When a person has been suffering with addiction illness, their physical health is very likely to have deteriorated as a result. A poor diet, lack of sleep, and lack of exercise combine with the dangers of substance abuse to increase the potential for long-term health problems unless treatment is sought. For this reason, physical exercise is widely considered to be a very important component of addiction treatment.

Despite our better understanding of addiction as a disease, there is still a considerable amount of stigma surrounding the issue, whether perceived or otherwise. Indeed, many people in desperate need of addiction treatment fear taking the first step for fear of being judged harshly by others. Even if this is not the case, the prospect of coming clean on substance abuse can paralyze many from reaching out for help at all.

Overcoming substance abuse is a process that takes time. How long a person’s recovery journey is depends on their individual needs and circumstances. Addiction develops over a period of time and there is no overnight cure. Here we take a look at the five stages a person experiences as they heal from substance abuse in recovery.

It is exceptionally difficult for some people to face the challenge of telling their children about past drug or alcohol abuse. That said, it is also important to recognize that very often children are negatively influenced by a parent who has dealt with substance abuse in the past. It is not uncommon for children of addicted parents to go on to develop substance abuse issues of their own.

Enjoying the summer isn’t always easy for people in recovery from addiction. Leaving the sanctity of a rehab center to get involved in summer activities like barbecues, beach days, pool parties and summer weddings can be challenging. Here we look at some ways to help you navigate any hurdles you may face in recovery during the summer months.

When people have completed a rehab program and they return home, one of the challenges they face is letting people know they are in recovery. There are still many misconceptions about addiction and it may be difficult to accurately gauge a person’s response when you tell them about your journey. Here are some tips to keep in mind that might help you.

Although everyone in rehab can benefit from a healthy and nutritious diet, it’s important to understand the necessary vitamins and minerals you could be lacking. A poor diet can have a very detrimental effect on a person, causing nutritional deficiencies that can lead to serious health conditions.

People who work their way through rehab treatment are always encouraged to acknowledge their significant achievements. Overcoming addiction is not without its challenges and it is a testament to your strength of character to have successfully completed a rehab program. However despite this, many people don’t feel they are ready for love in the early days of recovery as they focus on healing themselves.

Addiction is an illness that doesn’t only affect the person abusing substances. In most cases loved ones, friends, and coworkers are also impacted by the way an individual behaves when they are suffering as a result of substance abuse. It can be very difficult for many people to know how to deal with someone struggling with addiction, especially if you want to help them get the treatment we need.

There is a strong correlation between traumatic events and addiction. Research shows that difficult childhood experiences make it more likely that an individual will struggle with substance abuse later on. Other studies reveal that a high proportion of Veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) abuse drugs and alcohol to medicate their symptoms.