As the vibrant colors of autumn paint the landscape of Flagstaff, many residents find themselves facing a common challenge: seasonal depression. This mood disorder, known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), typically arises as daylight hours diminish and it can significantly impact mental well-being. Here are some effective strategies to combat this condition and embrace the beauty of fall. 1. Light Therapy One of the most effective treatments for SAD is light therapy. Specialized light … [Read more...] about Seven Tips to Help Combat Seasonal Depression
Back 2 Basics
Knowing the Signs of Alcohol Abuse
Alcohol addiction is the second most common addiction in the United States, with tobacco being the only more commonly used addictive substance. Alcohol is prevalent in many parts of popular culture and social life, so it is not surprising that many people struggle with alcohol abuse. The abuse of alcohol is a serious condition, as the person struggling becomes dependent on it to get through everyday life, and as the issue becomes more serious, the side effects get worse. Serious side effects … [Read more...] about Knowing the Signs of Alcohol Abuse
Expanding Access to Post-Treatment Care
An effective treatment program is an impactful way to help someone struggling with a substance use disorder. The government, treatment professionals and local non-profits are working tirelessly to expand access to care to treat substance use disorders. Local communities are committed to expanding access to treatment programs, but they often don’t share this same commitment when it comes to expanding access to post-treatment care. Relapse after leaving treatment is all too common, which is why … [Read more...] about Expanding Access to Post-Treatment Care
Get Moving: Exercise is Essential in Recovery
When someone first enters into recovery, it can be tough to get motivated. When most of your life revolves around alcohol and not taking care of your body, it can be extremely difficult to break that cycle. Addiction gets us comfortable in an unhealthy cycle of sitting around abusing substances and not moving our bodies. Someone in recovery may have no idea how close they are to feeling better if they just started to get out and move. The start of recovery is difficult. Sobriety seems like an … [Read more...] about Get Moving: Exercise is Essential in Recovery
Helping an Addict Without Enabling
Addiction is tough, especially when it is a loved one going through it. You want to help them, because that’s what family members do, but that love and support may be harmful when someone is going through addiction. Bailing a family member out of jail over and over can prevent them from facing the consequences they may need to overcome their addiction. Giving money intended for food or rent can turn into the person having funds to buy more drugs. Telling their friends or employer the person … [Read more...] about Helping an Addict Without Enabling
Mindfulness: What it is; How it Works
Simply put, mindfulness is the practice of being fully present. In our day of technical addiction and multitasking, this is actually more challenging than ever before, which is probably why mindfulness is becoming so mainstream. There is a desperate need to feel more connected and content. For some, this practice comes naturally. Those who are really present in the kitchen, preparing loving meals and eating with consciousness, already do this practice instinctively. Those who immerse … [Read more...] about Mindfulness: What it is; How it Works
Trudging Along the Road to Happy Destiny with Back2Basics
"I didn’t realize how much I had lost until I felt how much I’ve gained,” said Brad J, a Back2Basics alumnus. Our journey began in May of 2010. Back2Basics has now completed, and is proudly celebrating, seven years of Sober Living here in Flagstaff. B2B is a six-month adventure recovery program for young men struggling with substance abuse issues and are looking for a positive, meaningful life. The uniqueness of Back2Basics lies in the fact that it is a hybrid of outdoor adventure therapy … [Read more...] about Trudging Along the Road to Happy Destiny with Back2Basics
