What to Look for in a Sober Living Program
Alcohol or drug detox and subsequent treatment are just the beginning of the recovery process. Upon completing inpatient or outpatient treatment, the hard work of re-establishing yourself into your community, and society as a whole, as a sober person begins. For many, especially those who did not have a supportive and healthy environment before treatment, […]
Effectiveness of Sober Living in Luxury
Sober living is a transitional living environment where individuals in recovery may choose to live during treatment and beyond. These residences provide structure and support for those who are working to rebuild their lives. Due to the complex nature of addiction, relapse is very common. Cultural, societal, and biological factors all contribute to the development […]
Understanding Physical Dependence vs. Addiction
Physical dependence is a term that many do not fully understand. While this condition mirrors some characteristics of addiction, the state of physical dependence also differs from addiction in several key ways. If you are struggling to stop using drugs and alcohol despite negative consequences, you might be facing physical dependence. Physical dependence is not [...]3 Signs You Need a Detox Center
The decision to seek treatment for alcohol or drug addiction can be difficult and frightening. Detox, a process that removes all traces of substances from the body, is generally the first step toward recovery from addiction and should be followed with a comprehensive addiction treatment program. At Westwind Recovery®, we understand that finding the right [...]Addiction and Mental Health: Two Sides of the Same Coin
Professionals have known for years that there is a strong connection between addiction and mental health, as it is common for them to occur together (often referred to as comorbidity). For those struggling with addiction, mental health issues, or both, it can be helpful to know why this connection exists. Mental health treatment programs are […]
What Is an Addiction Specialist?
In the early stages of recovery or while looking to help a loved one, you may have come across the term "addiction specialist." This professional plays a special role in substance abuse treatment programs. For those struggling with drug or alcohol addiction, addiction specialists can be invaluable resources on the road to recovery. If you're [...]How Music Can Help Addiction
Mentions of music being used as a tool for healing can be found throughout the history of humankind. In more recent years, music therapy has become widely regarded as an effective treatment for numerous mental health issues. It has shown to be a powerful therapy for people in recovery. A musical therapist uses clinical, evidence-based […]
What Is Art Therapy?
Throughout history, art has been used in communication, conflict resolution, self-expression, and healing. “Art therapy” was coined as a term in the 1940s, when pioneers in the field of psychology discovered the benefits of using art in therapy with children and families. Since then, art therapy has been successfully used throughout a wide array of [...]5 Alternative Therapy Strategies for Addiction
Addiction is a complex condition. It affects the whole person and often infiltrates every area of their life. Substance use issues can interfere with the ability to live, work, and play. Left untreated, it claims thousands of lives, breaks up families, and steals joy away from people who would otherwise be giving so much back […]