Understanding Perinatal Loss and Managing Parental Grief

Thrive • October 4, 2021

By Thrive Reno’s Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorder (PMAD) Program Manager and Therapist, Lauren Kalogridis, LSW, CSW-Intern

Pregnancy and infant loss can forever change the lives of the people it affects. Unfortunately, due to the hesitancy to discuss perinatal loss by many loved ones and society at large, many individuals who experience a perinatal loss find themselves grieving in isolation.

In honor of Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month , Thrive honors the memories of all babies who’ve been lost too soon and offers support to grieving families. We understand that all forms of perinatal loss are devastating regardless of what stage of the pregnancy it occurred. Additionally, all parents may grieve a perinatal loss in their own way, regardless of their gender, identity, or if they carried the child.

Bereaved parents and their loved ones should keep in mind that grief ebbs and flows and healing is nonlinear. Their lives may never be the same, but over time, and with adequate support, parents will be able to connect to their loss without being consumed by grief.

Below you’ll find an overview of different forms of perinatal loss, common misconceptions, notes on subsequent pregnancies, paths to healing, and additional resources for bereaved parents. If you’re struggling with a perinatal loss, we can connect you with a Thrive perinatal grief specialist; just give us a call.

FORMS OF PREGNANCY AND INFANT LOSS

Pregnancy and infant loss occur during the perinatal period. The losses may result from:

Miscarriage: The loss of a pregnancy during the first 24 weeks of pregnancy.
Stillbirth: A baby born without any signs of life at or after 24 weeks of pregnancy.
Ectopic pregnancy: When a fertilized egg implants outside of the uterus.
Infant death: May result from prematurity, birth defects, or Sudden Unexpected Infant Deaths (SUIDs) such as Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

Perinatal losses can also be more ambiguous and may include losses related to:

Infertility and unsuccessful attempts at in vitro fertilization (IVF) and other assisted reproductive technologies
Adoption or foster care complications

THREE COMMON MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT PERINATAL LOSS

While more common than you might think, pregnancy and infant loss is often misunderstood. Shedding light on the ambiguity surrounding the topic allows individuals affected by perinatal loss to honor their experiences and memories of their lost babies. Explore some common misconceptions about perinatal loss below.

Myth #1: Perinatal loss is rare.

Unfortunately, perinatal loss is more common than one might be led to believe. In the United States, around ten to 15 percent of pregnancies end in miscarriage, 24,000 babies are stillborn, and 21,000 infants die within their first year. Additionally, BIPOC communities face a higher risk of perinatal loss due to systemic oppression and social determinants of health. While tragic, the prevalence of pregnancy and infant loss means that if you are a bereaved parent, you may find solace in more understanding individuals than you might expect.

Myth #2: Grief about a perinatal loss isn’t valid, especially if the pregnancy was in the early stages.

Although not everyone who experiences a loss early in their pregnancy will experience grief, many parents do. There is a false distinction between the grief experienced over the loss of an early-term pregnancy and the grief experienced with a loss later in pregnancy or in infancy. However, all losses are tragic despite what stage of the perinatal period that they occurred. The way parents process the loss and intensity of their grief may vary depending on their personal attachment styles, connection to their pregnancy, and the nature of the loss.

Myth #3: The topic of perinatal loss shouldn’t be addressed in conversation.

Oftentimes, people might hesitate to acknowledge their loved ones’ perinatal loss, fearing they will trigger the grieving parent. Though everyone appreciates a different level of support, many parents want their lost pregnancy or baby to be remembered. Avoiding the topic may increase the grieving parents’ sense of isolation and unintentionally advance the stigma surrounding perinatal loss.

SEVEN TIPS FOR MANAGING GRIEF FOLLOWING A PERINATAL LOSS

While managing one’s grief following a perinatal loss is often supported by others, the guidance below is intended to provide bereaved individuals and families with some helpful insight into their grief.

Tip #1: Don’t feel the pressure to “accept” your loss.

There is an outdated idea that parents who’ve experienced a perinatal loss “get over it” and eventually accept the loss. The idea of letting go is not supportive to many parents who have a great deal of love for a lost pregnancy or baby even after they are gone. Instead of letting go, parents can focus on finding a sense of connection to their loss and loving their baby in their absence. Through this process, parents can work to slowly integrate their grief into their life and worldview. As a result, rather than allowing their grief to consume their lives, parents can walk with it, while also embracing their lives.

