Key Takeaways

• Reliable rehab centers offer structured support systems that enhance men’s confidence during recovery.
• Individualized therapy programs address each patient’s needs and promote sustained success.
• Engagement in community and therapy sessions helps rebuild self-esteem and social skills.
• Holistic approaches address both mental and physical well-being, promoting overall confidence.

Introduction

Overcoming addiction is a monumental achievement, particularly for men who often grapple with societal expectations and personal doubts. While the recovery journey is undeniably challenging, the role of a reliable rehab center is invaluable in rebuilding confidence and fostering a healthy, fulfilling life post-addiction. Confidence is more than just a feeling; it results from self-esteem, achievement, and the ability to face challenges with resilience. Understanding how rehab contributes to this transformation is crucial for men seeking a new lease on life.

The Role of Reliable Rehab Facilities

Reliable rehabs provide a structured environment where men can begin their recovery journey with clarity and support. These facilities offer a sanctuary from the external pressures that might have fueled addiction, creating a safe space for self-discovery and healing. Centers like Heartwood Recovery excel in delivering comprehensive care that addresses each individual’s unique emotional, physical, and psychological needs. By tailoring treatment plans to fit personal requirements, these centers lay the foundation for sustained success, promoting confidence through tailored support.

Personalized Treatment Plans

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to addiction rehabilitation. Creating individualized treatment programs that address each person’s unique strengths and problems is crucial to trustworthy rehabilitation. These facilities provide customized sobering pathways by evaluating each client’s medical history, therapy preferences, and personal background. Personalized care fosters a sense of self-worth and increases the efficacy of treatment. As a result of feeling recognized and understood, men experience a newfound sense of confidence in their capacity to overcome addiction.

Building Social Connections and Emotional Support

Recovery is not a solitary journey. Creating a network of encouraging connections is essential to increasing self-confidence. Reputable rehabilitation facilities help with this by providing community service projects and group treatment sessions. In these communal settings, men can learn from others, share their experiences, and hone critical social skills. Forming connections reduces feelings of isolation and creates a supportive framework that bolsters confidence. Men rediscover their worth and potential with each shared story and moment of empathy.

Therapeutic Techniques and Confidence Building

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and mindfulness practices are integral to rehab programs—each contributing to confidence-building. Through CBT, men learn to identify and counter negative thought patterns that undermine self-esteem. Motivational interviewing helps them embrace change by setting clear, achievable goals, while mindfulness teaches them to stay present and appreciate small victories. These methodologies collectively reinforce the belief that change is possible and that they can lead fulfilling lives.

Holistic Approaches for Comprehensive Healing

Holistic recovery programs address more than the addiction itself; they focus on the entire well-being of the individual. This includes physical health, mental clarity, and spiritual fulfillment. Reliable rehabs balance traditional treatment with holistic practices by integrating activities like yoga, meditation, and art therapy. These activities enhance self-awareness and self-expression, allowing men to cultivate a deeper connection with themselves. This comprehensive approach ensures that confidence is built on a solid foundation of health and balance, paving the way for enduring recovery.

Setting and Achieving Goals

Goal setting is a powerful motivator that rekindles hope and confidence. In rehab settings, men are encouraged to set realistic goals, whether completing a step in their treatment plan or enhancing a personal skill. Achieving these goals, regardless of size, provides a sense of accomplishment. With each success, confidence grows, fostering a positive cycle of motivation and self-belief. The practice of setting and reaching goals in rehab teaches men that they possess the capability to change their lives beyond addiction.

Conclusion

The transformation from addiction to recovery is profound, marked by the rekindling of confidence and purpose. Reliable rehab centers are pivotal in this transformation, equipping men with the tools, skills, and support needed to rebuild their lives. Through structured programs, holistic approaches, and a nurturing environment, these facilities empower men to believe in themselves anew. The journey through recovery is challenging yet immensely rewarding, as each step fosters resilience, strength, and, ultimately, a renewed confidence that propels them into a brighter future.

Disclaimer
The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

It may seem strange now, but there was a time when patients weren’t always included in their healthcare decisions. “Doctor knows best” was the vibe — and the practice. Would you believe that it used to be routine for patients to not be told what their diagnosis was? Healthcare providers (HCPs) or family members often made treatment decisions without telling or even asking the patient.

