You have escaped the confinement of addiction and you know it’s not a place you ever want to return to. It still takes commitment and hard work as you continue to recover. Unfortunately, it’s not enough to know you don’t want to return to the life of an addict. It’s not even sufficient just to voice your concern. Just as you have spent time making a life plan, you need to spend time making a relapse prevention plan. This is something you need to commit to paper instead of formulating it in your mind and expecting that you will be able to remember what you decided. It is a plan that you will want to be able to read and study and adapt as you feel changes are needed.
If you have not already identified the thoughts, feelings, behaviors and situations that triggered your drug use, that will be your first step. You can’t know what to avoid unless these things have been identified. You need to be brutally honest with yourself here. If there are aspects you can’t define on your own, get help. A sponsor, a family member, friend, or a medical professional might be able to help guide you through this process.
After that is done, you will need to determine coping skills that you will be able to use to keep you from falling prey to addictive behaviors again. Ideally, for each thought, feeling, behavior, and situation you identified, there should be a coping skill in place.
Lastly you will need to develop specific strategies and monitoring techniques to ensure the application of the coping skills you came up with. The final step will be to implement the plan. All the planning in the world won’t work unless it is used.
If you have used a relapse prevention plan, take the time to let us know how it worked for you. Doing this will not only help you, it may be the key to saving someone else from a relapse. If you know someone who is locked in a world of drugs, let them know that A Better Tomorrow can get them on the road to recovery. It only takes one phone call to initiate help.
If you need help, are struggling with an addiction, or know of someone who is, please contact A Better Tomorrow Treatment Center today. We are here to help.
http://www.abttc.net/
Phone: 800.971.1586
Fax: 800.401.8464
24 Hour Addiction HelpLine
Tel. (800) 396-9389 (7 days 24 hours)
e-mail: info@24houraddictionhelp.com
http://www.24houraddictionhelp.org/
Feel free to follow us on Facebook and Twitter too!
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ABTomorrow
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/ABTomorrow
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Recovering or Recovered
Addiction was your life, but now it’s over. The strength you have nurtured to this point has seen you through the worst of it. Now, you are left with the future and it will be what you make of it. Today is the first day of the rest of your life. Although it’s not a new adage, it is a profound one. It is one that can be renewed every day and it will still be true.
Depending on who you ask or what you read, you might think that recovering and recovered are interchangeable words for those who were addicts. It doesn’t seem like a big difference between the two, just a different suffix. The implication is a major one. Recovered implies that it is a job that is finished, complete with no more work that needs to be done. That simply is not true.
Recovery occurs over time, it is a process that allows the addict to grow healthier in body, mind and spirit. It is a constantly changing time in your life that requires ongoing effort and hard work. Physical and emotional wellness especially in your relationship with others is a way to measure and mark your progress.
Although you have made the commitment to end your addiction, you are still vulnerable to a relapse. Recovery requires sustained effort and thus is never done. The term recovering allows you and others to recognize that you are a work in progress. There may be some bumps in the road, but all will know that you are working towards making things better.
Using the word recovered may give you a sense that you are cured and you may be lulled into thinking that you are ready to go back to casual use of drugs or alcohol. Don’t be fooled into believing that you can go back to that place and time where the use of drugs or alcohol did not cause you problems. Your addiction changed the physical makeup of the brain and it is not something that you can undo. For you there is no such thing as using in a controlled fashion.
If you have found an effective way to deal with a drug or alcohol problem, please let us know. If you have any thoughts you would like to share on this blog, we would love to hear from you. If you know someone who is addicted to drugs or alcohol and they are looking for help, send them to A Better Tomorrow. The road to recovery is just a phone call away.
If you need help, are struggling with an addiction, or know of someone who is, please contact A Better Tomorrow Treatment Center today. We are here to help.
http://www.abttc.net/
Phone: 800.971.1586
Fax: 800.401.8464
24 Hour Addiction HelpLine
Tel. (800) 396-9389 (7 days 24 hours)
e-mail: info@24houraddictionhelp.com
http://www.24houraddictionhelp.org/
Feel free to follow us on Facebook and Twitter too!
