Why It’s Okay (and Important) to Mourn Your Past Self in Addiction Recovery
Focusing on a brighter future is a cornerstone of addiction recovery. But reconciling the person you are now with your former self can be a complex and painful process. For many, a crucial step towards healing is learning to mourn that past self, the individual whose actions were impacted by substance misuse. Acknowledging and grieving ...
Spectrum Board Member Spotlight: Kashif Siddiqui
Spectrum Health Systems is committed to providing comprehensive treatment options for those struggling with addiction. A strong and passionate board of directors is essential to achieve this mission. We are pleased to spotlight one such member, Kashif Siddiqui, who brings a wealth of financial knowledge and personal commitment to the fight against addiction. Professional Background ...
April is Alcohol Awareness Month – A Time for Understanding and Healing
April is Alcohol Awareness Month, a time dedicated to increasing understanding and reducing the stigma surrounding alcohol addiction. This month highlights the dangers of alcohol misuse and provides resources to seek help. The Prevalence of Alcohol Misuse in the U.S. The numbers are staggering. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), excessive ...
Creating Space for Addiction Recovery Support
Seeing a loved one struggle with substance use can be heartbreaking and confusing. You may want to help but are unsure how to approach the conversation. Creating a safe and supportive space for open communication is a crucial first step in getting them the help they need. Is There a Problem? Warning Signs of Substance ...
Women in Recovery: A Spotlight on Kim Patterson
Kim Patterson's story is an inspiring testament to the power of human resilience. Her path through addiction recovery has equipped her with a profound understanding of substance use disorder (SUD) and a fierce dedication to empowering women on their own journeys to healing. From Struggles to Strength Kim's experiences with SUD began at a young ...
Spectrum Health Systems Announces Five New Leadership Appointments
Spectrum Health Systems, Inc., an innovative non-profit provider of evidence-based treatment for substance use and mental health disorders throughout Massachusetts, announced today new personnel and an expansion of leadership. Frank Hight, Ray Semidei, Katrina Casey, Stefania Cunningham and Kathleen Wise will be instrumental in the delivery of the provider’s continuum of care services and its ...
Addressing Racial Disparity in the Opioid Epidemic
The opioid epidemic has ravaged communities across the United States, but the crisis disproportionately impacts the Black population. While overdose deaths have increased for all groups, the rate among Black Americans is particularly alarming, with significantly higher numbers and faster growth compared to other demographics. A Spike in Black Overdose Deaths Recent CDC (Centers for ...
What’s It Like to Work in Addiction Treatment?
Are you interested in working with individuals with substance use and/or mental health disorder? Seeing the stigma surrounding substance use disorder can make this profession appear daunting, however it can also be incredibly rewarding. Following a career path into addiction treatment and behavioral health, you’ll find yourself among a community dedicated to providing unwavering support. ...
Group vs. Individual Therapy: Finding the Right Recovery Fit
In your recovery journey, finding the right support system is crucial. Two pillars of that support system are individual and group therapy, each offering unique benefits and challenges. Choosing between them, or even incorporating both, can be intimidating for someone navigating the path to healing. Understanding the Individual Experience Individual therapy provides a dedicated space ...
The Key Role of Addiction Treatment Services in the Justice System
Despite widespread understanding of the disease model of addiction, substance use is still perceived as a criminal act. Every year, 1.16 million Americans are arrested for the sale, manufacture, or possession of illicit substances. Incarceration is a common punishment for drug-related crimes, with the National Institutes of Health estimating that 65% of the U.S. prison ...