Tip #2: Recognize different forms of grieving.

Everyone grieves differently. For example, some individuals grieve intuitively by expressing their emotions outwardly. Others grieve instrumentally by taking action and addressing the many tasks of life that are complicated after a loss. Additionally, people’s grieving timelines vary greatly. By accepting the various ways to grieve as valid and remaining patient with each other, families can stay connected as they heal from their loss.

Tip #3: Loved ones can carry you through your grief in different ways.

Parents need different kinds of support following the loss of an infant or pregnancy. For bereaved parents, it can be helpful to ask themselves, “What kind of specific support do I hope for from this person?” Some people might be “do-ers”; they might be helpful in running out for groceries, calling to make doctor’s appointments, or watching older children while the parents have time alone. Other people might offer helpful distractions, make you laugh, or listen and offer emotional support. Thinking more specifically about who you can go to for different kinds of support may provide your loved ones more direction and ensure you feel more supported and connected.

Tip #4: Therapists can help you process your grief.

All parents deserve the opportunity to grieve without isolation. Therapy can be a helpful place to process emotions individually or as a family with your partner and other children. For some parents, their grief will become more integrated as time takes its natural course. Others may experience complicated grief after a loss; grief that remains raw and acute despite the passage of time. Parents may feel stuck in complicated grief, especially if other risk factors are present such as trauma histories, lack of adequate support, or societal stigma that does not recognize perinatal loss as valid. Therapists can support you to process and integrate complicated grief or unresolved trauma, which will support you in finding a reprieve from this kind of suffering.

Tip #5: Seek out other forms of support and care.

For some, the loss of a pregnancy or infant can become a crisis of faith. If so, it can be helpful to reach out to people in your spiritual community who can be present with these hard questions while you grieve. Additionally, doulas can offer parents postpartum care, even following a pregnancy or infant loss. For parents who may be lactating after a loss, certified lactation consultants can offer support as you explore options about how to handle this physical transition.

Tip #6: Make space to grieve the specific hopes and dreams.

When someone dies as an older adult, we often spend time with the memories we had with them while they were alive. Parents who’ve lost a pregnancy or baby may not have had a long life of memories with their baby, but they often have had many meaningful hopes and expectations for their life with this child. As a result of these hopes unraveling, they may find it difficult to envision their own futures after a loss. Grieving these dreams is an important part of healing from a perinatal loss and will support parents in reconnecting with their lives and moving forward.

Tip #7: Find ways to intentionally connect to your grief.

By engaging in structured ways to connect to their loss in daily life, parents can have a healthy outlet for their grief. For example, grief support groups provide parents with time every week to honor the memory of their pregnancy or baby as well as connect with others who might be experiencing similar struggles.

STRUGGLING DURING SUBSEQUENT PREGNANCIES

The term “rainbow baby” is often used to refer to babies born successfully following a previous perinatal loss. Rainbow babies are symbols of hope and renewal. With the new pregnancy, parents have the opportunity to honor their baby who was lost, while embracing their next season of parenthood.

Unfortunately, after experiencing a perinatal loss, parents face an increased risk for perinatal mental health struggles during subsequent pregnancies, including:

Perinatal anxiety: Parents who’ve experienced a pregnancy or infant loss may experience increased anxiety about the possibility of another loss occurring. Anxiety during subsequent pregnancies and postpartum periods is especially prevalent if the previous loss was unresolved.
Attachment struggles: After enduring a perinatal loss, some parents may find it difficult to bond with their rainbow baby. A parent may have their walls up to avoid becoming fully attached to their new baby for fear that they may be grief-stricken by another perinatal loss.

If you’re noticing these signs in your own journey, or the journey of someone you love, therapeutic support might be helpful.

THRIVE’S SUPPORT FOR GRIEVING PARENTS

Thrive provides bereaved parents with a community of healing and support. Find out more about our perinatal grief therapeutic services below.

Perinatal Loss and Grief Support Group — Thrive Reno

Thrive Reno offers a complimentary community support group for grieving parents . All individuals who are struggling with a perinatal loss are welcome, regardless of the nature of the loss and whether the loss was experienced recently or many years ago.

Outpatient Perinatal Grief Therapy for Individuals and Couples — Thrive Reno and Thrive Waco

At both Thrive’s Reno and Waco locations, perinatal grief therapists provide counseling to individuals and couples. Parents struggling with a loss can do self-work during individual sessions and reconnect to each other during couples sessions.

