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.

How to Speak with Loved Ones About Your Mental Health Diagnosis

Receiving a mental health diagnosis can bring a measure of clarity to your life. It can help you better comprehend what you’re going through, but a point comes where you’ll need to help your family understand the diagnosis as well.

How to Stay Sober on St. Patrick’s Day

When overcoming alcoholism or substance abuse, those in recovery encounter countless triggers. And if ever there were a daunting task for these individuals, it’s the celebration of St. Patrick’s Day. Many…

And Just Like That…Surrender

By: Kerin D., Transformations Alumna I don’t know when it stopped being fun. Because it was. For years it was really fun. Laughing with my friends, doing silly things I…

What Is Accelerated Resolution Therapy and How Does It Work?

Accelerated resolution therapy (ART) is a relatively new evidence-based psychotherapy. It is proving to be an effective intervention for trauma, depression, and many other mental health concerns.

Go Home Cupid, You’re Drunk

By: Mike Murphy, Transformations Manager of Alumni Services “The only relief we have to suggest is entire abstinence.” Whoa whoa whoa….Hold up. I thought I was trying to work on…

My Worst Relationship

By: Jerome D., Transformations Alumnus Over the last few years, my life has changed drastically. Prior to this, I had a decade-long relationship that I never thought I would be…

I Call It Alcoholic Calculus

By: Melissa F., Transformations Alumna The first time it happened, I was out in the middle of nowhere. I remember looking up at the sky, with this warm, fuzzy, feeling…

The Bermuda Triangle and Recovery

By: Michael Murphy, Transformations Alumni Coordinator The Bermuda Triangle and recovery. Two things you don’t typically see being discussed together. Kind of like lamb and tuna fish (where my Big…

Life is Good Even in the Hard Times

By: Rosie C., Transformations Alumna Life over three years ago looked like this: my son felt sorry for me, my daughter hadn’t spoken to me for over two years, my…