How to Set Realistic and Achievable Goals for Addiction Recovery
Content reviewed by Christian Losch, LCSW, LCADC, CEO of Pinelands Updated on 12/13/2022 SAMHSA explains that the definition of recovery from mental health and substance use disorders is constantly changing; in other words, it is a working definition. It defines recovery as a process of change where individuals strive to live a more self-directed life, […]
The Long-Term Consequences of Stimulant Use
Content reviewed by Christian Losch, LCSW, LCADC, CEO of Pinelands Stimulants are an umbrella term for drugs that speed up the body’s internal systems, especially activity related to the central nervous system. Often referred to as “uppers,” stimulant drugs are widely used for various reasons including, but not limited to, performance enhancement, medical benefits and […]
What Are Triggers and Cravings?
Content reviewed by Christian Losch, LCSW, LCADC, CEO of Pinelands Treatment for recovery from alcohol and other substances must be intentional. It must teach patients how to achieve long-lasting sobriety. While a person may be able to commit to sobriety on their own initially, it is unlikely that they will be able to maintain their […]
Passive vs. Active Recovery: Which Path Are You Taking?
Updated 4/28/25 Content reviewed by Karen Rubenstein , LMFT, Chief Clinical Officer at Cliffside Malibu It is not uncommon for people to group all types of recovery into the all-encompassing phrases “addiction recovery” or “substance use recovery.” Despite committing your life to recovery, there are different levels of engagement that you can have with your […]
Why Mindfulness Is Essential in Long-Term Recovery
Content reviewed by Christian Losch, LCSW, LCADC, CEO of Pinelands Substance use and addiction wreak havoc on an individual’s sense of self. They are chronic and invasive conditions that can lead to overwhelming thoughts and emotions. Even when the consequences of substance use become evident, there may be hesitation toward treatment and recovery because an […]
How to Break Your Harmful Habits
Content reviewed by Christian Losch, LCSW, LCADC, CEO of Pinelands Habits affect all of us. They play an essential part in our lives, as they help us develop a sense of normalcy and repetition in our daily routines. While there are healthy habits out there, it is essential to reflect on practices that may be […]
Who Am I? Finding Your Identity in Sobriety
Updated 2/27/25 Content reviewed by Nicholas G. Glines When under the weight of addiction, you likely have a skewed perception of who you are. Substances have a way of taking over and influencing your thoughts and behaviors, often in negative and dangerous ways. Once you find help, clarity returns. Initial treatment will remove substances from your […]
Pleasure vs. Joy: Can I Find Lasting Joy in Recovery?
Content reviewed by Nicholas G. Glines The idea of joy is often misinterpreted, and many people confuse pleasure with joy. Further, if you are in recovery, your past substance use was undoubtedly more about pleasure than actual joy. Therefore, during recovery, you might continue to chase pleasure rather than build a life of joy. Additionally, it can […]
Becoming More Self-Sufficient in Recovery
Content reviewed by Nicholas G. Glines Detox and addiction treatment are the first chapters on the journey toward recovery. While vital chapters, it is what you make of your time after detox and treatment that sustains recovery. However, the early stages of recovery will come with challenges. A big proponent of laying the foundations for lasting success requires […]
Understanding Medical Detox
Content reviewed by Christian Losch, LCSW, LCADC, CEO of Pinelands Over time, chronic substance use can wreak havoc on an individual’s physical and mental health. Alcohol and other drugs interfere significantly with brain functioning, disturbing standard communication between brain regions and the cells within those regions. Chronic substance use persuades the mind and body to […]