choice house blog

When your loved one is managing recovery from addiction, you want the best for them. However, sometimes what feels like helping actually makes things more difficult. Some of your actions and behaviors could inadvertently harm your loved one. Therefore, understanding their addiction as a disease and altering your reactions can make all the difference. It…

Self-care is not only for those in recovery, nor does it consist of periodic activities incorporated into a routine. Self-care at its core is a mindset; it means putting yourself first to become the best version of yourself. Such practices that promote mental and physical health are more than just something to check off your…

While the idea of living in your hometown might sound comforting, the reality may be that your hometown is what led you to develop your addiction. Or perhaps the idea of moving back after treatment triggers anxiety and doubt. The truth is transitioning back into life after treatment will have its challenges. Alternatively, it can…

Addiction to substances affects more than just your physical health; it significantly impacts mental health in a number of ways. In recovery, you may experience memory loss leading to frustration, anger, or stress. Understanding that addiction is harmful to your brain and body is key to positive change. You might find that conducting activities while…

If you are caring for a loved one recovering from addiction, your intentions are pure. However, your actions may inadvertently enable your loved one, hindering their recovery. Enabling occurs when family members condition themselves into thinking they can control the addiction or minimize the risks. Such behavior often results in a dysfunctional dynamic where your…

Most people think of drug addicts or alcoholics as unkempt, unemployed and unpredictable. But the truth is that a large number of people struggling with substance abuse are contributing members of society — over 70 percent have a steady job and are employed either full or part-time, in industries that range from hospitality to health…

Early recovery is an exciting and inspiring time worth celebrating. Now that you are sober, your outlook on life is likely more optimistic. However, it is inevitable that eventually, these high-energy feelings will subside. When this happens, you might experience pressure to keep the momentum going. When you focus on speed rather than progress, you…

Setting goals is essential in life and recovery. Goals help keep you focused, motivated, and accountable. Goals also help instill structure and fill parts of your day where you may succumb to boredom. While the idea of setting goals is a positive practice, sometimes the goals you set can be counterintuitive and work against you.…

Recovery is a lifelong journey that requires persistence, planning, and patience; it also varies based on the individual. While your recovery journey is your story, part of that storyline is determining where you want to build your life of sobriety after treatment. In early recovery, the thought of returning home after treatment might seem intimidating.…