Men’s Mental Health Month and Why It Matters What Is Men’s Mental Health Month? Men’s Mental Health Month is a dedicated awareness campaign observed every June to encourage open conversation about men’s health. During this month, we highlight men's distinct experiences regarding untreated mental health conditions due to societal pressures to stay silent. The goal is to reduce stigma, encourage conversations around mental illness, and connect men with mental health support services. Is Men’s Health Month in June or November? In the U.S., Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month is officially celebrated in June. It focuses on both physical and mental health concerns affecting men, including stress, anxiety, depression, and substance abuse. During June, you're encouraged to internalize that there is nothing wrong with vulnerability. In November, you've probably seen men growing mustaches as part of a men's health initiative. This phenomenon is the global Movember campaign to raise awareness for mental health, suicide prevention, prostate cancer, and testicular cancer. When Was Men’s Mental Health Month Established? Men’s Mental Health Month was established by Congress in 1994, with a mandate to advocate for the prevention of health problems in men and boys. Since then, it has expanded into a full month to address the rising rates of mental illness and substance use in men. In recent years, healthcare organizations, mental health professionals, and advocacy groups have used this platform to destigmatize mental and physical health issues in men. Why Is There a Men’s Mental Health Month? Men experience mental health conditions at significant rates but are far less likely than women to seek professional help. Cultural expectations sometimes encourage men to suppress emotions or avoid vulnerability. Sadly, they are seen as a sign of weakness. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), men accounted for the majority of drug and alcohol-related deaths in recent years. Many of them delay treatment until mental health struggles begin affecting work, relationships, finances, or physical health. Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month exists to normalize seeking help. It exists to make mental health support accessible and visible for you. Why Men’s Mental Health Awareness Has Grown in Recent Years How Has Awareness of Men’s Mental Health Changed Recently? Awareness of men’s mental health has increased significantly, shifting from traditional stoicism toward recognizing vulnerability as strength. It helps that public figures have been speaking more openly about depression, anxiety, and addiction. Open discussions about mental health matters reduce stigma surrounding treatment. What Role Has Movember Played in Men’s Mental Health Awareness? Movember Foundation has funded more than 1,250 men’s health projects across 20 countries, including programs focused on suicide prevention and mental health support. This movement began in 2003 to raise funds for prostate cancer and testicular cancer research. It has become a major key player in normalizing taboo conversations around men's challenges. This increased visibility has encouraged more men to pursue counseling, wellness activities, support groups, and mental health treatment. Why Is Men’s Mental Health Becoming More Talked About Now? Men’s mental health is being talked about more, mainly due to alarming suicide rates, the lingering mental toll of the COVID-19 pandemic, and unrealistic standards set by society. This initiative is a conscious cultural effort to redefine masculinity, encouraging vulnerability over silence. The Link Between Alcohol Misuse and Men’s Mental Health Why Are Men at Higher Risk for Alcohol Misuse? Men are more likely to develop alcohol use disorder (AUD) because cultural conditioning has normalized or even celebrated heavy drinking as part of masculine identity. Paired with poor stress management, unemployment, or undiagnosed mental health conditions, drinking becomes the default coping mechanism for daily life struggles. How Do Mental Health Conditions Contribute to Substance Abuse? Undiagnosed men often use alcohol as a form of self-medication, temporarily reducing distress without addressing its source. Mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) dramatically increase the risk of substance abuse as a coping mechanism. This pattern deepens both the mental health condition and the substance use disorder simultaneously. What Is the Relationship Between Alcohol Use and Mental Health Decline? Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant that disrupts the brain’s chemistry, and heavy consumption worsens every existing mental health condition. Chronic alcohol use depletes serotonin and dopamine, impairs sleep quality, and destabilizes mood regulation, accelerating mental health decline over time. Warning Signs of Alcohol Misuse and Mental Health Struggles in Men What Are Behavioral Signs of Alcohol Misuse in Men? Common warning signs include: Increased secrecy around drinking or drug useDeclining work or academic performanceIsolation from family or friendsMood swings or irritabilityFinancial instabilityRisk-taking behaviorLoss of motivationSleep disruptions What Emotional Signs Suggest Mental Health Struggles? Emotional warning signs may include: Persistent sadness or hopelessnessIncreased anxiety or panicEmotional numbnessLow self-esteemAnger or irritabilityDifficulty concentratingWithdrawal from relationshipsLoss of interest in hobbies or goalsThoughts related to self-harm or suicide. When Does Alcohol Use Become a Mental Health Concern? Alcohol use becomes a mental health concern when it begins affecting emotional stability, relationships, employment, education, or the physical safety of loved ones. Repeated blackouts, risky behavior, emotional volatility, or combining substances with existing mental health conditions may indicate a need for professional mental health services. Why Men Often Avoid Mental Health Support Why Is Seeking Help Sometimes Viewed as a Weakness? Traditional gender expectations can discourage emotional openness. Phrases like “man up,” “tough it out,” and “don’t be so sensitive” are active instructions for men to suppress distress. These beliefs may prevent men from discussing depression, trauma, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts openly. How Does Social Pressure Affect Men’s Mental Health? Social pressure to appear successful, independent, or emotionally controlled may increase anxiety and emotional exhaustion. The expectation to always appear “well-put” creates a performance that makes it difficult to acknowledge when things are not okay. This pressure, compounded with navigating identity, career, and relationships, contributes to substance abuse or worsening mental health conditions. How Does Social Media Influence Mental Health Perception in Men? Social media can create unrealistic expectations around success, fitness, appearance, wealth, and lifestyle. Constant comparison may increase insecurity, anxiety, or feelings of inadequacy. Heavy social media use among young men is linked to increased rates of depression, anxiety, and negative self-perception. The Impact of Untreated Mental Health Conditions How Do Untreated Mental Health Issues Affect Daily Life? Untreated mental health issues hinder relationships, employment, academic performance, physical health, and the capacity for long-term planning. For young men especially, untreated mental health problems are a primary driver of what is often described as a “failure to launch” — an inability to achieve the milestones of adult independence. How Can Mental Health Problems Lead to Substance Abuse? Some men use substances to numb anxiety, sadness, trauma, or loneliness when feeling emotionally overwhelmed, and while substances may provide temporary escape, they often intensify symptoms over time. Alcohol, cannabis, stimulants, and opioids all offer temporary relief from the symptoms of anxiety, depression, and trauma. Substance abuse gradually develops into addiction, generating its own set of consequences. Why Is Suicide Prevention a Critical Part of Men’s Mental Health Awareness? Men die by suicide at nearly four times the rate of women; however, they are less likely to disclose suicidal ideation or access support services. Reducing this disparity requires not only crisis lifelines and helplines, but a tangible cultural shift that makes men more likely to seek help before they reach that point. When to Seek Help for Alcohol Misuse or Mental Health Issues What Signs Indicate It’s Time to Seek Professional Help? If alcohol use is severely affecting normal function in your loved one's life, seek professional help as soon as possible. Mental health professionals can assess both substance use and co-occurring conditions simultaneously, which is essential for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning. What Does Mental Health Treatment Typically Include? Mental health treatment for men with co-occurring disorders typically includes a clinical assessment, individual