Marijuana has a reputation for being a relatively harmless substance – especially as its use becomes more socially accepted and legally accessible. But the truth is that cannabis is a psychoactive drug that can cause physical and psychological dependence, especially when used regularly and in high doses. You may be...
Living with chronic pain is physically exhausting, but the emotional toll can be equally debilitating. For many older adults, long-term pain leads to isolation, loneliness and eventually depression, especially when compounded by limited mobility and reduced social engagement. When pain becomes your constant companion, it’s easy to feel cut...
From emotional distance and broken trust to enabling and codependency, substance use disorders can damage the entire family system. That’s why family therapy is a critical part of healing. Hemet Valley Recovery Center & Sage Retreat offers family programming rooted in the belief that addiction is a family disease –...
As cannabis becomes more widely accepted and accessible nationwide, use among older adults is on the rise. Many people in this demographic view marijuana as a “safe” alternative to prescription medications or alcohol – especially if they experimented with it decades ago. However, today’s cannabis strains are far more...
Social connection is a core part of being human – but maintaining meaningful relationships often becomes more challenging with age. Isolation among older adults is a serious public health concern, contributing to physical and mental decline. July is Social Wellness Month, a time to reflect on the importance of...
While learning new skills like cooking or driving probably felt clumsy at first, they became second nature with repetition and practice. That transformation is thanks to neuroplasticity – your brain’s ability to change and adapt in response to experience. This same principle influences addiction and recovery. Drugs and alcohol rewire...
It’s a question that stops many people in their tracks: “Am I addicted?” For some, a quiet moment of introspection creeps in after a night of heavy drinking or drug use. For others, the initial spark may come from a concerned loved one asking questions that feel too close...
Alcohol has long been part of social and cultural traditions, but its long-term effects on your brain can be profound and life-altering. One of the most concerning consequences of chronic heavy drinking is its impact on memory and cognition – a problem that can be particularly devastating for older...
