Blog Archive

Navigating Alcohol Addiction During the Holiday Season: Evidence-Based Strategies for Resilience Nov 25th, 2024

The holiday season often conjures images of joy, togetherness, and celebration. Yet for individuals grappling with alcohol addiction, this time of year can be fraught with triggers and challenges. The prevalence of alcohol consumption spikes during the holidays, with studies indicating that people drink 100% more on average during holiday...

Supporting Your Child Through Addiction While They’re Away at College Oct 30th, 2024

When a child is away at college, parents often experience a mix of emotions—pride, hope, worry, and sometimes, helplessness. These feelings can be especially overwhelming when a parent learns their child is struggling with addiction. While physical distance adds an extra layer of complexity to the challenges of supporting a...

Financial Consequences: Understanding the Impact of Day Trading Addiction Oct 16th, 2024

In today’s increasingly digital world, financial markets are more accessible than ever before. With a smartphone and a trading app, anyone can engage in stock market trades, options, Forex, and the increasingly popular cryptocurrency market. For some, this accessibility can spiral into a destructive habit: day trading addiction. Much like...

The Hidden Dangers of Video Game Addiction Among Young Adults Oct 6th, 2024

In today’s digital age, video games are more popular than ever, with millions of young adults engaging in gaming as a primary form of entertainment. While gaming can be a healthy hobby that encourages creativity and improves cognitive skills, it also comes with hidden dangers when it becomes an addiction....

Affluence and Addiction: Understanding the Unique Challenges Faced by Wealthy Young Adults Sep 19th, 2024

Addiction is often associated with poverty, trauma, and deprivation, but research shows that young adults from affluent families face their own set of unique risks and challenges when it comes to addiction. Wealth and privilege do not act as safeguards against the dangers of substance use and behavioral addictions like...

Recognizing the Signs: Early Indicators of Addiction in College-Aged Children Sep 2nd, 2024

Addiction is a pervasive issue that doesn't discriminate based on age, background, or education. College-aged children, who are often on their own for the first time, are particularly vulnerable. The pressures of academic life, social integration, and the newfound freedom can push some young adults towards addictive behaviors. These behaviors...

Hidden Dangers of Alcohol Addiction in High-Functioning Individuals Aug 13th, 2024

When we think about alcohol addiction, it’s easy to conjure images of someone visibly impaired, unable to maintain a job or household, and struggling with overt health problems. However, a less-discussed aspect of this issue is the prevalence of alcohol addiction among high-functioning individuals—those who, despite their addiction, manage to...

The Rise of Cryptocurrency Addiction: Understanding the Phenomenon Jun 19th, 2024

In recent years, the world has witnessed an unprecedented surge in the popularity of cryptocurrencies. These digital assets, once a niche interest for tech enthusiasts, have now entered mainstream consciousness, attracting a diverse array of investors. While the potential for significant financial returns has been a primary draw, this rapid...

Navigating the Challenges of High-Functioning Addiction: A Guide for Executives May 13th, 2024

In the competitive world of executive leadership, the pressure to perform at peak levels can sometimes lead individuals down a perilous path. While addiction is often associated with visible struggles and disruptive behaviors, high-functioning addiction presents a unique set of challenges that can be easily overlooked. From alcohol to stimulants...

A Guide To Supporting a Loved One Struggling with Day Trading Addiction Apr 29th, 2024

With the rise of retail investing and the accessibility of various financial markets, more individuals are turning to day trading as a means of potentially lucrative investment. While engaging in day trading can be exciting and financially rewarding for some, it can also lead to addiction, causing significant harm to...

Understanding Marijuana Addiction: Risks, Symptoms, and Treatment Options Apr 18th, 2024

With legal, medical and recreational marijuana use on the rise, it's essential to have an honest conversation about marijuana use, including the potential for addiction and the available treatment options. While many view marijuana as harmless, it's crucial to recognize that, like any substance, it can lead to addiction and...

Addiction Among College Students: Understanding the Trends and Solutions Apr 15th, 2024

College life is often portrayed as a time of freedom, exploration, and self-discovery. However, it's also a period when many young adults are introduced to alcohol and drugs, leading to potential risks and challenges. According to recent statistics, alcohol consumption is prevalent among college students, with approximately 60% reporting having...

Beyond The Hype: The Addictive Nature of Memecoins in Cryptocurrency Apr 8th, 2024

Cryptocurrency, once a niche interest, has now become a mainstream phenomenon, with the 2024 approval of a Bitcoin (BTC) exchange-traded fund marking a significant milestone.  Millions worldwide are participating in trading various digital assets, extending beyond BTC to alt-coins like Ethereum (ETH).  Alt-coins currently boast a market capitalization of approximately...