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ABTomorrow
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/ABTomorrow
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
After the Treatment
The treatment center you attended for your addiction probably wasn't much fun, especially at first. But, you stuck with it and you made it through the program. Don’t for one minute let yourself believe that getting through the detoxification program is all you have to do. You went there because you wanted to quit using and abusing alcohol or drugs. You’ve completed the program, that’s step number one. Remember, you went there for help because you could not quit on your own. If you try to make it alone from here on out, chances are you will become a relapse statistic.
The treatment center will more than likely suggest that you get involved in long term treatment. There are going to be times you will need the extra support.
Although you are responsible for your own life it doesn’t hurt to listen to the advice of professionals who have been helping others like yourself for a long time. Face it, when you were left to your own devices you didn’t do so well. That’s how you got addicted in the first place. You don’t have to take their advice, but it sure can’t hurt to listen and take it under advisement.
Recovery is a life long process. The weeks you spent at the treatment center were just the jump start to get you going towards the rest of your life. AA and NA have daily meetings for a reason. You need them. Find one and go to meetings every day. You’ll find support and insight from other recovering addicts free of charge. Get a sponsor, and let them help you.
Let us hear from you if you have found a successful way to keep yourself on the high road. Your success story might help someone else find their way. If you know someone who is struggling with alcohol or drugs, let them know that there is help available. It’s as close as their phone. A Better Tomorrow is waiting to hear from them today. Let them know they deserve a better life and tell them how they can find it.
If you need help, are struggling with an addiction, or know of someone who is, please contact A Better Tomorrow Treatment Center today. We are here to help.
http://www.abttc.net/
Phone: 800.971.1586
Fax: 800.401.8464
24 Hour Addiction HelpLine
Tel. (800) 396-9389 (7 days 24 hours)
e-mail: info@24houraddictionhelp.com
http://www.24houraddictionhelp.org/
Feel free to follow us on Facebook and Twitter too!
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ABTomorrow
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/ABTomorrow
The treatment center will more than likely suggest that you get involved in long term treatment. There are going to be times you will need the extra support.
Although you are responsible for your own life it doesn’t hurt to listen to the advice of professionals who have been helping others like yourself for a long time. Face it, when you were left to your own devices you didn’t do so well. That’s how you got addicted in the first place. You don’t have to take their advice, but it sure can’t hurt to listen and take it under advisement.
Recovery is a life long process. The weeks you spent at the treatment center were just the jump start to get you going towards the rest of your life. AA and NA have daily meetings for a reason. You need them. Find one and go to meetings every day. You’ll find support and insight from other recovering addicts free of charge. Get a sponsor, and let them help you.
Let us hear from you if you have found a successful way to keep yourself on the high road. Your success story might help someone else find their way. If you know someone who is struggling with alcohol or drugs, let them know that there is help available. It’s as close as their phone. A Better Tomorrow is waiting to hear from them today. Let them know they deserve a better life and tell them how they can find it.
If you need help, are struggling with an addiction, or know of someone who is, please contact A Better Tomorrow Treatment Center today. We are here to help.
http://www.abttc.net/
Phone: 800.971.1586
Fax: 800.401.8464
24 Hour Addiction HelpLine
Tel. (800) 396-9389 (7 days 24 hours)
e-mail: info@24houraddictionhelp.com
http://www.24houraddictionhelp.org/
Feel free to follow us on Facebook and Twitter too!
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ABTomorrow
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/ABTomorrow
Monday, December 28, 2009
Family Support is the Key
No doubt your family was part of the reason that you got treatment for your addiction, although they could have done nothing without your agreement and participation in the treatment program. The period right after rehab, is a very high risk time for relapse. Staying clean is your responsibility but there are things that your family can do to make the transition, from treatment back to the community, easier. Their help can increase the odds of your success. Don’t be afraid to ask for help and be humble enough to accept all that they are willing to give. Recovery does not end with rehab.
Many rehab centers have a family component and all family members are encouraged to participate. This resource that is made available to them can help them learn how to support the addict once they leave the center. There are also books available at the local library that will help them understand where you’ve been and how to help keep you from a relapse.
