Like all other types of addiction, alcoholism, also called alcohol abuse or alcohol addiction is a disease. Just many other diseases, while they might not be curable, they can be treated. Also, like other types of diseases, it does not discriminate based on age, gender, or even ethnicity. It doesn’t care the type of house…
Independence Day is one of the highlights of summer. It means fun in the sun, backyard BBQs, fireworks, and friends. For people in recovery, it might also be a little stressful. As you find your balance in your new way of life, discovering new ways to celebrate while staying sober is important. Life after treatment…
Getting a DUI can impact your life in many ways. Being charged with driving under the influence can be embarrassing, traumatic, and impact the way others see you. You may face legal problems or have consequences at work. Getting back on track after getting a DUI can feel overwhelming, but it is possible. Whether you…
Alcohol addiction negatively impacts a person’s physical, mental, and social health. It also affects their family and community. Overcoming addiction to alcohol can be challenging since drinking is part of our culture. Advertisements, social gatherings, celebrations–the triggers to drink are everywhere. While many people may try to give up alcohol independently, most people require treatment…
When you’re dealing with addiction, the definition of sobriety can seem confusing. Living a life of sobriety may seem out of reach when struggling with a substance use disorder (an addiction to drugs or alcohol). However, there is support available. When you come to us at Northern Illinois Recovery, you can get the support and…
PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) is often accompanied by feelings of helplessness, suicidal thoughts, depression, self-harm, and anxiety. Those symptoms occur due to various traumatic experiences ranging from emotional, physical, verbal, mental, or sexual abuse to surviving combat in war. The experience an individual undergoes or witnesses may not make itself clear at first as being…
Drinking alcohol continuously for a period of weeks or months can lead to physical dependence. Stopping or cutting back on the amount of alcohol you consume may result in uncomfortable or dangerous symptoms. This period is referred to as the withdrawal period. For most, the length of time that you have been drinking and the…
More than 10% of people in the United States deal with a substance abuse disorder or co-occurring disorder each year. Addiction and substance abuse disorders can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, background, or education. The cause of addiction is unknown, which means that anyone is at risk of developing a substance abuse disorder when…
Drinking and driving is illegal in all 50 states. If someone chooses to drink alcohol and get behind the wheel, they risk themselves and others’ safety. If stopped by police and issued a DUI, they can face serious legal troubles. Some people who are given a DUI struggle with alcohol addiction and some have had…
Drug and alcohol detox is a necessary first step for some people facing long-term addiction use or active addiction. If you cannot stop using even though you want to do so, a detox center may be the right option for your needs. At Northern Illinois Recovery, our team can offer help. When you come in…