The word “addiction” is thrown around for a lot of things. I’m addicted to my phone. My child is addicted to video games. But when it comes to substance use, how can you know when a habit has become harmful? What is addiction? The American Psychiatric Association defines substance use disorder, a form of addiction,… Continue reading When is it Addiction?
In medical studies, women lack the longevity and quantity of scientific research to understand how addiction to drugs or alcohol can affect them. What we do know is that addiction does show up differently in men and women. Women tend to metabolize alcohol and drugs faster, meaning they feel the effects of drugs and alcohol… Continue reading Addiction in Women
While addiction can affect anyone, it often presents itself differently depending upon biological and sociological factors. For example, research has shown that men are more likely than women to abuse drugs and alcohol. Not only do hormones like testosterone and progesterone metabolize drugs and alcohol differently between the biological sexes, but upbringing and other environmental… Continue reading Addiction in Men
Feeling the winter blues of seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is more commonly discussed than summertime sadness. Those affected by warm weather-related SAD can experience depression, sadness, and loss of interest in enjoying the season and can be set in motion by some of the following: Daylight patterns Longer days can disturb sleeping patterns and can… Continue reading 5 Triggers for SAD During Summer
Many people experience shifts in mood and periods of sadness during winter when days are shorter with less daylight. Colder months are not the only time of year one can feel blue. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) can also bring on the summer blues. What is SAD? According to the National Institute of Mental Health, seasonal… Continue reading Summer Blues?
To the 8 million diagnosed Americans experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), we are here to support you on your road to recovery. For those who remain undiagnosed and suffer from enduring trauma, you are not alone; treatment is available. To those who have witnessed the searing pain a loved one relives over and over again,… Continue reading PTSD Awareness Month
This May, Valley Oaks Health is celebrating Mental Health Awareness Month by shining a light on the daily toll of burnout and ways to build better mental health through small changes. Burnout happens when the brain and body feel overworked and overwhelmed. At Valley Oaks Health, we believe even during the darkest days, the right… Continue reading Mental Health Awareness Month
Mental health has become a more commonly used term in the last decade. But as something we often cannot see, it’s important to remember what mental health is, what it entails, and how we can take care of ourselves and others that may be facing mental health challenges. The definition Mental health is the culmination… Continue reading What is Mental Health?
Work-life balance is something we all strive to achieve, but if the scales are tipping in favor of long nights in the office and weekends away from loved ones, you may be on the path toward burnout. The definition According to the Mayo Clinic, burnout is a state of physical or emotional exhaustion that involves… Continue reading What is Burnout?
Stress has become a normal part of our daily routines. From overflowing inboxes to packed schedules, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and underprepared for life’s curveballs. But stress can have serious impacts and can reveal unhealthy patterns in our lives. This April, Valley Oaks Health is observing Stress Awareness Month and helping you find ways… Continue reading Stress Awareness Month
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