Kristen Crisp’s Author of the Month article tells the devastating story of her sister Robin, whose education, professional success, and social standing did not protect her from alcohol addiction. With blunt honesty and grief, Kristen describes the warning signs, the family history of drinking, the trauma and loss that intensified Robin’s use, and the painful truth that addiction does not discriminate.

Kristen Crisp opens her Author of the Month article with a line that refuses to soften the pain: her sister is dead, and the guilt remains. In this deeply personal story, she writes about Robin, a beloved older sister whose cancer history, job loss, family stress, secrecy, and escalating alcohol use made the crisis harder to see until it was too late.

Author Wes Arnett outlines Five Ways Working with a Recovery Coach Can Be Helpful. He shares that he is in recovery from substance use disorder and mental health challenges and is passionate about offering hope and inspiration to those in recovery or exploring recovery. He supports multiple pathways of recovery as he walks alongside his peers and advocates for a profession that profoundly impacts individuals in our community.

Alcohol initially boosts dopamine and creates feelings of confidence and ease. Over time, however, the brain adapts, reducing natural dopamine production and leaving people feeling anxious, numb, or depressed when sober.

John Makohen outlines the early warning signs of alcohol use disorder and emphasizes the critical role substance use counselors play in early identification and intervention.

A devastating personal essay on how heavy drinking quietly destroys lives.

Author Wes Arnett outlines Five Ways Working with a Recovery Coach Can Be Helpful. He shares that he is in recovery from substance use disorder and mental health challenges and is passionate about offering hope and inspiration to those in recovery or exploring recovery. He supports multiple pathways of recovery as he walks alongside his peers and advocates for a profession that profoundly impacts individuals in our community.

Get professional help with addiction withdrawal and detox. Inpatient and outpatient treatment programs can address all types of substance