This still happens unfortunately but, thankfully, it’s no longer the norm.

Shared decision-making is a process where HCPs and patients work together to make healthcare decisions. HCPs might provide research and data about medications or procedures, and patients may provide their priorities and goals. The two parties work together to arrive at a decision about how to proceed.

Shared decision-making in healthcare shows respect for patients’ needs and values. And it has other benefits as well. Involving patients in their healthcare decisions can help people feel in control, make it easier and more likely that they’ll follow the plan for their treatment, and lessen the anxiety that often goes along with needing medical care.

Even though there are now laws in place to require involving patients more, it can still be hard for patients to make their preferences known. Many patients — especially women and people in traditionally marginalized communities — may worry about being labeled as difficult if they speak up or ask too many questions. Some people fear offending their HCP if they express their opinions. And many people feel unprepared or unqualified to have a say in their treatment options. HCPs are often rushed and may not always feel they can make time to share information and inlcude the patient. Not taking that time may be easier and faster for the HCP, but it can leave the person out of the loop and rob them of their power.

Colic can be distressing for both babies and parents, but infant massage is a proven, natural way to relieve discomfort and support digestion. Gentle strokes can help ease trapped gas, improve bowel movements, and calm a fussy baby.

Why Colic Massage for Babies

Relieves Gas & Bloating – Stimulates digestion and helps release trapped air.
Reduces Abdominal Pain – Soothes cramping and colic-related discomfort.
Improves Digestion – Encourages healthy bowel movements.
Promotes Relaxation – Releases tension, helping babies sleep better.
Strengthens Parent-Baby Bond – Gentle touch fosters trust and security.

Step-by-Step Colic Massage Techniques

Best Time: Wait 30 minutes after feeding and choose a quiet, warm space.

The ‘I Love U’ Massage (ILU Method)

Purpose: Helps move trapped gas through the intestines.

How to Do It:

• Trace an “I” on the left side of the baby’s belly (downward stroke).
• Make an upside-down “L” (horizontal stroke from right to left, then downward).
• Finish with an upside-down “U” (semi-circle from the right to left).
• Use slow, gentle strokes—this mimics natural bowel movement direction.

Bicycle Legs

Purpose: Encourages gas release and relieves tummy tension.

How to Do It:

• Hold the baby’s legs and gently pedal them like a bicycle.
• Press knees lightly toward the belly for a few seconds, then release.
• Do this for 1-2 minutes, stopping if the baby resists.

Sun & Moon Massage

Purpose: Helps ease cramps and promotes digestion.

How to Do It:

• Use one hand to rub clockwise circles (Sun) on the baby’s belly.
• Use the other hand to make smaller crescent movements (Moon) inside the larger circles.
• Always massage in a clockwise direction to follow the natural digestive flow.

The Water Wheel Stroke

Purpose: Soothes bloating and supports digestion.

How to Do It:

• Place both hands on the baby’s belly.
• Stroke downward from ribs to lower belly, alternating hands in a wave-like motion.
• Imagine you’re scooping water downwards!

Best Oils for Colic Massage

• Cold-Pressed Coconut Oil – Gentle and nourishing.
• Chamomile-Infused Oil – Soothing for gas relief.
• Fennel & Ginger Oil Blends – Traditional remedies for digestive support.
• Pre-Warmed Massage Oil Bottles – Ensure a comfortable touch for the baby.

Safety Tips for Colic Massage

• Always massage in a clockwise motion – the natural direction of digestion.
• Use gentle pressure – a soft touch is key.
• Watch the baby’s cues – stop if they seem uncomfortable.
• Avoid massage right after feeding – wait at least 30 minutes.
• Combine with tummy time – helps strengthen digestion.

Disclaimer
The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

January is National Blood Donor Month.

Did you know that every time you give blood you’re saving a life? In fact, one donation can save up to
three lives, according to the American Red Cross.

If that doesn’t have you rolling up your sleeve, consider the fact that every two seconds someone in America needs blood because of an accident, disease or surgery. That means you or someone you love could benefit from a donation at some point in your life. But blood is often in short supply because it has to be donated — we can’t make it in a lab or pool resources from the cast of “True Blood” (unfortunately).

