Many people who are in recovery from a substance use disorder (SUD) are ready to change for the better the minute they’re sober. However, change can have its own timetable and needs to be pursued one day at a time. 

Having dreams and goals in recovery is crucial. They can help you have hope for the future and find a sense of purpose in life. Some people will take their hopes to the extreme and become perfectionists or workaholics. Both perfectionism and workaholism are common behaviors in recovery. They are both slippery slopes for people in recovery and are striving for serenity and happiness.

The Dangers of Perfectionism

The desire to become perfect can quickly become a path to isolation and poor mental health. Perfectionism is related to feelings of anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. People with perfectionistic tendencies are more likely to be suicidal or develop eating disorders. 

In recovery, you learn that your life is not perfect, just like everyone else. Yet, you still may expect more of yourself and be hard on yourself when you make a mistake at work or in your relationships.

If you begin to throw yourself into work, you may use it as an escape and excuse to fall back on old behaviors. Workaholism can be incredibly lonely and isolating. It can also cause you to lose sleep or skip meals. You may put your work above all else, and become addicted to it as an escape, falling into old patterns. 

Perfectionism can lead to impossible standards, which can result in low self-esteem, frustration, and even relapse. It leads to workaholism for many people as well. 

 Here are some reasons perfectionism is dangerous:

• Increased Stress and Anxiety: Trying to be perfect can make recovery feel overwhelming, leading to stress that can trigger cravings to relapse.
• Fear of Failure: Perfectionism makes even minor setbacks loom large and makes it harder to bounce back from mistakes. 
• Low Self-Esteem: If someone constantly falls short of their unrealistic standards, they might feel unworthy or hopeless, which fuels negative self-talk.
• Isolation and Shame: Perfectionism often makes people hide their struggles. If they feel like they’re not “doing enough,” they may feel shame and struggle to admit when they need help.
• Relapse Risk: All of these feelings can batter a person’s self-esteem and make it more difficult to stay sober. People with a substance use disorder are vulnerable to relapsing, and feeling like a failure can be a trigger.  

When you turn to overworking or perfectionism, addiction can rear its head once more. Being hungry, angry, lonely, or tired (HALT) takes its toll. Perfectionism can lead to all of these things, and so can workaholism. Instead of turning to the computer to work on “one last thing”, take yourself to a support group meeting where you can remember why you’re sober in the first place. 

You belong in sobriety, not chained to a flawed idea of being “perfect” or never-ending work.

Why Do People in Recovery Become Perfectionists?

Most people in recovery can look back and see that they lost control of themselves and their lives when using substances. Newly sober, they may decide to closely manage all aspects of their new life. It’s easy to create a new set of rules that are based on unrealistic expectations and lead to negative feelings – after all, we are all our own worst critics. 

The stigma surrounding addiction can create pressure to demonstrate that a person is “better” or ‘normal.” Family, friends, and workplaces may unintentionally hold their sober loved one up as the “perfect success story,” causing them to walk on eggshells or hide their struggles, hoping for acceptance.  

Don’t let yourself revert to ‘all-or-nothing thinking,’ where there are no shades of gray. This mindset is unhealthy but can be overcome. 

The Workaholism Connection

Perfectionism can lead to workaholism in recovery. Some people may feel pressured to prove their worth through constant productivity. Workaholism becomes a way to escape uncomfortable emotions, much like addiction itself.

In the medical community, workaholism is called “work addiction” and viewed as a harmful and compulsive behavior. People who are workaholics may put working above everything else, choosing to forgo support group meetings or self-care and rely on work for a self-esteem boost.

If you see yourself in this article, it’s crucial to get help addressing perfectionistic tendencies as part of a balanced recovery journey.

How to Break the Cycle of Perfectionism

Like all behaviors, perfectionism can be harmful if left unchecked. You can learn to live without it and still accomplish many things! Here are some ways to break free:

• Practice Self-Compassion: Allow for mistakes and acknowledge growth without judging yourself harshly.
• Set Realistic Goals: Focus on progress, not perfection.
• Seek Support: Talking openly with counselors, support groups, or peers who understand the journey helps combat feelings of isolation.
• Mindfulness Techniques: Practices like meditation or journaling can help process emotions without needing everything to be perfect.

