u. Blame; what is it? According to Merriam-Webster, blame is “to say or think that a person or thing is responsible for something bad that has happened.” Let’s be honest; when something bad happens, we all want someone or something to blame. And we don’t take too kindly to that someone being … [Read more...] about Underage Drinking: Who’s Responsible?
12 Core Functions: What Is Screening?
The 12 core functions of alcohol and drug abuse counseling create the blueprint all substance use professionals follow. It’s a proven guide because this step-by-step process has shown the best results in starting and managing a successful client + counselor relationship. The first of the 12 core … [Read more...] about 12 Core Functions: What Is Screening?
Does Stress Lead to Substance Abuse?
Stress stinks! Do you remember the deodorant commercials that solved the problem of stress-induced sweating with a swipe of their product under each arm? If only the solution to stress were that simple! According to a study conducted by the American Psychological Association (APA), the average … [Read more...] about Does Stress Lead to Substance Abuse?
Does North Carolina Budget Enough for Substance Abuse Treatment?
Substance abuse treatment falls under the category of mental health, and if there’s one element of healthcare that has been wildly overlooked in the past, it’s mental health. Stigma has smothered a growing epidemic of mental illnesses that impact quality of life. It’s more than just a blip on the … [Read more...] about Does North Carolina Budget Enough for Substance Abuse Treatment?
A Simple Guide to the 12 Core Functions of Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counseling
We’ve talked about what a substance abuse counselor is and the role they play in alcohol and drug treatment. But how do counselors become skilled at assisting clients during recovery? Like any other specialty, they receive specific training. Substance abuse counselors are equipped to do their job … [Read more...] about A Simple Guide to the 12 Core Functions of Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counseling
Mastering Anxiety after a Xanax Addiction
Xanax is a prescription drug used to manage anxiety. It’s also one of the top ten abused prescription drugs on the market. Categorized as a benzodiazepine (ben-zoe-dye-AZE-eh-peen), it’s estimated that some 61,000 people sought treatment for benzodiazepine abuse in 2011. It isn’t uncommon for the … [Read more...] about Mastering Anxiety after a Xanax Addiction
Underage Drinking: 5 Tips for Talking to Your Teen
Serious conversations are never easy. There’s this impending sensation of doom that stifles the air when someone says, “We need to talk.” It doesn’t matter if the talk is delivering the best or worst of news; those four little words make your stomach drop, heart race, and alarm bells blare in your … [Read more...] about Underage Drinking: 5 Tips for Talking to Your Teen