadly, many children are immersed in unsavory environments. It’s time to learn how to teach your children about substance use. Influence of Parental Attitudes Some parents say…
Are you struggling with how to help a depressed friend? If so, you are not alone. Depression affects more than 3 million teenagers each year, and most of them have friends like you who are trying to find ways to help. Because you are a close friend, you are in a unique position to observe…
“Oh, I’m so OCD.” It’s become a common expression, exclaimed by someone who is a bit overly tidy or who likes to eat their candies by color. Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is, in actuality, a serious condition that causes immense, almost unbearable unrest and discomfort in individuals who struggle with it. It is relatively common, with…
Depression and anxiety are two mental health disorders that commonly occur alongside a substance use disorder. Having both can turn into a vicious cycle as one disorder can make the other worse. However, addiction, anxiety, and depression can be treated at a dual diagnosis treatment center in Long Beach, CA, or another city. Dual diagnosis…
Are you struggling with mental illness? You may not know it. Mental illness statistics, like those discussed here, clearly show that many people have a need for a bit of help and comprehensive treatment. Getting it can change your life. And, if you are one of the many people using drugs or alcohol to manage…
Making the decision to take control of your life back from drugs and/or alcohol is one that takes a great deal of courage. However, no matter how committed you are to turning your life around and recovering from substance use disorder, you’re probably wondering what is rehab like. Understanding what you can expect during your…
If you or a loved one are using methamphetamine, you’re likely already aware of how the drug can cause immediate negative effects. You may not understand how the drug can cause lasting health problems when used for an extended period. If you or a loved one are ready to get help for addiction to avoid…