therapy, group therapy, and medication management, when appropriate. Levels of care range from a partial hospitalization program (PHP) and an intensive outpatient program (IOP) to transitional sober living with ongoing clinical support. The most effective programs integrate clinical interventions along with recreational activities and wellness programs. Mental Health Resources and Crisis Support Options What Mental Health Resources Are Available for Men? SAMHSA’s National Helpline (1-800-662-4357) provides free, confidential referrals to treatment facilities and mental health services 24 hours a day. National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) also offers educational resources, peer support programs, and a helpline staffed by trained volunteers. A range of mental health resources exists for men at every stage of recovery. What Support Groups Help Men With Mental Health or Substance Use? 12-Step programs like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) remain widely available and provide peer support grounded in shared experience and accountability. SMART Recovery also offers a science-based alternative for those who prefer a non-spiritual framework. For men dealing specifically with mental health conditions, NAMI’s peer-led support groups provide community, psychoeducation, and a space to speak openly without judgment. When Should Someone Call a Crisis Lifeline or Helpline? A crisis lifeline should be contacted any time someone is experiencing suicidal thoughts, severe psychological distress, or a psychiatric emergency. The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 and connects callers with trained crisis counselors. Reaching out early, before a situation escalates, is always the right choice. How Do Organizations Like NAMI and SAMHSA Support Mental Health Care? NAMI focuses on education, advocacy, and peer support, while SAMHSA funds treatment programs, develops clinical guidelines, and operates a national data infrastructure. Both organizations provide publicly available mental health resources that are especially useful for families and men navigating the system for the first time. Reach out to ask about the mental health resources available for you. How Families and Loved Ones Can Support Men Struggling With Mental Health How Can You Recognize Mental Health Warning Signs in a Loved One? Warning signs in a loved one may include: Persistent withdrawal from family and friendsNoticeable changes in mood or behaviorDeclining performance at work or schoolIncreasing reliance on alcohol or substances Families often notice these changes before everybody else, making family awareness a critical part of early intervention. How Should You Approach a Conversation About Mental Health? Approach the conversation with a loved one with a clear intention to listen rather than lecture. Choosing a calm, private moment, expressing concern from a place of care rather than accusation, and asking open-ended questions are all more likely to result in productive dialogue. A safe place makes your family member more willing to consider help. How Can Families Support Without Enabling Alcohol Use? Paying legal fees, covering financial consequences, minimizing the severity of the problem, or avoiding difficult conversations are all forms of enabling drinking. Healthy support means maintaining clear boundaries, following through on stated consequences, and seeking guidance from a family therapist or Al-Anon to navigate treatment and recovery. Treatment Options for Alcohol Misuse and Co-Occurring Disorders What Is Dual Diagnosis Treatment? Care for dual diagnosis cases is the integrated clinical approach to treating substance use disorder alongside one or more co-occurring mental health conditions. It's the standard of care for the majority of men entering treatment for alcohol misuse, given how frequently addiction and mental illness co-occur. Programs that screen for and treat both simultaneously produce better long-term outcomes. What Levels of Care Exist in Addiction Treatment? Treatment for addiction exists on a continuum of care: medically supervised detox, residential treatment, PHP, IOP, and transitional sober living serve different levels of care. Most young men with chronic alcohol misuse and co-occurring disorders require more than one level of care. Starting at a higher level and stepping down as clinical stability improves long-term outcomes. How Do Evidence-Based Therapies Support Recovery? Evidence-based therapies help men identify and restructure habits and thought patterns that drive addiction and mental health conditions. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) teaches men to challenge negative thought patterns and turn less often to unhelpful behaviors. Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) skills training builds emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness. Motivational interviewing (MI) meets men where they are, building internal motivation rather than imposing external pressure. What Is the Role of Relapse Prevention in Long-Term Recovery? Relapse prevention focuses on identifying triggers, improving coping skills, strengthening accountability, and building healthier daily routines. Long-term recovery often requires ongoing structure, peer support, therapy, and gradual reintegration into work, school, and independent living responsibilities. How Structured Sober Living Supports Long-Term Recovery Why Is Structure Important in Early Recovery? Structure provides the external scaffolding that allows the brain and behavior to reorganize during early recovery. Routine rearranges self-regulation skills that are often lost due to chronic drinking. Without consistent schedules, accountability, scheduled programming, and a sober community, the risk of relapse is substantially higher. How Does Sober Living Bridge Treatment and Independence? Structured sober living programs like The Last House can help bridge the gap between clinical treatment and independent adulthood. At The Last House sober living program, young adult men receive structured transitional sober living with integrated clinical support, peer accountability, vocational guidance, and family reintegration for long-term stability. How Does Vocational and Academic Reintegration Support Recovery? Programs with job search support, resume development, trade program referrals, and academic reintegration boost self-esteem and life purpose. Clinical treatment often leaves the personal elements of recovery unaddressed, which are important for men dealing with a “failure to launch” pattern. Continuing Men’s Mental Health Awareness Beyond the Awareness Month Why Is Ongoing Mental Health Support Important Year-Round? Men’s Mental Health Month creates visibility, but lasting change requires year-round access to mental health support, consistent messaging, and the continued destigmatization. Recovery from alcohol misuse and mental illness is not a June project, but a sustained process that requires ongoing clinical care, peer connection, and empathy. How Do Awareness Campaigns Help Reduce Stigma? Awareness campaigns reduce stigma by making mental health struggles visible, normalized, and treatable in the public imagination. When men see other men, particularly athletes, veterans, and peers, speaking openly about depression, anxiety, and addiction, they feel the cultural permission to do the same. What Does Long-Term Mental Well-Being Look Like? Long-term mental well-being for men in recovery usually involves a state of functioning that goes beyond the absence of addiction. Sustained recovery encompasses resilience, life satisfaction, and the ability to manage life's emotional ups and downs without substances. FAQs Is June pride month or men’s mental health month? June is recognized as both Pride Month for the LGBTQ community and Men’s Mental Health Month in the U.S. Multiple awareness campaigns and health initiatives take place throughout the month for both events. Why is there a Men’s Mental Health Month, but not a Women’s? Men’s Mental Health Month exists because men are statistically less likely to seek mental health treatment and face elevated suicide rates. Women’s mental health awareness initiatives also exist throughout the year. What is the difference between mental health struggles and mental illness? Mental health issues are usually temporary emotional distress caused by stress, grief, or life changes, while mental illnesses are diagnosable conditions that significantly affect mood, behavior, or functioning. Where can men get immediate mental health support? Men can call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, available 24 hours a day. SAMHSA’s National Helpline (1-800-662-4357) also provides free referrals to treatment and mental health services around the clock. Break the cycle of chronic relapse and reclaim a healthy future with The Last House's proven, alumni-led community with high-quality clinical integration. Discover how our structured, long-term model helps young men overcome "failure to launch" patterns and achieve long-term sobriety and autonomy.

