Blogs

Real people sharing real stories about their experience with substance abuse and mental health.

The Insanity of a Family Disease

During my twenty-five year career in substance abuse treatment, I’ve frequently heard family members (and clients) insist that "Alcohol isn't his/her/my problem - drugs are!" and "Alcoholism isn't his/her/my problem - addiction is!" as if the same principles of recovery from chemical dependency don't apply to any dysfunctional situation where alcohol either isn't present or isn't present enough to be identified as the primary drug-of-choice.

Why Are Some People More Prone to Have Depression?

Major depressive disorder affects over 7% of the U.S. population age 18 and older in a given year. That means more than 17 million people experience symptoms of depression and reduced quality of life each year. If you are one of the millions of people suffering from depression, you may be wondering, why me? Is it possible that some people are more prone to suffer from depression than others? Is depression genetic, and if so, will that play a role in your treatment plan?

Be Wary of Drinking Occasions

By: Mike Murphy, Manager of Alumni Services Be wary of drinking occasions. Especially the holidays. Now we all know that holidays and family occasions can be rough. It’s an accepted…

This is How Alcohol Romanced Me

By: Carol O., Transformations Alumna Nobody chooses to be an alcoholic, nobody chooses addiction. But somehow I found myself in this club. My story is really not that outrageous or…

Ferris Bueller Nailed It

By: Mike Murphy, Transformations Manager of Alumni Services “Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.” Ferris Bueller’s Day…

God Complex

By: Mike Murphy, Transformations Manager of Alumni Services Buckle up, kiddos. It’s gonna be a bumpy one. Firstly, let me start off by saying I know some people are going…

And That’s How It Happened

By: Emily B., Transformations Alumna I was 23 and I had just relapsed after 6 months because my mom wouldn’t let me have a car and I couldn’t handle my…

Volunteer Opportunities

By: Lisa Blomgren, Transformations Alumni Coordinator It was suggested to me early in recovery that I should get involved with some volunteer work. My first thought was “why would I…

Strategies for Living Well With ADHD

Approximately 4% to 5% of American adults live with ADHD — many of whom do not receive treatment. Even when symptoms are managed, ADHD can affect nearly every aspect of your life. That is why you should take steps to make everyday life easier. Here are some strategies to better live with ADHD so that you can live a happier, more fulfilling, and productive life.

The Mental Health Benefits of Sunlight

There is no quick fix for certain psychological issues, but the mental health benefits of sunlight cannot be overstated. While getting out in the sun may not cure mental illness, it can certainly give you a fighting chance.