The following was written by Brian, a Riverside Recovery alumnus, and has been lightly edited for web format. Sobriety Date: February 24, 2024 Alcoholic, Name is Brian and I am a grateful member of Alcoholics Anonymous. Through this fellowship, I’ve discovered not only freedom from alcohol but also a spiritual design for living that has […]
Category: Alcohol Abuse
What Happens When You Stop Drinking Alcohol: A Guide to Dry January and Beyond
January has become synonymous with fresh starts, and for many people, that means taking a break from alcohol. Whether you’re trying Dry January for the first time or considering a longer commitment to sobriety, it’s a good idea to prepare for the journey ahead. At Riverside Recovery, we’ve guided countless individuals through the process of […]
Depression After Getting Sober: Why It Happens and How to Thrive
For many people, getting sober feels like crossing a finish line. You’ve put in the work, overcome withdrawal, and finally stepped away from the destructive cycle of addiction. So why can it feel like life gets harder, not easier, after sobriety? Depression after getting sober is a very real and common experience. It doesn’t mean […]
What Is a Dry Drunk? When Sobriety Doesn’t Mean Recovery
When someone stops drinking, it’s easy to assume the hardest part is behind them. But sobriety is about more than simply putting down the bottle. Without addressing the underlying emotional, mental, and behavioral patterns that fueled addiction, a person may fall into what’s often called a dry drunk state. A “dry drunk” describes someone who […]
How to Stop Drinking: Practical Steps Toward a Healthier Life
Making the decision to stop drinking is a courageous step toward better health, improved relationships, and greater overall well-being. Whether you’re struggling with alcohol dependence or simply want to cut back, knowing how to stop drinking successfully requires planning, support, and commitment. Fortunately, there are practical steps you can take to regain control and build […]
“Functional Alcoholic”: Breaking the Myth
The term “functional alcoholic” is often used to describe individuals who maintain jobs, relationships, and responsibilities while drinking excessively. It creates the illusion that because a person appears to have their life together, their drinking isn’t a serious problem. However, this perception can be misleading and dangerous, as it downplays the impact of alcohol dependence […]
How Long Do Alcohol Withdrawal Headaches Last?
Alcohol withdrawal is a common consequence experienced by those who abruptly reduce or cease alcohol consumption after prolonged use. One notable symptom is a persistent headache, which can vary in intensity and duration. These headaches are often the direct result of the body’s physiological adjustments during withdrawal and can significantly impair daily functioning and well-being. […]
Challenges of Substance Abuse and Recovery in Women Veterans
In the spirit of Women’s History Month, it’s crucial to spotlight an issue that profoundly affects our veterans: substance abuse. Women have served in the American military for over a century, but their roles have significantly expanded in recent decades, increasing the need for specialized mental health services. Veterans embody a unique subset of the […]
Beyond Dry January: 6 Steps to Sustain Sobriety Year-Round
January brings a wave of resolutions, with many choosing to abstain from alcohol in what’s popularly known as “Dry January.” This period of sobriety can bring immediate health benefits, a sense of accomplishment, and perhaps a new perspective on one’s alcohol consumption. However, when February approaches, the challenge for many becomes how to sustain these […]
Mixing Paxlovid and Alcohol: Interactions, Side Effects & Risks
Paxlovid has emerged as a key player in the antiviral space, offering a new layer of defense for those affected by the coronavirus and COVID-19. When it comes to mixing this medication with alcohol, however, the waters become murkier. Mixing Paxlovid with alcohol can have adverse effects on the body and may increase the risk […]