The family home should be void of all drugs, alcohol and intoxicating substances, providing an environment conducive to clean and sober living. If you really wanted the drugs and/or alcohol, you could get them but having them readily available in the home may be too big of a temptation to resist. Many recovering addicts relapse because of poor problem solving and coping skills. During the first few months the family can assist in any areas that are causing you undue stress allowing you to concentrate all of your energy on staying clean.
As your family is taking care of you, they need to be mindful of the fact that they need to take care of themselves at the same time. Your addiction may have caused pain for them and the effects of addiction can ripple through the family even after the addictive behavior is stopped. Professional family counseling or family peer group support services for addicts could help to heal the family unit. Keep in mind that recovery is ongoing and usually gets easier with time.
If your family was instrumental in your recovery, let us know how it worked for you. If you know someone who is having problems with drugs or alcohol let them know that help is only a phone call away. A Better Tomorrow is waiting to hear from them, to show them the way back.
If you need help, are struggling with an addiction, or know of someone who is, please contact A Better Tomorrow Treatment Center today. We are here to help.
http://www.abttc.net/
Phone: 800.971.1586
Fax: 800.401.8464
24 Hour Addiction HelpLine
Tel. (800) 396-9389 (7 days 24 hours)
e-mail: info@24houraddictionhelp.com
http://www.24houraddictionhelp.org/
Feel free to follow us on Facebook and Twitter too!
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ABTomorrow
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/ABTomorrow
Friday, December 25, 2009
Our Christmas Wish For You
Everyone at A Better Tomorrow Treatment Center would like to wish you and yours a very Merry Christmas and the best of the holiday season. In closing, we would also like to share this little Christmas poem with you.
Merry Christmas to all... :-)
My Christmas Wish For You
My Christmas wish for you, my friend
Is not a simple one
For I wish you hope and joy and peace
Days filled with warmth and sun
I wish you love and friendship too
Throughout the coming year
Lots of laughter and happiness
To fill your world with cheer
May you count your blessings, one by one
And when totaled by the lot
May you find all you've been given
To be more than what you sought
May your journeys be short, your burdens light
May your spirit never grow old
May all your clouds have silver linings
And your rainbows pots of gold
I wish this all and so much more
May all your dreams come true
May you have a Merry Christmas friend
And a happy New Year, too ..
We wish you a merry Christmas :)
(author unknown)
If you need help, are struggling with an addiction, or know of someone who is, please contact A Better Tomorrow Treatment Center today. We are here to help.
http://www.abttc.net/
Phone: 800.971.1586
Fax: 800.401.8464
24 Hour Addiction HelpLine
Tel. (800) 396-9389 (7 days 24 hours)
e-mail: info@24houraddictionhelp.com
http://www.24houraddictionhelp.org/
Feel free to follow us on Facebook and Twitter too!
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ABTomorrow
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/ABTomorrow
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Get High on Life
Getting high used to be what your life was all about. It was the driving force you couldn’t ignore. But now, you have kicked that habit to the side of the road. This can be a very exciting time for you. You are changing your world, taking giant steps in the direction you really want to travel to. Your time used to be spent on your addiction. It might have been drugs, or maybe it was alcohol. Regardless, you need to decide how your time will be spent. Now it’s all about getting high on life!
Get back to the basics of life. Take a walk and really check out nature. Smell the flowers, watch the birds, and try to identify the trees. Find a zoo and spend the day. Go horse back riding. Find a quiet and secluded spot to have a picnic with a friend or even by yourself. Go swimming in a lake or pond. Being outside can be very therapeutic. Fresh air and sunshine are natural remedies for the all of the things that ail us.
If you aren’t an outdoors type take a trip to the library and find some good books to read. Most libraries have a good selection of music CD’s and movies too. Find a hobby you can get interested in. Most hobby stores have classes available for their patrons. Knitting and crocheting is not just for little old ladies. Young people and adults, men and women, all have found that the rhythm of working with yarn can be quite peaceful. Don’t laugh until you’ve tried it. Take lessons in toll painting. That doesn’t require as much talent as it does patience. Think about giving ceramics a try. The list of possibilities is endless.
If you have found something different that works for you, let us hear about it. Your idea might be just the thing to keep another addict clean. If someone you know is experiencing problems with drugs or alcohol assure them that there is help available through A Better Tomorrow. All they need to do is make the call, A Better Tomorrow will take care of the rest.
