Great Oaks Recovery Center Blog

Many people who complete treatment for a mental health disorder, substance use disorder, or alcohol use disorder often feel re-entry into the “real world” to be a bit jarring at first. However, by using the concept of habit stacking to develop a...

Reconciling with people you've hurt before you sought treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD) or substance use disorder (SUD) isn’t just a vital step in recovery—it’s a profound gesture of respect, growth, and integrity. Making amends helps rebuild trust, mend relationships, and...

Summer in Texas isn’t just about scorching heat and crowded water parks. It’s also a season of wide skies, open roads, and the perfect excuse to rediscover the state's diverse and often overlooked treasures. With a focus on health, nature, and inspiration,...

It is no secret that many teenagers experiment with drugs and/or alcohol. Despite the best efforts of parents, teachers, politicians, and others, many young people seem to consider dabbling in drugs and drinking as a rite of passage—an idea too often in...

Anxiety is more than just feeling nervous before a presentation or an important exam—it's a chronic and sometimes debilitating condition that affects the mind and body in deeply intertwined ways. According to the American Psychiatric Association, nearly 30% of people in the...

In May 2024, the Forbes Advisor released a report from Mental Health America that stated, “54.7% of adults with mental illness don't receive any treatment, and more than one in four—28.2%—don't receive adequate treatment.” Even more concerning: “more than half of Texas...

Each year, May serves as a powerful reminder that our mental health deserves the same care and attention we give to physical well-being. Mental Health Awareness Month, observed nationwide since 1949, is more than a campaign—it’s a lifeline. In 2025, the need...

Having a routine—whether it’s a structured schedule or simply a set of intentional habits—plays a major role in supporting your overall well-being. According to Northwestern Medicine, routines offer several important benefits: Improved physical health. Achieved through consistent habits such as regular exercise,...

We all want to feel better—emotionally, mentally, physically—but sometimes the biggest breakthroughs come from the smallest shifts. A great book can be that nudge: a spark of insight that helps you reframe your thinking, take action, or simply feel seen. Whether you're...

The nicotine in both cigarettes and e-cigarettes plays a central role in making these habits so difficult to stop. As a stimulant and highly addictive substance, nicotine triggers your brain’s reward system, leading to short-term feelings of pleasure and relaxation, which reinforces...