Fast Facts: What to Know Before You Donate Blood >>

Now that you’re aware of this life-saving super power, make an appointment to donate blood and take our quiz to see how much you know before you go.

1. About half of the population in the U.S. donates blood each year.

2. Most eligible people can donate blood 6 times a year.

3. The process of donating blood takes about one hour.

4. You can’t give blood if you’re taking birth control pills.

5. You can’t donate blood if you’re pregnant.

6. Donating blood reduces your risk for cardiovascular disease — the leading cause of death in women and people assigned female at birth in the U.S.

7. Hormone therapy can impact your ability to give blood.

8. You can still give blood if you have a fever.

9. Your bad-ass tattoo means no donating for you.

When doctors talk to each other about scientific research and medical discoveries, it can sound like they’re speaking another language. As a patient, you may think, “This is all Greek to me!” And it might as well be.

When scientists publish their research findings, they’re not writing for you and me. They’re writing for each other. They share a secret language, usually open only to those who have advanced science education or extensive experience conducting research.

The average healthcare consumer is not part of that club. That may be fine when you’re healthy. You can pick up the latest medical news when your favorite TV station or mainstream news sources covers it.

But if you have a complicated medical condition or you’re trying to get a diagnosis, you might need the details. The dense language used in scientific studies can make it impossible to understand the research. That can be more than simply an inconvenience. It can keep you in the dark about your own condition or treatment options.

Plain language summaries (PLS) are reports that translate complex data and science jargon into everyday English, in terms anyone can understand.

In the spirit of making complex ideas easy to digest, here’s what you should know about plain language summaries.

This educational resource was created with support from Sumitomo Pharma, a HealthyWomen Corporate Advisory Council member.

If this is the first time you’re hearing the term “perimenopause” — welcome! We’ve been expecting you. Everyone who gets a period goes through menopause, and perimenopause refers to the time period leading up to the day when you’re officially out of the egg-dropping game — aka no more periods.

During this time, your hormone levels start to decline and many women and people assigned female at birth (AFAB) experience a wide range of menopausal symptoms, including hot flashes, fatigue and night sweats. But some people don’t experience any changes at all. To further complicate things, the amount of time spent in perimenopause land is different for everyone. The average number is four years but perimenopause can go on for as long as 14 years. And studies show that people of color are typically in perimenopause longer compared to white people.

So, how do you know for sure if you’re in perimenopause/menopause? We asked Sabrina Sahni, M.D., MSCP, a menopause and breast medicine physician and member of HealthyWomen’s Women’s Health Advisory Council, for her thoughts on taking a blood test for menopause and if the new at-home menopause test kits can provide any answers.

Take our quiz: True or False: Menopause >>

About 11,500 people in the United States are diagnosed with cervical cancer every year.

Cervical cancer happens often in the reproductive years. Almost 4 out of 10 people diagnosed with this disease are 45 and younger. The cervix plays an important role in pregnancy by helping keep the baby inside the uterus. If your cervix is removed or weakened during treatment for cervical cancer, it can make it difficult or impossible to conceive or carry a pregnancy to term. However, it is still possible for some people to conceive after having had cervical cancer.

We reached out to experts to find out more about getting pregnant when you have cervical cancer.

This educational resource was created with support from Merck.

As told to Jacquelyne Froeber

January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month.

I was standing in the checkout line at Walmart when my phone rang. It was my gynecologist.

“Karen, your Pap test came back abnormal — you need to come in for a biopsy,” she said.

I sighed. Here we go again.

Eighteen months earlier, I’d been diagnosed with breast cancer. Thankfully, we caught it early, but it was still cancer. I was 46 at the time and didn’t see the need to keep my breasts if they were trying to kill me, so I had a double mastectomy.

I’d hoped that my decision to have the surgery would help keep cancer at bay, but I’m a nurse so I knew the abnormal test results didn’t sound good.

And I was right — I had cancerous cells all the way around my cervix. The surgeon removed the tissue during a cone biopsy, but I had to wait three months to heal before I could have a scan to see if any new cancerous cells were growing.

