alcohol and memories
June 12, 2025

Long-Term Alcohol Use and Memory

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...

hospitalization for substance use
May 22, 2025

Hospitalizations for Substance Use Disorders

Substance use has far-reaching physical and mental health effects, sometimes leading to life-threatening complications that require immediate medical attention. Annually, millions of Americans experience drug- or alcohol-related emergencies such as overdose, withdrawal, psychosis and organ failure. In these moments, a hospital is the safest and most appropriate setting for...

pain and depression
May 15, 2025

The Link Between Pain and Depression

Chronic pain and depression frequently co-occur, creating patterns that can be incredibly difficult to change on your own. Constant, unrelenting pain can take a heavy toll on your mental health. Similarly, depression may intensify your perception of pain, making recovery feel even further out of reach. At Hemet Valley Recovery...

marijuana and dementia
May 8, 2025

Emergency Care for Marijuana and Dementia

Marijuana’s widespread legalization has made it a socially acceptable drug, causing many people to assume it is harmless or even beneficial. However, this perception overlooks the potential long-term impact of cannabis use on cognitive health. Mental decline and dementia are significant risks, particularly for those who heavily relied on...

chronic pain and anxiety
April 24, 2025

Anxiety and Chronic Pain

Chronic pain and anxiety are two debilitating conditions that often go hand in hand, creating a difficult cycle that can severely impact your mental and physical health. When these issues overlap – sometimes alongside depression – they can significantly reduce your quality of life, strain your relationships and increase...

alcohol and dementia
April 17, 2025

The Link Between Alcohol and Dementia

Alcohol misuse can have serious and lasting effects on your brain – including an increased risk of cognitive decline and dementia. While many people assume memory loss is a typical part of aging, persistent cognitive problems may be a sign of something more concerning, especially for older adults who...

stress awareness month
April 10, 2025

Healthy Coping Strategies for Stress

Stress is a natural part of life, but when it becomes chronic, it can take a serious toll on your physical and mental health. April is Stress Awareness Month, a time to highlight the impact of ongoing stress and promote healthier ways to manage life’s challenges. At Hemet Valley Recovery...

painkiller addiction
April 3, 2025

Painkiller Addiction

Originally marketed as safe and non-habit-forming, opioids were widespread throughout the 1990s and early 2000s. However, we now know that opioid-based painkillers carry a high risk of addiction, even when used under a doctor’s supervision. At Hemet Valley Recovery Center & Sage Retreat, we specialize in treating people who have...