Video Game Addiction: The Toll on Family Relationships Apr 1st, 2024

Video games have become increasingly popular over the decades, captivating a growing audience in this digital age.  Gaming continues to evolve and encapsulate users, with a growing trend in various areas such as web3, cloud gaming, augmented reality and virtual reality, generative AI, cross-platform play, play-to-earn, streaming and many other...

Navigating the Complex Web of Alcohol Addiction Mar 7th, 2024

In a world where socializing often revolves around a glass in hand, the fine line between moderate drinking and alcohol addiction can be perilously thin. Alcohol addiction, a pervasive issue globally, weaves a complex tapestry that extends beyond the stereotypical image of a stumbling drunk. FOR INFORMATION ON FAMILY ADDICTION...

The Surge of Online Sports Betting: The Push of a Button Feb 21st, 2024

In recent years, the landscape of gambling has undergone a profound transformation with a notable surge in online sports betting. This phenomenon is not merely anecdotal; statistics reveal a significant uptick in participation, attributed to various factors.  The increase in online sports betting has led to a plethora of problems...

The Hidden Struggle: Alcohol Addiction and Substance Use Among Ultra-High-Net-Worth Individuals Feb 14th, 2024

In the world of extreme wealth and opulence, a silent epidemic persists – alcohol addiction and substance use among ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs). While society often associates affluence with success and happiness, the reality for some in this elite demographic involves a darker struggle with addiction that remains largely hidden from...

Navigating Cross-Addiction: Challenges and Strategies Jan 30th, 2024

In the complex landscape of addiction, individuals often find themselves entangled in the web of multiple dependencies, a phenomenon known as cross-addiction. This article explores the challenges associated with cross-addiction and offers insights into effective strategies for navigating this intricate terrain. FOR INFORMATION ON FAMILY ADDICTION SPECIALIST SERVICES REGARDING ADDICTION...

Unveiling the Evidence: Understanding the Harms of Marijuana Use Jan 20th, 2024

In a world where societal attitudes towards marijuana are evolving, it's crucial to explore the evidence surrounding the potential harms associated with marijuana use. While its medicinal properties are acknowledged, it is fundamental to understand the negative impact marijuana can have on individuals and families.  Let's delve into the scientific...

Understanding Cryptocurrency Addiction Amidst A Bull Market Jan 7th, 2024

Cryptocurrency, often hailed as a revolutionary asset class, has gripped the world with its volatile yet promising nature. Crypto-enthusiasts have seen the price of Bitcoin soar approximately 200% over the past 12 months, and are gearing up for a continued bull market.  Meanwhile, addiction experts specializing in cryptocurrency addiction foresee...

Navigating Video Game Addiction: Embracing Balance and Seeking Professional Support Nov 20th, 2023

In today's hyperconnected world, video games stand as a ubiquitous form of entertainment, offering immersive experiences and social connectivity. However, the allure of gaming often transcends leisure, leading to the pervasive issue of video game addiction. This addiction disrupts lives, affecting mental health, education and careers, social interactions, and overall...

Breaking the Cycle: Strategies for Overcoming Cryptocurrency Addiction Nov 10th, 2023

In the rapidly evolving landscape of financial technology, cryptocurrencies have emerged as both a revolutionary investment opportunity and, for some, a perilous path towards addiction. The allure of quick gains, decentralized markets, and the promise of financial independence can lead individuals down a dangerous road of compulsive behavior.  In this...

The Impact of Social Media on Youth Mental Health Oct 4th, 2023

In today's digital age, social media platforms have become an integral part of our lives, especially for the younger generation.  While these platforms offer various benefits such as staying connected with friends and accessing information, they also come with a set of challenges, particularly when it comes to the mental...

10 Strategies for Maintaining Sobriety Sep 11th, 2023

Alcohol use is ingrained in our society, and as such is often extremely challenging to stay away from.  Family gatherings, business lunches, a casual get together with friends – you name it, and alcohol is often involved.  Despite such challenges, the journey towards sobriety is possible and often life-changing.  Alcohol...

A Parent's Guide to Addressing Video Game Addiction Sep 5th, 2023

In today's digital age, video games have become an integral part of many individuals' lives, including adolescents and young adults.  While gaming can offer entertainment, cognitive benefits, and social interactions, excessive and compulsive gaming can lead to addiction and host of behavioral and emotional problems.  As a concerned parent, it...

The Role of Nutrition in Alcohol Addiction Recovery Aug 17th, 2023

Alcohol addiction is a complex and pervasive issue that affects millions of individuals worldwide.  Achieving lasting recovery requires a comprehensive and multifaceted approach that goes beyond traditional therapies.  Nutrition, an often overlooked and underutilized component of addiction recovery, has been increasingly recognized as playing a crucial role in the healing...

