Distancing Yourself from Trauma Triggers in Addiction Recovery
Trauma leaves a lasting impact, and its effects can resurface through triggers – those seemingly innocuous events, sensations, or situations that unexpectedly ignite a flood of emotions and memories. For individuals in addiction recovery, understanding and managing these triggers is crucial for maintaining recovery and fostering overall wellbeing. What Are ...
Celebrity Recovery Spotlight: Drew Barrymore
Drew Barrymore, a beloved actress and talk show host, has captured audiences' hearts worldwide with charm and infectious energy. However, beneath the bright smiles and successful career lies a long and challenging journey of battling alcohol and drug addiction. Barrymore's openness about her struggles has inspired many, offering hope and ...
Recognizing Pride Month at Spectrum Health Systems
Pride Month is a time to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community, acknowledge their struggles, and recognize the progress toward equality. While it's a month filled with joy and celebration, it's also crucial to recognize the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals struggling with addiction and the importance of providing specialized support. ...
Rebuilding Financial Freedom in Addiction Recovery
Recovering from substance misuse is a journey that encompasses all facets of life, including finances. The path to recovery often intersects with financial challenges, making it essential to address both aspects simultaneously for a holistic recovery. Rebuilding financial freedom after addiction is not only possible but can significantly contribute to ...
Celebrity Recovery Spotlight: Robert Downey Jr.
Robert Downey Jr., celebrated as one of Hollywood’s most acclaimed actors, is equally renowned for his well-documented battle with drug addiction. His journey, characterized by a rollercoaster of highs and lows, is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of recovery. Early Career and the ...
Why It’s Okay (and Important) to Mourn Your Past Self in Addiction Recovery
Focusing on a brighter future is a cornerstone of addiction recovery. But reconciling the person you are now with your former self can be a complex and painful process. For many, a crucial step towards healing is learning to mourn that past self, the individual whose actions were impacted by ...
Spectrum Board Member Spotlight: Kashif Siddiqui
Spectrum Health Systems is committed to providing comprehensive treatment options for those struggling with addiction. A strong and passionate board of directors is essential to achieve this mission. We are pleased to spotlight one such member, Kashif Siddiqui, who brings a wealth of financial knowledge and personal commitment to the ...
April is Alcohol Awareness Month – A Time for Understanding and Healing
April is Alcohol Awareness Month, a time dedicated to increasing understanding and reducing the stigma surrounding alcohol addiction. This month highlights the dangers of alcohol misuse and provides resources to seek help. The Prevalence of Alcohol Misuse in the U.S. The numbers are staggering. According to the Centers for Disease ...
Creating Space for Addiction Recovery Support
Seeing a loved one struggle with substance use can be heartbreaking and confusing. You may want to help but are unsure how to approach the conversation. Creating a safe and supportive space for open communication is a crucial first step in getting them the help they need. Is There a ...
Women in Recovery: A Spotlight on Kim Patterson
Kim Patterson's story is an inspiring testament to the power of human resilience. Her path through addiction recovery has equipped her with a profound understanding of substance use disorder (SUD) and a fierce dedication to empowering women on their own journeys to healing. From Struggles to Strength Kim's experiences with ...
Addressing Racial Disparity in the Opioid Epidemic
The opioid epidemic has ravaged communities across the United States, but the crisis disproportionately impacts the Black population. While overdose deaths have increased for all groups, the rate among Black Americans is particularly alarming, with significantly higher numbers and faster growth compared to other demographics. A Spike in Black Overdose ...
What’s It Like to Work in Addiction Treatment?
Are you interested in working with individuals with substance use and/or mental health disorder? Seeing the stigma surrounding substance use disorder can make this profession appear daunting, however it can also be incredibly rewarding. Following a career path into addiction treatment and behavioral health, you’ll find yourself among a community ...
Group vs. Individual Therapy: Finding the Right Recovery Fit
In your recovery journey, finding the right support system is crucial. Two pillars of that support system are individual and group therapy, each offering unique benefits and challenges. Choosing between them, or even incorporating both, can be intimidating for someone navigating the path to healing. Understanding the Individual Experience Individual ...
The Key Role of Addiction Treatment Services in the Justice System
Despite widespread understanding of the disease model of addiction, substance use is still perceived as a criminal act. Every year, 1.16 million Americans are arrested for the sale, manufacture, or possession of illicit substances. Incarceration is a common punishment for drug-related crimes, with the National Institutes of Health estimating that ...
A Letter from Our President: Kurt Isaacson Reflects on 2023
2023 was a year of remarkable progress and achievements at Spectrum Health Systems. We took numerous strides toward our goal of making treatment more accessible for the most vulnerable populations while continuing to look for ways to retain and recruit staff that make it all possible. One of Spectrum’s proudest ...
