For many people, the word “alcoholic” conjures up a stereotypical image of someone whose life is in shambles and who starts drinking soon after they wake up. They have probably lost their job or maybe even spent time in jail because of the extent of their drinking habits....
If you have someone in your life with a substance misuse disorder, you may have heard that the best way to avoid codependency and enabling is to use a “tough-love” approach. However, various personality types respond in different ways, and no two people with addiction are the same. Perhaps...
If there’s a single mom or dad in your family or close group of friends, you probably already understand the unique challenges that come with being a single parent. These same obstacles can make single parents more vulnerable to developing mental health and substance misuse...
If someone you love is living with a substance use disorder, you are probably all too familiar with the manipulative tactics their addiction causes as its hold on them deepens. These behaviors can be heartbreaking, and they even have the power to end the strongest relationships. Amid the emotional wreckage...
It can be heartbreaking to watch a loved one struggle with a cycle of substance abuse. Time after time, you’ve heard them promise to quit drinking or using drugs, only to resume their self-destructive behavior when they have a stressful day at work, or when their cravings and...
If someone you know relies on prescription painkillers or has been misusing another opioid like heroin or morphine, an overdose is one of the most frightening concepts to consider. Opioid overdoses happen with alarming frequency across the U.S., and numbers have been rising steadily over the past two decades. Every...
Just as it’s essential to understand the factors involved in a successful intervention, it’s equally critical to consider what obstacles might prevent one from going well. Once you have a better concept of the challenges you might face, you'll improve your chances of overcoming these...
If someone you care about has been struggling with substance misuse issues, you may have resolved that you won’t let their destructive behavior tear your family apart any longer. For friends and family who have reached a breaking point, an intervention is often an ideal opportunity to express your...
Teenagers are often secretive by nature, but a teen who is trying to hide their drinking or drug use can be even more reluctant to open up to you. To make matters worse, many parents are in denial about their child’s activities, even when there...
If someone you care about is struggling with substance misuse issues, you may feel as if they have become a stranger to you. As their addiction deepens, they may become withdrawn or secretive and lose interest in formerly enjoyable activities. During an active addiction, people turn to drugs or...