The Ripple Effects of Day Trading Addiction on Loved Ones Aug 13th, 2023

The allure of day trading, with its promises of financial freedom and quick gains, can lead individuals down a treacherous path.  What may start as a harmless hobby can escalate into a full-blown addiction that not only affects the trader but also has profound consequences on their loved ones.  Whether...

How Artificial Intelligence Can Help Combat Addiction Aug 2nd, 2023

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming various industries, and one area where it shows immense promise is addiction recovery.  Addiction is a complex and challenging issue that affects millions of people worldwide.  However, with AI, innovative approaches can be utilized to help individuals heal from addiction and move forward to live...

Knowing When to Seek Help for an Alcohol Problem Jul 24th, 2023

Alcohol consumption is an acceptable, prevalent, and even encouraged social activity, often enjoyed responsibly by millions of individuals around the world.  However, for some, the line between moderate and excessive drinking can become blurred, leading to an alcohol problem. Recognizing the signs that you or a loved one may be...

5 Reasons To Quit Alcohol Jul 17th, 2023

In a world where social drinking has become an integral part of society, the decision to stop drinking alcohol may seem impossible.  For even the most casual social drinker, stopping alcohol completely can be difficult. For individuals who consume alcohol regularly or have an alcohol addiction, quitting alcohol may feel hopeless. ...

The Ultimate Guide to Social Media Addiction Jun 12th, 2023

There are approximately 4.3 billion active social media users around the world, which represents about 55% of the global population.  In the United States, it is estimated that up to 95% of teens and over 70% of adults are using social media.  While social media can be a valuable tool...

A Rise In Sports Betting Means A Rise In Sports Gambling Addiction May 25th, 2023

Sports betting has become increasingly popular in recent years as a result of easy online access via sports betting platforms coupled with the legalization of sports betting in many states.  While the vast majority of individuals will gamble on sports games responsibly, a small number will develop problems around sports...

Alcohol and Mental Health – 10 Facts May 4th, 2023

Alcohol is a widely used psychoactive substance that can have a significant impact on mental health. While many people consume alcohol socially and in moderation without any adverse effects, excessive or prolonged drinking can lead to a variety of mental health issues.  Additionally, alcohol misuse can exacerbate pre-existing mental health...

Top 10 Myths About Day Trading Addiction Apr 2nd, 2023

Day trading and investing in assets such as stocks, Forex, cryptocurrency and other such financial instruments continues to grow exceedingly popular among retail investors.  While day trading among the average retail investor can be an enjoyable recreational activity and source of revenue, some individuals spend an exorbitant amount of time,...

15 Signs My Child Has A Video Game Addiction Mar 8th, 2023

Many adolescents and young adults enjoy video games as a recreational activity, but a select few develop a problem with video games, which can ultimately lead to a video game addiction.  Approximately 15% of gamers have compulsive gaming issues, and up to 4% of gamers become pathologically addicted to playing...

10 Strategies To Break A Cryptocurrency Addiction Jan 24th, 2023

As cryptocurrency continues to gain mainstream adoption and attraction, more and more retail investors are taking part in investing and/or trading cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum and other alt-coins.  While most cryptocurrency traders invest responsibly and without severe incident beyond financial loss, others have fallen prey to having a problematic relationship...

The Number 1 Reason People Fail Dry January, and Fail Sobriety In General Dec 28th, 2022

Dry January has become a growing trend over the years.  As a way to jump start health goals in the new year, individuals take up the challenge of abstaining from alcohol for the month of January.  Many acknowledge the great benefits alcohol abstention can have not only on physical health,...

Top 10 Tips For Staying Sober Through The Holidays And Beyond Dec 20th, 2022

Staying sober at any given time of year can be difficult, and the holiday season may make it all the more challenging.  Although the holidays can be a joyous time of year, it can also be trigger-filled and relapse-prone.  The holidays are full of alcohol-fueled parties and get-togethers, potentially toxic...

Video Games, Mental Health, and Addiction – The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly Dec 1st, 2022

It seems that every year video gaming becomes increasingly popular, with an estimated 3.2 billion video gamers reported worldwide in 2021.  Contrary to popular belief, the bulk of gamers are not children and adolescents, the average gamer is actually 33 years-old.  Also contrary to popular belief, gaming can be surprisingly...

Crypto Chaos – Volatility, Liquidation and Mental Health Nov 12th, 2022

Cryptocurrency is known for its volatility, and this week proved to be no exception.  Bitcoin, which was already down approximately 75% from its 2021 highs, dropped an additional 25% in two days earlier this week to the lowest price investors have seen since November of 2020.  Many altcoins made far...

