Top 10 Worst Drug Cities in Texas
Known for its barbecue, college football, and iconic cowboy culture, the state of Texas also has a lesser-known reputation for widespread drug abuse and drug-related crimes. In this post, we […]
DWI & DUI Laws in Houston: A Comprehensive Guide
Driving under the influence (DUI) and driving while intoxicated (DWI) are serious offenses that carry significant legal consequences in Houston, Texas. Understanding the intricacies of these laws is essential for […]
Conversations with the Inspiring Heather Ogburn
Today we’d like to introduce you to Heather Ogburn. Heather, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so […]
The Face of Recovery: Heather Ogburn
“This isn’t me. How did I get here?” were the cries of a desperate lost girl. A girl who once had everything yet felt nothing and in a flash, it […]
Getting Help With Social Anxiety
Mental health and substance use are often linked. People who struggle with anxiety or depression may self-medicate to alleviate symptoms. It is estimated that 34% of the population will suffer […]
Serenity Light Recovery Scholarship Essay Winner – 2022 BY: EUK
My name is EUK, I am known on the streets as Zibby. I am a recovering addict. I am an enrolled member of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe; I grew […]
Serenity Light Recovery College Scholarship Application Essay – Ashton M.
I am a person in long-term recovery from addiction. For me, that means I have not had a drink or a drug in over seven years. I was a good […]
Getting Help With Social Anxiety
Mental health and substance use are often linked. People who struggle with anxiety or depression may self-medicate to alleviate symptoms. It is estimated that 34% of the population will suffer […]
The First Year of Sobriety
Addiction recovery does not end when you leave rehab. It is a lifelong journey. Traveling the path is rewarding and worth the effort. It also has some steep climbs and […]
5 Risks of Detox at Home
If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, there are numerous options and therapeutic models for rehab—residential, outpatient, 12-step, group therapy, CBT, mindfulness, and many more. But detoxifying […]
Meth and Mental Health Disorders
Meth, short for methamphetamine, is a central nervous system stimulant with a high risk of addiction. In addition to the extremely severe side effects and health concerns associated with meth […]
Adderall Abuse and College Students
Adderall is a brand name for an amphetamine that doctors prescribe for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Annually, about 2.5 million Americans are prescribed Adderall or other stimulant drugs approved […]
Joining an Alcoholics Anonymous Group
Since 1935, Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) has helped thousands of those struggling with alcohol addiction achieve and maintain sobriety. Based on the 12 steps, the importance of anonymity, and surrender to […]
Dangers of Synthetic Marijuana
Marijuana is used regularly by approximately 35 million people in the United States and has been legalized for recreational use in 15 states. Like alcohol, which has been legal for […]
Recognizing Alcohol Awareness Month
April is Alcohol Awareness Month. Why do we need to set aside a whole month? Because without awareness of the toll that alcoholism takes on our population, we cannot create […]
Most Commonly Abused Painkillers
Opiate abuse occurs when people use painkillers outside of the guidelines a doctor sets for prescriptions. Often, people need these medications due to a serious injury or disease that’s left […]
Re-Learning Life Skills After Addiction
Drug addiction creates complications in many facets of life. Even things that seemed simple before, such as sticking to a schedule or preparing meals, can be difficult during active addiction. […]
Alcoholism in Older People
It can be easy to think of alcohol abuse as something that only young people struggle with. College students might binge drink at parties and young adults can overindulge on […]
How Opioid Abuse Damages Your Body
Opioids are some of the most abused drugs. That includes both prescription and illicit opioids. These drugs trigger the opioid receptors in the brain. This is the area of the […]
Xanax Abuse Among Young Adults
Xanax is a benzodiazepine that doctors prescribe to treat insomnia, panic disorders, and anxiety. Used properly, it can be effective and safe to use. Illicit use of the drug or […]
Enjoying a Sober St. Patrick’s Day
Sobriety is a hard-won battle. Holidays can be some of the most difficult times to maintain sobriety, especially when it’s one that has memories of alcohol consumption. A sober St. […]
Using Psychotherapy to Battle Depression
Depression is a mental health disorder characterized by deep sadness and feelings of hopelessness. It has numerous causes, and sometimes medications are a necessary step in treatment. However, psychotherapy and […]
Benefits of Getting Trauma-Informed Care
Trauma therapy is critical for men and women battling a painful past. When the brain doesn’t deal with trauma but tucks it away, that trauma comes back throughout their lifetime. […]
How Does the Cycle of Addiction Work?
