The Benefits of a Mindful Routine in Recovery
Creating a mindful routine is a powerful tool for individuals on the journey of recovery, providing stability and control to navigate life’s challenges. Research shows that integrating mindfulness can significantly improve outcomes, reducing cravings and relapse rates by actively retraining the brain to manage triggers and emotions. The routine should incorporate essential components like consistent […]
Does Alcohol Increase Dementia Risk?
Recent research is challenging older studies that suggested moderate drinking might be protective, now indicating that any level of alcohol consumption may increase dementia risk in a dose-dependent manner. Alcohol damages the brain through neurotoxicity and inflammation, leading to conditions like Alcohol-Related Dementia (ARD), but recovery of cognitive decline is often possible with abstinence. Current […]
Addiction & Related Topics
The Dangers of Bromazolam Use: What You Need to Know
Bromazolam, a synthetic benzodiazepine, is a dangerous drug increasingly found in the illegal drug supply, often in counterfeit pills and mixed with fentanyl, significantly increasing overdose risk. Its unpredictable effects, potential for addiction, and severe withdrawal symptoms make it a serious public health concern. Seeking medical detoxification and therapy is crucial for those struggling with […]
Deck the Halls (Responsibly): Hosting a Holiday Party in Recovery
This guide provides comprehensive tips for hosting a joyful and safe holiday party while in recovery, demonstrating that an alcohol-free celebration can be a rewarding and authentic experience. It emphasizes detailed planning, creating a festive and welcoming atmosphere through decorations, music, and creative non-alcoholic beverages, and setting clear boundaries regarding alcohol. The key is to […]
Practicing Gratitude Throughout the Year: A Guide for Lasting Recovery
For individuals in recovery, practicing gratitude year-round is a powerful tool for sustained sobriety and mental well-being, offering benefits such as boosting mood, reducing stress, and strengthening resilience. The article encourages readers to transition from seasonal thankfulness to a daily habit through practical tips like starting a gratitude journal, using the “Three Good Things” exercise, […]
What Is 7-Hydroxymitragynine & Why Is It Dangerous?
7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH), a potent synthetic compound derived from kratom, is being aggressively marketed as “gas station heroin” and poses serious health risks, including addiction and fatal overdoses, especially when mixed with alcohol. Unlike natural kratom, which contains trace amounts of 7-OH, these concentrated products have significantly higher levels, making them far more dangerous and potent […]
Addiction & Related Topics
What Are Nitazenes and Why Are They Dangerous?
Nitazenes are a dangerous class of synthetic opioids, significantly more potent than morphine and heroin, and are increasingly found as contaminants in the illicit drug supply. These substances pose a high risk of overdose, although naloxone can be effective, often requiring multiple doses. Harm reduction strategies, including drug checking, cautious dosing, and never using alone, […]
Substance Abuse, CTE & Secrecy in the NFL
The NFL faces a silent crisis of substance abuse and chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) among its players, stemming from repeated head trauma and the league’s historical secrecy regarding these risks. Many players battle addiction to painkillers, often overprescribed to keep them on the field, which can worsen CTE symptoms and lead to severe mental health […]
What Is Flubromazolam? The Dangers of Designer Benzodiazepines
Flubromazolam is a potent designer benzodiazepine that mimics prescription drugs like Xanax and Klonopin but is significantly more dangerous due to its altered chemical structure and high potency. It is illegal in the US and several other countries, and its use can lead to severe sedation, amnesia, respiratory depression, and life-threatening withdrawal symptoms. The substance […]
Re-Entry Struggles That Veterans Face: Finding Hope and Healing
This article discusses the significant challenges veterans face during their transition from military to civilian life, including mental health issues like veteran PTSD, depression, and anxiety, as well as substance abuse problems. It highlights the complexities of co-occurring disorders, barriers to treatment such as stigma and access, and offers hope and resources for recovery through […]
Navigating the Shutdown: A Veteran's Guide to Resources Beyond the VA
This guide helps veterans navigate a 2025 government shutdown by detailing which VA services remain operational, such as compensation checks and medical care, and which may be affected, like regional offices and some GI Bill payments. It also provides crucial information on alternative financial, mental health, education, career, and housing resources available through credit unions, […]
Everything You Need to Know About Phenibut
Phenibut, a GABA analog synthesized in the Soviet Union, is marketed as a nootropic for anxiety reduction and focus enhancement, despite not being FDA-approved and being illegal for marketing as a dietary supplement in the U.S. Phenibut abuse carries significant risks, including severe side effects, a high potential for addiction, and dangerous withdrawal symptoms. While […]
