MDMA, commonly known as molly or ecstasy, is a psychoactive drug that affects the brain in powerful ways. Its combination of stimulant and hallucinogenic effects has made it a fixture of the party scene. However, repeated use comes with serious risks, including the potential for long-term memory impairment and...
Chronic pain is a prevalent health concern among older adults, often due to long-term conditions like arthritis and cancer. Pain can make everyday life difficult – and often leads to emotional distress, isolation and even dependence on pain medication. But there’s hope beyond prescriptions. Cognitive behavioral therapy is a powerful,...
Losing a spouse is one of the most profound and life-altering experiences a person can endure. Along with the emotional devastation, many widows and widowers report feeling mentally foggy, distracted or unable to concentrate – a condition often referred to as widow’s brain or widow fog. Though it’s not...
International Overdose Awareness Day on Aug. 31 is a solemn reminder of the lives lost to drug overdoses and a call to action for prevention, education and support. Overdoses can happen to anyone, regardless of age, background or intention. Knowing what to do in a critical moment can save...
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 –...
