Addiction is often described as a relationship pathology. “Substance use disorders (SUDs) negatively affect individual social functioning,” wrote Pettersen, Landheim, et al in their 2019 study on how social relationships influence substance use disorder recovery. “In spite of a well-known tendency to consider SUD recovery an individual concern, several studies have evidenced that these processes […]
Introduction The Invitational Model of Intervention offers a unique and compassionate approach to addressing addiction. Unlike traditional intervention methods, which often involve confrontation and surprise, the Invitational Model emphasizes collaboration, respect, and open communication. This approach aims to create an environment where individuals struggling with addiction feel supported rather than attacked, facilitating a smoother path […]
Interventions are often misunderstood, largely due to portrayals in popular media as confrontational and aggressive events where individuals feel ambushed. However, the approach taken by Blanchard and Associates offers a different perspective, focusing on love, compassion, and family involvement. The Invitational Model of Intervention The invitational model used by Blanchard and Associates emphasizes inviting the individual to […]
Alcohol consumption can lead to significant changes in the brain, affecting both its structure and function. The impact of alcohol on the brain can be profound, especially with chronic use, and understanding these changes is crucial for recognizing the signs of alcohol use disorder and seeking appropriate treatment. Short-Term Effects on the Brain Altered Neurotransmitter […]
The liver is a vital organ responsible for metabolizing alcohol and detoxifying the body. Chronic alcohol consumption can lead to liver damage, progressing through several stages. Understanding these stages is crucial for recognizing the impact of alcohol on liver health and taking preventive measures. Stage 1: Fatty Liver (Steatosis) Fatty Liver OverviewFatty liver, or steatosis, […]
Addiction is a complex disease, requiring a concerted treatment effort involving patients, their family members, and their primary care providers. According to the American Psychiatric Association, a “substance use disorder (SUD) is a complex condition in which there is uncontrolled use of a substance despite harmful consequences. […] People with a substance use disorder may […]
Addiction is a complex disease, requiring a concerted treatment effort involving patients, their loved ones, primary care providers, and all other relevant healthcare professionals. At The Blanchard Institute, family members and referring professionals are considered part of the treatment team. We believe in inclusion and collaboration when it comes to caring for our clients. Founder […]
Addiction is a family disease. At The Blanchard Institute, we recognize that substance use disorders (SUDs) and mental health issues profoundly impact not only the individual but also their entire family. “The family remains the primary source of attachment, nurturing, and socialization for humans in our current society. Therefore, the impact of substance use disorders […]
The opposite of addiction is connection, it has been said. One of the most devastating aspects of addiction is the damage it causes to relationships with parents, family, and friends. The Blanchard Institute recognizes the important role of relationships in the healing process—especially within the family. Recovery from addiction is a challenging process and outcomes […]
The addictive substances that have flooded a person with a severe substance use disorder (SUD)—often for years—typically have overpowered the body’s metabolism but with professional detoxification, there will be a rebound. “In the early weeks of sobriety, your long-abused body works hard to fix the damage,” wrote the authors of the acclaimed Recovery Book. A […]
