Learning to Experience Pleasure Again Without Substances
Why Pleasure Feels Different in Recovery One of the most discouraging parts of early recovery is realizing that things do not feel as enjoyable as they used to. Music may seem flat. Food may feel less exciting. Socializing, hobbies, or even moments of rest may not bring the same sense of reward a person hoped […]
Sobriety Is Not the Same as Recovery
Stopping Use Is Only One Part of Healing Stopping substance use is a major milestone. It often takes courage, commitment, and support to reach that point. But while sobriety is essential, it is not the same thing as recovery. Sobriety means no longer using substances. Recovery goes further. It involves learning how to live differently, […]
When Anxiety Increases After You Stop Using
Why Anxiety Can Spike After Sobriety Many people expect to feel immediate relief once they stop using substances. For some, there is relief. But for others, anxiety actually increases in early recovery. This can feel confusing and discouraging. Substances such as alcohol, opioids, benzodiazepines, and marijuana often suppress or numb anxiety in the short term. […]
COVID-19 & Its Impact on the Recovery Community
As treatment providers for substance abuse, we all know that social distancing goes against everything we have been trained with regard to treatment of addiction. We tell our clients from the beginning of their treatment to reach out to others, be honest, share their feelings, DO NOT BE ALONE TOO LONG, AND DO NOT ISOLATE. […]