Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) was the first 12-step therapy program, founded in 1935. Since then, 12-step programs have helped millions of people worldwide manage and maintain their sobriety. AA was created to help those suffering from alcohol addiction. Because of the approach’s effectiveness, the 12-step program philosophy has been used as the model to create programs…
Recovery from drug or alcohol addiction is a lifelong process. After successful detox and participation in a residential or outpatient substance abuse treatment program, you must be prepared to face the challenges of everyday life without resorting to old patterns of behavior that can lead you to use again. Relapse is a return to addictive…
Our nation has celebrated Independence Day since the Declaration of Independence was signed in 1776. In 1941, The Fourth of July became a federal holiday. It is our nation’s most celebrated holiday. In the wake of COVID-19, with The Fourth of July broadcasted as the time it will be safe for Americans to gather in…
Observed the last Monday of May, Memorial Day is a federal holiday to honor and mourn American military personnel who have died in the line of duty. Memorial Day is also widely observed as the unofficial start of summer, usually celebrated with picnics, barbecues, and parties serving up alcohol and possibly other substances. For those…
Drug detox is a process during which all traces of substances are removed from the body. Detox is generally the first step toward recovery from drug addiction and should be followed by comprehensive addiction treatment. The main goal of detox is to address the physical aspects of addiction so that patients can deal with the…
It can be a challenge to overcome a substance use disorder. Unfortunately, substance abuse is more common than many people realize. It’s been estimated by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) that more than 10 percent of individuals over the age of 12 will likely use recreational or illicit drugs at some point this month. For…
When you’re suffering from addiction, family relationships can be tricky. You may have family members who will be excited to be a part of your treatment, and you may have others who try to ignore the fact that you’re struggling or who aren’t interested in helping until you’ve proven that you’re getting clean for good.…
If you are currently recovering from drug, alcohol, or any other addiction, you are likely to worry about the prospect of losing your job during this time of your life. But there are steps to take to make sure your livelihood is protected while you heal yourself. Harmony Hills can offer guidance about your job…
Many of us come to group therapy or sessions in 12 Step programs with a chemical waste factory inside us. Addiction causes us to spend a very long time not being very nice to our bodies – whether through lack of sleep, lack of food, lack of hygiene, and a whole lot of crap to…
Research has shown that not only is addiction linked to genetics, but it is also proven to be a “family disease.” In other words, each person in the family has a cause and effect on the addict during addiction and recovery. This is why family support in sobriety is crucial if both parties plan to…