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 As their addiction deepens, they may become withdrawn or secretive and lose interest in formerly enjoyable activities.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...
Anxiety disorders are one of the most common mental health issues in the United States. According to the National Institutes of Mental Health, as many as 19.1 percent of people experienced some form of anxiety disorder within the past year. Unlike the healthy reactions most people...
Mental health problems affect people from all walks of life. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, approximately one in five U.S. adults experiences some form of mental illness every year. Teens are also likely to struggle with mental health issues, with more than...
Every June, the lesbian, gay, bi, trans and queer community – and the friends and family members who love and support them – celebrate Pride Month. And, though communities worldwide have made progress in supporting LGBTQ people, it seems we often take two steps back...
Nobody knows exactly the right thing to say every time, and starting that conversation becomes especially challenging when you are trying to reach someone who is struggling with clinical depression. While you might feel awkward or uncertain about bringing up the topic, it can make...