Author Nicole (Nikki) Currivan recounts her difficult path to overcoming a substance use disorder, ultimately achieving lasting remission. Nikki encountered many challenges with substance abuse as her Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) repeatedly moved her from one treatment center to another.

In early recovery, maintaining self-awareness is vital. One helpful tool is HALT. HALT is a well-known reminder for those in early recovery to practice self-care. Self-care helps prevent dysregulation. Don’t allow yourself to be consistently hungry, angry, lonely, or tired. Getting enough sleep, eating healthily, exercising, and spending time with other recovering peers—while managing anger to reduce its harmful effects—are all critical for ongoing recovery.

The connection between mental health, substance abuse, and homelessness in America is undeniably complex. People dealing with mental health problems may turn to substances as a form of self-medication, increasing their risk of addiction. As substance use rises, it can lead to financial hardship, job loss, and broken relationships — all of which raise the chances of ending up unhoused. Conversely, the harsh and often traumatic conditions of homelessness can worsen existing men