How Bad Is Alcohol For The Body? 7 Important Effects Of Alcohol on Physical Health Nov 10th, 2022

Whether you are an occasional consumer of alcohol, a daily heavy drinker, or fall somewhere in-between, you should be concerned about the impact that alcohol is having on your physical health.  The effects of alcohol on health range on a spectrum from mild to severe, but recent research suggests that...

Beyond Mere Financial Loss – Consequences of Day Trading Can Go Well Beyond Your Wallet Sep 22nd, 2022

When most people think of investing in risk assets such as equities, Forex, cryptocurrencies, or other markets, they generally think monetarily – financial gain versus financial loss.  While investing in or trading financial instruments does have a direct impact on your net worth, there are other consequences as well.  Investing...

The Ultimate Guide to Day Trading Addiction and Recovery Jul 18th, 2022

There was once a time when the only individuals who day traded were those who worked for large financial institutions, brokerages, or trading houses.  Today, with the rise of online trading platforms, day trading has become increasingly popular among retail investors.  Online exchanges and mobile trading apps have made trading...

Bitcoin Addiction – 11 Reasons Why Cryptocurrency Trading Can Be Highly Addictive May 23rd, 2022

While most individuals can invest in cryptocurrencies without significant distress or detriment to their mental health, a select sum will fall victim to compulsive or pathological cryptocurrency trading and cryptocurrency addiction.  A compulsive, pathological or addicted crypto trader is someone who is unable to resist the urge to trade, even...

How Can I Help My Husband Get Sober? May 4th, 2022

Seeing a loved one struggle with an addiction to alcohol is extremely challenging, emotional, and painful.  Many are left feeling isolated, helpless, hopeless, and confused; full of questions about what they can do to help their loved one overcome their alcohol problem and get sober, or questions about if they...

The Ultimate Guide to Video Game Addiction Mar 16th, 2022

Playing video games is one of the most popular leisure activities in the world.  While most individuals who play video games will do so in moderation and without consequence, it should be no surprise that in today’s vastly accelerating digital age video game addiction is on the rise.  Studies estimate...

Putting Down The Alcohol, Picking Up The Sugar – The Relationship Between Alcohol And Sugar Feb 10th, 2022

It’s not uncommon for individuals who once struggled with alcohol to turn to food in recovery, especially sugary foods.  There are psychological and physiological reasons as to why this occurs.  Excessive eating and poor nutrition in recovery can lead individuals to experience a host of physical health issues, including weight...

A New Age of Digital Addiction - What The Metaverse Means for Mental Health and Digital Addiction Jan 1st, 2022

2022 is here, and technology companies are racing to develop a new digital world – the Metaverse.  While the technology of the Metaverse has existed for quite some time, such as virtual reality and augmented reality, the infrastructure and platforms for widespread use are still in its infancy and visionaries...

Alcohol Addiction 101 – What You Should Know Dec 3rd, 2021

For most adults, moderate or social alcohol use is not problematic, however, approximately 18 million American adults have an alcohol addiction, or what is medically termed as an Alcohol Use Disorder.  Far more experience binge drinking or other forms of excessive, irresponsible, or problematic alcohol use.  While severe alcohol abuse...

Why These Next Few Months Could Be Catastrophic For Individuals Addicted To Cryptocurrency Nov 2nd, 2021

Bitcoin.  Ethereum.  Cardano.  Binance Coin.  Shiba Inu.  Dogecoin.  These are just a handful of cryptocurrencies among thousands that individuals can invest in.  Trading cryptocurrency can be exciting, thrilling and gripping due to high volatility.  While cryptocurrency can make for a great investment for some, it can also very easily spiral...

What Is “Holistic Treatment” in Addiction Recovery? Oct 20th, 2021

You may have heard of the term “holistic treatment” in the field of addiction recovery, but what exactly is it and who can benefit from such treatments?  The medical definition of holistic treatment is an approach that treats the whole person, not just a symptom of a disease.  Holistic addiction...

Bombshell Meta Investigation And What It Says About Digital Addiction Sep 17th, 2021

This week the Wall Street Journal released an investigative report about Meta after uncovering leaked internal documents reflecting the impact of social media on its users.  What may be most surprising about the report is not so much the impact that social media has on its users, but rather the...

Do I Need a Medical Detox from Alcohol? Aug 25th, 2021

Did you know that alcohol is one of the deadliest substances when compared to other drugs?  Every year in the United States nearly 100,000 individuals die due to alcohol-related causes, making alcohol the third leading preventable cause of death in the country in an average year behind smoking tobacco and...

The 10 Most Common Questions About Addiction Jul 30th, 2021

It is estimated that 1 in 10 individuals experience an alcohol or drug addiction at some point in their life.  When other addictions such as gambling addiction, technology addiction, food addiction, or other common forms of addiction are taken into account the statistic of those suffering from an addiction increases...

