When Addiction Runs in the Family The American poet Suzy Kaseem once said, “Family, like branches in a tree, we all grow in different directions, yet our roots remain as one.” While this is a beautifully positive quote, it can also be reframed in a much more devastating light. This interpretation can be gleaned if…
The Relationship Between Addiction and Divorce in Women Divorce is an ongoing struggle for many individuals across the country. While most people do not think about the potential of divorce as they begin their marriage, the possibility is out there, requiring some to face this harsh reality. While many situations and behaviors can compile that…
Finding Self-Sufficiency in the “Real World” While in treatment and recovery, you will learn many skills that help you develop independence after addiction. However, when you enter early recovery it can be hard to translate these skills into the “real world,” or everyday living. Often, addiction treatment programs only aim to help patients find healthy…
Being a partner of someone who has an active substance use disorder (SUD), or who is in recovery from one, can surface many emotional and interpersonal challenges. If you have not directly experienced a substance use problem in your lifetime, you may take the consequences of your partner’s SUD personally from time to time. You…
How to Discuss Addiction With Children Children of parents with substance use disorders (SUDs) are often entrenched in secrecy about situations that they have no control over. When left without explanations, they may start blaming themselves. Sometimes, due to the nature of addiction, their needs aren’t met and they might face physical or emotional neglect.…
As a woman living with addiction, it can be difficult to ask for help. Many gender-specific stigmas impact a person’s ability to seek treatment, change habits, and maintain long-term recovery. Without examining these factors, loved ones may not understand the types of support a person will need when they come out of rehab. If you…
Telescoping is the common practice of females first using or drinking lower quantities than males, but then rapidly accelerating to larger amounts. For decades researchers have tried to explain why this occurs. Previously, researchers focused on social explanations that may factor into the situation. Recently, however, studies have pointed to a hormonal aspect of telescoping.…