For most people, the winter holidays are a time of joy and celebration. However, if you're recovering from opioid addiction, this time of year can be challenging, too. Between well-meaning questions from family members and the financial stress of gift-giving and travel, you may find yourself facing more triggers and cravings than usual. Staying sober during the holidays is possible, even for ...
5 Essential Tools for Addiction Recovery
Addiction recovery, whether from opioids, methamphetamine, cocaine or any other substance, is a lifelong journey. The right tools and resources can make all the difference. Addiction Recovery Tools From programs to hobbies to books about recovery, many resources are available to individuals seeking a life free from addiction. These five tools can offer an excellent starting point and long-term ...
The Benefits of Exercise in Addiction Recovery
Recovery from addiction may involve medication-assisted treatment, counseling and other forms of support. Many individuals also seek to develop healthy new habits to support their recovery mentally and physically. Physical activity during recovery can make all the difference. The Benefits of Exercise in Addiction Recovery Exercise and addiction do not always go together. Before starting ...
17 Symptoms During Opioid Withdrawal
Opioid drugs, including heroin and prescription opioid painkillers, can produce withdrawal symptoms within just a few hours of the last dose. Symptoms of opioid withdrawal can last for a week or more. While unassisted withdrawal may not be life-threatening, it can lead to relapse and potential overdose. Seeking help during withdrawal can help to ease the mental, emotional and physical discomfort ...
Is Buprenorphine Treatment Becoming Mainstream?
The opioid epidemic in the United States has reached unprecedented levels amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there were an estimated 90,000 drug overdose deaths in the 12-month period ending September 2020, including a 55% increase in opioid-related deaths. The Biden administration recently released new federal guidelines allowing ...
How to Tell Your Family You Are in Recovery
Telling anyone about your addiction or recovery, including family and friends, is a personal choice. There's no pressure to talk about it until you feel ready. If you do choose to have the conversation, you can decide what or how much information to share. Here are a few things to consider before sitting down with your loved ones. Pick the Right Time Choosing the right time and place can make a ...