Being in recovery during the holidays can be challenging, as many social gatherings and traditions involve alcohol, mental health stressors,  and other substance use. However, it’s entirely possible to maintain your hard work and sobriety with the right strategies and support. Hired Power is here to help, whether you’re in need of one of our many professional services or if you just need a few pointers.  Here are some tips to help you or your loved ones stay sober in recovery during the holiday season: Plan Ahead: Plan your schedule and know your limits. Avoid situations where yo ..read more

Over twenty years, our CEO Nanette Zumwalt has given endless passion, dedication, and support to countless individuals nationwide. Recently, she found herself faced with a daunting new challenge — and in need of help. Here for the first time, Nanette shares the story of her kidney donor journey — from diagnosis to a new direction. As I sit here and welcome in August, I can’t help but reflect on the whirlwind that 2023 has been. This time last year, I found myself in my doctor’s office, confronted with the harsh reality of end-stage renal failure. Despite leading a healthy lifestyle, partici ..read more

Family members, friends, and loved ones of individuals who struggle with addiction may sometimes wonder if they can legally and ethically force someone into rehab or clinical care. At Hired Power, we strongly believe in involving the individual in every step of their recovery process. When possible, we begin our services by meeting with the individual and their family to create or review the recovery plan and ensure unity moving forward. Although it is always better for someone to voluntarily commit themselves to treatment and recovery, the National Alliance for Model State Drug Laws (NAMSD ..read more

In recent years, there has been a growing movement of people who are critical of traditional recovery methods like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and 12-step programs. While over two million people worldwide greatly benefit from AA and 12-step programs, others may feel like they’re left without viable ways to . Finding an appropriate alternative for yourself or a loved one can feel challenging, especially if you don’t know what options are available. Fortunately, there are many ways to continue the healing process using modern methods and new, innovative recovery strategies. Here are 7 of the be ..read more

Alcohol addiction is a serious issue that can significantly impact a person’s physical and mental health, relationships, and finances. Fortunately, with the right support and a path to recovery, quitting alcohol and beginning the healing process is possible.   If someone in your life struggles with alcohol use, there are many strategies, tools, and resources you can utilize to help address the concern. Here are some effective steps you can take to create change and foster lasting recovery from alcohol addiction.   What to say to a person with alcohol addiction who refuses to get t ..read more

Recovery is one of the most rewarding and liberating gifts imaginable, but maintaining it means staying proactive throughout the lifelong recovery journey. While the process of healing from addiction and mental health disorders can include difficult emotional obstacles, it is also an empowering process that allows an individual to reconnect with their community, move forward with their life goals, and begin a healthier future.   Research shows that 40–60% of people with substance use disorders relapse. Statistics like these show that setbacks are common in recovery, but sticking to an ..read more

Choosing a designated driver instead of driving while intoxicated is a simple way to save lives. Drunk driving accidents are entirely preventable, yet they are responsible for 30% of automotive fatalities and 32 deaths each day in the United States. The statistics are staggering, but they illustrate that assigning a designated driver should be a top priority whenever you’re planning to drink and do some traveling.   What is a designated driver?   Designated driver definitions can vary, but they all describe someone who abstains from drinking so they can drive others to and from a ..read more

When considering an intervention for a loved one struggling with a mental health condition or substance use disorder, it’s important to do all you can to create a foundation for success. While the ultimate goals for each intervention can vary, they all carry the same theme: to take the first step in the healing journey toward recovery and to present an action plan. A certified addiction interventionist can help you create an effective recovery plan that makes this step possible for your loved one.   Improper planning and timing can lead to an intervention gone wrong, resulting in more ..read more

Sometimes, family interventions don’t go as planned or don’t have the outcome family and friends desire, like a loved one agreeing to a recovery plan. Don’t give up hope. If an intervention doesn’t have the intended effect, the seeds of information and support have been planted, and there are always ways to move forward and continue guiding your loved one toward the empowering journey of healing.   An unplanned outcome doesn’t mean your effort was a failure. Instead, it means continuing to work as a team, supporting the boundaries that have been put in place, and adjusting to continue t ..read more

Addiction and mental health are closely linked. It’s important to remember that when someone becomes addicted to a substance or action, the body undergoes changes that affect brain chemistry and behavior. This can lead to many adverse side effects, including diminished impulse control, poor judgment, and difficulty staying focused. It can also affect a person’s relationship with addiction, making quitting harder.   While friends and family members may hope a loved one struggling with addiction or a mental health condition takes steps toward recovery, it may be difficult for the individ ..read more