How To Support a Loved One With a Cryptocurrency Addiction Jun 25th, 2021

Cryptocurrency addiction is often thought of as a personal problem, but it can also cause significant distress to those around them.  Cryptocurrency addictions can have a severe impact on family, friends, colleagues and others in a variety of ways.  As such, addiction is often called a family disease by those...

The 6 Most Common Types of Technology Addiction Jun 8th, 2021

Technology addictions, also commonly known as digital addictions or internet addictions, are often overlooked due to the acceptance that society has placed on using digital devices.  Technology addictions often go unnoticed by loved ones because the addicted individual may appear as though they are tending to something important such as...

Is Alcohol More Dangerous Than Heroin? May 3rd, 2021

While the opioid epidemic continues to surge in the United States, an alcohol epidemic is all too often overlooked.  This is perhaps most notably due to the legalization and social acceptance of alcohol in our society, even when alcohol is responsible for approximately 100,000 deaths in the United States every...

The Psychology of Buying High and Selling Low – How Emotions Impact Your Investments Apr 14th, 2021

Whether it’s a stock, a cryptocurrency, foreign currency, derivatives, or any other financial investment, the goal is to buy low and sell high.  Following Warren Buffet’s two rules of investing – Rule Number 1: Never lose money, and Rule Number 2: Never forget rule number 1.  If you don’t sell...

Is My Daughter Addicted to TikTok? – Signs of Digital Addiction and Methods of Treatment Apr 5th, 2021

TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, Facebook or whatever the platform is, social media connects us and offers a variety of benefits to our lives, but for certain users these platforms can also be highly addictive and dangerous.  The COVID-19 pandemic has dramatically increased technological use across the board, especially among children and...

Staring at Charts: Bitcoin and Cryptocurrency Addiction Feb 28th, 2021

Extreme euphoric highs, and devastatingly intense lows.  These are one of the hallmarks of addiction, and one of the reasons why investing in and/or trading Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies can be highly stimulating, mood altering, and addictive.  Investing in and trading cryptocurrencies has become increasingly popular by retail investors over...

How to Increase Your Chances of Successful Recovery from Addiction with a Sober Living Home Feb 24th, 2021

An unfortunate statistic: 40 to 60% of individuals new to recovery relapse within their first 30 days of leaving an inpatient treatment center, and up to 85% relapse within their first year.  Oftentimes individuals in their initial months of recovery will resume their day-to-day lives that they lived prior to...

How To Find An Addiction Therapist In New York City Feb 4th, 2021

Finding an addiction therapist can be a confusing, burdensome and overwhelming process.  Many individuals seeking recovery from addiction and their loved ones are left feeling lost, hopeless, helpless and isolated among a host of other negative emotions.  During a time of crisis when one is seeking treatment for their addiction...

More Money, More Problems – Wealthy Individuals Are Suffering From Addiction At Alarming Rates Jan 27th, 2021

It is easy to conflate material wealth with mental wellbeing.  There is a stereotype and stigma of being wealthy, that if you have wealth you should be happy and have nothing to worry about, but this myth is far from true.  There is a hidden cost of affluence that surfaces...

Everything You Need To Know About Alcohol Withdrawal Jan 14th, 2021

On an annual basis approximately 14 million Americans are diagnosed with an Alcohol Use Disorder, and tens of millions more engage in binge drinking, problem drinking, and have an unhealthy relationship with alcohol.  Of all the drugs that people abuse, alcohol is one of the most fatal.  Approximately 100,000 Americans...

Am I Addicted To Day Trading? – 10 Signs You Are Addicted To Day Trading and What To Do To Stop Dec 29th, 2020

Day trading has become an increasingly popular activity for individuals to engage in as an additional or sole source of income, especially with the increase in free, accessible, and easy-to-use trading platforms.  While day trading can be a great source of revenue that some even make a successful career from,...

How Can I Prevent an Alcohol Relapse? Dec 21st, 2020

Preventing an alcohol or drug relapse is at the core of one’s recovery from addiction.  Unfortunately, relapse rates for individuals in recovery from alcohol and drug dependence are staggering.  Up to 60% of individuals relapse on drugs and alcohol within their first 30 days of leaving an inpatient treatment center,...

How To Recognize If My Child Has An Addiction and What To Do About It Dec 8th, 2020

Now more than ever, amidst remote learning, lockdowns and pandemic unpredictability, parents have growing concerns about their children’s mental health.  Though data is still scarce, evidence thus far suggests a significant uptick in mental health and addiction related issues among all age groups, including teens.  During this time, teens may...

