Understanding Relapse and How to Prevent It

Understanding Relapse and How to Prevent It

In general terms, a relapse is when symptoms of a disease return, following a period of remission. When discussing relapse of a physical health condition, like diabetes or asthma, there is usually little or no shame attached to the term. When talking about addiction,...
Characteristics of a Good Sponsor

Characteristics of a Good Sponsor

There is a great deal of talk in the recovery community about getting a sponsor. They are often recommended as a guide who helps you on your journey. At Safe Harbor Recovery Center in Portsmouth, Virginia, we think it is important to consider what traits you should be...
What to Expect During the First Year of Recovery

What to Expect During the First Year of Recovery

Some people see getting sober as an end goal, but in reality, it is just the first step of a longer recovery journey. If you or someone you love has recently given up alcohol or other drugs, you may be wondering what happens next. At Safe Harbor Recovery Center, in...
Building Your Own Sober Holiday Traditions

Building Your Own Sober Holiday Traditions

You’ve done it. You gave up alcohol or some other drug that was ruining your life. You’re in recovery, and you’re trying to stay there. Here come the holidays, though, and you’re finding that your old holiday traditions involve people, places, or things that are on...
Urge Surfing and Your Recovery

Urge Surfing and Your Recovery

Cravings are a part of the recovery process and not anything to feel guilty about. You are not failing, just because you feel an urge to use again, whether you’ve been sober for an hour, a year, or a decade. Part of sustaining long-term recovery is learning how to...
How the Seasons Can Impact Recovery

How the Seasons Can Impact Recovery

Every person is a unique individual, and every person in recovery is different from the next. One person’s minor annoyance could be another person’s serious relapse trigger. It’s important to think about the things that support your recovery and the things that make...