Men’s Mental Health Month: Alcohol Misuse & When to Seek Help

by mental health

Men’s Mental Health Month and Why It Matters

What Is Men’s Mental Health Month?

Men’s Mental Health Month is a dedicated awareness campaign observed every June to encourage open conversation about men’s health. 

During this month, we highlight men’s distinct experiences regarding untreated mental health conditions due to societal pressures to stay silent. The goal is to reduce stigma, encourage conversations around mental illness, and connect men with mental health support services. 

Is Men’s Health Month in June or November?

In the U.S., Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month is officially celebrated in June. 

It focuses on both physical and mental health concerns affecting men, including stress, anxiety, depression, and substance abuse. During June, you’re encouraged to internalize that there is nothing wrong with vulnerability. 

In November, you’ve probably seen men growing mustaches as part of a men’s health initiative. This phenomenon is the global Movember campaign to raise awareness for mental health, suicide prevention, prostate cancer, and testicular cancer. 

When Was Men’s Mental Health Month Established?

Men’s Mental Health Month was established by Congress in 1994, with a mandate to advocate for the prevention of health problems in men and boys. 

Since then, it has expanded into a full month to address the rising rates of mental illness and substance use in men. 

In recent years, healthcare organizations, mental health professionals, and advocacy groups have used this platform to destigmatize mental and physical health issues in men. 

Why Is There a Men’s Mental Health Month?

Men experience mental health conditions at significant rates but are far less likely than women to seek professional help. 

Cultural expectations sometimes encourage men to suppress emotions or avoid vulnerability. Sadly, they are seen as a sign of weakness.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), men accounted for the majority of drug and alcohol-related deaths in recent years. Many of them delay treatment until mental health struggles begin affecting work, relationships, finances, or physical health.

Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month exists to normalize seeking help. It exists to make mental health support accessible and visible for you.

Why Men’s Mental Health Awareness Has Grown in Recent Years

How Has Awareness of Men’s Mental Health Changed Recently?

Awareness of men’s mental health has increased significantly, shifting from traditional stoicism toward recognizing vulnerability as strength. 

It helps that public figures have been speaking more openly about depression, anxiety, and addiction. Open discussions about mental health matters reduce stigma surrounding treatment. 

What Role Has Movember Played in Men’s Mental Health Awareness?

Movember Foundation has funded more than 1,250 men’s health projects across 20 countries, including programs focused on suicide prevention and mental health support. 

This movement began in 2003 to raise funds for prostate cancer and testicular cancer research. It has become a major key player in normalizing taboo conversations around men’s challenges. 

This increased visibility has encouraged more men to pursue counseling, wellness activities, support groups, and mental health treatment.

Why Is Men’s Mental Health Becoming More Talked About Now?

Men’s mental health is being talked about more, mainly due to alarming suicide rates, the lingering mental toll of the COVID-19 pandemic, and unrealistic standards set by society. 

This initiative is a conscious cultural effort to redefine masculinity, encouraging vulnerability over silence.

The Link Between Alcohol Misuse and Men’s Mental Health

Why Are Men at Higher Risk for Alcohol Misuse?

Men are more likely to develop alcohol use disorder (AUD) because cultural conditioning has normalized or even celebrated heavy drinking as part of masculine identity. 

Paired with poor stress management, unemployment, or undiagnosed mental health conditions, drinking becomes the default coping mechanism for daily life struggles. 

How Do Mental Health Conditions Contribute to Substance Abuse?

Undiagnosed men often use alcohol as a form of self-medication, temporarily reducing distress without addressing its source. 

Mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) dramatically increase the risk of substance abuse as a coping mechanism. This pattern deepens both the mental health condition and the substance use disorder simultaneously.

What Is the Relationship Between Alcohol Use and Mental Health Decline?

Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant that disrupts the brain’s chemistry, and heavy consumption worsens every existing mental health condition. 

Chronic alcohol use depletes serotonin and dopamine, impairs sleep quality, and destabilizes mood regulation, accelerating mental health decline over time. 

Warning Signs of Alcohol Misuse and Mental Health Struggles in Men

What Are Behavioral Signs of Alcohol Misuse in Men?

Common warning signs include:

  • Increased secrecy around drinking or drug use
  • Declining work or academic performance
  • Isolation from family or friends
  • Mood swings or irritability
  • Financial instability
  • Risk-taking behavior
  • Loss of motivation
  • Sleep disruptions

What Emotional Signs Suggest Mental Health Struggles?

Emotional warning signs may include:

  • Persistent sadness or hopelessness
  • Increased anxiety or panic
  • Emotional numbness
  • Low self-esteem
  • Anger or irritability
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Withdrawal from relationships
  • Loss of interest in hobbies or goals
  • Thoughts related to self-harm or suicide. 

When Does Alcohol Use Become a Mental Health Concern?

Alcohol use becomes a mental health concern when it begins affecting emotional stability, relationships, employment, education, or the physical safety of loved ones. 

Repeated blackouts, risky behavior, emotional volatility, or combining substances with existing mental health conditions may indicate a need for professional mental health services.

Why Men Often Avoid Mental Health Support

Why Is Seeking Help Sometimes Viewed as a Weakness?

Traditional gender expectations can discourage emotional openness. 

Phrases like “man up,” “tough it out,” and “don’t be so sensitive” are active instructions for men to suppress distress. These beliefs may prevent men from discussing depression, trauma, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts openly.

How Does Social Pressure Affect Men’s Mental Health?

Social pressure to appear successful, independent, or emotionally controlled may increase anxiety and emotional exhaustion. 

The expectation to always appear “well-put” creates a performance that makes it difficult to acknowledge when things are not okay. This pressure, compounded with navigating identity, career, and relationships, contributes to substance abuse or worsening mental health conditions.

How Does Social Media Influence Mental Health Perception in Men?

Social media can create unrealistic expectations around success, fitness, appearance, wealth, and lifestyle. 

Constant comparison may increase insecurity, anxiety, or feelings of inadequacy. Heavy social media use among young men is linked to increased rates of depression, anxiety, and negative self-perception.

The Impact of Untreated Mental Health Conditions

How Do Untreated Mental Health Issues Affect Daily Life?

Untreated mental health issues hinder relationships, employment, academic performance, physical health, and the capacity for long-term planning. 

For young men especially, untreated mental health problems are a primary driver of what is often described as a “failure to launch” — an inability to achieve the milestones of adult independence.

How Can Mental Health Problems Lead to Substance Abuse?

Some men use substances to numb anxiety, sadness, trauma, or loneliness when feeling emotionally overwhelmed, and while substances may provide temporary escape, they often intensify symptoms over time.

Alcohol, cannabis, stimulants, and opioids all offer temporary relief from the symptoms of anxiety, depression, and trauma. Substance abuse gradually develops into addiction, generating its own set of consequences. 

Why Is Suicide Prevention a Critical Part of Men’s Mental Health Awareness?

Men die by suicide at nearly four times the rate of women; however, they are less likely to disclose suicidal ideation or access support services. 

Reducing this disparity requires not only crisis lifelines and helplines, but a tangible cultural shift that makes men more likely to seek help before they reach that point.

When to Seek Help for Alcohol Misuse or Mental Health Issues

What Signs Indicate It’s Time to Seek Professional Help?

If alcohol use is severely affecting normal function in your loved one’s life, seek professional help as soon as possible.

Mental health professionals can assess both substance use and co-occurring conditions simultaneously, which is essential for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning.

What Does Mental Health Treatment Typically Include?

Mental health treatment for men with co-occurring disorders typically includes a clinical assessment, individual therapy, group therapy, and medication management, when appropriate. 

Levels of care range from a partial hospitalization program (PHP) and an intensive outpatient program (IOP) to transitional sober living with ongoing clinical support. The most effective programs integrate clinical interventions along with recreational activities and wellness programs.

Mental Health Resources and Crisis Support Options

What Mental Health Resources Are Available for Men?

SAMHSA’s National Helpline (1-800-662-4357) provides free, confidential referrals to treatment facilities and mental health services 24 hours a day. 

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) also offers educational resources, peer support programs, and a helpline staffed by trained volunteers. 

A range of mental health resources exists for men at every stage of recovery.

What Support Groups Help Men With Mental Health or Substance Use?

12-Step programs like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) remain widely available and provide peer support grounded in shared experience and accountability. 

SMART Recovery also offers a science-based alternative for those who prefer a non-spiritual framework. 

For men dealing specifically with mental health conditions, NAMI’s peer-led support groups provide community, psychoeducation, and a space to speak openly without judgment.

When Should Someone Call a Crisis Lifeline or Helpline?

A crisis lifeline should be contacted any time someone is experiencing suicidal thoughts, severe psychological distress, or a psychiatric emergency. 

The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 and connects callers with trained crisis counselors. 

Reaching out early, before a situation escalates, is always the right choice.

