Health Topics

Find information on many health topics, listed A to Z.

Substance Abuse

Information for helping those with alcohol and other drug abuse concerns.

From The Blog

Managing substance abuse disorders during the COVID-19 pandemic

COVID-19 has interrupted daily routines and caused many people to feel uncertain, stressed or isolated. While this is a difficult time for many, it can be especially challenging for those with underlying substance use disorder. Learn why, and get coping strategies.

Tyler Oesterle MD By Tyler Oesterle May 6, 2020

Finding happiness, gratitude in sobriety

Addiction changes the brain in a way that limits your ability to feel happy. In time, and with sobriety, the brain heals and learns to send the right cues again.

June 25, 2018

Second chance: A new beginning after years of addiction

It was an ordinary trip for Randy Gruhlke to the store to fix his cellphone, when the clerk smelled his breath and was concerned by his behavior.

June 11, 2018

One woman's addiction journey

Suzanne first tried alcohol as a teenager and did not like the taste. As a college student, she enjoyed the way it made her feel. And, as a married adult with children, it became a problematic situation.

Tyler Oesterle MD By Tyler Oesterle March 29, 2018

Q&A: Does drinking alcohol kill brain cells?

Alcohol has been proven to alter judgment and delay reaction time, but does it really kill brain cells?

December 29, 2015

Recognizing and addressing a loved one's alcohol abuse

Alcohol, while often socially acceptable and legal for the responsible adult, can, at times, turn into a collage of disarray, leaving family members uncertain of what just happened. So, what do you do when one glass of wine becomes the whole bottle and concerns arise? There are options.

December 15, 2015

There is hope for those struggling with addiction

Addiction is a complex, but treatable condition. There is hope for recovery with individual, family and/or group counseling.

Jennifer Wickham, L.P.C. By Jennifer Wickham May 14, 2015

The problem with kids and cannabis

Young people receive a mixed message about how safe it is for them to use cannabis (marijuana). Cannabis has been legalized for medical or recreational purposes in 23 states and the District of Columbia. The federal government has ended its ban on medical marijuana. New Mexico has authorized the use of medical marijuana without age stipulations. So what's the problem with kids using cannabis? 

February 19, 2015

Managing the stressful times during the holidays

Whether it's getting together with family you have not seen in a while, dealing with the increased traffic and shopping crowds, or the financial expectations the holidays bring, we need to keep our stress levels down. We need to have a plan. Here are a few tips that will help you come up with your personal plan to enjoy the holiday season.

November 24, 2014

If only it were this easy — and cheap

Early intervention for alcohol and substance abuse promises better dividends than expecting the person to "snap out of it."

June 19, 2014

Enjoy prom alcohol-free

Research shows that parents play a key role in how a teenager responds to situations involving alcohol. Parents should have a crucial conversation with their teens and set clear expectations.

May 2, 2014

Preparing for the future

As graduation approaches, talk with your kids about their hopes and dreams, and remind them of their responsibility when it comes to alcohol.

May 2, 2014