Values are important recovery tools. They’re also important life qualities, for that matter, because values are the theories, beliefs or attitudes that act as guiding principles for our behaviors. The values we hold dear may also be what give us the strength, courage, and stamina to stay true to our recovery journey. Or, our values…
Author: Beth Wilson
Signs You’re Headed for Relapse and How To Stop
Most people think of a relapse as the moment that they give in to temptation and use their substance of choice. However, relapse actually starts much sooner, and if you can catch the early warning signs, you may gain an advantage that helps you stop the process before you use. The Yale Journal of Biology…
What You Need To Know in Case of Opioid Overdose
Fatal overdoses from opioids, and especially fentanyl, are climbing in Washington. This July may have been the worst month for overdoses in almost two years, with 1,031 overdoses reported in 31 days, according to the Washington State Department of Health. Fortunately, Naloxone can prevent an opioid overdose death if it is administered quickly. Emergency responders…
3 Reasons To Consider Intensive Outpatient (IOP) Treatment
If you’re ready to start your recovery journey now, you may think the first step is an inpatient facility. Inpatient substance use disorder (SUD) treatment programs are the lifeline that some people need, especially if they have other medical or psychiatric issues, a high risk of withdrawal symptoms and/or a need to be in a…
Shopping To Fight Addiction
Many retailers make donations to nonprofits through shopping rewards programs based on their customers’ preferences. You may have heard of the Amazon Smile program, which donates 0.5% of the amount of your purchase to the charity of your choice? Well, Fred Meyer has a similar program! If you’ve signed up online and you have a…
Keys to Recovery
A person who chooses recovery does it over and over because it’s a process, not an event. But what does it take to keep making the choice? According to SAMHSA, it takes hope, because people in recovery need to believe that they can overcome the challenges of addiction. It takes relationships – families, friends, peers…
Identifying Substance Use Disorders
Maybe you suspect you have a problem with alcohol or another addictive substance, or maybe someone who cares about you has said something to that effect. As long as you don’t know for sure, you may think you can avoid facing up to it. Shining a light on addiction isn’t that hard, though. You can…