‘It Takes a Village’ Day Program — Thrive Reno

While Thrive Reno’s ‘It Takes a Village’ Day Program for perinatal mental health isn’t intended for parents experiencing a recent perinatal loss, it can help parents throughout any subsequent pregnancies. The program guides parents in bonding with their new baby while also healing any trauma that may be unresolved from a previous perinatal loss.

ADDITIONAL PERINATAL LOSS RESOURCES

Resources in Reno

Pregnancy and Infant Loss Support of the Sierras (PILSOS) — Hosts a monthly support group and offers a Facebook group .
Biggest Little Baby — Hosts has a monthly support group for parenting after a loss
Elowyn’s Elephants Kits — Provides complimentary care packages for bereaved parents. Parents can pick one up at Biggest Little Baby.

General Resources

Postpartum Support International (PSI) — Provides a comprehensive list of resources on its website as well as free online support groups focusing on perinatal loss .
Seleni Institute — Publishes blogs on perinatal loss .
Return to Zero — Works to foster awareness around pregnancy and infant loss.
Glow in the Woods — An online community of parents who’ve experienced pregnancy and infant loss. Includes a great book and resource list.
StillBirthDay — Offers support to parents experiencing a perinatal loss.
Molly Bears — Creates teddy bears to match the weight of lost pregnancies or babies.
Star Legacy Foundation — Fosters awareness around the topic of perinatal loss through research and advocacy.
Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep — Offers complimentary photography services to remember stillborn babies.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Resources for Perinatal Loss

Return to Zero Hope’s resources for LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC struggling with perinatal loss.
Center for American Progress report on the racial disparities in maternal and infant mortality.
Sisters in Loss, a community of Black women replacing silence with storytelling related to perinatal loss

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Lauren Kalogridis, LMSW, CSW-intern — Perinatal Program Manager & Therapist

Lauren Kalogridis, LMSW, CSW-Intern, earned her Bachelor of Social Work from New York University, and her Master of Social Work from Smith College School for Social Work. Lauren’s clinical approach is grounded in relational psychodynamic therapy, and incorporates elements from somatic, trauma-informed and cognitive-behavioral modalities. Her clinical experience has ranged from working with teens to older adults on issues including depression, anxiety, psychosis, trauma-related symptoms, relationship challenges, and issues related to identity and oppression. Lauren is passionate about working with teens and young people, as well as LGBTQ+ identified folks. She is also actively practicing as a full-spectrum doula, which has informed and deepened her commitment to working with individuals during the perinatal period. Lauren recognizes all humans have an intrinsic need to feel safe, to connect, and to belong. She believes in collaboratively building a trusting therapeutic relationship, which serves as a foundation for gaining new insight and accessing healing. You can expect her to bring warmth, humor and intention to your work together, as she supports you in envisioning new possibilities for your life and relationships.

The post Understanding Perinatal Loss and Managing Parental Grief first appeared on Thrive Wellness.

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Breaking Down Barriers: Debunking the Most Common Eating Disorder Myths

