By: Valerie Acevedo, Wellspring Intern Perhaps the most famous part of the college experience, other than cramming for and taking finals, is Spring Break. During this time, no classes are held on campus for at least one week. This recess allows students to take a break from their studies about half-way through the semester. Pupils take advantage of...

This month marks the five year anniversary of the Parentally Speaking column. Since its debut, we have discussed many topics related to helping children thrive without the distraction of alcohol and other drug use.Your feedback has been positive, and I am grateful to know this column has given parents and other caregivers a little bit of much-neede...

A week or so ago I received an email that provided some startling statistics. In 2017, we lost over 70,000 individuals to overdoses. There was a three and a half-fold increase in cocaine overdoses since 2010. And opiates were responsible for almost 30,000 deaths. While these numbers are sobering, I also know that there are millions of individuals who are in treatment right now, and millions more who are now in recovery and living full and hectic lives. And that’s where the focus of this month’s column is about. Oftentimes, individuals who experience a mental or substance use disorder feel isolated and alone. Yet, every year, millions of Americans experience these conditions. It’s important that we offer support to individuals facing mental and substance use disorders. In fact, we need to create environments and relationships that promote acceptance. Support from families is essential to recovery, so it’s important that family members...

By Sally Perkins Each year, thousands of recovering addicts return to their old ways. Between 40 and 60% of addicts relapse within a year and too often the reason is due to the individual feeling lonely, according to a study conducted by JAMA. After constant support and interaction with others as they get better, many recovering addicts return to a empty home which can be a difficult situation to come to terms with. Thankfully, revolutionary apps are supporting recovering addicts with their physical health, as well as aiding them as they return to the comfort of their own four walls, but just how can they help those most in need? 24/7 supportOne of the main methods of preventing a relapse is to avoid the feelings of HALT - Hunger, Anger, Loneliness and Tiredness. Recovering addicts who experience any of these emotions have a significantly higher chance of relapsing, therefore, it’s vital...