How Do Organizations Like NAMI and SAMHSA Support Mental Health Care?

NAMI focuses on education, advocacy, and peer support, while SAMHSA funds treatment programs, develops clinical guidelines, and operates a national data infrastructure.

Both organizations provide publicly available mental health resources that are especially useful for families and men navigating the system for the first time. Reach out to ask about the mental health resources available for you.

How Families and Loved Ones Can Support Men Struggling With Mental Health

How Can You Recognize Mental Health Warning Signs in a Loved One?

Warning signs in a loved one may include:

  • Persistent withdrawal from family and friends
  • Noticeable changes in mood or behavior
  • Declining performance at work or school
  • Increasing reliance on alcohol or substances

Families often notice these changes before everybody else, making family awareness a critical part of early intervention. 

How Should You Approach a Conversation About Mental Health?

Approach the conversation with a loved one with a clear intention to listen rather than lecture. 

Choosing a calm, private moment, expressing concern from a place of care rather than accusation, and asking open-ended questions are all more likely to result in productive dialogue. A safe place makes your family member more willing to consider help.

How Can Families Support Without Enabling Alcohol Use?

Paying legal fees, covering financial consequences, minimizing the severity of the problem, or avoiding difficult conversations are all forms of enabling drinking.

Healthy support means maintaining clear boundaries, following through on stated consequences, and seeking guidance from a family therapist or Al-Anon to navigate treatment and recovery.

Treatment Options for Alcohol Misuse and Co-Occurring Disorders

What Is Dual Diagnosis Treatment?

Care for dual diagnosis cases is the integrated clinical approach to treating substance use disorder alongside one or more co-occurring mental health conditions. 

It’s the standard of care for the majority of men entering treatment for alcohol misuse, given how frequently addiction and mental illness co-occur. Programs that screen for and treat both simultaneously produce better long-term outcomes.

What Levels of Care Exist in Addiction Treatment?

Treatment for addiction exists on a continuum of care: medically supervised detox, residential treatment, PHP, IOP, and transitional sober living serve different levels of care.

Most young men with chronic alcohol misuse and co-occurring disorders require more than one level of care. Starting at a higher level and stepping down as clinical stability improves long-term outcomes.

How Do Evidence-Based Therapies Support Recovery?

Evidence-based therapies help men identify and restructure habits and thought patterns that drive addiction and mental health conditions. 

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) teaches men to challenge negative thought patterns and turn less often to unhelpful behaviors.

Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) skills training builds emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness. 

Motivational interviewing (MI) meets men where they are, building internal motivation rather than imposing external pressure.

What Is the Role of Relapse Prevention in Long-Term Recovery?

Relapse prevention focuses on identifying triggers, improving coping skills, strengthening accountability, and building healthier daily routines.

Long-term recovery often requires ongoing structure, peer support, therapy, and gradual reintegration into work, school, and independent living responsibilities.

How Structured Sober Living Supports Long-Term Recovery

Why Is Structure Important in Early Recovery?

Structure provides the external scaffolding that allows the brain and behavior to reorganize during early recovery. 

Routine rearranges self-regulation skills that are often lost due to chronic drinking. Without consistent schedules, accountability, scheduled programming, and a sober community, the risk of relapse is substantially higher.

How Does Sober Living Bridge Treatment and Independence?

Structured sober living programs like The Last House can help bridge the gap between clinical treatment and independent adulthood. 

At The Last House sober living program, young adult men receive structured transitional sober living with integrated clinical support, peer accountability, vocational guidance, and family reintegration for long-term stability.

How Does Vocational and Academic Reintegration Support Recovery?

Programs with job search support, resume development, trade program referrals, and academic reintegration boost self-esteem and life purpose. 

Clinical treatment often leaves the personal elements of recovery unaddressed, which are important for men dealing with a “failure to launch” pattern. 

Continuing Men’s Mental Health Awareness Beyond the Awareness Month

Why Is Ongoing Mental Health Support Important Year-Round?

Men’s Mental Health Month creates visibility, but lasting change requires year-round access to mental health support, consistent messaging, and the continued destigmatization. 

Recovery from alcohol misuse and mental illness is not a June project, but a sustained process that requires ongoing clinical care, peer connection, and empathy.

How Do Awareness Campaigns Help Reduce Stigma?

Awareness campaigns reduce stigma by making mental health struggles visible, normalized, and treatable in the public imagination. 

When men see other men, particularly athletes, veterans, and peers, speaking openly about depression, anxiety, and addiction, they feel the cultural permission to do the same.

What Does Long-Term Mental Well-Being Look Like?

Long-term mental well-being for men in recovery usually involves a state of functioning that goes beyond the absence of addiction. 

Sustained recovery encompasses resilience, life satisfaction, and the ability to manage life’s emotional ups and downs without substances.

FAQs

Is June pride month or men’s mental health month?

June is recognized as both Pride Month for the LGBTQ community and Men’s Mental Health Month in the U.S. 

Multiple awareness campaigns and health initiatives take place throughout the month for both events.

Why is there a Men’s Mental Health Month, but not a Women’s?

Men’s Mental Health Month exists because men are statistically less likely to seek mental health treatment and face elevated suicide rates. 

Women’s mental health awareness initiatives also exist throughout the year.

What is the difference between mental health struggles and mental illness?

Mental health issues are usually temporary emotional distress caused by stress, grief, or life changes, while mental illnesses are diagnosable conditions that significantly affect mood, behavior, or functioning.

Where can men get immediate mental health support?

Men can call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, available 24 hours a day. 

SAMHSA’s National Helpline (1-800-662-4357) also provides free referrals to treatment and mental health services around the clock.

Break the cycle of chronic relapse and reclaim a healthy future with The Last House’s proven, alumni-led community with high-quality clinical integration. Discover how our structured, long-term model helps young men overcome “failure to launch” patterns and achieve long-term sobriety and autonomy.

The Last House sober living, a place that recovering addicts and alcoholics can call home.

What Makes a Great Sober Living Home

by addictionmental healthRecoverytreatment
The Last House sober living, a place that recovering addicts and alcoholics can call home.
The Last House sober living, a place that recovering addicts and alcoholics can call home.

Early recovery is fragile. It is the phase where someone begins to rebuild their life after the chaos of addiction, often while still wrestling with cravings, emotions, and the weight of past mistakes. For young men who are newly sober, a sober living home can be the bridge between treatment and true independence. But not all sober living environments are created equal. So what actually makes a sober living home great?

At The Last House, we believe that five essential elements create the foundation for a transformative sober living experience: accountability, structure, community, routine, and peer support. When these elements are done right, young men do not just stay sober — they begin to thrive.



Accountability

Accountability is one of the most powerful tools in early recovery. When someone has lived for years in denial, chaos, and impulsivity, learning to be responsible for their words and actions is a major shift. A great sober living home creates clear expectations and holds residents accountable to them.

This can include curfews, chore lists, meeting attendance, drug testing, and consistent communication with staff. But true accountability goes deeper. It is not just about following the rules — it is about becoming a man of integrity. At The Last House, residents are encouraged to own their mistakes, clean up their side of the street, and take responsibility for their growth. When a client makes a poor decision, the goal is not to punish them — it is to help them learn. This mindset fosters maturity and trust, and it sets the stage for long-term sobriety.



Structure

Structure is the backbone of a great sober living home. Without it, the risk of falling back into old habits increases dramatically. Chaos is comfortable for someone who is newly sober — after all, that is what they are used to. But recovery requires discipline, and discipline starts with a structured environment.

A structured sober living home provides a clear framework for daily life. This can include mandatory morning routines, curfews, weekly schedules, group meetings, and consistent house expectations. It is not about being controlling. It is about creating a space where healthy habits can develop.