By Sage Tippie • February 14, 2025

This Eating Disorders Awareness Month, we’re focusing on fighting the misinformation and stereotypes surrounding eating disorders that so often create barriers to diagnosis and treatment. Myths about eating disorders can perpetuate harmful stereotypes and keep people from receiving effective and timely treatment when they need it. It’s no secret that the field of eating disorders is riddled with misinformation, leading to confusion, stigma, and shame for those struggling. In this blog post, we'll explore the common myths about eating disorders and fight them with concrete facts in the hopes of building a more informed and educated community when it comes to these serious mental health conditions. Eating Disorder Myths Versus Facts Myth: Only those who are medically underweight have an eating disorder. Fact: Someone can have an eating disorder at any weight. In fact, less than 6% of those diagnosed with an eating disorder are medically underweight. There is even a specific diagnosis for those who are not underweight showing the symptoms of anorexia called atypical anorexia. People of all sizes are at risk for serious complications from an eating disorder, not just those that are underweight. Myth: Only women have eating disorders Fact: Although often associated with teen girls, eating disorders can affect those of any gender and age. While stereotypes and stigma surrounding eating disorders may tell us that men are not commonly affected by them, research has found that nearly 25% of those who present for eating disorder treatment are male. Keeping an open mind around who can be affected by eating disorders allows for more accurate and timely diagnosis and treatment for those who need it. Myth: Eating disorders are just about food. Facts: While eating disorders always involve an unhealthy relationship with food or body image, they also are rooted in biological, psychological and sociocultural aspects. Eating disorders cannot be treated just by changing eating behaviors, but by addressing the mental aspect of the illness as well. This is why integrated treatment involving a team of social workers, primary care specialists, therapists, and in some cases occupational therapists or psychiatrists is so crucial: a holistic approach is needed to treat all aspects of an eating disorder. Myth: Eating disorders aren’t that serious. Fact: Eating disorders are extremely serious and life-threatening mental disorders that require dedicated treatment. In fact, anorexia nervosa has the second highest mortality rate of any psychiatric disorder. By taking eating disorders and their diagnosis and treatment seriously, we can save lives. Myth: Eating disorders are a choice. Fact: Just like any other illness, eating disorders are not a choice or a phase, nor is recovery from an eating disorder just a simple decision to start eating more or less. Recovery is not dependent on willpower, but on ongoing professional treatment and long-term support. The recovery process can be lengthy and challenging, requiring patience and a supportive environment and team on your side. It is a gradual, step-by-step journey, rather than an instantaneous decision made on one person’s part. Myth: Eating disorders always involve negative body image. Fact: Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) does not have to do with body image. Those with ARFID may avoid many foods because of texture, taste, color, or smell, or feared outcomes of eating like choking or vomiting. Like any other eating disorder, ARFID is serious and requires specialized treatment like exposure-response prevention therapy. Myth: Eating disorders only affect White people. Fact: Although Black, Latina/o/x/e, Indigenous/Native, and Asian people are historically underrepresented in studies of eating disorders, large-scale studies have found that rates of eating disorders are the same or higher in all racial and ethnic groups as compared to white individuals (NEDA). Removing racial stereotypes around eating disorders can help to remove barriers that BIPOC individuals commonly face when seeking treatment. Dispelling the Myths: A Path Towards Understanding By addressing and dispelling these myths, we can create a safe space that promotes understanding and empathy. Eating disorders are not choices or phases, but debilitating mental health issues that can affect anyone. Recognizing the seriousness of these disorders is so important in reducing stigma and ensuring that those who are struggling receive the care and support they require. This month and every month, we encourage you to fight misinformation and stick up for those experiencing eating disorders, because knowledge and education can be one of the greatest assets to recovery for those who need it. If you or someone you know is in need of eating disorder support, don’t be afraid to reach out , our team of healthcare professionals are here for you. To learn more about eating disorders and the journey to recovery, download our free eating disorders guide .

