Sober Fun (Holiday Edition)
One of the biggest lies people with an addiction believe is “If I don’t drink/smoke/use, I can’t have fun.” Unfortunately, the lies we tell ourselves are often the hardest to overcome—especially during the holidays. So, what does sober fun look like between November and January? You might be surprised to know it can look both very […]
New Traditions: Holidays in Treatment
I spoke with my colleague, Matt VanLiere, in preparation for this article. I wanted his take on the positives of being in treatment during the holiday season. At Sanford Behavioral Health, we have heard all the excuses for putting off treatment till the new year, from “I can’t miss the kids’ pageant” to “Who will […]
Who Says Mental Health Treatment Has to Feel Like a Hospital?
We are proud of the work we’ve done to prepare JOHN (Just One Hero Needed) for its opening this week. While staff members put the final touches on preparing guest spaces, we realized once again that JOHN is a beautiful place to be. From the stained glass windows in the dining room to the leather […]
8 Ways Fall in Michigan Boosts Mental Health (plus 27 fun things to do)
I am planning a business trip to Grand Rapids in October, and to be honest, I am looking forward to fall in Michigan even more than the camaraderie. When dappled sun shines through a tunnel of yellow oaks, it inspires wonder. And wonder, awe, and gobsmackedness are good for mental health. Studies show that the […]
Eating Disorder Residential – 4 Reasons It Might Be Right for You
The purpose of eating disorder residential treatment is to provide structure, safety, and accountability with 24/7 nursing and clinical support. This high level of care helps reduce the harmful effects of eating disorders quickly and effectively, while setting the foundation for lasting recovery. At Sanford Comprehensive Treatment for Eating Disorders (Sanford CTED), we recognize that […]
11 Key Considerations when Choosing a Detox Center
Deciding to go to detox can feel overwhelming. We see the interaction in the parking lot at Sanford West Behavioral Health Campus when loved ones drop off clients. Uncertainty, physical discomfort, emotional vulnerability, and relationship conflicts converge. You can imagine the thought process. Maybe I can do this on my own. I don’t need to […]
Recovery Stories: Breaking Up with Addiction
Addiction is like being in an abusive relationship with yourself. And, like all toxic love affairs, after years of pain, guilt, secrecy, and deception, the chickens eventually come home to roost. When we finally decide to face those demons, it can seem like an insurmountable task – a mountain too high to climb alone. […]
Announcing J.O.H.N. Veterans & First Responders Only Residential Treatment
At Sanford Behavioral Health, we have a history of adapting to the needs of those we treat and the community we serve. At our Sanford West Behavioral Health Campus, we have a full complement of psychiatric and medical providers and staff who offer individualized solutions for long-term recovery from mental health conditions. We saw a […]
What are Summer Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) for Addiction Treatment
Summer intensive outpatient programs at Sanford Behavioral Health provide individuals with the support they need, allowing them to maintain their daily responsibilities and routines. Our Outpatient Center offers individualized addiction recovery programs that work in “real life.” Summer is a good time for a mental health “tune-up” for college students, but virtual addiction treatment provides […]
Addiction Treatment – Social Model or Medical Model?
Treatment for substance use disorders (addiction or SUD) comes in many forms. The”best fit” may vary significantly depending on an individual’s background, history of use, medical comorbidities, support system, and other factors. Two specific models of addiction treatment are often discussed—the medical model of addiction treatment and the social model of addiction treatment. The […]
