Men’s Mental Health Month: Erasing the Stigma
While mental health affects all genders, it tends to be overlooked by men more than women. Men are more likely to view mental health struggles as a sign of weakness and therefore choose to ignore them. The stigma surrounding mental health, particularly in men, is leading to significant mental and physical health issues including substance […]
May is Mental Health Awareness Month
Preserving your mental and physical health is the key to reaping the full benefits of a long and happy life. That’s why it’s so vital to focus primarily on these entities if you wish to live life to the fullest.
What the Seventh Step Can Teach About Humility
The Seventh Step of AA, “Humbly ask your higher power to remove your shortcomings,” gives a lesson in humility. Learning how to ask humbly requires the acknowledgment that you are not the center of the universe. You are not more, and you are not less important than any other person. This lesson in humility can […]
When Your Client Continues to Put Up Walls
Sometimes, a client might start to put up walls, especially if they are discussing a subject that is difficult for them to talk about. Even if you have built a rapport with your client, they still might shut you out. There are many reasons why your client has stopped opening up. Why a Client Might […]
Combating Mental Health and Substance Use Misinformation on the Internet
Online spaces can be a source of misinformation on all kinds of topics. Stigmas, myths, and lies can spread like wildfire. Clients and counselors alike need to take the steps they can to make sure individuals get the facts straight. Misinformation on Social Media If there is anything the last ten years has demonstrated, it […]
Is Medication Safe if I Have an Addiction?
Having a history of addiction can make taking medication a frightening experience. While the U.S. battles a major opioid addiction crisis, taking medication for pain or mental illness might be concerning, especially if that substance has the potential to be addictive. This article discusses how to use medicine safely and when and why taking controlled […]
Comorbidity of Chronic Illness and Substance Misuse
Those who are chronically ill might need to rely on medication to function in their day-to-day lives. Yet, others might use alcohol or illicit drugs to cope with the pain. It is essential to know the facts about chronic illness and what factors might lead an individual to substance use. Knowledge about a person’s health […]
Why Is Comedy So Effective in Improving Mental Health in Recovery?
Whether you’re a comedian or you love watching stand-up specials, laughing about life difficulties can raise the mood. Many recommend watching something funny when you are feeling down. Here’s why laughing out loud lifts your mood and how it can help with long-term recovery. What Laughing Does to the Brain The brain releases pleasure chemicals […]
You Might Be Practicing Self Harm and Not Know It
Self-harm comes in many forms, but others might not know they are hurting themselves as a way to cope with difficult mental disorder symptoms. Since self-harm tends to be a taboo topic, many might not know that their behaviors are hurting more than helping. Substance use is sometimes a form of self-harm on its own, […]
Athletes and Substance Use Disorder: The Pressure to Perform
With the Winter Olympics on the way, the headlines can often be filled with athletes suspended for substance use. Performance-enhancing drugs aren’t uncommon in sports programs, but not every program tests for substances. Let’s take a look at the phenomenon of athletes and substance use disorder and how you can help your clients in the […]
