But for those in recovery, looking ahead to autumn and winter can also bring on the blues. It’s important to remember the milestones you have achieved. And take a moment to reflect on how far you have come. And of course, look back on this summer of Michigan fun. We present three great beach reads from Lotta Dann, Jenny Selent and Marilyn Spiller.
By: Jenny Selent, MA, LMFT

Seemingly subtle changes can actually be significant signs of healing, and cause for celebration.
When we have a loved one who begins treatment for a disease, it is normal to want to know what to expect. Can we look forward to a cure or are we just trying to get more quality time? Will it be something they live with forever? How will we assess the effectiveness of the course of treatment? And what will be the next step if we find that treatment isn’t working? How is life going to change? What is the prognosis? [read more]

Strike up the band! You are a recovery legend,
You know the saying, the only constant is change? I know it’s a terrible cliché, but boy is it true.
I’ve been noticing this recently with regards to my emotional and physical health. I get in a good rhythm with things and I’m firing on all cylinders being happy and healthy and I think, “This is great! Look at clever me!” but before long the inevitable happens and things flip and change.[read more]
By: Marilyn Spiller

One of the staples of summer – Lake Michigan
Michigan summer…
It’s still Michigan summer. Last weekend I was mired in a rather “snakey” looking bog on the edge of Big Seven Lake. I could hear, but not see, the frogs with their burping, throaty chirps. There were tiny dragon-flies hovering over the water lilies and my inflatable kayak was listing to starboard. I was trying to get a close-up of wild purple iris growing on the shore and the thick underwater plants were catching on my paddles – the current was strong. But, I have never been happier. Or more in tune to bird song, the distant smell of charcoal lighter and burgers, and the color green. [read more]
Wishing you and your loved ones a happy, healthy and fun-filled holiday!

Sanford Behavioral Health is licensed and accredited as an addiction, eating disorder, and co-occurring mental health treatment facility, serving all of Michigan and beyond. Each of Sanford’s facilities in Greater Grand Rapids is carefully and diligently crafted to create a welcoming and comforting environment. Sanford is led by a growing team of medical, clinical, and support personnel providing medication-assisted, evidenced-based treatment to residential, outpatient, and telehealth patients. For more information, visit www.sanfordbehavioralhealth.com.