Changing Your Mindset

Escaping the cycle of workaholism and perfectionism during recovery requires a shift in mindset and a commitment to self-compassion. Start by acknowledging that both behaviors often stem from a desire to regain control or prove worth after addiction. Focus on setting realistic, achievable goals. 

Schedule time not just for work but also for self-care, social connections, and hobbies that make you feel good and focus on your well-being. Reach out to others in your support circle and learn how they cope with feelings of loss or inadequacy. No one has to live their life striving for perfection in recovery. 

Surround yourself with others in recovery—they offer grounding support and honest perspective.

About the Author

In Scott Huseby’s previous career, he built his North Carolina company Huseby & Associates into one of the largest and most respected litigation support companies in the United States. But life had another calling waiting for him… 

After finding the miracle of recovery himself, he took ownership of Costa Rica Recovery to help others on their journey to sobriety.  Now, you can find Scott doing what he loves best – helping others recover in San José, Costa Rica. 

Learn more about Scott and Costa Rica Recovery by calling 1(866) 804-1793 or visiting their website here: https://costaricarecovery.com/

Are you always tense about your acne-prone skin and looking for an effective solution to get it treated completely? 

Well, the struggle of choosing the right Acne Treatment is real, and it can become overwhelming at times. You might get confused while selecting the correct ingredient and technique, especially with the countless options available nowadays. 

In this article, you will learn about the treatments that you can go for based on your skin type to achieve the clear, glowing skin you desire.

Factors to Consider While Choosing the Right Acne Management Treatment

You must know that what’s working for your friend might not work for you because there is no one-size-fits-all solution, and you might need a better approach for your acne-affected skin. 

This is because your skin’s unique needs deserve a better approach to heal itself so that you get the healthy glow you want. The following are the factors that you should consider while choosing the right acne management treatment:

Understand Your Skin Type

You need to understand your skin type in the very beginning to select an effective acne remedy. The following are the common types of skin and how they influence your acne management treatment:

Oily Skin

In case your skin has lots of large pores that appear to be shiny, then you have an oily skin type.

This happens due to the blockage in the pores as a result of the formation of excessive sebum, which eventually results in breakouts. Thus, salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide can be applied as remedies to reduce the severity of your acne and oil on the skin.

Dry Skin

Dry skin is a type of skin that becomes flaky and feels rough throughout the season, if not treated properly. This may lead to a situation where your skin may even become very sensitive when it comes in contact with harsh medications, making the condition even worse to deal with. 

Thus, you should select acne products that are not harsh to your skin and also keep it hydrated over time. You can also use active ingredients, such as ceramide or niacinamide, which can fight against acne, leaving no form of irritation or flakiness.

Combination Skin

This is a mix of dry and oily skin. Therefore, it is difficult to cope with acne in this skin type and find the equilibrium of routine that would suit your needs.

Nonetheless, you can treat the areas affected with acne using salicylic acid, but you must use moisturisers and cleansers to nullify the dryness of your skin as well.

Sensitive Skin

When you realize that your skin is easily inflamed or turns red, then you have sensitive skin. This makes it important for you to seek remedies with lightweight formulas that include agents like aloe or chamomile to relieve discomfort.

Conversely, azelaic acid also aids in the prevention of acne and does not irritate your sensitive skin.

Discover Effective Treatments for Acne

You can go for the correct acne management treatment if you have knowledge regarding the different types available. The following are the most common treatment options available for the treatment of acne-prone skin:

Topical Treatments

These are the types of treatments in which you need to apply the medications directly to your skin. It is best suited for mild to moderate acne and often consists of active ingredients like glycolic acid that help to control your facial oil.

You can go for tea tree oil, which acts as an antibacterial substance and kills acne-causing microorganisms on your skin. These work better if you have oily or combination skin. 

On the other hand, you can go for retinoids such as adapalene and tretinoin, which help to prevent clogged pores and give you smooth and supple skin.

Oral Medications

This will best suit moderate to severe acne because such medicines are to be taken in the form of pills, and need to work inside your body.

