A tired woman with closed eyes leans against a wall, holding a baby in her arms, bathed in natural light from a nearby window.

The Weight Moms Carry in Recovery

Olivia Gillespie July 9, 2026

Most women who enter treatment for substance use disorder fall within their childbearing years, and many are raising children of their own. And even though it’s valid that you’re struggling to forgive your mother, it’s also worth remembering that many moms carry enormous pressure long before substances enter the picture, and when life becomes overwhelming, it usually isn’t because the road’s been easy. If you’d like to better understand why recovery can feel especially complicated

A woman with long dark hair sits indoors, looking down with her eyes closed and one hand to her head, appearing sad or deep in thought.

What’s the Opposite of Addiction

Olivia Gillespie June 26, 2026

Lauren McQuistin, accomplished author, SubStack writer, and owner of the Instagram account @brutalrecovery, recently pointed out that there’s no clean opposite to substance use disorder (SUD). For many, addiction is a constant roller coaster. One day you’re up, the next you’re gripping the safety bar for dear life, and sometimes you’re not sure if you want to get off or keep riding. In South Carolina, Waypoint Recovery Center staff and peers swap out that roller

Two people hug in an office while three colleagues smile and watch. Everyone appears happy, and bookshelves and windows are visible in the background.

What to Expect in Early Recovery

Olivia Gillespie June 5, 2026

Today, we’re looking at some of the experiences she describes, how they may show up in your own recovery journey.

Three adults sit at a table, focused on painting colorful artwork. The woman in the foreground smiles as she paints, while the others work intently in the background. Art supplies are visible on the table.

What’s The Point of Art in Therapy?

Olivia Gillespie May 15, 2026

When you hear “art therapy,” you might picture finger paints, crafts, or awkward group projects that feel disconnected from recovery—and perhaps even from reality. If you already feel skeptical about therapy, adding drawing, music, writing, or movement into residential treatment may sound more ridiculous than a kindergarten class for adults. Art therapy usually isn’t about talent, artistic skill, or acting like a child. It’s simply one way to process stress, trauma, emotions, and experiences that