I remember it all too well. I was in 4th grade and started to develop this fixation with the number 8. Little by little, it crept its way into my life and began to dictate how I functioned. It started by counting my steps in increments of 8. Then it evolved into having to take an even number of steps on different types of flooring. For example, if I was walking on a tiled floor and was about to step...
Written by: Thatcher ShivleyCertified Recovery Coach September is National Recovery Month. It’s a welcome focus on a topic that doesn’t get enough attention: that recovery IS possible, and it happens every day. But of course, so do overdoses. Far too many of them. The numbers are staggering. More than 70,000 Americans died of drug overdoses in 2017. That’s a lot of lost family members, friends, sons, daughters, parents, brothers, sisters, and co-workers. Let’s face it; losing someone is hard. And what about...
The U.S. Department of Transportation defines distracted driving as "any activity that could divert a person's attention away from the primary task of driving." April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month, and we have some important facts to share to help you stay safe behind the wheel.
It can be challenging to know how to act around someone who has dementia. We have sympathy for them, of course, but that’s not always helpful. We know it’s not their fault. What we don’t always know is how to respond when they’re repeating themselves or confusing the past with the present. What behaviors should we ignore? And how can we help them when they become frustrated or even agitated? Millions of people worldwide are affected by dementia, and there...
Drug addiction and alcoholism is a complex disease. It is characterized by intense, uncontrollable, craving and obsessive drug-seeking even in the face of disturbing consequences. Worst of all, no one is immune to it. Traditionally, the path to addiction begins with the voluntary act of taking drugs, but over time, the individual’s ability to choose becomes compromised. When someone is addicted to drugs and alcohol, it is not as simple as quitting and abstaining from using or drinking. Recovery and...
Let’s be honest: the holidays can be a stressful time. Gathering together all the pieces of a festive celebration requires a lot of work. Yet, for individuals in various stages of recovery, the holidays aren’t just a stressful time—they can be hazardous to recovery. We've compiled some tips for staying sober and getting the support you or a loved one may need during the holiday season. Plan your support system The holidays are an excellent opportunity to reach out to...
We have all heard the phrase “willing and ready.” It’s used to describe someone who is both compelled to do something and properly equipped to see it through. Take the example of running a marathon. Many people might be willing to run a marathon, but are they ready? Willingness alone doesn’t make them ready to do it. Unless they’ve spent their life running long distances, they will not find themselves in the physical shape necessary to run 26.2 miles. It...
Pam graduated from nursing school in 1977 and spent the beginning of her career working as a nurse and case manager in a hospital, home care, and rehabilitation settings. During her work as a case manager, she coordinated care for individuals who had sustained catastrophic illnesses and injuries, and soon realized it was her passion. Pam was drawn to the complexity of the injuries and medical needs and excelled at being a strong advocate for her clients. As a case...
For some people, the change of seasons is a welcomed one. For others, it can be dreaded. As many as 10 million Americans experience a drastic change in mood during the transition from summer to fall, known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). SAD is often referred to as winter depression, but it can occur during the transition from spring to summer as well. While it is common to feel some winter blues, people with SAD experience such extreme depression that...
Drug abuse and alcohol addiction is not a topic to be taken lightly. If you suspect that your loved-one or coworker is abusing substances, watch out for these 10 signs or symptoms that may clue you in. Early treatment is key to a successful recovery. Feinberg Consulting offers intervention services to help your loved one through this difficult time. 10 Signs and Symptoms of Drug Abuse and Alcohol Addiction You’ve noticed in a family member or friend: 1: Neglecting responsibilities at...