At The Last House, we design structure to mirror real life. Clients wake up early. They go to 12-step meetings. They participate in house responsibilities. Many begin working part-time, attending school, or doing service work. The result is a smooth transition into the real world — one where structure is not a foreign concept, but a familiar foundation.



Community

Addiction is a disease of isolation. Sobriety, on the other hand, is a journey of connection. One of the most important ingredients in any great sober living home is the community that lives within it. Who surrounds you matters. Who you grow with matters.

In a great sober living home, community is not just about sharing a house. It is about building a brotherhood. At The Last House, we foster a community where young men support one another, challenge one another, and hold each other up when things get hard. It is common to see clients going to meetings together, playing sports on the weekends, cooking meals, or just hanging out and talking about life.

This kind of environment creates accountability and belonging at the same time. It helps clients learn to navigate relationships, communicate effectively, and become better friends, brothers, and teammates. More importantly, it helps them realize they are not alone.



Routine

Without routine, most people feel ungrounded. For someone in early recovery, that instability can be dangerous. A great sober living home promotes consistency through routine, helping residents rebuild their lives one day at a time.

Routine does not just mean waking up and making your bed. It means having a predictable rhythm to each day and each week. At The Last House, our routine includes morning meditation, house meetings, therapy or IOP sessions, job search support, nighttime check-ins, and recovery-related goals. Each day has intention. Each task has a purpose.

Over time, these routines become habits. And those habits begin to shape character. Residents start to experience the freedom that comes from consistency. They learn how to show up — not just for others, but for themselves.




Peer Support

One of the most underrated aspects of sober living is the peer-to-peer mentorship that happens naturally when a program is run well. In a great sober living home, new clients look up to the ones who have been there longer. They learn by example. They ask for advice. They watch what it looks like to live with humility, take direction, and grow through struggle.

At The Last House, this kind of peer support is built into the culture. Alumni return to share their experience. Senior house members mentor new clients. It is not a rigid hierarchy — it is a living example of what recovery looks like over time. When a client sees someone who was in their shoes a few months ago now thriving, it gives them hope. And when a client who is doing well is asked to be of service to someone newer, it gives them purpose.

Peer support is not about being perfect. It is about walking the path together. And that makes all the difference.



Leadership and Staff Involvement

Behind every great sober living home is a team of staff members who care deeply about the residents. Leadership sets the tone. If staff are checked out, inconsistent, or disconnected, it creates a culture of apathy. But when staff are engaged, intentional, and connected to the mission, residents thrive.

At The Last House, our staff are not just there to supervise — they are mentors, role models, and guides. They know the names, the stories, and the struggles of each client. They are present in house meetings, at events, and on the sidelines during weekend volleyball games. That kind of leadership cannot be faked. And residents feel it.

A Resident at the Last House Sober Living in West Los Angeles playing basketball during a saturday house event.

Why Saturday Events Matter at The Last House: Building Brotherhood Through Sobriety

by addictionmental healthRecoverytreatment

At The Last House Sober Living in West Los Angeles, we know that sobriety is more than just abstaining from drugs and alcohol. It’s about building a life that feels full, connected, and fun. That’s why every Saturday, we do something different. We get outside. We get active. We laugh together. We make memories. But most importantly, we strengthen the bonds that hold us accountable and keep us moving forward in our recovery. These Saturday events aren’t just an afterthought or a bonus—they’re a core part of the treatment experience we offer our residents. They give structure, purpose, and joy to the weekend, a time that can otherwise feel unstructured or triggering during early recovery.

Each week, one of the guys is responsible for planning the event. This keeps everyone involved and invested. It encourages leadership, creativity, and participation. Sometimes the event is high energy, like a basketball game or a competitive pickleball match. Other times, it’s more laid back, like a beach day in Santa Monica or watching a UFC fight as a house. No matter what the activity is, the goal is the same: to enjoy life sober, to build trust, and to create community. That’s what sets The Last House apart from other Los Angeles sober living homes. We believe that treatment doesn’t end with therapy sessions—it lives in the real world, in these moments of connection and shared experience.

Many of our Saturday events take place in and around the neighborhoods of West Los Angeles. Whether we’re exploring a museum downtown, hiking in Malibu, mini golfing in Sherman Oaks, or hosting a backyard barbecue at the house, the city becomes a playground for sober living. Los Angeles is filled with opportunities for fun that don’t require substance use, and part of our mission is to reintroduce our residents to these kinds of experiences. When you remove drugs and alcohol from your life, there’s a fear that you’ll never have fun again. But we prove that wrong every weekend.

Planning and leading the Saturday event is also a chance for residents to step into a new level of responsibility. For guys who have been living in chaos or isolation, it’s powerful to take ownership of something that brings people together. It could be as simple as organizing a water balloon fight in the backyard, or as involved as booking a trip to the museum and making sure everyone has a ride. But no matter the scale, the act of planning it matters. It builds self-esteem. It gives purpose. It shows the guys that their ideas and effort can impact others in a positive way. And in recovery, that sense of purpose is everything.

A Resident at the Last House Sober Living in West Los Angeles playing basketball during a saturday house event.
A Resident at the Last House Sober Living in West Los Angeles playing basketball during a saturday house event.

The camaraderie that grows through these Saturday outings is one of the most important parts of our long-term recovery model. Sober living isn’t just about avoiding relapse—it’s about learning how to live. And no one does that alone. These group experiences create real bonds. The kind that carry over into weekday life. The kind that help someone feel safe enough to share honestly in a group. The kind that get someone to speak up when they’re struggling instead of keeping it to themselves. By laughing together, sweating together, even just hanging out together, we build the kind of trust and loyalty that turns a group of guys into a brotherhood.

There’s also something healing about play. After months or years of pain, burnout, and chaos, it’s a relief to just let loose. To chase a volleyball across the sand. To yell at the TV during a football game. To goof around at a miniature golf course or roast each other over burgers during a backyard cookout. These aren’t childish activities—they’re reminders that joy is allowed. That you can be sober and still feel light. Still feel free. Still feel human.

Our Saturday events also serve as an important accountability tool. Everyone is expected to show up, participate, and be present. It doesn’t matter if someone’s been having a hard week—they’re encouraged to show up anyway. And what often happens is that guys who didn’t feel like joining end up laughing the hardest. They feel better by the end. They feel included. That kind of momentum matters in recovery. When you consistently show up for your peers, you start to show up for yourself.

Over time, these events create a rhythm. Something residents can look forward to. Something they can count on. Structure is vital in early sobriety, especially for those coming from inpatient treatment or chaotic environments. Having a consistent weekly event that blends fun with structure reinforces that life in recovery is both stable and exciting. It helps bridge the gap between the treatment world and the real world. It makes the idea of sober adulthood less scary and more inviting.

Saturday events also become something our alumni remember and cherish. Many of the guys who have graduated from The Last House still talk about their favorite outings. They remember the spontaneous laughter, the awkward attempts at new sports, the moments of connection. These experiences become part of the story they carry with them into long-term recovery. And for those who stay involved with the house after graduation, they often come back to participate or even help plan future events. That sense of continuity reinforces the community aspect of what we do. It turns sober living into a lifelong brotherhood, not just a temporary program.

In a city like Los Angeles, where temptation and distraction are everywhere, creating intentional moments of fun and fellowship becomes even more important. West Los Angeles in particular is filled with nightlife, entertainment, and high-paced living. But there’s also incredible natural beauty, cultural richness, and creative energy. Our Saturday events help residents reconnect with the parts of the city that support their recovery. They get to experience museums, beaches, sports, and community events in a new light. Not as places to party, but as places to grow. Places to live. Places to thrive.