If you need help, are struggling with an addiction, or know of someone who is, please contact A Better Tomorrow Treatment Center today. We are here to help.
http://www.abttc.net/
Phone: 800.971.1586
Fax: 800.401.8464
24 Hour Addiction HelpLine
Tel. (800) 396-9389 (7 days 24 hours)
e-mail: info@24houraddictionhelp.com
http://www.24houraddictionhelp.org/
Feel free to follow us on Facebook and Twitter too!
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ABTomorrow
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/ABTomorrow
Get back to the basics of life. Take a walk and really check out nature. Smell the flowers, watch the birds, and try to identify the trees. Find a zoo and spend the day. Go horse back riding. Find a quiet and secluded spot to have a picnic with a friend or even by yourself. Go swimming in a lake or pond. Being outside can be very therapeutic. Fresh air and sunshine are natural remedies for the all of the things that ail us.
If you aren’t an outdoors type take a trip to the library and find some good books to read. Most libraries have a good selection of music CD’s and movies too. Find a hobby you can get interested in. Most hobby stores have classes available for their patrons. Knitting and crocheting is not just for little old ladies. Young people and adults, men and women, all have found that the rhythm of working with yarn can be quite peaceful. Don’t laugh until you’ve tried it. Take lessons in toll painting. That doesn’t require as much talent as it does patience. Think about giving ceramics a try. The list of possibilities is endless.
If you have found something different that works for you, let us hear about it. Your idea might be just the thing to keep another addict clean. If someone you know is experiencing problems with drugs or alcohol assure them that there is help available through A Better Tomorrow. All they need to do is make the call, A Better Tomorrow will take care of the rest.
If you need help, are struggling with an addiction, or know of someone who is, please contact A Better Tomorrow Treatment Center today. We are here to help.
http://www.abttc.net/
Phone: 800.971.1586
Fax: 800.401.8464
24 Hour Addiction HelpLine
Tel. (800) 396-9389 (7 days 24 hours)
e-mail: info@24houraddictionhelp.com
http://www.24houraddictionhelp.org/
Feel free to follow us on Facebook and Twitter too!
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ABTomorrow
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/ABTomorrow
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Don’t Ignore Depression
Getting yourself on the road to recovery from addiction is a major step in your life. There is no guarantee that everything during your recovery will go smoothly. As a matter of fact, about the only thing you can be sure of is that it won’t be a perfect bowl of cherries.
There will be a few pits along the way so be prepared.
If you think you are having problems with depression, you most likely are and you need to get some professional help to deal with it. It really is not all that unusual to have some symptoms of depression. You have been to hell and back and if you feel like you need some help don’t hesitate to get it. It may only take a few sessions with a qualified therapist and they may want you to take an antidepressant medication for a while. If it can help you to feel better, do it. There may be some problems that can’t be helped, but this is not one of them.
If you are not sure it is depression there are symptoms you should know about. Do you feel sad or irritable? Have you lost interest in activities that you used to enjoy? Have there been changes in your weight or appetite? Have you noticed changes in your sleep patterns? Do you feel guilty about something? Do you have trouble concentrating, remembering things or making decisions? Do you suffer from fatigue or loss of energy? Do you have restlessness or decreased activity that others have noticed and commented on? Do you feel hopeless or worthless? Have you had thoughts of suicide or death?
The National Mental Health Association believes that if you answered yes to 5 or more questions, you may be suffering from clinical depression. This test is not a replacement for a visit to a mental health professional but it may help you to realize what you need to convey to your healthcare provider.
If you or someone you know has a problem with drugs or alcohol, there is help available. Call A Better Tomorrow and let them get you on the road to recovery.
If you need help, are struggling with an addiction, or know of someone who is, please contact A Better Tomorrow Treatment Center today. We are here to help.
http://www.abttc.net/
Phone: 800.971.1586
Fax: 800.401.8464
24 Hour Addiction HelpLine
Tel. (800) 396-9389 (7 days 24 hours)
e-mail: info@24houraddictionhelp.com
http://www.24houraddictionhelp.org/
Feel free to follow us on Facebook and Twitter too!
