What is Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)? Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a method to help clients overcome their substance abuse problems in a way that can improve every aspect of their lives by overcoming experiential avoidance. Different patients need to focus on different aspects of the model, depending on their individual life circumstances.…
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People tend to think of alcoholism as an all-or-nothing proposition. The perception is if a person can maintain a job and a life that is not falling apart, then they do not have a problem. The reality, however, is a lot less black and white: alcohol addiction is a progressive disease with many different degrees. Binge drinking…
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Low self-esteem, a perception that one is inadequate, unlovable, unworthy and/or incompetent. It often stems from exposure to dysfunctional behavior as a child. When children bear the brunt of anger, abandonment, abuse, neglect or continual negative criticism, it can lead to feelings of low self-worth. Low self-esteem isn’t limited to individuals who have suffered trauma…
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What is Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)? Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) is the use of FDA-approved medication, in combination with counseling and behavioral therapies, to comprehensively treat substance use disorder. MAT can be used for both opioid use disorder and alcohol use disorder. Not everyone is a candidate for MAT. Prior to initiating Medication-Assisted Treatment, medical professional evaluate the patient to…
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Outrunning Addiction A 30 pack of beer and a bottle of Bacardi every day was Cheryl’s norm for 22 years. After experiencing emotional and physical pain at a young age, Cheryl found solace in alcohol, which helped her escape her family reality and fit in with those around her. Cheryl’s alcohol addiction had already taken hold by…
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What is Mindfulness Based Sobriety (MBS)? Mindfulness Based Sobriety provides a safety net for recovery. Mindfulness Based Sobriety (MBS) is an integration of mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and clinical psychologist Alan Marlatt’s research on relapse prevention. What are the Benefits of Mindfulness Based Sobriety? Patients often have the impression that experiencing triggers to relapse is somehow a…
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the Dangers of alcohol use disorder can be hard to spot due to the fact that consumption of excess amounts of alcohol has been normalized in many aspects. Unlike many other substances, drinking has less of a taboo around it, and it has become a staple in many social situations. In addition, alcohol is seemingly everywhere –…
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When you have a loved one struggling with substance use disorder and want to talk to them about it, the prospect of the conversation can be nerve-racking. It’s a tough subject, and sometimes it’s even more challenging to set aside time for a meaningful conversation. A conversation over text or the phone doesn’t always signal…
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Too often, people who need alcohol or drug rehab don’t receive appropriate care because it would mean taking extended time away from their work or family. With the flexibility of Gateway Outpatient drug rehab programs, adults and adolescents can work through drug addiction treatment without putting their lives on hold. Programs are ideal for people with a strong support system, stable…
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During life after treatment, people will either enter a Recovery Home or return back to their old lives. Unfortunately, this sometimes exposes them to old habits and influences, which can be difficult to resist and increase susceptibility to relapse. Fortunately, there is ample advice and recovery support for this time in someone’s journey. Join support groups…
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