Why is it that many people who abuse drugs or alcohol seem to be stuck in a continuous cycle of addiction? Why do some people relapse even after long periods […]
Can I Quit Heroin Cold Turkey?
If you’re struggling with heroin addiction, quitting cold turkey can be a tempting option. You might be ready to make a change in your life, and giving up the drug […]
The Benefits of Long-Term Drug Rehab
It can be tempting to look for shortcuts on the road to recovery. But when a shortcut does not offer an opportunity for real, lasting results, you must ask yourself […]
What Are Synthetic Drugs?
There is a wide variety of both legal and illegal, synthetic and naturally-derived drugs available that can be addictive. Understanding the difference between synthetic drugs and those that come from […]
Finding Creative Outlets in Recovery
Creativity involves finding new ways to express ideas in original or adaptive ways. It helps individuals adjust to changes in their environment and can bring them joy. Substance abuse suppresses […]
Signs of Opiate Abuse After Surgery
The opioid epidemic has impacted millions of individuals and families across the United States. Opiates and opioids were developed to help healthcare providers ease pain and perform life-saving medical interventions. […]
How Alumni Services Help Maintain Sobriety
As most people with even a basic understanding of addiction and the recovery process will tell you, a successful recovery is a lifetime commitment. Those of us who are susceptible […]
Dangers of Fentanyl Abuse
Fentanyl was developed as a synthetic painkiller. The synthetic nature of the drug allows healthcare providers to be more precise with its application, and it is in many regards a […]
5 Reasons to Attend Talk Therapy
Many people have a difficult time deciding whether or not to try therapy. Decades of societal stigma have made some believe that needing therapy is a sign of weakness, and while that […]
Common Depressive Disorders
If you feel sad or depressed, you’re not alone. Depression is more common than you might think. Many of those who struggle with depression never seek treatment and might not […]
How Meth Damages Your Teeth
Methamphetamine or meth is a human-made drug. It is an addictive stimulant that impairs decision-making processes which makes it difficult for meth users to quit, especially without access to a […]
The Benefits of Fitness Therapy for Addiction
Few people think of participating in fitness therapy when enrolling in a treatment program for drug or alcohol abuse. You might imagine that you’ll spend all of your time in […]
Five Benefits of an Intervention
An intervention is an opportunity for those close to someone who is using drugs and alcohol to encourage them to get help. Interventions in real life don’t necessarily look like […]
What Is Alcohol Dementia?
Alcohol dementia is a type of brain damage caused by long-term alcohol abuse. Dementia is a broad term that refers to a set of symptoms including memory loss, problem-solving, and reasoning […]
Major Depressive Disorder
If you are struggling with feelings of sadness, apathy, or hopelessness, you aren’t alone. Major depressive disorders affect more than three million people in the United States each year. However, […]
How Stress Affects Your Health
Stress can be positive or negative. Positive stress pushes you to do your best. It gives an extra boost that can improve your performance. However, our bodies weren’t meant to […]
Understanding Behavioral Addictions
Behavioral addictions share many similarities with drug addictions, but they are often harder for people to understand. Substance addictions have a physical component. Drugs and alcohol are known to be […]
5 Reasons to Choose Outpatient Treatment
When it comes to addiction treatment, it’s important to consider your options. Which treatment is right for you will depend on the severity of your addiction, life obligations, and your […]
The Long-Term Effects of Stimulants
Stimulants raise alertness, wakefulness, and energy levels. They also raise blood pressure and heart rate. Strong stimulants like cocaine and methamphetamine produce a powerful sense of well-being and euphoria which […]
Signs of Heroin Abuse
Heroin is a highly addictive opiate. It causes intense cravings and severe withdrawals. When someone is addicted to heroin, they might try to deny or hide their use. They are […]
Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction
One of the most common reasons for drug and alcohol abuse is an inability to manage stress and negative feelings in a healthy way. Some people simply have a more […]
Is Faith-Based Treatment Right for You?