Why Eating Disorder Awareness Matters

By Sage Tippie • February 6, 2025

Did you know that February is Eating Disorder Awareness month? Here at Thrive, we're passionate about educating our community and providing tools for eating disorder recognition while offering the specialized support and treatment that those with eating disorders deserve. Join us this month in the conversation around eating disorders and putting an end to harmful stereotypes and misinformation. Let's cover six reasons why building awareness around eating disorders is so crucial. 6 reasons why eating disorder awareness is important 1. Eating disorders are serious. Despite often being termed as a "choice" or a "phase," eating disorders are an incredibly serious psychological condition that require specialized treatment and support. Anorexia Nervosa has the second highest mortality rate of any psychiatric diagnosis in the United States, and every 52 minutes, 1 person dies as a direct consequence of an eating disorder (NEDA) . By spreading awareness and providing early intervention in eating disorder treatment, we can not only change lives, but save them. 2. Eating disorders are more common than you think. 9% of the US population will have an eating disorder at some point in their lives and 22% of children and adolescents worldwide show symptoms of disordered eating (NEDA). Since eating disorders can be challenging to detect, many go undiagnosed. Raising awareness for eating disorders and educating our community partners about their symptoms can allow us to catch eating disorders as early as possible and bring these statistics down. 3. Fight harmful eating disorder stereotypes. A common stereotype in association with eating disorders is that of the "thin, white, affluent female," however, anyone is at risk of an eating disorder despite their appearance or background. Stereotypes associated with eating disorders around weight, gender, age and race can create serious barriers to seeking care and major disparities in treatment. People experiencing an eating disorder can face challenges in seeking and receiving treatment or may feel unworthy of recovery when they don’t fit a stereotype, preventing them from gaining needed support and treatment. Promoting diversity and representation through awareness and education can help to break down the harmful stereotypes that have historically surrounded eating disorders. 4. Eating disorder recovery is not a one person job. Family and loved ones’ involvement in eating disorder treatment is crucial for recovery. Family-based therapy (FBT) has proven to be effective in 50% of patients being treated for anorexia nervosa, and is effective in the treatment of other eating disorders as well. A strong support system and steadfast relationships through the struggles associated with eating disorders can lead to more effective and long-lasting recovery. With more awareness and education, people will be better equipped to provide assistance to their loved ones in recovery. 5. You’re not alone. Eating disorders can be an isolating and painful disorder, making those experiencing it feel like they’re the only ones, or that no one understands what they’re going through. Building an informed community through awareness and education can be the first step towards diagnosis and treatment for those who need it. 6. Recovery is Real. Those with eating disorders are capable of long-term recovery through appropriate treatment. Research has found that the earlier intervention takes place in the treatment of eating disorders, the better the odds of long-term recovery are. Awareness and education around eating disorders helps the people that need support find it sooner, resulting in a repaired relationship with food and the body and a fuller life. How can I get involved in eating disorder awareness efforts? To get involved in eating disorder awareness efforts, start by educating yourself about the complexities and different types of eating disorders. By gaining a deeper understanding, you can become a more effective advocate. You can also consider participating in local or national events such as walks, trainings, or online webinars that aim to raise awareness, provide support to those affected, and offer education around eating disorders and their diagnosis. Another simple step for building awareness can be using your social media platform to share factual information, personal stories, or relevant resources that can help demystify eating disorders and reduce stigma. Additionally, supporting legislative efforts that promote mental health education and funding for eating disorder research can help in creating systemic change. By taking these steps, you can contribute to this important movement and work alongside us to foster acceptance, encourage early intervention, and ultimately save lives. Eating Disorder Treatment and Support Thrive offers a free eating disorder guide with more information about eating disorder symptoms and recovery. If you or someone you know is struggling with eating or body image, don’t be afraid to reach out to professionals for support. At Thrive Wellness, we offer a number of treatment options for all ages and genders, including a partial hospitalization program, an intensive outpatient program, outpatient therapy, occupational therapy, nutrition services, and more. Don’t wait to get started on treatment, contact us for a free eating disorder assessment today.