Do I Have A Problem with Alcohol? Nov 17th, 2020

Am I an alcoholic?  Do I drink too much?  Is my drinking out of hand?  These are questions that people may ask themselves if they are unsure if they have a healthy relationship with alcohol.  This question is more common than people may think, as the line between casual drinking...

10 Lessons of Addiction Recovery That Are Rooted in Psychology Nov 10th, 2020

Recovery from an addiction is much more than mere abstinence from a substance or a behavior.  Abstinence can be, and usually is, a fundamental component of the addiction recovery process, but abstinence does not necessarily equate to recovery.  According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, a branch...

The Similarities Between Alcoholism and Gambling Addiction Oct 20th, 2020

In 2013 the American Psychiatric Association added Gambling Disorder to the 5th edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5).  In doing so, pathological gambling was recognized by mental health professionals as an addiction similar to an alcohol or drug addiction.  Despite obvious differences, primarily one being...

Are Wealthy Children More Susceptible to Drug Addiction? – The Psychological Cost of Affluence Oct 14th, 2020

Money can’t buy happiness, and it certainly can’t ward off mental health or addiction related issues.  Despite the privileged life lived by children of wealth, they also face many obstacles and difficulties.  Although they are often set-up for success with a platinum spoon in hand, they are also set-up to...

Should I Work With a Coach or a Therapist? Oct 6th, 2020

Coaches were once only known in the field of sports, but now there is a coach for nearly everything and anything - business, career, relationships, divorce, health and wellness, travel, general life coaching, and quite possibly anything you could imagine.  Coaching has also become popular in the field of substance...

My Loved One Has an Addiction, What Do I Do? – A Guide to Help You Navigate Recovery Sep 28th, 2020

Family and friends often feel lost and alone when they discover that their loved one might have a drug or alcohol problem or suspect that they may be gambling excessively or engaged in various other potential addictions.  In such cases, it is completely normal for family and friends to feel...

Why Your Seasonal Depression May Be Particularly Bad This Year, And What To Do About It Sep 21st, 2020

During a regular fall and winter season, approximately up to 10% of the US population is impacted by seasonal depression, also known as the seasonal blues, winter depression, or more officially as Seasonal Affective Disorder.  This winter season will be far from regular, as our lives have been significantly impacted...

We Are Learning to Co-Exist with COVID-19, But Can We Learn To Co-Exist With An Addict As Well? Sep 15th, 2020

COVID-19 drastically uprooted our lives, and continues to impact it in significant ways.  Although the virus is still active without access to official therapeutics or vaccines, we have more or less learned to live with it. Wearing masks and social distancing has become the norm, and we have learned to regularly...

It’s OK To Talk About Suicide – Here’s What You Can Do To Help Sep 10th, 2020

September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month and September 10th is World Suicide Prevention Day, a time to help raise awareness and understanding of mental health and suicide in efforts to help alleviate stigma, help those suffering with suicidal thoughts, educate individuals about warning signs of suicide, and make efforts in...

10 Tips For How To Support Someone In Recovery From Addiction Sep 3rd, 2020

September is National Recovery Month, a time to help raise awareness and understanding of mental health and substance use disorders and to celebrate those in recovery from addiction.  Approximately 22 million Americans struggle with addiction to alcohol and drugs on a daily basis, and another 100 million family members and...

The Impact of Alcoholism and Addiction on Family, and How to Protect Yourself Aug 22nd, 2020

What are a few ways alcoholism and addiction affects family members, loved ones and spouses?   Alcoholism and addiction causes significant distress to all individuals who care for the addicted individual.  Due to the impact of addiction on family relationships and dynamics, addiction is often called a “family disease” by...

10 Most Common Reasons For Addiction Relapse Aug 5th, 2020

Unfortunately relapse rates for individuals who enter recovery from a drug or alcohol addiction are quite high.  Studies reflect that about 40-60% of individuals relapse within 30 days of leaving an inpatient drug and alcohol treatment center, and up to 85% relapse within the first year.  It is important for...

A Guide to the Different Pathways of Addiction Recovery Jul 20th, 2020

When an individual is struggling with a substance use addiction it is extremely challenging for the entire family.  There is often guilt, shame, sadness, anger, anxiety, among a host of other negative emotions.  When the addicted individual is ready and willing to receive help it can be confusing and overwhelming. ...

Does Affluence Make It Harder To Recover? Jul 10th, 2020

Wealthy individuals have a unique set of challenges when it comes to mental health and addiction.  Emotional and behavioral issues can linger much longer for wealthy individuals before one is willing to receive psychological help for a variety of reasons. High-net-worth individuals also are faced with a variety of barriers...

The Cyclical Nature of Mental Health and Addiction, and How to Reverse Course and Recover Jul 5th, 2020

Suffering from depression, anxiety, alcoholism or drug addiction, and other mental health issues can feel like being stuck in a giant deep hole that is impossible to climb out of.  This is in part because mental health issues and addiction are often cyclical in nature, meaning that the symptoms of...

