What Are Mindfulness-Based Interventions in Addiction Recovery?
Content reviewed by Christian Losch, LCSW, LCADC, CEO of Pinelands Mindfulness is becoming an increasingly popular technique for navigating mental distress, especially for those in recovery from substance use disorder (SUD). Simply put, mindfulness is the practice of being fully aware of the present moment. It is known to help individuals in recovery manage their […]
What Are Sober Living Homes?
Updated 4/29/25 Content reviewed by Karen Rubenstein, LMFT, Chief Clinical Officer at Cliffside Malibu Exploring different living opportunities while in recovery can be both exciting and nerve-racking. On the one hand, you may become nervous at the thought of venturing into uncharted territory and leaving the comfort of your current living situation. On the other […]
What Is Mindfulness and Why Is It Important in Recovery?
What Is Mindfulness and Why Is It Important in Recovery? We live in a fast-paced world. Most of us go about our lives with our minds on “autopilot.” We can function in this mode because we are immersed in our habitual daily routines. However, when we are constantly living on autopilot, we neglect genuine connection […]
What Does Drug Use Do to the Brain?
Content reviewed by Christian Losch, LCSW, LCADC, CEO of Pinelands The brain is the most complex organ in our body. It regulates essential functions, such as breathing or keeping your heart beating and allows you to interpret and respond to external stimuli. Your brain gives you the ability to interact with your environment and make […]
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 […]
Are Sobriety and Happiness Related?
Content reviewed by Nicholas G. Glines Happiness and sobriety can promote good health in many different ways. Sobriety can lead to better sleep, nutrition, and relationships. This can lead to increased energy levels and start encouraging more positive habits. Abstinence from alcohol can boost your immune system, increase your confidence and help to save money. […]
5 Ways to Find Motivation in Staying Sober
Updated on 12/28/23 Content Reviewed by Christian Losch, LCSW, LCADC, CEO of Pinelands While making the life choice to be sober is undoubtedly challenging, it is also gratifying. Even though this decision is well worth the challenges, finding the motivation to continue every day can prove difficult. Some days you may wake up and be […]
Maintain Sobriety by Making Connections
Maintain Sobriety by Making Connections Content Reviewed by Karen Rubenstein, LMFT, Chief Clinical Officer at Cliffside Malibu Human connections are some of the most fundamental and necessary needs in life. When you feel a connection with other people, this can bring you a sense of belonging that contributes to your overall well-being. Close relationships can […]
Legalizing Marijuana: What Does This Mean for Sobriety?
Updated on 1/31/2023 Content reviewed by Christian Losch, LCSW, LCADC, CEO of Pinelands With the legalization of marijuana, it’s crucial to understand the risks marijuana poses for any individuals in recovery. About 1 in 10 users may become addicted, rising to 1 in 6 if marijuana use starts before 18. Long-term use can increase psychosis risk […]
3 Ways to Manage Sobriety as Seasons Change
Content reviewed by Christian Losch, LCSW, LCADC, CEO of Pinelands Each season brings along new sights, smells and experiences. As fall continues and winter approaches, these changes may cause conflicting feelings to various groups of people. In particular, those in recovery may suffer greatly during these seasonal changes. During the changes of the seasons, it is […]