Teens and Substance Abuse

Drug Addiction / Stephanie Ballard PhD, LPCC, CADC

Marijuana is considered a gateway drug that sometimes leads to the use of a more potent one. Alcohol and nicotine are also gateway drugs. Many adolescents start with alcohol and nicotine and eventually progress to more harmful substances. Many people believe marijuana is a safe drug with little to no withdrawal symptoms. People who use [...]

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Adjusting to a New Lifestyle

Addiction Recovery / Stephanie Ballard PhD, LPCC, CADC

Addiction causes a person to continue his or her self-destructive behavior even though it brings harmful consequences. The brain changes chemically and physiologically when a person has an addiction. The individual becomes physically dependent on the drugs or alcohol and experiences painful withdrawals when not using or consuming them. A person must completely change his

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Treatment for the Mind, Body, and Spirit

Addiction Recovery / Stephanie Ballard PhD, LPCC, CADC

If you have an addiction to drugs or alcohol, finding a treatment program that is right for you can seem overwhelming. Treatment programs can be tailored to your specific needs. The length and type of treatment depend on the severity and duration of the drug or alcohol addiction, the type of drug used, and cost

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Reasons Why Childhood Trauma Leads to Substance Abuse

Mental Health / Stephanie Ballard PhD, LPCC, CADC

A person who experiences trauma at any age might turn to drugs or alcohol to cope. Some trauma can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and put a person at risk of developing a drug or alcohol addiction. Traumatic events can bring back painful memories or flashbacks, so people with PTSD often turn to drugs

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Prescription Drugs and the Opioid Epidemic

Drug Addiction / Stephanie Ballard PhD, LPCC, CADC

Prescription drugs and opioids are used for pain management and are prescribed by a medical professional. Despite the intended use, many people misuse the medication and take more than directed. Prescription drugs and opioids can be very addictive, and for that reason, doctors and pharmacists emphasize the importance of taking the medication as prescribed. The

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Alcohol Addiction and its Effects on Depression

Mental Health / Stephanie Ballard PhD, LPCC, CADC

Depression is a debilitating mental health condition that affects all aspects of life. A person who suffers from depression will decline invitations to social events, family gatherings, and special occasions with friends. When an individual has depression, he or she disengages in things that were fun, interesting, and enjoyable. Depression deteriorates relationships and distorts a

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Aftercare Services: The Transition to Independent Living

Addiction Treatment / Stephanie Ballard PhD, LPCC, CADC

When treatment ends, your new life in recovery is just beginning. Getting back to a substance-free lifestyle after treatment is a difficult transition for many people. Addiction physically and mentally changed your body. Using drugs or alcohol was the number one priority over all other responsibilities and significant relationships with loved ones. Treatment helps you

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Incorporating Life Skills into Recovery

Addiction Recovery / Stephanie Ballard PhD, LPCC, CADC

Addiction affects all aspects of a person's life. It becomes the number one priority for an individual. An individual's productivity at work or school drops and he or she is frequently late or does not show up. Life skills training infuses the person with idea that he or she needs to be responsible for their

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The Difference Between Residential and Outpatient Treatment

Addiction Recovery / Stephanie Ballard PhD, LPCC, CADC

Addiction is different for everyone and each treatment is unique to the person's needs. The right treatment option is determined by the person's history of substance use, duration of use, and the substances he or she used. Each drug can have distinctive effects on each person who uses them. Residential treatment takes place in a

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How Intervention Saves Lives

Addiction Recovery / Stephanie Ballard PhD, LPCC, CADC

Addiction is harmful to the person with the addiction and affects all aspects of his or her life. It destroys relationships and creates distance among family members and loved ones. Treatment that encompasses intervention services helps open the door to communication and healing with family and loved ones. Intervention services save lives. What is an

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Author name: Stephanie Ballard PhD, LPCC, CADC

Teens and Substance Abuse

Adjusting to a New Lifestyle

Treatment for the Mind, Body, and Spirit

Reasons Why Childhood Trauma Leads to Substance Abuse

Prescription Drugs and the Opioid Epidemic

Alcohol Addiction and its Effects on Depression

Aftercare Services: The Transition to Independent Living

Incorporating Life Skills into Recovery

The Difference Between Residential and Outpatient Treatment

How Intervention Saves Lives

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