There has been much debate in recent years as to whether or not marijuana is a “gateway” drug – a drug that paves the way to the use of alcohol and other addictive substances. And, as marijuana continues to be … Continue reading
More Baby Boomers are Boozing, Especially Women
May 29, 2017 by
Whether it’s another couple glasses of wine with dinner, a few more cocktails at social functions or get-togethers, or another nip or two to go to sleep at night, aging Americans have been drinking more – and older women are … Continue reading
Running on Fumes: A Decidedly Non-Glamorous Drug Poses Real Risks
May 19, 2017 by
It’s doesn’t get the high-profile media attention that the opiate epidemic has. And it’s not the drug of choice among the club and party set (at least not usually), but it is often widely available in any household and more … Continue reading
Reduce Swelling and Drink Less?? Anti-inflammatory Shows Promise in Treating Alcoholism
May 12, 2017 by
Once a disease considered so intractable and untreatable that it often forced sufferers to live out there days in psychiatric facilities, great strides have been made to both address – and lift the stigma surrounding – alcoholism. And, increasingly, a … Continue reading
A Rallying Cry for Awareness and Action: May is Mental Health Month
May 5, 2017 by
When most people think of good health, they tend to focus on physical well-being. Yet, sound mental health is inextricably linked to productivity, normal function, comfort, and contentedness, as well as a sense of connectedness to others and the world … Continue reading
Expanding Healthy Food Horizons: New Veggies, Textures and Flavors that Take Normal Up a Notch
May 2, 2017 by
A key goal of Bridging the Gaps’ nutritional program is to meet clients where they are while encouraging them to begin incorporating healthier foods and healthier habits into their daily routines. This is a great way for any of us … Continue reading
A Long Overdue Overhaul: New Medicaid Substance Abuse Benefit to Expand Treatment Options
April 21, 2017 by
A long-standing barrier facing lower-income Americans needing treatment for drug and alcohol use disorders has finally been removed…at least for now. Starting this month, states across the country – including Virginia – have begun to roll out an expansion in … Continue reading
Family Support and Balance in Recovery: Tips and Takeaways from Dr. Steve Sutton
April 14, 2017 by
By Becca Wetzel In the final installment in our interview series with Dr. Steve Sutton, we examine the role of the family in sobriety, and how one can cultivate health and fun in recovery. Dr. Sutton leads Bridging the Gap’s … Continue reading
The Road Less Traveled: A Physician’s Perspective on Personal Growth, Willingness, and Finding a New Path Forward
April 10, 2017 by
By Becca Wetzel As part of our continuing conversation with Dr. Steve Sutton, we discuss how Dr. Sutton’s own path in recovery led him to Bridging the Gaps and spurred a lifelong interest in an integrated approach to addiction medicine. … Continue reading
A 360 Degree Approach: Dr. Steve Sutton on his Personal and Professional Commitment to Treating the Whole Person in Recovery
March 31, 2017 by
By Becca Wetzel Often, we’re most inspired and effective in our work when we bring something of ourselves to the enterprise. In my time at Bridging the Gaps (BTG), I have seen that there is something intensely personal that calls … Continue reading