Alcohol and Mental Health: How Alcohol Effects Anxiety and Depression

By Thrive • January 24, 2025

You’ve probably heard of “Dry January” or are even participating yourself. More and more people seem to be experimenting with or embracing sobriety from alcohol, but what benefits are there from abstaining? In this article, we’ll explore alcohol’s effects on mental health, the symptoms of alcohol use disorder (AUD), and the benefits of cutting back on drinking. Alcohol's Effects on Mental Health Commonly consumed as a way to relax after a long day or to lighten up in social interactions, alcohol is a widely used and culturally accepted drug despite warnings of its dangers by health experts . When a person regularly drinks, it can result in a slew of complications for their physical and mental health. Although often consumed in an attempt to escape stress, sadness, or other unpleasant emotions, alcohol itself is a depressant that can contribute to negative feelings and exacerbate existing mental health conditions, especially with prolonged use. Alcohol influences thoughts, mood, and behaviors by impacting the central nervous system in a way that slows the communication between the brain and the body. Without the ability to process information effectively, the brain isn't able to regulate emotions and consider consequences effectively which may promote unhealthy behaviors, including drinking to excess. Ways that alcohol can affect cognitive functioning include: Lowering inhibitions Contributing to poor judgment Causing confusion Causing lapses in memory Disrupting sleep Contributing to shifts in mood Alcohol and Mental Disorders According to the Journal of the American Medical Association, 37% of people with alcohol use disorders also have at least one serious mental illness. Furthermore, alcohol abuse commonly occurs alongside depression and anxiety . Research has shown that those with major depressive disorder and those with generalized anxiety disorder were more likely to report life‐time moderate to severe alcohol use disorder than those without these conditions. Frequently, individuals struggling with depression or anxiety self-medicate by drinking alcohol. Although alcohol may provide temporary relief, it expends the chemicals in the brain which help ward off anxiety and depression. When the initial effects of the drug fade, individuals are typically left feeling more depressed or anxious than they did before they began drinking. Related: Eating Disorders, Substance Abuse, and Substance Abuse Disorders Alcohol Use and Depression The slowed functioning of the brain caused by alcohol can allow individuals to numb to their suffering. As such, those experiencing depression may be inclined to drink to avoid the sadness, pain, and hopelessness associated with depression. This maladaptive coping behavior is so prevalent that research shows a clear relationship between alcohol use disorder (AUD) and major depression. Using alcohol while depressed can be extremely dangerous. Not only can alcohol negatively interact with antidepressants, but it can also place individuals experiencing depression at an increased risk for suicidal thoughts and behavior . If you're experiencing suicidal thoughts or behaviors , you can reach the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). Alcohol Use and Anxiety According to a study on anxiety and AUD , a person with an anxiety disorder is two to three times more likely to develop an alcohol abuse disorder. When individuals with anxiety drink alcohol, they may feel an initial alleviation of their symptoms as well as a sense of euphoria. However, the symptoms of hangovers and alcohol withdrawal following heavy drinking can heighten feelings of anxiousness and interfere with ones daily obligations, contributing to even more agitation. This feeling of dread and anxiety associated with a hangover is commonly referred to as " hangxiety ," but for those with existing anxiety conditions, this side effect of drinking can feel unbearable. Individuals with anxiety may be driven to drink more to tamper their stress and re-establish the sense of euphoria, resulting in a dangerous cycle of alcohol abuse. Unhealthy Drinking Behaviors and Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) Most who regularly drink alcohol don't have AUD, which develops when addiction is present. However, alcohol-related side-effects on mental health are still common, and they may still benefit from mental health support . Signs of unhealthy alcohol use include: Feeling a need to consume alcohol to make it through the day Feeling unable to stop consuming alcohol Progressively feeling a need to increase consumption of alcohol Drinking to prevent or alleviate symptoms of hangover or withdrawal Feeling ashamed of ones alcohol consumption Having loved ones express concern over drinking habits AUD is a condition that is often driven by genetics, abuse, trauma, or unhealthy family dynamics. Healing from AUD is possible and it can be treated with the help of mental health professionals and a dedicated treatment plan. Signs of AUD include: Alcohol use that interferes with the ability to carry out daily activities Drinking despite the behaviors adverse effects on their life Often drinking more or for a longer period of time than intended Persistent desire and unsuccessful attempts to curb alcohol use Revolving their schedule around drinking Experiencing strong cravings for alcohol Continuing to drink despite experiencing recurring illness or social issues as a result of alcohol use Giving up activities one used to enjoy in favor of drinking Using alcohol during situations where its physically hazardous to be impaired Continuing to use alcohol despite knowing that it exacerbates a known existing health condition Developing a tolerance for alcohol, or needing more alcohol to feel the same effects Experiencing alcohol withdrawal or drinking more to avoid withdrawal What are the Mental Health Benefits of Going Sober or Drinking Less Alcohol? Reducing or eliminating your alcohol consumption can lead to a variety of mental health benefits, improving your overall quality of life. When going sober or cutting back on your alcohol consumption, some of the benefits you can look forward to are: Improved mood stability, including reduced feelings of depression and anxiety Improved sleep quality Enhanced cognitive function Increased energy levels Improved concentration and productivity Increased self-esteem More authentic social interactions Improved relationships Limiting your alcohol consumption has the capability to change your life for the better, as it can help you establish a healthier mental environment, build better connections, and improve your physical health. Support for Alcohol Abuse and its Mental Health Impacts As humans, it can be uncomfortable for us to process difficult experiences and feel intense emotions. Therapy can help heal the source of your struggles driving alcohol abuse, while also guiding you in implementing healthy strategies for processing painful emotions. Through professional mental health support, you can be empowered to embrace life without having to rely on alcohol. Thrive offers outpatient therapy for substance abuse struggles in addition to other mental and behavioral health conditions. Reach out to learn more. Additional Resources SAMHSAs National Helpline : A free, confidential, and 24/7 service for individuals and families facing mental health conditions and/or substance use disorders, reachable by calling 1-800-662-HELP (4357) or texting 435748 (HELP4U). National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholisms (NIAAA) Treatment for Alcohol Problems : A guide for individuals and their loved ones who are looking for options to address struggles with alcohol use.