Unfortunately when it comes to addiction, there are several risk factors. While many people know that both genetics and mental health conditions can play a role in addiction, many are unaware of the impact that stress can have on drug use. Everyone experiences stress from time to time and everyone deals with stress differently. Whether…
A habit is defined as a routine of behavior that is repeated regularly and tends to occur subconsciously. While some habits can be great for us, such as brushing our teeth or taking a shower, there are some habits that are bad for us and our mental health. This may include drinking, procrastinating, or spending…
Although it is not always welcome, change is inevitable. Because change is bound to happen, it is important that we learn how to properly handle our emotions. Whether it’s changes with your work, family, health, or something else, dealing with change and adjusting to your new normal can be quite daunting. If you struggle with…
If you’re reading this, chances are that you know someone, maybe a friend or family member, who is struggling with an addiction problem. You may feel helpless, confused, or scared and are probably wondering how you can help. While you can’t force anyone to stop abusing drugs or alcohol, there are ways to support their…
In 2016, more than 1 in 25 people in the United States tested positive for illicit drugs in the workplace. It is estimated that nearly 75% of people who suffer from alcohol or drug addiction continue to maintain their employment. Substance abuse can lead to high turnover rates, losses in productivity, workplace theft, absenteeism, and…
Everyone’s experience with addiction recovery is unique. No one will share the exact same road to developing their addiction as you, and likewise the path to recovery will be equally as diverse. Addiction and recovery can vary based on several factors, both internal and external. Some of these factors include the type of drug that…
It is no secret to anyone that substance abuse is a major problem for many people today. When you are worried about your loved one’s substance abuse, it can be difficult to know just how serious their problem is. While symptoms and treatments of their substance abuse may vary between individuals, what remains similar are…
The DSM-IV-TR (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) describes depression this way: “The essential feature of a Major Depressive Episode is a period of at least 2 weeks during which there is either depressed mood or the loss of interest or pleasure in nearly all activities.” Seasonal Affective Disorder occurs in climates where there…
Palmetto is much more than a job to me. I first arrived here on December 5th, 2000. My life was a shambles. I had lost my wife to cancer 3 months earlier. I was threatened with losing my children. I had been using alcohol and drugs for 24 years. I had no emotional maturity to…
– Layne Cook, LMSW Over 5 million Americans suffer from eating disorders (ED), which include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder. Millions more display ED or disorder eating symptoms without meeting the diagnostic criteria for a full-blown disorder. EDs adversely affect both physical and psychological functioning, are more fatal than any other…