This can be of extra help when you have cystic or hormonal acne. You should consume antibiotics or minocycline for better results. These are necessary since they aid in curbing the number of bacteria that cause acne and also soothe the inflammation in your body.

Conversely, other non-surgical options, such as hormonal therapy, spironolactone, or contraceptives, also work in leveling out the oil production system in your body.

Other Treatments

There are clinical treatments like microdermabrasion that you can avail yourself of to get rid of your acne-prone skin. It is an epidermal resurfacing procedure that is minimally invasive in nature and is used in various skin issues, such as melasma, scars, and most importantly, acne scar treatment. 

You can also undergo chemical peels or light-based therapy to resurface your skin, reduce those acne scars, and target active breakouts.

Patch Test If You Have Sensitive Skin

If you have sensitive skin, then you already know how difficult it is to find acne remedy products that suit your skin type.

However, it is important for you to keep in mind that whenever you are going for a new product, always do a patch test. It will help you know whether the product is safe for you to use or not. 

To accomplish this, you should use a small proportion of the anti-acne product and apply it in places like the jawline or behind your ears. 

Just wait for 24-48 hours and observe the reaction of your skin to it. When your skin shows no signs of irritation or redness, then you can apply it to your face.

This little step is capable of saving your skin from any unnecessary reactions. Following this will assist you in identifying the right, safe, and effective acne management treatment for your skin.

Compare Cost, Availability, and Long‑Term Effectiveness

It is necessary to remember that when you go for an anti-acne remedy, you must consider its price, availability, and effectiveness in the long run.

This is attributed to the fact that some of the medications, such as salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide, can easily be purchased at the local chemist, which would even last longer.

But some in-clinic treatments, such as laser therapy, chemical peels, or microdermabrasion, are not only expensive but can only be accessed by going to a dermatologist.

Conclusion

You need to pick the right acne management treatment to redefine your skin. It is completely dependent on your skin’s nature, how intense your acne is, and your lifestyle.

With knowledge of what your skin requires and a comparison of the available treatments, you will make a correct choice to acquire clear and healthy skin that you have always wanted.

Cancer has a great impact on the mental and emotional well-being of a person.  In recent years, many patients have sought out supportive holistic methods after undergoing such therapies and struggling painfully to regain lost vitality. Homeopathy is a holistic medical system that aims to stimulate bodily natural healing processes effectively. Homeopathy increasingly gaining recognition for complementing cancer care especially in restoring energy and boosting life quality during and after treatment.

The Holistic Approach of Homeopathy

Homeopathy treats individuals as a whole entity by considering their physical symptoms, emotional challenges, and overall bodily constitution quite thoroughly. It operates on the principle of like cures like, using doses of natural substances that stimulate the body’s healing processes effectively. 

Encer, a specialized homeopathic formulation, boosts bodily resilience remarkably in cancer patients who are undergoing treatment or recovering slowly, with overall vitality supported internally. 

Remedies are chosen based on the individual’s symptoms, including emotional states like anxiety or deep sadness that often accompany cancer treatment. Homeopathy is particularly best for tackling fatigue experienced by each cancer patient in a distinctly personalized manner.

Homeopathic Support during Active Cancer Treatment

Cancer patients undergoing chemo or radiation therapy often lead to physiological strain. Homeopathy offers remarkably gentle support that reduces fatigue induced by these treatments very effectively now and then. 

Homeopathic medicines work in addition to conventional treatments rather quietly to alleviate collateral symptoms that make cancer treatment even harder to endure. Patients report markedly improved coping mechanisms for therapy side effects like nausea or disturbed sleep patterns.

Emotional Healing 

Many cancer survivors struggle with complex emotions like fear and acute sadness long after undergoing successful medical treatment. Homeopathy tackles such healing facets by treating emotional symptoms draining an individual’s vitality thoroughly with unconventional methods. 

Remedies like Ignatia used for grief and suppressed emotions and Natrum muriaticum are helpful for people who are suffering silently with internalized emotional burdens. Homeopathy brings mental clarity and indirectly boosts energy levels significantly through the subtle easing of underlying emotional tensions. 

