Functioning addicts represent a complex and often overlooked segment of the population. They might perform well in their professional roles, maintain relationships, and meet societal expectations, all while battling a hidden struggle. This dichotomy raises critical questions about the nature of addiction, societal pressures, and the invisibility of some mental health issues. Functioning addicts challenge the addictive stereotype by appearing to have their lives together while simultaneously struggling with substance abuse. Because of this, it is imperative to know what a functioning addict is ..read more

November is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month. In America, almost 7 million people are living with this disease. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia. It is a progressive disease that develops slowly but significantly impacts individuals and their families. Research shows a relationship between alcohol and Alzheimer’s disease. Drinking in moderation may reduce the chance of developing Alzheimer’s. However, heavy drinking regularly can increase the likelihood of developing Alzheimer’s by 300 percent! The 2021 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) shows over 219 million peo ..read more

The sacrifices of our nation’s veterans are immense, and as citizens, we owe them a debt of gratitude for their service and bravery. Unfortunately, for many veterans, the battles don’t end when they return home. PTSD and depression often haunt those who have witnessed the horrors of war. If you know a veteran who is struggling, the most important thing is to show you care. Moreover, it is crucial to empower yourself with knowledge about the signs and symptoms of depression and PTSD in veterans in order to gain a deeper understanding of their experiences. Encourage them to connect with other ve ..read more

For individuals to achieve recovery from substance addiction or behavioral health issues, they need to have the proper support. Two types of people who can give those in recovery the support that they need are recovery coaches and peer specialists. While both recovery coaches and peer specialists provide people in recovery with support, the way that they do so is different, as there is a clear difference between a recovery coach vs. peer specialist. What is a Recovery Coach? A recovery coach is a certified professional who provides support, guidance, and resources to those in recovery. Recover ..read more

Step 3 in Alcoholics Anonymous is crucial in the journey towards recovery from alcohol addiction in Ocean Park, Washington. This step allows individuals to let go of their need for control and trust in a higher power, which can guide them toward recovery. Step 3 of AA is part of the 12-step program developed by Bill Wilson and Dr. Bob Smith in 1935. Support groups have widely adopted 12-step programming for individuals struggling with alcohol addiction. Learn more about 12-step programming at our treatment facility in Ocean Park, Washington. We can help you or a loved one break the cycle of al ..read more

When it comes to treatment for addiction recovery, there are many resources and treatment options available. The question is, which one is right for you? It’s a loaded question, but it is important to answer. Individualized care is of the utmost significance, and if a person has particular needs that aren’t being met, they put themselves at risk of relapse. There are differences between kinds of care. For example, those with a severe addiction may not get all the care they need in a traditional outpatient setting. The same goes for therapy, especially DBT and CBT. What is DBT? DBT, dialectica ..read more

The 10th of September each year is World Suicide Prevention Day. The purpose is to: Raise awareness Help make treatment in Ocean Park, WA more available Remember individuals affected by suicide The theme for World Suicide Prevention Day from 2021 to 2023 has been “Creating Hope through Action.” This serves as a reminder that there is an alternative to suicide and intends to inspire confidence in everyone. By creating hope through action, we can show people experiencing suicidal thoughts that there is hope, we care, and we support them. To honor the day, wear yellow on September 10th and post ..read more

The dawn of September means it’s time to shed light on drug and alcohol recovery awareness. While every day presents a solemn opportunity to raise awareness about substance rehabilitation, now’s the time to ramp up our efforts. It’s not just another month of community service or something to add to your calendar. For many, this month will prove to be a matter of life and death. The extra awareness efforts of drug and alcohol recovery awareness month can spare a life from relapse, overdose, and death. The following is Free by the Sea in Ocean Park, WA blueprint of what September recovery month ..read more

International Overdose Awareness Day is a global event held on August 31st each year to raise awareness about drug overdose and its impact on individuals, families, and communities. The day serves as a reminder of the growing number of individuals who need help with addiction and the steps that we can take to reduce the risk of overdoses. This day is an opportunity for us to come together and educate ourselves about the signs and symptoms of an overdose, as well as the resources available to support anyone struggling with addiction in Ocean Park, WA. When Was International Overdose Awareness D ..read more

It’s that time of year again. Parents are preparing to send their kids off to college. As their kids look forward to the next chapter in life, parents worry about the party scene and peer pressure with drugs. Unfortunately, substance abuse is common among college students.Using drugs and alcohol can interfere with academic performance, decrease the chances of employment, and lead to mental and physical health issues. August is an excellent time to talk to your college students about how to avoid peer pressure and substance abuse. This guide can help parents teach their young adults to avoid en ..read more