The next step was to see a gynecologic oncologist to talk about my options going forward. My partner Karen and I — yes, we’re both named Karen — met with the doctor and went over the test results. Afterward, I changed into one of those lovely paper gowns for the exam. When the doctor returned to the room and said “Karen,” we weren’t sure who he was talking to.

“I’m going to call you Karen dressed,” he said pointing to my partner. “And you Karen undressed,” he said to me for obvious reasons.

Karen and I burst out laughing. It was the perfect comment at the perfect time.

I was thankful for all of the support and love I received from my care team and family and friends, but the next three months were really hard for me. My nurse brain was racked with obsessive anxiety 24/7. Like a morbid game of frogger, I’d leap from diagnosis to diagnosis. It was torture to think there might be cancer growing in my body and I’m just what … watching reruns of “Friends?” I felt helpless because there was nothing I could do about it.

I’d recently started a new healthcare job that helped keep my mind occupied. When the three months were up and I finally had the follow-up tests, my fears were confirmed: cancerous cells were growing and I was scheduled to have a radical hysterectomy.

The day of the surgery, my doctor said there was one catch: If the contrast dye they administered before the surgery showed that cancer had moved to my lymph nodes, they wouldn’t do the hysterectomy and I’d need to start chemotherapy and radiation right away.

As they wheeled me into the operating room, I made a note of the time and hoped I’d wake up hours later cancer-free.

When I came to, I looked at the clock and saw that not much time had passed. Still, I smashed around my gut and pelvic area — no incisions. I sank back into the bed and listened to the short beep of the monitor next to me. And then I screamed into my pillow as loud as I could.

I was devastated. And the thought of having to tell my son and Karen and everyone I knew that I had cancer — again — was almost too much to wrap my brain around. But as a nurse, I was used to putting on a good face even when things were falling apart. So that’s what I did.

My treatment plan was aggressive: six chemotherapy sessions and 25 rounds of radiation.

At first, I was excited to learn that the chemotherapy wasn’t the kind that would make my hair fall out, but I would’ve shaved my head myself if that meant I didn’t have to deal with the debilitating nausea and diarrhea I called “liquid death.”

One morning, about midway through treatment, my stomach started cramping so bad I couldn’t stand up all the way. My fingers were bent and curled inward and Karen had to drive me to the emergency room.

My blood work showed I had extremely low levels of magnesium and potassium. That doesn’t sound too serious, but I asked to be admitted — that’s how bad I felt. The only good thing that came out of the scare was that I started new medications to help with the extreme side effects from the chemo and radiation. And I did feel better — or as good as you can when you’re going through treatment.

After the chemo and radiation were over, I went back to work and tried to be business as usual. But I was physically and mentally exhausted. I was slow to finish my nursing duties every day and, one afternoon, my son had to pick me up because I had a panic attack. I eventually lost my job, which seemed like the end of the world at the time, but it turned out to be the best thing for me.

I’d been putting on my “fake face” and trying to be strong for so long I didn’t know how to be vulnerable. Thankfully, Karen called me out on my fakery and that’s when I started being honest and going to counseling. I also joined a cervical cancer survivor group on Facebook and met up with a member one day for coffee.

2022

As we talked about our experiences, a light bulb went off in my head. I’d been feeling so alone — like I was the only person on the planet going through cervical cancer. But I wasn’t alone. It was like finding the last piece to the puzzle, and everything clicked. I realized that I was still a nurse and I could still help people, just in a different way.

Today, I’m an ambassador for the patient advocacy group Cervivor. I also lead Cervivor PRIDE for sexual and gender minority (LGBTQIA+) survivors. My goal is to offer support and guidance to anyone who has/had cervical cancer because I’m an open book and I would’ve done a lot of things differently during treatment (hello, therapy and a better diet).

It’s been eight years since my diagnosis and I’m happy to say I’m NED — no evidence of disease. But I’m careful to keep up with my yearly appointments. Cervical cancer is sneaky, and I know it could come back any time. And while I think “Karen Undressed” is absolutely hilarious, I’ll take “Karen No Evidence of Disease” every day.

Have your own Real Women, Real Stories you want to share? Let us know.

Our Real Women, Real Stories are the authentic experiences of real-life women. The views, opinions and experiences shared in these stories are not endorsed by HealthyWomen and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of HealthyWomen.