Addiction

Busted: What happens after you get a DUI?

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Keys and drink sitting on table next to handcuffs
You made a poor decision to drink and drive and got caught. Now what? If you’ve been arrested for driving under the influence (DUI), it can be a very scary and uncertain experience. After getting a DUI, you may have to appear in court. In most states there will be a loss of driving privileges for a certain amount of time. Some states offer a hardship license that allows you to drive to work or school during the time your license is revoked or suspended, but your driving privileges will be limited. In North Dakota, drivers will need to have an evaluation completed by a Licensed Addiction [...]

The Impact of Addiction on the Family

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mom and son looking sad behind blurred man
When a family member is in serious trouble, many families will go to any length to help the one they love. It’s like their battle cry, whether spoken or unspoken, is, “All for one, and one for all.” Unfortunately, with the diseases of alcoholism and drug addiction (substance use disorders), this desire to be helpful can become unhealthy for both the helper and the addict. Family members are confused by the change occurring in the one they love. They don’t understand the increasing consequences, and are baffled by how distant, angry, manipulative, self-absorbed, or careless their loved one has [...]

7 Tips for Staying Sober

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Sober Living on a traffic sign in front of blue sky with clouds
You Can Still Have a Social Life When you’re in recovery, every season (and month and week and day) poses its own challenges. Staying on a sober path can be difficult, especially when going out with friends, getting together with family, or going to almost any event. You shouldn’t have to give up your social life to stay sober, and you should definitely not have to compromise your sobriety for your social life. Prepare, Prepare, Prepare All you need is a little preparation and thought. Taking proactive steps and being conscious about your decisions can help maintain your sobriety and keep you [...]

Loving Someone with a Substance Use Disorder

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Hand pouring alcohol from a bottle into a glass with small outline of mother and child in the distance
Alcohol or drug use affects everyone around the person who is using the substance. Some research shows there are at least 12 people affected for every 1 person with a substance use disorder (SUD). Families are typically most affected, because of their day-to-day interactions with the person who has the SUD. Often family members are terrified this person will die. This fear paralyzes families, but you do not need to be held hostage by this fear. There are changes you can make that just might change the course. If what you are doing isn't working, what do you have to lose by trying something [...]