What About The Alcohol Epidemic? Jun 24th, 2020

We frequently hear about the opioid epidemic, but rarely do we hear about the alcohol epidemic. While alcohol is legal and socially acceptable, and while most individuals can drink alcohol privately or socially without consequence, alcohol leads to millions of individuals abusing it, becoming dependent to it, having medical issues...

6 Ways To Support Your Employee’s Mental Health May 23rd, 2020

As the world continues to navigate through COVID-19 and what may lie ahead, businesses across industries, large and small, are going through a crisis of their own.  In addition to surviving this economic downturn, strategizing a new way of business, and reinventing themselves, businesses of all sorts have their work...

Let’s Flatten The Curve Of Our Mental Health Pandemic As Well May 11th, 2020

This past week, a research study conducted by the Well Being Trust, a national foundation with a mission to advance mental health in America, has estimated that as many as 75,000 Americans could die from mental health related issues that stem from the coronavirus pandemic.  The research study used projected...

Teletherapy and the Future: 10 Benefits of Teletherapy May 1st, 2020

COVID-19 is causing significant problems and disruption to virtually all areas of our lives.  It is impacting our physical health, our financial health, our relational health, our spiritual health, our mental health and every which way in-between.  As the majority of the world is currently enduring social distancing, telemedicine (or...

How to Take a Holistic Approach to Creating a Positive Home Environment Apr 22nd, 2020

On a normal day, we spend a substantial amount of time in our homes. From getting ready in the morning to relaxing after a long day of work, our home is a safe place. With the recent quarantines, we are now confined to this space.    For those dealing with...

COVID-19 and Problem Gambling Apr 13th, 2020

COVID-19 has led to significant problems all across the globe and is impacting our lives in many different ways. While most people are currently focused on fighting this global health pandemic and are concerned with their physical hygiene, it is also important to focus on one’s mental hygiene. If we...

The Challenges of Being a High-Functioning Alcoholic Apr 8th, 2020

High-functioning alcoholics are individuals who are able to maintain their careers, relationships, and other obligations while displaying signs of alcoholism.  The same is true of high-functioning addicts or individuals who may suffer from high-functioning depression, anxiety or other mental health issues.  Such individuals are able to maintain their day-to-day lives,...

If Not Now, Then When: COVID-19 and 5 Reasons Why This Is An Opportune Time To Seek Treatment Apr 2nd, 2020

The Corona Virus Disease pandemic (COVID-19) is causing unwanted and unneeded stress, grief and anxiety for many people.  Individuals around the world are concerned about their own physical health and the health of their loved ones, navigating life isolated at home, homeschooling, financial concerns, and much more.  This worry has...

7 Tips To Improve Your Mental Health From Home And Cope With COVID-19 Mar 29th, 2020

As many of us are increasingly isolated from others and separated from the world outside of our apartments or homes due to the Coronoa Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, our mental health may suffer.  Many are facing growing worry, stress, sadness, and loneliness all due to fears of becoming ill...

How COVID-19 Can Compromise Your Mental Health, And What You Can Do About It Mar 24th, 2020

The entire world is facing new challenges as we battle the Coronoa Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) – physically, mentally, emotionally, financially, relationally, and every which way in-between.  From a psychological standpoint, this pandemic has contributed to mental health stressors for many individuals such as worry, stress, sadness, and substance abuse...

Why The Opioid Epidemic Is Even Worse Than We Thought Mar 9th, 2020

Opioids, especially the misuse of opioids – including prescription pain killers, heroin, and synthetic opioids such as fentanyl – has caused an epidemic in the United States.  Every day there are approximately 128 opioid deaths due to overdose in the US - every single day.  Unfortunately, newfound studies have found...

Can Being Sober Cost You In Business? Mar 4th, 2020

Sobriety can undoubtedly help your health, but can it help you in business?  Business is often about relationships, relationships are often about socializing, and socializing is often about drinking alcohol.  Skipping social aspects of business that involve alcohol or being the sober person at business functions can mean missing out...

Are eSports The Next Addiction Epidemic? Feb 27th, 2020

eSports, also known as ‘electronic sports,’ is the world of organized competitive video gaming.  While many who are unfamiliar with eSports may conjure up an image of middle- or high-school children playing video games on their parent’s couch, eSports has become a 17 billion-dollar industry with professional leagues and professional...

Business or Pleasure - Maintaining Wellness While Traveling Feb 17th, 2020

Whether traveling for business or for pleasure, maintaining wellness while traveling can be challenging, especially for those in recovery from a mental health issue or an addiction related issue.  Whether new to recovery or not, being out of one’s comfort zone while traveling comes with its own host of triggers...