The Last House is not just another Los Angeles sober living home. We are a structured, purpose-driven community that understands the importance of shared experience in recovery. Our Saturday events are not optional add-ons—they are pillars of our program. They help our residents build friendships, take initiative, and rediscover joy. They remind everyone that sobriety is not an end, but a beginning. A beginning filled with laughter, adventure, and real connection.

So whether we’re on the basketball court, swimming in the ocean, or just hanging out in the backyard throwing water balloons, we’re doing more than just killing time. We’re building lives. We’re rebuilding trust. We’re showing up for one another. And we’re proving, every single week, that life in recovery can be exciting, meaningful, and absolutely worth it.

The Last House Sober Living goes for a hike in Los Angeles for a saturday house event.
The Last House Sober Living goes for a hike in Los Angeles for a saturday house event.
Thrive treatment hosts local sober livings for bonfire meeting

Dopamine Detox: How The Last House Sober Living Helps You Reset, Recover, and Rebuild Your Life

by addictionmental healthRecovery

Let’s face it—life today can feel overwhelming. Social media, junk food, endless streaming—it’s all designed to grab your attention and keep you hooked. All these things trigger your brain’s dopamine system, giving you little hits of “feel-good” chemicals. But here’s the catch: the more you chase those quick dopamine fixes, the harder it becomes to enjoy the deeper, more meaningful rewards in life.

If you’re recovering from drugs and alcohol or dealing with mental health struggles, this hits even harder. Addiction rewires your brain to crave those instant highs, and even when you’re sober, that pattern can linger, making it tough to feel happy or fulfilled. This is where the idea of a dopamine detox can make a huge difference.

At The Last House in Los Angeles, our long-term sober living program is designed to help you hit the reset button on your brain, build healthy habits, and find joy in the little things again. By combining structure, a strong sober community, and support for your mental health, we help you replace unhealthy patterns with a life full of purpose, confidence, and real connection. Let’s break it down.

What Is a Dopamine Detox?

First off, let’s clear something up—a dopamine detox isn’t about getting rid of dopamine. Dopamine is a natural and essential brain chemical that helps with motivation, pleasure, and reward. The goal of a dopamine detox is to reset your brain by stepping back from unhealthy sources of dopamine, like drugs, alcohol, social media, or impulsive habits, and refocusing on healthier ways to feel good.

For someone recovering from addiction, this is huge. Drugs and alcohol hijack your brain’s dopamine system, flooding it with “false” pleasure that throws everything out of balance. Over time, this makes it harder to enjoy the simpler, slower joys in life, like a good conversation, a workout, or even just feeling proud of yourself for accomplishing something.

A dopamine detox helps you break free from those quick-fix cravings and retrain your brain to find happiness in meaningful, lasting ways. And when you’re working through mental health challenges, like anxiety or depression, a dopamine detox can also help you find stability, balance, and calm.

Why Routine Is Key to Recovery

If dopamine detox is about resetting your brain, routine is the tool that makes it happen. Routine creates structure in your day, helps you stay focused, and builds a sense of stability—something that’s often missing when you’re battling addiction or mental health struggles.

At The Last House, we put a big emphasis on routine because we know it’s a game-changer for recovery. Here’s why:

1. It Boosts Productivity

When you have a clear structure for your day, it’s easier to focus on the things that matter. Instead of feeling overwhelmed or distracted, you can work on what’s in front of you—whether that’s going to therapy, exercising, or learning a new skill.

At The Last House, we help you create a schedule that keeps you moving forward. And trust us, those small wins—like completing your chores or showing up for group meetings—start to add up in a big way.

2. It Builds Self-Esteem

One of the hardest things about addiction and mental health struggles is how they mess with your self-worth. But here’s the good news: every time you stick to your routine and follow through on something, you’re proving to yourself that you can do it.

Those little moments of success—cleaning your room, finishing a project, or simply getting out of bed when it’s hard—build self-esteem over time. At The Last House, we celebrate these victories because they’re the foundation for a confident, independent life.

3. It Improves Confidence

When you follow a routine consistently and see the results, you start to believe in yourself. Maybe it’s noticing you feel stronger after working out, seeing progress in your mental health, or realizing you’re staying sober even when life gets tough. That consistency builds confidence—and confidence helps you face challenges head-on.

4. It Retrains Your Brain

The more you stick to healthy habits, the more your brain adapts. Routine helps rewire your brain to find joy in long-term rewards instead of chasing short-term highs. Over time, this rewiring makes it easier to choose activities that support your recovery and mental health.

Why The Last House Is Perfect for a Dopamine Detox

Recovering from drugs and alcohol, working through mental health challenges, and retraining your brain aren’t things you can do alone. At The Last House, we’ve created a long-term sober living program that provides the perfect environment for growth, healing, and connection. Here’s how we help:

1. Structure and Accountability

We know how important it is to have structure, especially in early recovery. That’s why we provide a daily schedule filled with productive activities, group support, and plenty of time for self-care. Whether it’s attending therapy, participating in house chores, or joining group outings, having a clear plan for your day keeps you grounded and moving forward.

2. A Strong Sober Community

One of the most powerful things about The Last House is the sober community you’ll become a part of. Recovery is hard, but having people around who “get it” makes all the difference. Whether it’s sharing stories during a bonfire at Dockweiler Beach, bonding over a hike in Los Angeles, or simply hanging out, the friendships you build here provide a sense of belonging and support.

3. Fun, Healthy Activities

Let’s be real—sober living doesn’t have to be boring. At The Last House, we plan activities that make life in recovery exciting and fun. From beach days and sports to creative projects and community service, these experiences help you rediscover joy in simple, healthy ways. Plus, they’re a natural way to reset your dopamine system.

4. Support for Mental Health

We know that addiction and mental health struggles often go hand in hand. That’s why we create a space where you can work on both. With access to therapy, mindfulness practices, and tools for managing stress, we help you address the deeper challenges that come with recovery and mental health.

5. Life Skills for Long-Term Success

Recovery isn’t just about getting sober—it’s about building a life you’re excited to live. At The Last House, we help you develop skills that set you up for success, whether that’s cooking, managing finances, or finding work. These practical tools are key to feeling confident and independent.

Rediscovering Joy and Confidence in Recovery

Recovery is more than just quitting drugs or alcohol—it’s about learning how to enjoy life again. A dopamine detox, combined with structure, support, and community, can help you reset your brain and find fulfillment in the everyday moments that make life meaningful.

At The Last House, we’ve created a program that’s not just about getting sober—it’s about thriving. With our structured routines, strong sober community, and focus on mental health, we help you build the habits, skills, and mindset you need for long-term recovery.

If you’re ready to break free from old patterns, heal your mind, and create a life you love, we’re here to help. Contact The Last House in Los Angeles today, and let’s take the next step in your recovery journey together.

Your fresh start is waiting.

Thrive treatment hosts local sober livings for bonfire meeting
Essential Teen Mental Health Statistics 2021

Essential Teen Mental Health Statistics 2021

by with No Comment mental health

Rates of mental illness and substance use disorders have continued to rise in teens. Teen years are supposed to be full of fun and mostly positive experiences, but unfortunately, this is not the case for many teens. Many teens’ fun is overridden by mental health or substance use concerns. It’s important that parents and caregivers stay knowledgeable about this prevalence and warning signs to look out for so that they can help their teen if issues arise. 

How Many Teens Experience Mental Health Disorders?