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ABTomorrow
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/ABTomorrow
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Are Your Friends Really Your Friends
You have your addiction under control and you are working hard to make sure it stays that way. You have made some positive changes in your life and I’m sure you will agree that there could be many more changes before you are done. Some of the changes you have made may have been difficult ones. Not many people are comfortable with change and you are probably no different. Humans are creatures of habit and habit implies no changes.
Everyone has friends. Some may be new, while others have been around a while and still others have been there for as long as you can remember. You probably have friends from school, work, church and the neighborhood just to name a few. You probably had friends who shared your addiction. They may have been addicted too, or maybe they just allowed you to have your addiction. If that’s the case, this friend, may be no friend at all.
What I would like to propose is that you take a really good look at your friends and ask yourself if they really are your friends. This is not something that can be done collectively. You will need to bring each friend to mind and be honest with yourself about the state of the existing friendship. Does the friend have your best interest at heart? Does the friend tell you when they feel you are making bad choices? Do they encourage you to make the best choices for you? This type of appraisal is most likely going to be hard for you, but if you can work through it you will emerge a stronger, more secure person. Those friends that make the positive cut are truly your friends. The others may be holding you back. Be strong and make the best decision for you. Be honest with them too.
If you have been through an experience like this, please share your thoughts and feelings with us. If you have found something that works better, we want to hear about that too. Don’t forget, A Better Tomorrow is there to help you or someone you know who may be having problems with drugs or alcohol.
If you need help, are struggling with an addiction, or know of someone who is, please contact A Better Tomorrow Treatment Center today. We are here to help.
http://www.abttc.net/
Phone: 800.971.1586
Fax: 800.401.8464
24 Hour Addiction HelpLine
Tel. (800) 396-9389 (7 days 24 hours)
e-mail: info@24houraddictionhelp.com
http://www.24houraddictionhelp.org/
Feel free to follow us on Facebook and Twitter too!
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ABTomorrow
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/ABTomorrow
Everyone has friends. Some may be new, while others have been around a while and still others have been there for as long as you can remember. You probably have friends from school, work, church and the neighborhood just to name a few. You probably had friends who shared your addiction. They may have been addicted too, or maybe they just allowed you to have your addiction. If that’s the case, this friend, may be no friend at all.
What I would like to propose is that you take a really good look at your friends and ask yourself if they really are your friends. This is not something that can be done collectively. You will need to bring each friend to mind and be honest with yourself about the state of the existing friendship. Does the friend have your best interest at heart? Does the friend tell you when they feel you are making bad choices? Do they encourage you to make the best choices for you? This type of appraisal is most likely going to be hard for you, but if you can work through it you will emerge a stronger, more secure person. Those friends that make the positive cut are truly your friends. The others may be holding you back. Be strong and make the best decision for you. Be honest with them too.
If you have been through an experience like this, please share your thoughts and feelings with us. If you have found something that works better, we want to hear about that too. Don’t forget, A Better Tomorrow is there to help you or someone you know who may be having problems with drugs or alcohol.
If you need help, are struggling with an addiction, or know of someone who is, please contact A Better Tomorrow Treatment Center today. We are here to help.
http://www.abttc.net/
Phone: 800.971.1586
Fax: 800.401.8464
24 Hour Addiction HelpLine
Tel. (800) 396-9389 (7 days 24 hours)
e-mail: info@24houraddictionhelp.com
http://www.24houraddictionhelp.org/
Feel free to follow us on Facebook and Twitter too!
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ABTomorrow
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/ABTomorrow
Monday, December 21, 2009
Volunteer Work is Good for the Soul
The road to recovery after addiction is not always smooth and easy. Rome wasn’t built in a day and recovery is not achieved that quick either. You are trying your hardest to make every day positive and you are to be congratulated for your effort. You probably feel the need to make right some of the wrongs that were incurred during your addiction. That is a very normal and commendable thing to do. There are any number of places that always need volunteers for jobs. The field is really wide open and all you have to do is decide where you feel you will do the most good.
Hospitals are always looking for volunteers to escort patients to the many areas of the building. Volunteers at hospitals often deliver newspapers, mail and flowers to the rooms. The children’s ward is always thankful to have volunteers who will read, play games or just visit with their young patients.
