Grief is an emotion that occurs after loss, especially the loss of a loved one. Symptoms of grief may be denial, shock, guilt, or anger. The trauma experienced from a loss of this kind can be all-consuming and debilitating, causing some individuals to turn to drugs and alcohol to cope or develop other mental health…
Mental health disorders are common and can range from mild to severe. There is a strong link between mental health disorders and substance use disorders, but it cannot be definitively stated that one causes the other. In fact, the two often have a cyclical relationship that is difficult to break without the proper treatment of…
April has been observed as Stress Awareness Month since 1992. This nationwide, collaborative effort aims to increase public awareness about the causes and effects of stress, which is considered by most in the healthcare field to be an epidemic in the United States. Stress is generally defined as any factor that causes physical, emotional, or…
Throughout the United States, Canada, and Western Europe, March is recognized as Self-Harm Awareness Month, which calls attention to the nearly two million self-injury cases that occur each year. Much like addiction, self-harm occurs across all ages, races, religions, and socioeconomic and education levels. There is a strong connection between self-harm and substance addiction. At…
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) has been a lifesaver for many people. AA not only provides a recovering addict with a community of sober people (or at least trying to stay sober) but there is also an entire philosophy behind life after addiction. AA provides a clear set of guidelines, a map that will direct you out…
For those in recovery, loneliness can be a trigger for relapse. Spending time alone can make using drugs or drinking tempting, and some individuals might turn to substance abuse to feel relief from anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues. Understanding how loneliness can be dangerous and having a plan for when this feeling strikes…
Addiction doesn’t discriminate. Substance abuse issues affect individuals from all backgrounds, ages, income levels, and sexual orientations. Drug and alcohol addiction has been found to affect members of the LGBTQ community at higher rates than the general population and is often accompanied by mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and PTSD. An LGBTQ-focused addiction treatment…
Millions of individuals in the United States struggle with mental health issues. For many, these mental health concerns occur alongside addiction to drugs and alcohol. For those who are ready to begin to heal, Westwind Recovery® offers a number of therapy options. Holistic and evidence-based therapies work to help our clients understand the underlying causes…
If you are struggling with your mental health, you are not alone. Many individuals will experience mental health concerns at some point in their lives, and a majority will never seek out professional help. However, a private mental health treatment program can be exactly what you need to help you feel like yourself again. If…
Those in the LGBTQ community can face unique challenges when it comes to overcoming addiction issues. Whether these include conflicts with family, isolation from peers, or past traumatic experiences, members of this community would benefit from targeted therapy during treatment. In addition, if an individual is struggling with both addiction and mental health issues, their…