The Estate News & Blog

For many men, emotional intimacy is one of life’s most confusing and elusive experiences. We crave deep connection—whether with a spouse, partner, a child, a brother, or a friend—but somewhere along the way, we learn to guard our emotions, avoid vulnerability, and numb discomfort. For those struggling with addiction, substances can become a stand-in for connection: a way to feel something—or nothing—without the risk of being seen.

Addiction recovery is a challenging journey. It requires more than just willpower. Professional help through detox and rehab is crucial for overcoming substance abuse. Many people struggling with drugs and alcohol need structured treatment programs to manage withdrawal symptoms and develop coping strategies. Without proper treatment, relapse is likely.

When it comes to addiction treatment, one size rarely fits all—especially for men. Societal pressure to appear strong, reluctance to express emotion, and the stigma around seeking help often make it harder for men to ask for support. But recovery doesn’t have to be a lonely journey.

Some things can’t be taught in words. They have to be felt. 

Blackouts after drinking are more than just a rough night — they signal alcohol’s impact on the brain. When blood alcohol levels rise quickly, memory formation is disrupted, especially in the hippocampus. This leads to gaps in memory, often caused by binge drinking or drinking on an empty stomach.

Alcohol withdrawal occurs when someone who has been drinking heavily for a long time suddenly stops or reduces their alcohol intake. For those with alcohol use disorder or alcohol dependence, the body becomes reliant on alcohol, and withdrawal symptoms can follow when drinking stops. 

At some point in life—especially in the midst of addiction—we start to believe the stories we tell ourselves.
Stories like:
“I’ve always been this way.”
“I ruined everything.”
“I can’t change.”

For anyone struggling with alcohol use, the decision to stop drinking is a courageous and essential first step. But the method of quitting can significantly impact safety and success. Many people consider quitting alcohol cold turkey, hoping for a fast recovery. However, this approach carries serious health risks, especially for a heavy drinker.

Cannabis has long been used as a remedy for sleep issues, with many users reporting improved sleep quality, especially for people in the United States. However, the relationship between cannabis and sleep is complex, influenced by factors like dosage, frequency of use, and individual physiology. 

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a chronic medical condition. It involves an inability to control alcohol consumption despite negative consequences. It ranges from mild to severe, depending on certain factors such as frequency and amount of consumption.