Sobriety Fatigue: Navigating the Challenges of Early Recovery
Sobriety fatigue can feel like an overwhelming and unexpected hurdle on the road to recovery. It’s not just about feeling tired—it’s about the emotional and physical exhaustion that sets in […]
Galaxy Gas: The Latest Dangerous Drug Trend
In the ever-evolving landscape of substance abuse, a new drug called “Galaxy Gas” has emerged, raising concerns among health professionals and law enforcement. With its bright colors and enticing names […]
What is an Addictive Personality?
Have you ever heard of an “addictive personality”? Having an addictive personality means someone might be more likely to develop addictions due to certain traits and behaviors. For example, they […]
How Long Does Meth Stay in Your System?
If you or someone you love is dealing with meth addiction, it’s important to understand just how damaging this drug can be to both the body and mind. Methamphetamine, often […]
10 Signs You Should Cut Back on Alcohol
Alcohol can be a tricky companion. For many, it starts as a social activity or a way to unwind after a long day. But over time, what was once a […]
How Much Does Rehab Cost?
How Much Does Rehab Cost? Long-term recovery is an investment in yourself and your future. At Serenity Light Recovery, we understand that the hardest decision an individual suffering from addiction […]
What are Gateway Drugs?
What is a Gateway Drug? Acudetox, also known as auricular acupuncture, is a specialized form of acupuncture that can play a significant role in addiction treatment. This technique, involving the […]
How Long Does Percocet Stay in Your System?
Though it can be painful to admit, prescription drug abuse is a destructive cycle that many people can fall into – even those who don’t use other recreational drugs. For those […]
Closet Alcoholic: What to Look Out For
Are you concerned that a loved one is abusing alcohol, even though they’re able to maintain many aspects of their life successfully? This can be a more common pattern than […]
How Long Does Fentanyl Stay in Your System?
If you or a loved one is struggling with substance abuse, you may be concerned about the harm that habitual drug use can cause. You may also have learned about […]
Blues Drugs: Understanding the Risks and Getting Help
If you’re a parent, you may have heard about the recent rise of “blues drugs” among teenagers, a concerning phenomenon that is far more common than many people realize. These […]
5 Non-Benzodiazepine Medications for Alcohol Withdrawal
Managing alcohol withdrawal can be challenging, especially when aiming to avoid the use of benzodiazepines. Non-benzodiazepine alternatives provide effective options for those experiencing alcohol withdrawal syndrome, minimizing the risk of […]
Top 5 Medications for Managing Alcohol Withdrawal
At Serenity Light, we’ve helped countless clients remove themselves from the grip of alcoholism through 12-step recovery, therapy, and highly individualized treatment plans. Medications, too, sometimes come into play. The […]
The Role of Gabapentin in Modern Addiction Treatment Programs
Gabapentin is a medication originally developed to treat neuropathic pain and seizures—but recently, it’s emerged as a valuable tool in addiction treatment programs. This article explores the role of gabapentin […]
Topamax for Alcohol Cravings: How It Works and What to Expect
Alcohol abuse and dependence are pressing issues that affect million of people worldwide. One promising medication for alcohol use is Topamax (topiramate), a drug initially developed for epilepsy and migraines […]
How Do 12 Step Programs Help Addiction Recovery?
How Do 12 Step Programs Help Addiction Recovery? Are you struggling with addiction and want to make a change in your life? Do you wish to break free from the […]
What Is Alcohol Dementia?
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 […]
Life After Alcohol Addiction Treatment: Building a Sober Lifestyle
Completing alcohol addiction treatment is a significant milestone on your journey towards recovery. It signifies a commitment to change and a determination to lead a healthier, more fulfilling life. But […]
Is Naltrexone Right for You? Understanding Its Effectiveness
Struggling with opioid addiction can feel insurmountable, but the right treatment can make all the difference. At Serenity Light, a leading treatment center in Texas, we understand the profound impact […]
Using Antabuse Safely: Benefits and Considerations
Alcoholism is a devastating disease—one that many people fight with for years before they make progress in recovery. Finding effective tools is crucial for lasting sobriety. At Serenity Light Recovery […]
Acamprosate vs. Other Treatments: Choosing the Best Option
Few things are more frustrating and heartbreaking than watching someone you love suffer from alcoholism, or suffering from it yourself. At Serenity Light, we understand that this disease is cunning, […]
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 […]
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 […]