Post-Treatment Recovery and Energy Restoration

The period after active cancer treatment often proves hopeful yet challenging simultaneously for many patients. Patients often feel emotionally fragile and physically depleted after the battle subsides, with residual effects lingering painfully. The body begins a lengthy healing process from the intense impact of treatment during this stage.

Homeopathy can play a pivotal role in recovery by fostering inner vitality and supporting long-term resilience. As a part of a holistic approach, some individuals also explore supplements for cancer fatigue to enhance energy and emotional balance. 

Remedies like Phosphoric acid are used quite often for treating emotional exhaustion after illness with considerable effectiveness. Gentle stimulation of the body’s healing mechanisms gradually builds strength while improving sleep quality.

Immune System Support and Vitality

Another important aspect of post-cancer recovery is the immune system. Cancer treatments frequently erode immune function, making patients vulnerable to infections and unusually severe fatigue.

Certain homeopathic remedies, such as those included in Encer, are believed to gently stimulate the immune response and help the body protect itself during the rebuilding phase. Constitutional homeopathy can be highly beneficial in long-term energy maintenance, offering valuable support as individuals recover and regain vitality.

Depression is a complex and challenging mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a loss of interest in daily activities. Depression can disrupt daily life, making it difficult to function and enjoy even the simplest tasks. While therapy and lifestyle changes play an essential role in managing depression, medication can also be a vital component of treatment. One such medication is Lexapro, which has gained recognition for its effectiveness in treating depression.

What is Lexapro?

Lexapro, also known by its generic name escitalopram, is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) commonly prescribed to treat depression and anxiety disorders. It is known for its ability to balance serotonin levels in the brain, which plays a key role in regulating mood, emotions, and behavior.

Lexapro for depression is a widely used medication due to its high effectiveness and relatively mild side effect profile compared to other antidepressants. It has become a popular medication for people with moderate to severe depression, often recommended by medical professionals and mental healthcare providers. Its use has also expanded to treat generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic attacks, and social anxiety disorder, making it a versatile tool in the treatment of mental health conditions.

How does Lexapro work in the brain?

The primary mechanism of action for Lexapro lies in its ability to increase the levels of serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that significantly impacts mood, emotions, and overall mental well-being. In individuals with depression, serotonin levels may be imbalanced or insufficient, leading to the negative emotions and symptoms commonly associated with the condition.

Lexapro works by inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin, which means that it allows more serotonin to remain in the synaptic gap between nerve cells. This increase in serotonin helps improve mood, alleviate feelings of hopelessness, and reduce anxiety. By addressing the underlying chemical imbalances in the brain, Lexapro can help alleviate the core symptoms of depression, offering patients a better quality of life.

Benefits of using Lexapro for depression

Lexapro has several benefits for individuals struggling with depression, particularly for those who have not responded to other treatments or have experienced significant side effects with alternative medications. Some of the key uses of Lexapro for depression include:

• Improved mood: The primary benefit of Lexapro is its ability to elevate mood by balancing serotonin levels. As serotonin helps regulate feelings of happiness and emotional stability, individuals taking Lexapro often experience a notable improvement in their mood.
• Reduced anxiety: Depression is often accompanied by anxiety. Lexapro not only helps with depressive symptoms but also provides relief from anxiety, making it a two-in-one solution for those dealing with both conditions.
• Better sleep patterns: Many individuals with depression suffer from disrupted sleep. Lexapro can help improve sleep patterns by addressing the underlying mood issues that disrupt sleep.
• Minimal side effects: When compared to older antidepressants, Lexapro tends to have fewer side effects. Most users tolerate the medication well, and any side effects that occur tend to be mild and temporary.
• Safe long-term use: Lexapro has a well-established safety profile, and it is often considered a good option for long-term use. It can be an important part of a person’s ongoing mental health management plan.

For those seeking a reliable treatment for depression, Klinic can connect individuals with independent health providers who can perform an evaluation and, if indicated, prescribe Lexapro.

Lexapro dosage and how to take it

The dosage of Lexapro varies depending on the individual’s condition and response to treatment. It is typically available in tablet form and is usually taken once a day, either in the morning or evening, with or without food.

