Addiction Articles From Our Team

Recovery from substance use disorders often involves more than overcoming physical dependency—it requires addressing the emotional and psychological wounds that may have contributed to or intensified the addiction. For many, those wounds are rooted in trauma. In Biloxi, Mississippi, trauma-informed group therapy offers a safe, structured way for individuals to process these experiences while gaining …

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) affects millions of people across the United States, including many here in Mississippi. While ADHD is often discussed in the context of academic or workplace challenges, its connection to substance use is less frequently addressed. Research shows that individuals with ADHD face a significantly higher risk of developing substance use …

Recovery works best when people feel safe to show up as their whole selves. For LGBTQ+ Mississippians, that safety isn’t always guaranteed—especially in healthcare. Stigma, past discrimination, and fear of being misunderstood can delay treatment and complicate recovery. At Mississippi Drug and Alcohol Treatment Center (MSDATC) in Biloxi, our approach to LGBTQ+ addiction treatment is …

When most people picture addiction, they imagine someone whose life is visibly falling apart — missing work, struggling financially, or withdrawing from relationships. But not all addiction fits that image. Some individuals maintain careers, pay their bills, and appear to have it all together while privately battling substance use. This is known as high-functioning addiction, …

Cultural humility is more than just awareness—it’s a lifelong commitment to understanding, respecting, and responding to the diverse backgrounds of clients in addiction treatment. In Mississippi, where communities are rich in cultural, racial, and socioeconomic diversity, practicing cultural humility is essential for effective, trauma-informed care. At Mississippi Drug and Alcohol Treatment Center (MSDATC), we recognize …

Recovery from addiction is more than abstaining from substances—it is a journey of transformation that reshapes how individuals perceive themselves, interact with the world, and approach challenges. At the heart of this transformation lies a recovery mindset, a mental framework that promotes resilience, self-awareness, and sustainable change. Developing this mindset is essential for navigating the …

Addiction is often associated with younger adults, but the reality is that substance use disorders affect people of all ages — including seniors. In Mississippi, older adults face unique challenges when it comes to seeking help and maintaining sobriety. Many live with chronic health conditions, take multiple medications, or cope with isolation and grief, all …

Recovery from addiction is a journey with challenges and growth. Along the way, many encounter widespread relapse myths—misconceptions that distort expectations, create guilt, and even increase the risk of setbacks. Misunderstanding relapse can make it harder to recognize warning signs, apply coping skills, or seek support when needed. At the Mississippi Drug and Alcohol Treatment …

Grief is a universal human experience, but for some, the pain of loss becomes a heavy weight that feels impossible to carry. When emotional wounds remain unhealed, many turn to substances to numb the pain, escape reality, or find temporary relief. In Mississippi, where close-knit communities often share deep bonds, loss can ripple through entire …

Addiction recovery is never a simple process — and for individuals who do not speak English fluently, the challenge can feel nearly impossible. In Mississippi, where communities are becoming increasingly diverse, language barriers can prevent people from accessing the care they need. Without clear communication, treatment plans can be misunderstood, important health information can be …

In addiction recovery, few questions are more important—or more difficult—than “Why did this happen to me?” For many individuals in Biloxi, Mississippi, the answer might be rooted in a deeper, often hidden source: generational trauma. But what is generational trauma? And how can understanding it help people move forward in recovery? Generational trauma, sometimes called …

Chronic pain affects millions of Americans, interfering with daily life, relationships, and emotional well-being. When unmanaged pain is coupled with substance use disorder—especially opioid addiction—the result is a complex and often overwhelming cycle. For many Mississippians, chronic pain and addiction create a double burden: the physical suffering of pain alongside the stigma and isolation of …

Addiction doesn’t only affect the body—it deeply impacts the mind and emotions. For many individuals, substance use becomes a way to cope with overwhelming feelings like anger, anxiety, sadness, or shame. In recovery, learning emotional regulation skills becomes essential for maintaining sobriety and rebuilding a healthy life. At Mississippi Drug and Alcohol Treatment Center in …