Mental disorders are very prevalent in teens, such as major depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, and trauma-related disorders. According to the 2021 survey data, 13.84% of teens have had at least one major depressive episode in 2021, which is an increase of 260,000 cases from the previous year. This same survey found that 9.7% of teens have a severe major depressive disorder, which is an increase of 126,000 from the previous year. Depressive disorders are characterized by low mood and loss of interest or pleasure that impact daily functioning, such as sleep, concentration, relationships, and more. If left untreated in youth, it is more likely to persist into adulthood. Teens with depressive disorders are often comorbidly diagnosed with anxiety disorders, behavioral issues, and substance use disorders. 

Unfortunately, access to appropriate care for teens has continued to be an issue into 2021. Almost 60% of teens with major depression did not receive any mental health care. Additionally, less than 1% of teens with a mental illness have an Individualized Education Plan (IEP). These plans were originally designed to help provide accommodations for youth experiencing mental illness that impacts their school performance. However, most students that qualify for this service do not receive it. Mental health concerns for teens also often go overlooked and are identified late in primary care settings. Even when a need is identified, many teens do not have access to appropriate insurance coverage and thus can’t access the care they need.

Common Warning Signs that Your Teen May be Struggling with Mental Health or Substance Use

  • Loss of interest in activities they used to like 
  • Low energy and loss of motivation
  • Change in sleeping or eating patterns
  • Increase in risky or self-destructive behavior 
  • Decreased participation in social activities, hobbies, or school performance 
  • Increase in substance use
  • Sudden change in friends
  • Increase in argumentative or defiant behavior

How Does Addiction Affect Teens?

According to the 2021 Monitoring the Future survey, 3.83% of teens have a substance use disorder. 2.85% of teens have used illicit drugs, and 1.69% of teens have used alcohol. Risk factors that make it more likely that a teen will develop a substance use disorder include early aggressive behavior, lack of parental supervision, substance abuse, drug availability, and poverty. The more risk factors a child possesses, the more vulnerable to developing a substance use disorder they become. Protective factors that can be built to help decrease their vulnerability include:

  • Building self-control.
  • Increasing parental supervision.
  • Academic competence.
  • Anti-drug use policies.
  • A strong attachment to their neighborhood.

The Last House Can Help Your Child with Addiction and Mental Health Concerns 

It can be challenging to try to help your child with their addiction. It’s tough when they are not ready for treatment. However, talking with them, going over their options, and letting them know that you will always be there for support can be helpful. Once they are ready for treatment, it’s important to point them in the right direction of trusted mental health professionals that are trained in substance use. The Last House can help. 

The Last House has been around for over ten years to help men strive to achieve sobriety in their life. We offer a supportive environment with skilled staff whose passion is to help those with addiction concerns and services that promote building skills to maintain a sober lifestyle. Our program includes groups, therapy, accountability, and exploring sober activities. When you leave The Last House, you will leave with long-lasting connections and the skills you need to continue your sobriety long-term. The Last House is connected with Thrive Treatment to easily contact quality treatment teams to ensure the care you are getting is consistent. 
Contact us today to learn more about our program and how we can help you.

What Happens if OCD Is Left Untreated?

What Happens if OCD Is Left Untreated?

by with No Comment addictionmental healthRecovery

You may hear people talk about having OCD in a light-hearted manner, but OCD is not a joke. Obsessive-compulsive disorder, or OCD, involves thoughts and behaviors that overtake the individual. Sadly what happens if OCD is left untreated is that the individual becomes paralyzed by obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. At The Last House, we understand mental health, and we know the complexities of obsessive-compulsive disorder. In addition, we know how untreated OCD can lead to self-medicating to cope with the symptoms. We’re here to help you manage your OCD and any substance use so that you can lead a full life. 

What Is OCD?

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a chronic mental health disorder in which a person experiences uncontrollable, repeated thoughts and/or behaviors that they feel compelled to repeat over and over. OCD is characterized by obsessions and compulsions. Obsessions are repeated thoughts, urges, or mental images that cause anxiety. Compulsions are repetitive behaviors that a person feels the desire to do in response to obsessive thoughts. For example, everyone may turn back to check that a door is locked or check to make sure that the oven has indeed been turned off. However, obsessive-compulsive disorder is much more than rechecking a detail now and then. While most can overcome thoughts to recheck items, that is not always the case for those suffering from OCD. An inability to function is what happens when OCD is left untreated. 

What Are the Signs of OCD?

Those with OCD will face obsessions, compulsions, or a combination of the two.  Common obsessions include:

  • A fear of germs,
  • Unwanted taboo thoughts, 
  • Aggressive thoughts toward self, and 
  • Having things in a symmetrical or perfect order.

In response to these compulsive thoughts, many with OCD find themselves cleaning or handwashing exxcessively, arranging items in a precise way, repeatedly rechecking things, and compulsively counting. Most with OCD do not derive any pleasure from these ritualistic behaviors but repeat them to get relief from the obsessive thoughts. Some with OCD will also have motor tics such as facial grimacing, eye blinking, throat clearing, sniffing, grunting sounds, or more. Many, if not all, of these symptoms may increase when the individual is under additional stress. 

What Happens if OCD Is Left Untreated?

Obsessive-compulsive disorder can be treated so that the symptoms can be managed. Often symptoms will ebb and flow over time. Self-medication and isolation are two examples of what happens if OCD is left untreated. Many with OCD will begin to aboid situations or people that trigger their symptoms. Others will turn to drugs and alcohol to quiet the obsessive thoughts. Left untreated, OCD diminishes the individual’s quality of life and reduces the ability to function independently. Through therapy and other approaches, obsessive-compulsive disorder can be managed to allow for a full, independent, happy life. OCD doesn’t have to result in isolation and despair. 

How To Get Help With OCD Today

The Last House is a network of structured sober living homes in the heart of West Los Angeles. We believe in providing our clients with the tools to have a meaningful life and participate in their sobriety.  Activities such as service commitments, sober parties, conventions, dances, and house outings are all a part of helping you learn how to have fun in sobriety.  Comprised of active members of the Los Angeles Sober Living community, our staff is familiar with many recovery support groups in the area.  We understand the relationship between mental health and addiction. We can support you while you learn how to manage your OCD without isolating or turning to drugs and alcohol. If you’re wondering how to create your sober life, The Last House is here to help. 

Why Drug or Alcohol Addiction Is a Chronic Relapsing Illness

Why Drug or Alcohol Addiction Is a Chronic Relapsing Illness

by with No Comment addictionmental healthRecovery

It’s hard to find a disease that is more heartbreaking and frustrating than addiction. You may spend years trying to convince yourself or a loved one to stop using drugs and alcohol. Then, one day, you decide to try, and you get some sober days under your belt only to find yourself relapsing. You might see relapse as a failure, but sometimes relapse is a part of recovery. Your brain doesn’t know how to cope without drugs and alcohol, so it’s going to take some practice to do so. Drug or alcohol addiction is a chronic relapsing illness because it’s a disease that affects the mind, body, and spirit. At The Last House, we understand how frustrating addiction can be and why relapse can seem like a failure. However, we also know that there are valuable lessons to be learned from a relapse. 

What Is Addiction?

Most people will not see their first drink or their first drug as the gateway to a life filled with addiction. Not everyone who uses will find themselves addicted. Addiction occurs when there is a perfect storm between biological, social, and psychological factors. Many won’t realize that they’ve crossed over into addiction until it is too late. Addiction is a chronic disease characterized by drug seeking and use that is compulsive and hard to control, despite harmful consequences. Repeatedly using drugs and alcohol changes the brain, with continued use resulting in more changes. The more you use drugs and alcohol, the more you will need to use them to achieve the same effect. Before you even know what happened, all of your decisions are about getting more drugs to use more drugs. You may start each day intending not to use, but drug or alcohol addiction is a chronic relapsing illness. Knowing this can help you to approach your recovery differently. 

