Denial is one of the most powerful and persistent obstacles to addiction recovery. For many people, it can be the primary reason they avoid or delay getting help, even when their substance use clearly harms their health, relationships and quality of life. Recognizing Denial Denial is a defense mechanism that protects...
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...