When you decide to enter addiction treatment, there are many decisions to make. One of these decisions is whether to choose a faith-based treatment program. Faith-based programs are designed to help […]
How Addiction Affects Families
When it comes to addiction and family dynamics, there is no doubt drug use can impact every person in a household. Most often, a person using drugs doesn’t recognize this […]
Why a Personalized Treatment Plan Matters
As you explore how to get help for drug or alcohol addiction, there are many things you have to think about before making a decision. One of them is whether […]
Common Signs of an Overdose
Do you know the signs of an overdose? Most people don’t know this because most people don’t have to experience a loved one at risk like this. Yet, when you […]
Staying Sober During The Holidays
What would a sober holiday mean for you? If you are currently in recovery, you know how hard you’ve worked to get to this point. You’re ready to enjoy some […]
Signs of Marijuana Abuse
Though many people believe using marijuana is safe, it’s not. Marijuana abuse occurs when addiction forms. This type of substance abuse can carry negative consequences, including disease development and overdose […]
Managing Stress During Christmas
Most people feel stress during Christmas. Though it is supposed to be a happy time, there is a lot to do and people to see. When you are experiencing intense stress, […]
Understanding Seasonal Depression
Seasonal depression, more formally called seasonal affective disorder, is a true type of depression that should not be ignored. It tends to occur when a person feels significant and prolonged […]
College Students and Study Drug Abuse
College is different for every student. There is so much to do and accomplish, but there are also many times when the pressure becomes too much. When it comes to […]
Ways to Enjoy a Sober New Year
Can you have a sober New Year and still enjoy yourself? The answer to that question is yes. If you are in recovery from alcohol abuse, New Year’s Eve can […]
Benefits of Equine Therapy
When it comes to finding an alternative therapy for drug and alcohol addiction or mental health disorders, think horses. The benefits of equine therapy are well respected for all aspects […]
Life After Rehab
What is life after rehab like? This is one of the most common questions people who are thinking about getting care or those who are in therapy wonder. Will they […]
Cocaine Withdrawal Symptoms
Cocaine is one of the most powerful drugs you may take. It often leads to substance abuse in those who consume it even for a short amount of time. With […]
Heroin Abuse and Veterans
Is there a link between heroin and veterans? Unfortunately, many men and women who put their lives on the line in the Armed Services often face trauma and physical pain. […]
Benefits of Holistic Treatment
Holistic therapy may seem like a new and innovative therapy option. Yet, healing the whole body is something that’s always been important in drug and alcohol addiction treatment. The benefits […]
Mental Health and Thanksgiving
When it comes to mental health and Thanksgiving, you may be worried. For many people, addiction and mental health disorders can make holidays like this very challenging. People come together […]
Signs of Medication Abuse
Is your loved one running out of medication before they should? Are you struggling with your pain so much so that medication just is not helping any longer? These could […]
Benefits of Medical Detox
Investing in your future is critical. You may be using drugs or alcohol now and struggling to stop on your own. That’s not your fault. Many people using drugs develop […]
Substance Abuse in the Workplace
Do you use drugs or alcohol at work? Do you need to smoke something or take some pills before starting your day? You may have a stash of alcohol in […]
How Dangerous is Alcohol Withdrawal?
Alcohol addiction is more common than many people believe. Sometimes, people struggle to recognize their addiction because they are still engaging in day-to-day life and going to work or school. […]
Benefits of Making Friends in Recovery
Are you in therapy for drug and alcohol addiction? Perhaps you are working on your mental health. In all situations, it is likely that you will participate in support groups […]
Confronting a Functioning Alcoholic
Alcohol abuse comes in many forms. Some people use alcohol and struggle with accomplishing anything when they do. For many other people, they can still maintain a job or meet […]
7 Ways to Manage Anxiety
Anxiety is a way that our bodies attempt to deal with stress. In a healthy person, anxiety occurs when there is a real risk, and an individual needs to take […]
Sober Activities for Loved Ones
Are you looking for a way to spend some time with your loved ones that does not include the use of drugs or alcohol? When you’re in recovery, that’s critical, […]
What is Narcotics Anonymous?
