Most people have heard about the opioid epidemic, but many still do not understand it. The opioid epidemic refers specifically to the increasingly growing number of overdoses, hospitalizations, and deaths caused by opioids, both prescription and illegal. Primarily due to opioids, drug overdose is now the leading cause of preventable death across the nation. Opioid…
Drug and alcohol rehab programs generally fall into inpatient and outpatient categories. While both are equally focused on successful recovery, each has pros and cons, depending on your individual needs and circumstances. Most people in recovery work through the continuum of care transitionally, stepping down from higher treatment levels as they progress toward their recovery…
If you are questioning your relationship with drugs and alcohol, an excellent first step is to take our confidential online self-assessment. This brief questionnaire is not a substitute for a professional evaluation. Still, it is an informal tool that can help you take an honest look at your substance use and its impact on your…
When researching treatment programs for substance use disorders, you will encounter multiple levels of care. An intake specialist can help you determine what level of care is best suited to your treatment needs. One popular option is an intensive outpatient program or IOP. When considering an IOP, one should consider the benefits and the potential…
The beginning of a new year is a symbolic time when people make grand promises to change, start anew, or achieve major goals. Whether you are looking for an alcohol treatment program in Spokane, WA, or elsewhere in Washington state, New Year’s is an excellent time to reflect on your life and make plans for…
Addiction causes significant damage to personal relationships, and the closer you are to an addicted individual, the greater the damage. When addiction has gone on for long periods of time, addiction overshadows most interactions with your loved one. This situation can create a rollercoaster of emotions. Now that your loved one has chosen to attend…
This September marks the 32nd annual National Drug and Alcohol Recovery Month. This year’s theme, “Recovery Is for Everyone: Every Person, Every Family, Every Community,” reminds the general public that substance use and mental health disorders have impacts that reach far beyond the individual level. It further reminds people in recovery and those who support…
Launched in 2003 by the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) with the World Health Organization (WHO) endorsement, World Suicide Prevention Day is recognized annually on September 10th to promote worldwide action to prevent suicide. Experts estimate that nearly 3,000 people a day, or one million per year, die by suicide. The connections between suicide,…
Of the millions of Americans who struggle with substance use disorders, estimates indicate that only one in ten seek treatment, even though it is widely available. There are countless reasons why people choose not to seek professional addiction treatment, but among the top are the time required for inpatient treatment and the restrictions it places…
Witnessing a loved one suffer from an alcohol use disorder is painful and difficult. Trying to figure out how to help can lead to feelings of frustration, confusion, anger, fear, guilt, and worry, all of which take a toll on your well-being. Alcohol use disorders affect millions of people throughout the world. In the United…