Anxiety is a normal response to stress, uncertainty, or situations that feel threatening. It can cause worried thoughts, trouble concentrating, difficulty sleeping, physical tension, restlessness, or a feeling that something may go wrong. For some people, anxiety is noticeable to others. For others, it may be easier to hide. A person may appear calm, organized,
Kratom and products containing 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) have received increasing attention from public health professionals, lawmakers, and people who use these products. On July 1, 2026, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) announced its intent to temporarily place 7-OH and three related substances into Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act. The announcement represents a significant
Opioid use disorder (OUD) is a medical condition—not a personal failure. Like other chronic health conditions, it can be effectively treated with evidence-based care. Recovery looks different for everyone, and many people benefit from combining medication with counseling, peer support, and other recovery services. At New Brunswick Counseling Center, we offer comprehensive treatment for opioid use disorder, including
Summer is often portrayed as a carefree and enjoyable season, but it does not feel that way for everyone. Changes in routine, warmer temperatures, social expectations, travel, financial pressures, or other personal circumstances may increase stress or anxiety for some people. Anxiety can affect people differently. You may notice increased worry, irritability, difficulty sleeping, physical
Recovery is about more than stopping substance use—it’s about building a healthier, more fulfilling life. There will be good days, difficult days, and everything in between. Progress isn’t always linear, but every positive step matters. Whether you’re just beginning treatment or have been in recovery for years, developing healthy habits and a strong support system can help you stay focused on your
June is a meaningful month for health, healing, and community. It includes PTSD Awareness Month, Men’s Health Month, National Immigrant Heritage Month, and Juneteenth on June 19. These observances remind us that mental health is connected to many parts of life: trauma, stress, culture, family, identity, history, physical health, and access to support. PTSD can affect
Recovery is not about pretending everything feels fine Healing from substance use disorder is not about smiling through pain or pushing yourself past your limits. It is about building enough safety, support, and structure to keep moving forward – even on the hard days. Recovery is also not all-or-nothing. Progress can be real even when
Why the language has changed You may still hear the term “medication-assisted treatment” or MAT, but many clinicians and public health organizations now use “medications for opioid use disorder” or MOUD. The newer language reflects an important truth: medication is not an optional add-on or a shortcut. It is evidence-based treatment. Using respectful, person-first language
These terms are related, but they do not mean the same thing Conversations about opioids are often filled with words like tolerance, dependence, withdrawal, and addiction. They are connected, but they are not interchangeable, and using the right language helps people make informed treatment decisions without shame. Tolerance means the body becomes less responsive to
Methadone is an evidence-based treatment for opioid use disorder Methadone is a long-acting medication used to treat opioid use disorder (OUD). When it is prescribed and monitored through an opioid treatment program, it can reduce withdrawal symptoms, ease cravings, and help block the effects of other opioids. For many people, that creates enough stability to
Opioid use before and during pregnancy has increased dramatically in the last few years just like in the general population. The good news is that mothers with opioid use disorder can have a healthy pregnancy if managed effectively during this time. Learning more about pregnant and breastfeeding women and methadone can help keep more mothers and babies safe
A Mental Health & Well-Being Note As we celebrate Black History Month, here’s a reminder worth repeating: strength isn’t doing it alone. Black history reflects resilience and also community care, support, and healing. Mental health and substance use challenges can affect anyone. Black communities often face extra barriers to getting support, including stigma, chronic stress,