Are you using drugs often? You may have an addiction. Overcoming that addiction takes time and consistently working towards forgiveness, self-confidence, and health. Some people choose to do this through […]
5 Signs of Codependency
Drug and alcohol addiction, as well as mental health disorders, change relationships. In many situations, codependency occurs. This is a condition in which a person becomes “addicted” to a relationship […]
Stages of Heroin Withdrawal
Heroin is one of the most devastating drugs. It creates dependency and addiction that’s intense and hard to stop. Most people cannot simply stop using on their own because they’ll […]
Identifying Addiction Relapse Triggers
Relapse is a high risk for all people with addiction. No matter how prepared you are for what’s to come after you leave treatment, it can be very difficult for […]
Signs of a Drug Overdose
A drug overdose can be a fatal condition. If you suspect it at all for yourself or your loved one, call emergency medical support through 911 right now. If you […]
The Dangers of Doctor Shopping
When a person develops an addiction, they may become so dependent on the drugs that they will do everything they can to get them. That includes doctor shopping. If you […]
Elderly Alcohol Abuse
Do you have a parent that seems to drink a lot of alcohol? Perhaps during retirement it seemed normal for that parent to have enjoyed a few extra beers from […]
5 Common Anxiety Disorders
Anxiety is a component of everyday life. Most people feel anxious before a big speech or when they have to talk to their boss. For other people, anxiety becomes a […]
Signs of a Xanax Addiction
Do you or a loved one use Xanax? This is a somewhat common prescription medication that is used as a central nervous system depressant. It is often given to people with […]
Observing World Mental Health Day
How much value do you put on mental illness and its impact on your overall wellbeing? World Mental Health Day is a good time to take a step back and […]
Signs of Major Depression
Most people feel sad from time to time. Most of the time, it is brought on by something we experience. It fades away as time goes by. For others, it […]
Anxiety In Young Adults
Anxiety is a very common emotion. In many ways, it is a healthy one, especially when it can help you to be apprehensive about a potentially risky situation. For other […]
Mental Illness Awareness Week
During Mental Illness Awareness Week, the goal is to open up the conversation and talk about this very real, debilitating set of conditions. If you are like many people who […]
The Opioid Epidemic in Dallas
Opioid addiction is sweeping the country. In Dallas, there’s an opioid epidemic that is putting lives in danger. These drugs have taken over the lives of many people, but you […]
Dangerous Side Effects of Fentanyl
There are many dangerous drugs available today, and many of them are given as prescriptions by doctors who at one point did not realize how easily a patient could become […]
Relapse Prevention Techniques
In treatment for addiction issues, many patients benefit from learning about relapse prevention techniques. These are extremely important because they provide you with the tools and coping skills you need […]
What is Biofeedback?
If you’ve heard about biofeedback but are not sure what it is or what it does, you’re not alone. You might also be wondering how it can help you with […]
Understanding PTSD and Addiction
Admitting that you need help for an addiction is not always easy. It can be even more difficult when there are underlying mental health issues that may have caused or […]
Adderall Addiction in Young Adults
While addiction issues can happen at any age, there’s a specific risk to consider when it comes to Adderall addiction and young adults. That’s because more young people are prescribed […]
Four Common Relapse Triggers
One of the things many recovered people worry about is having a relapse. That’s an understandable worry since it can happen to anyone no matter how long they’ve been in […]
Finding the Right Drug Detox in Houston
If you’re looking for high-quality drug detox in Houston, you’ve come to the right place. At Serenity Light Recovery, we can help you get through detox so you can get […]
Finding the Best Heroin Detox In Houston
For anyone looking for a heroin detox in Houston, Serenity Light Recovery is here to help. You don’t have to settle for a life of addiction when there are healthy […]