The effects of Lexapro may take a few weeks to become noticeable, so it is crucial to remain consistent with the medication even if immediate results are not observed. In some cases, a Lexapro provider may adjust the dosage depending on how well the individual responds to the medication.

Here is some general Lexapro prescribing information on usage:

• Take at the same time each day: Consistency helps maintain steady levels in the bloodstream.
• With or without food: Lexapro can be taken on an empty stomach or with meals.
• Do not abruptly stop: Discontinuing Lexapro without tapering can lead to withdrawal symptoms like dizziness, irritability, and flu-like sensations.

Lexapro vs other antidepressants

When considering treatment options for depression, it’s important to understand how Lexapro compares to other types of antidepressants, particularly other SSRIs and medications in different classes.

SSRIs

Lexapro is an SSRI, a type of antidepressant that also includes medications like fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft), and paroxetine (Paxil). All SSRIs work by boosting serotonin levels in the brain, but each one can cause different side effects. Lexapro is often seen as having fewer side effects, which makes it a popular choice for many people.

SNRIs

Another class of antidepressants, serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), includes medications like venlafaxine (Effexor) and duloxetine (Cymbalta). These medications not only increase serotonin but also norepinephrine, another neurotransmitter that can impact mood. SNRIs are sometimes preferred for individuals with both depression and anxiety, but they tend to have a higher risk of side effects compared to SSRIs like Lexapro.

Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs)

Tricyclic antidepressants, such as amitriptyline, were once the go-to treatment for depression. However, they are now less commonly prescribed due to their higher risk of side effects, including weight gain, dry mouth, and dizziness. Lexapro is generally preferred over TCAs due to its safer profile and fewer side effects.

Tips for getting the most out of Lexapro

Medication alone is rarely the full answer when managing depression. Optimizing results from Lexapro for depression involves a mix of adherence, lifestyle choices, and continuous support. Here are several recommendations:

• Be patient: It can take several weeks to see the full benefits of Lexapro. It is important to continue taking the medication as prescribed and give it time to work.
• Consistency is key: Take Lexapro at the same time every day to help establish a routine and avoid missing doses.
• Communicate with your healthcare provider: Regular check-ins with a doctor can help track progress, manage side effects, and adjust the dosage if necessary.
• Avoid alcohol: Drinking alcohol while taking Lexapro can increase the risk of side effects, including drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired judgment. It is best to avoid alcohol or consume it in moderation.
• Consider therapy: Medication is most effective when combined with therapy. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and other therapeutic approaches can help individuals learn coping strategies and improve mental health.
• Exercise and nutrition: Regular physical activity and a balanced diet can accelerate recovery and improve overall mental health.

In the end

Managing depression is a multifaceted journey, and choosing the right antidepressant is a pivotal part of it. Lexapro, with its strong clinical reputation and favourable side effect profile, offers an effective path for those seeking relief from the symptoms of depression. Its role in boosting serotonin levels translates into improved mood, focus, and overall emotional balance.

Individuals considering treatment options should consult professionals who can provide personalised care. Platforms like Klinic make it easier to connect with qualified mental health providers who understand the intricacies of medications like Lexapro and can guide patients through every step of their recovery. From searching for a Lexapro online doctor to receiving an evaluation to get a Lexapro prescription online, the process has become more accessible than ever.

What would happen if you ran too many apps on your smartphone? The screens would likely freeze, the battery would drain quickly, and performance would slow down. 

That’s exactly what brain fog feels like: mental fatigue, poor focus, and sluggish thinking. Although coffee may seem like a quick fix, it’s only a temporary one that almost always leads to a brain crash later. 

Tired of midday brain fog that just won’t seem to clear? It’s time to try some sustainable and healthier options to reboot your mind and restore clarity. 

This article has the answers that no espresso shot can provide. Whether you’re in the middle of an important meeting or managing a packed to-do list, it will help you beat midday brain fog. 

Step Into Natural Light and Move Your Body 

Mid-afternoon slump is all too real, and it’s not always an indication of fatigue. Sometimes, all your brain requires is a change of scene. 

The simplest solution for that foggy feeling is to step outside in the sun. If you’re at home, working, or otherwise, this would mean stepping onto your balcony or taking a quick walk around the block. 