How Does the Stock Market Affect Our Mood? Feb 10th, 2020

The stock market and our moods are interconnected in an interesting way.  The stock market affects how investors feel, and in turn their feelings affect the markets.  In this way, the relationship between our mood and the stock market are a bidirectional one.  In fact, money and mood, and subsequently...

What is the Difference Between a Coach and a Therapist? Feb 5th, 2020

Therapeutic Coaching is a unique and innovative method of helping individuals recover from a variety of issues including mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, or other mood disorders; substance addictions such as to alcohol, opiates, Adderall or other drugs as well as to food; behavioral addictions such as to...

Challenges Executives Face who suffer from Mental Health or Substance Abuse Issues Jan 31st, 2020

Executives and other such high-ranking business and political leaders face a unique set of challenges when it comes to addressing their own mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or other such mental illness, as well as substance abuse and other addictions.  When untreated, such individuals can not...

Setting Goals and Achieving Them - Mentally, Physically, Relationally, Financially, and Spiritually Jan 18th, 2020

Just eighteen days ago many of us made New Year’s resolutions for 2020, and some of us even made long-term resolutions for the decade ahead of us.  Unfortunately, various statistics reflect that less than 25% of people stay committed to their resolutions past the end of January, and only about...

Feeling Hopeless? Signs, Symptoms and Ways to Recover Jan 7th, 2020

Mental health and addiction related issues are often accompanied by a sense of hopelessness.  Hopelessness ensues when the individual feels stuck in the state they are in, especially after failed attempts to get well.  Individuals in such a state of mind feel stuck in a deep and dark hole that...

Coping With Seasonal Depression Dec 2nd, 2019

Feeling depressed, or down, or sad, or having a case of the blues is a normal part of life that everyone goes through.  It could be situational due to death of a loved one or ending a relationship, or it could be emotional due to letting yourself down, others letting...

Work, Life and Mental Health Nov 4th, 2019

An average individual will spend 1/3 of their life working.  For executives, entrepreneurs and other such individuals who do not work a standard 9 to 5, the amount of time spent on business related tasks is often much, much more.  As a result of living in a society that values...

Parenting and Mental Health Oct 7th, 2019

Children bring a lot of joy to our lives, but being a parent also comes with its own set of added stress to an already stressful world.  Due to the obligations, love, and commitment that we have as parents it is easy to put our children first while our own...

Why Fitness Is Important for Mental Health and Addiction Recovery? Sep 19th, 2019

Physical activity triggers a biological cascade of occurrences that results in many physical and mental health benefits.  Research suggests that exercise is an effective treatment for mental health issues such as depression or anxiety, and can serve as a fundamental component to one’s recovery from addiction.  Studies show that individuals...

Why Is Addiction Called a “Brain Disease ” by Many Addiction Professionals? Sep 10th, 2019

Addictions (Substance Use Disorders) are extremely powerful.  So much so that even after years or decades of abstinence and recovery, an individual can still experience strong cravings, and be vulnerable to relapse.  Neuroimaging has allowed researches to investigate the acute and long-term effects of addiction on the brain.  The majority...

How Do I know If I Or A Loved One Has A Problem With Alcohol? Sep 6th, 2019

People often ask how to tell if they or a loved one has a problem with alcohol.  Well, for starters, if one is asking this question, there is probably a problem.  Your average social drinker or your average “I enjoy a glass of wine with dinner” drinker usually does not...

Ghosting Your Therapist: Why Do Individuals Prematurely Dropout of Therapy Aug 23rd, 2019

Studies show that 20-57% of individuals do not return to therapy after their initial appointment.  There are various reasons for this, and for premature dropout rate in general.  Sometimes dropping out of therapy is a reflection of the therapist, other times it is due to the individual receiving therapy, and...

How Mental Health Issues May Differ Among Introverts and Extroverts Aug 5th, 2019

Are you an introvert or an extrovert?  There is nothing wrong with being either.  One of the key differences between introverts and extroverts is that introverts become tired when they are around other people and are able to regain energy when they are alone.  Extroverts, on the other hand, become...

Is Therapy Working? Red Flags to Look for in Therapy Jul 29th, 2019

People enter therapy for a variety of reasons, be it a mental health issue such as depression or anxiety, a behavioral issue such as alcoholism or overeating, or a general life issue such as marriage problems or feeling stuck.  For most people, therapy is not a first-choice solution when problems...

Why Nutrition is Important for Mental Health and Addiction Recovery Jul 17th, 2019

When most people think of nutrition they think in terms of their physical health, but nutrition is also a fundamental component of one’s mental health as well.  A healthy mind and body are essential elements in coping with mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, as well as with...