When someone we love is struggling with addiction, our natural instinct is to help. We want to support them, protect them from consequences, and offer comfort during a difficult time. However, in many cases, those good intentions can cross a line into enabling addiction and unintentionally keep that person stuck in the very cycle they’re […]
Category: Resource Center
Three Years Sober and Moving Forward: Matt’s Recovery Journey
The following was written by Matt, a Riverside Recovery alumnus, and has been lightly edited for web format. Hey everyone! My name is Matt, and I’m an alcoholic. I was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois, and am the youngest of five children. For as long as I can remember, I’ve always drank alcoholically, but […]
Celebrating National Prevention Week: Stories of Hope and Healing
Every year, National Prevention Week reminds us of the power of prevention, recovery, and community. Organized by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), this nationwide event encourages individuals and organizations to share stories that promote mental health, prevent substance misuse, and celebrate recovery journeys. At Riverside Recovery, we believe every story of […]
The Link Between PTSD and Addiction: Why Trauma-informed Care Matters
For many people living with addiction, trauma is part of the story. Whether it’s the aftermath of childhood abuse, military combat, sexual violence, or other deeply painful experiences, trauma can leave lasting wounds that influence behavior, thinking, and coping strategies. And for some, those wounds are intertwined with substance use. In fact, research shows that […]
“One Day at a Time”: Nina’s Journey Back to Sobriety
The following was written by Nina, a Riverside Recovery alumnus, and has been lightly edited for web format. My name is Nina and I’m an alcoholic. I’ve been sober since January 3, 2020. Recovery and staying sober has not been easy, but it’s attainable if you are open and receptive. Using all the tools and resources […]
The Role of Therapy for Addiction Recovery
Addiction affects every part of a person’s life, from their mental and physical health to their relationships, self-worth, and sense of direction. Recovery is about more than just putting down substances. It’s about healing what led to the addiction in the first place and developing the tools to move forward. That’s where therapy for addiction […]
Signs of a Co-occurring Disorder: Addiction and Mental Health
Addiction and mental health are deeply connected, often influencing and exacerbating one another. When someone struggles with both a substance use disorder (SUD) and a mental health condition, it’s known as a co-occurring disorder or dual diagnosis. Unfortunately, many people remain unaware that their substance use may be linked to underlying mental health struggles, leading […]
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 […]
Staying Motivated in Recovery: Tips for a Positive Mindset
Recovery is a lifelong journey, and staying motivated in recovery can sometimes feel like an uphill battle. Whether you are in early recovery or years into sobriety, maintaining a positive mindset is essential for long-term success. Finding ways to cultivate hope, gratitude, and support can help you stay committed to your journey and navigate challenges […]
“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 […]