Why Drug or Alcohol Addiction Is a Chronic Relapsing Illness

Using drugs or alcohol changes you, and it takes time for you to undo the damage that has been done to your body and your mind.  Detoxing your body takes far less time than rewiring the pathways in your brain. If you’ve been turning to drugs and alcohol for the last ten years, your brain will still see drugs and alcohol as the “go-to” for a long time. Drug or alcohol addiction is a chronic relapsing illness because, for years, you have been telling your brain that drugs and alcohol are the answer – regardless of the question. Post-acute withdrawal syndrome is a collection of symptoms that you may experience for months or even years after you stop using. Symptoms include feeling edgy, having difficulty sleeping, being tired, experiencing memory issues, and having urges to use. Understanding these symptoms can help you be better prepared to face cravings and avoid a relapse. 

How To Maintain Long-Term Recovery From a Drug or Alcohol Addiction

Maintaining long-term sobriety requires vigilance. In the same way that an individual diagnosed with diabetes must manage their healthy daily, so must a person who faces addiction. Staying sober requires daily effort. If you discover that someone you love has been using drugs or alcohol, you’ll find a world of options available to get them on the road to recover. 

The Last House is here to help keep them on that road. We are a network of sober living homes in the heart of West Los Angeles. We believe in providing our clients with the tools to have a meaningful life and participate in their sobriety.  Activities such as service commitments, sober parties, conventions, dances, and house outings are all a part of helping you learn how to have fun in sobriety.  If you’re helping your loved one create a sober life, The Last House is here to help. Contact us today. 

Resources for Adult Children of Addicted Parents

Resources for Adult Children of Addicted Parents

by with No Comment addictionmental healthRecovery

Just like other chronic diseases, addiction is a disease that affects the entire family. Addiction changes the addict and, as a result, impacts how they interact with their family. The entire household is changed by addiction. The effects of having an addicted parent can be felt long after childhood and long after the parent gets sober. Our parents set the tone for the relationships we form throughout the rest of our lives. Dysfunction in these relationships can create dysfunction in our later relationships. 

Adult children of addicted parents may find that they struggle more in their relationships than those who grew up without addiction in their homes. At The Last House, we understand the devastating effects of addiction on the family and we know how those effects can linger. We know the value of working through these effects and are happy to help you explore the available resources. 

What Does It Mean To Be Adult Children of Addicted Parents?

Whether your parent has found their way to recovery or not, you may still be feeling the effects of their addiction. Adult children of addicted parents grow up with at least some level of dysfunction and it affects how they interact with the rest of the world. Many who are adult children of addicted parents find themselves struggling with addiction and others will find themselves in relationships with addicts.

The children of addicts often engage in many unhealthy behaviors in relationships. They often are unable to set healthy boundaries with others, put the needs of others before their own, and engage in people-pleasing.  Adult Children of Alcoholics/Dysfunctional Families (ACA) is a twelve-step program that offers children of addicts a place to heal from growing up with an addict and the associated dysfunction. ACA describes itself as “a safe, nonjudgmental environment that allows us to grieve our childhoods and conduct an honest inventory of ourselves and our family—so we may (i) identify and heal core trauma, (ii) experience freedom from shame and abandonment, and (iii) become our own loving parents”.  Through participation in peer support groups such as ACA and working with a therapist, many adult children of addicted parents can heal. 

Examples of How Addiction Affects Family Members

As children, we learn about attachment, nurturing, and socialization from our families. If one or both of our parents struggle with addiction, the way that we interact with other individuals will be impacted. Growing up with an addicted parent can lead to unmet developmental needs. The chaos of an addicted parent often leads to the disruption of attachment, roles, routines, communication, finances, and socialization. Because addiction requires so many secrets and lies, it can be hard for a child to understand what is and is not real. Additionally, many adult children of addicted parents report having to grow up much faster to take on the responsibilities that their parent was not fulfilling or to deal with the abuse that occurred. The effects of being the child of an addicted parent are long-lasting and often require a great deal of therapeutic work to overcome. 

Why You Should Live In a Sober Living House

Located throughout West Los Angeles, The Last House is a network of structured sober living homes. We believe in enabling our clients to have a meaningful life. The Last House will provide you with the tools to participate in your recovery.  Activities such as service commitments, sober parties, conventions, dances, and house outings are all a part of helping you learn how to have fun in sobriety. As active members of the Los Angeles Sober Living community, our staff understands what it takes to stay sober and can support you in your journey. So, if you’re wondering how to create your sober life, The Last House is here to help. 

How to Learn Relapse Prevention Coping Skills

How to Learn Relapse Prevention Coping Skills

by with No Comment addictionmental healthRecoverySuccess Storiestreatment

Originally, relapse prevention was a separate aspect of addiction treatment, not combined with the standard treatment, but something reserved for after… later. This practice was in place for many years, before relapse prevention was integrated into addiction treatment, giving addicts the opportunity to practice these prevention measures in a controlled environment like rehab.

Relapse prevention coping skills are the skills necessary for individuals to learn to maintain sobriety after leaving addiction treatment. Through this process individuals are able to learn and practice these relapse prevention coping skills to make them habits prior to their return or next real world trigger. 

The Last House integrates relapse prevention coping skills into their addiction treatment programs by providing real world experiences for practice and supportive community. To see how we utilize these coping skills and to see how we can support your sustainable recovery, contact us today at The Last House.

What Are Relapse Prevention Coping Skills?

Relapse prevention skills are a combination of mental and physically habitual practices you can put into place to monitor your personal mental health. This can be done by addressing the following things: fear, redefining fun, learning from setbacks, and becoming comfortable with being uncomfortable. These mental tasks can help prevent individuals from falling into one of these three forms of relapse- emotional, mental, or physical.

Physically, there are several relapse prevention techniques that you can put into place in your daily life that will help you maintain long-term sobriety and mental strength. Being aware of your surroundings, maintaining a healthy diet and rest habits, participating in self-care activities, and accessing your support system are physical things you can do to keep your mind and body strong. 

How Do You Learn Relapse Prevention Coping Skills?

In addiction treatment you will be taught many helpful relapse prevention tools and develop a relapse prevention plan. For example, one of the tools you may be taught in treatment is “HALT: Ask yourself if you are Hungry? Angry? Lonely? Or Tired? Oftentimes being hungry, angry, lonely, or tired can trigger a desire to use, and therefore it is important to identify [and] address the underlying need instead of using a substance.” Or even “SOBER: Use the SOBER brief meditation when feeling a desire to use: Stop, Observe, Breathe, Expand, Respond.” 

While these tools may be specifically taught in addiction treatment, it is also important to remember that through your relapse prevention plan, you may have a recovery wallet card, a support network, or self-help groups that you can attend to support you through this time.

How Can the Last House Help Me With Relapse Prevention?

Our addiction treatment program can support you at any point in the addiction treatment process. Our clients learn to manage their addiction in a safe, fun, and program-oriented setting where they can learn to focus on their purpose, progress, and building the foundation for their future.

At The Last House we offer addiction treatment through sober living communities and our clinical campus where men are building a sober community through shared experiences and connections. And we don’t just focus on addiction. We work with our clients to help them manage all their mental health needs through a holistic approach to developing a stable base of development and lifelong achievement.

Through our sober programs, clients are taught relapse prevention skills and are given the opportunity to use them in real-life situations and group sober outings. Through this process clients can experience the triggers and struggles of addiction while surrounded by a support system of men working together towards sustainable recovery.

Contact The Last House today to see how we can support your recovery.