What if you’re in the office when you face a brain crash? Don’t lose hope; just locate a nearby window and soak in the sun for a few minutes. Such small actions also increase blood flow, thereby waking up your body and sending effective reset signals to your brain. 

Walking and sunlight, each have tremendous benefits to offer. A study found that just 30 minutes of walking is powerful enough to boost memory for 24 hours. Similarly, another study found that short bursts of light exposure improved cognitive performance. 

What could be better than the natural source of light? If there is no way to step out in the sun, letting artificial light hit you directly on the face will also work. For older adults in particular, this practice would be extremely beneficial. 

Gentle movements will boost circulation, while light will reduce the mid-afternoon lull. In general, it’s a fast, caffeine-free way to re-energize both the body and the mind. 

Snack Smart With Brain-Boosting Foods 

At times, a 3 PM brain crash is a sign that your brain is looking for real fuel. Real because a lot of people tend to reach for a sugary quick fix. That is a surefire way for your brain to crash fast.

What it needs is something steady and satisfying. This means a bag of chips or cookies won’t work. You need to eat foods or snacks rich in nutrients that support brain health. The following are good examples: 

• A handful of almonds or walnuts 
• A boiled egg with a pinch of salt and pepper 
• Greek yogurt topped with berries 
• A slice of avocado toast 

Even in general, your diet should consist of foods known to fuel brain power. Harvard Health Publishing shares the best brain-friendly foods based on scientific research. They include leafy greens, fatty fish, berries, and nuts. 

Like they say: you are what you eat! Consuming brain-boosting foods and snacks is especially crucial for older adults. For them, it’s not just about avoiding midday sleepiness, but about sustaining cognitive strength and confidence. 

Rehydrate Before You Overheat Mentally 

Here’s something that’s not discussed enough (but should be): the human brain runs on water. 75% of the organ is nothing but water. How else will your brain communicate effectively using electrical impulses? 

In 2023, a prospective analysis was conducted in Spain on a group of 1957 adults. All participants were between the ages of 55 and 75 years. During a two-year follow-up, those with less hydration experienced worsening brain function. 

Your brain can literally shrink in size when it is dehydrated. Even mild dehydration can cause symptoms like slower cognitive function, concentration issues, brain fog, and headaches. Now, imagine someone who doesn’t drink enough water but feasts on a diuretic like caffeine! 

Start the simple yet powerful habit of reaching for a glass of water when brain fog kicks in. You can add a slice of lemon, cucumber, and even a pinch of salt to replenish your electrolytes. 

Older adults should especially discipline themselves in rehydration. With age, one’s sense of thirst declines. It’s possible to not even feel dehydrated until it affects the thinking capacity. So, the next time your mind starts to feel heavy, analyze your water intake. 

Take a Five-Minute Mental Reset 

If a change of scene or rehydration is not the answer, it doesn’t mean that caffeine would solve the issue. Sometimes, all your brain is looking for is a breather. Even five minutes can make a world of difference. 

Consider your mind to be a computer that’s been running all day with too many tabs open. As you push through your to-do list, your brain could be active in the background, juggling stress, decisions, and distractions. 

Since this is exactly the point where mental fog usually creeps in, you must take a pause. A mental reset doesn’t have to be complicated. Step away from all screens and engage in a different activity. 

Cornell Health shares a few effective five-minute stress busters, which include: 

• Deep breathing through your nose, where the exhales are longer than the inhales 
• Progressive muscle relaxation that starts from your toes up to your hands and face 
• A mini session of mindfulness that calms your mind and helps you stay focused 
• Visualization, where you mentally picture the task at hand in a positive light 
• Journaling whatever is on your mind without any definite structure 
• Any activity that allows you to let it all out, be it laughing with a friend or dancing to soothing music 

It seems like most of American society is currently running on caffeine. In a recent survey, it was found that 73% of the respondents had coffee daily. Only 3.8% said that they had coffee just once a week. 

Are you among those who reach for your cuppa the moment productivity dwindles? It’s time to stop relying on band-aid fixes. What this article has shared are effective long-term solutions. Try them, then you’ll believe it!