What Happens In The Drunk Brain A most remarkable aspect of the human brain – and the aspect which sets us apart from other creatures – is the frontal cortex. This part of the brain allows us to take any stored information, and weave it together with newer, incoming, information. The result of this ability […]
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Substance abuse and mental health problems often go together. It is sometimes the existence of mental problems which result in a person attempting to self-medicate with drugs or alcohol. It is sometimes the case that the use of substances causes chemical changes in the brain which result in mental health problems. In the presence of […]
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When developing our healthy approaches toward life, it is beneficial to not set ourselves up with unrealistic expectations. While it would be useful for a recovering alcoholic to simply not see, smell, or be offered another drink, ever again, such is not likely to be the case. We live in a culture where partaking of alcoholic […]
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Everyone in substance abuse has their own reasons for beginning, and sustaining, the addictive behavior. Similarly, each addict has to find his or her own motivation for quitting. While being nagged at by someone else rarely results in sobriety, those who care about your health and safety often feel compelled to do it, anyway. They […]
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It has wisely been noted that, “A journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.” Nowhere does this adage apply more than on the road to recovery. The decision to get – and stay – sober is a crucial one. It is the decision which sets the rest of one’s life into productive motion. […]
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Making the decision to abstain from alcohol is a tremendous first step. Reaching that milestone is worthy of recognition and admiration. Maintaining the resolve to continue along the path of sobriety is another ballgame. While the decision to avoid alcohol consumption does become more solid, over time, there tends to be a middle period where […]
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Becoming sober can be like an experience of being reborn. Your brain and body need to relearn how to operate without the influence of the substances. You will need to learn new ways of seeing the world; new ways of communicating with others; and new ways of handling emotions. You will need to retrain your […]
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Sex is a natural part of adult life. Some versions of Maslow’s Hierarchy even include it among the most basic needs, right alongside food and shelter. Sex, in our culture, is utilized for both procreation and recreation. It is used for marketing purposes, and is used as a measure of dating success. How can something […]
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When we are young, we tend to feel invincible. We can pull an all-nighter, and still be awake – bright and bushy tailed – in time to face the challenges of a new day. Part of this optimism is just the youthful blessing of having a life of undiscovered adventure still awaiting us. Another part […]
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The initial steps which are taken on the road to recovery are the most vital. It is important that our behaviors, thoughts, and feelings are carefully monitored, and that the input that we dwell on is full of hope and encouragement. Much like an infant who is learning to walk, progress is dependent upon support. […]
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