At this time of year, commercials, advertisements, and social network feeds are filled with images of happy families, friends, and celebrations for the holiday season. This can be a very difficult time of the year for the recovering person when their reality does not align with the picture of a
Recovery from active addiction involves much more than simple abstinence from drugs. There is common phrase among addiction professionals and those advocates in the recovery community that addiction is “a feeling disease.” What does that mean? The use of mood and mind altering chemicals is only symptom of the problem.
Making a decision on who you want to conduct your substance abuse or DWI evaluation is a crucial one to make. If you are getting this evaluation to meet the requirements asked of by your attorney or the legal requirements of the court, you’re likely suspicious that the professional requiring
Denial is often misunderstood when working through an addiction. On the surface, breaking through denial is as simple as recognizing that you have a problem. We always hear that you have to admit to yourself that you have a problem. This is undoubtedly an important step on the path to
There is often confusion for people who are dealing with an addiction of whether or not they should participate in a 12-step support group, or if they should participate in therapy. Both have their potential benefits. 12-step support groups can give you a support system, is more likely to be
Overcoming an addiction is largely learning how to control the behavior itself. However further recovery consists of changing ineffective interpersonal patterns. This list addresses these commonly overlooked, yet important skills. 1. Listen to others. When dealing with an addictive behavior, it can be difficult to keep yourself from getting defensive
Running from shame is understandable. This avoidance can initially help you cope with the discomfort of the pain that underlies it. Facing it head-on is uncomfortable and intimidating. Thus, it seems like a “no-brainer” to choose the path that is initially less painful. However, with continued avoidance, the pain can
So you made a mistake, and your friend is angry at you. The first step is, obviously, to apologize. However, what if he doesn’t forgive you? Moving on is the next big step to tackle, but this is easier said than done. Assuming that you accept responsibility for what you
How to Overcome an Addiction This is an Infographic that displays How to Overcome an Addiction. This chart displays this using a model that is similar to the Stages of Change Model. Many times people are unaware that they have a problem. When they become aware, they often feel as
One of the biggest mistakes people make early on in their recovery is underestimating the power of the group. Our culture is one that values personal independence and free will. This often leads us to overestimate our ability to handle a change in our lives even when with a group