Most cities and towns in this day and age have a food pantry or a clothing store for those less fortunate and maybe a soup kitchen that serves two to three meals a day. All of these places need to be staffed, all day, with volunteers. The food at the soup kitchen has to be prepared and served and everything has to be cleaned up afterwards. In larger towns there may be a shelter where people who are living on the streets can sleep inside at night, protected from the weather.
Ronald McDonald House’s are run totally by volunteers. They clean, cook, answer the phone, deliver messages and do office work on a daily basis. The families who stay here have critically ill or injured children in a near by hospital.
I’m sure there are plenty more places who would love to have a volunteer take over a portion of the work load. Just ask around and the opportunities will most likely astound you. If you have found that being a volunteer has helped you during your recovery, or if you have found something that worked better, please let us know. If you or someone you know has a problem with drugs and/or alcohol let them know there is help waiting for them. Make a call to A Better Tomorrow and they will help get you headed down the road of recovery.
If you need help, are struggling with an addiction, or know of someone who is, please contact A Better Tomorrow Treatment Center today. We are here to help.
http://www.abttc.net/
Phone: 800.971.1586
Fax: 800.401.8464
24 Hour Addiction HelpLine
Tel. (800) 396-9389 (7 days 24 hours)
e-mail: info@24houraddictionhelp.com
http://www.24houraddictionhelp.org/
Feel free to follow us on Facebook and Twitter too!
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ABTomorrow
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/ABTomorrow
Hospitals are always looking for volunteers to escort patients to the many areas of the building. Volunteers at hospitals often deliver newspapers, mail and flowers to the rooms. The children’s ward is always thankful to have volunteers who will read, play games or just visit with their young patients.
Most cities and towns in this day and age have a food pantry or a clothing store for those less fortunate and maybe a soup kitchen that serves two to three meals a day. All of these places need to be staffed, all day, with volunteers. The food at the soup kitchen has to be prepared and served and everything has to be cleaned up afterwards. In larger towns there may be a shelter where people who are living on the streets can sleep inside at night, protected from the weather.
Ronald McDonald House’s are run totally by volunteers. They clean, cook, answer the phone, deliver messages and do office work on a daily basis. The families who stay here have critically ill or injured children in a near by hospital.
I’m sure there are plenty more places who would love to have a volunteer take over a portion of the work load. Just ask around and the opportunities will most likely astound you. If you have found that being a volunteer has helped you during your recovery, or if you have found something that worked better, please let us know. If you or someone you know has a problem with drugs and/or alcohol let them know there is help waiting for them. Make a call to A Better Tomorrow and they will help get you headed down the road of recovery.
If you need help, are struggling with an addiction, or know of someone who is, please contact A Better Tomorrow Treatment Center today. We are here to help.
http://www.abttc.net/
Phone: 800.971.1586
Fax: 800.401.8464
24 Hour Addiction HelpLine
Tel. (800) 396-9389 (7 days 24 hours)
e-mail: info@24houraddictionhelp.com
http://www.24houraddictionhelp.org/
Feel free to follow us on Facebook and Twitter too!
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ABTomorrow
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/ABTomorrow
Friday, December 18, 2009
What's your life plan?
Inside of every addict lives the person they were before. They were most likely full of wonder and excitement over the possibilities that life held for them. Somewhere along the way that person got lost in the pleasures of their addiction. Instead of drugs being a part of their life, their life took a downward turn and it became a slave to their addiction. Addiction takes on a mind of its own and will do anything to ensure that it gets what it wants.
You have made it to the other side and your addiction no longer rules your life. You are in control and want to stay that way. One way to keep yourself on the straight and narrow is to define a plan for your life. It can’t be just in your head, or a passing thought. It needs to be concrete, put into writing, so you can refer back to it and chart the progress you are making. This may be something you feel comfortable enough to do on your own. Some may need the help of a professional and there is absolutely nothing wrong with that.
By defining a plan for your future, you will not find your self wondering around, possibly getting lost and slipping back into familiar habits that probably led to your addiction. Set up reasonable and attainable goals for yourself and then do whatever you have to do to make them come true. A life plan will keep you focused and busy while working to attain your goal.
If you have found a way to recovery please feel free to share it with us. You may well inspire someone else to take a walk down the recovery road. If you or someone you know has a problem with alcohol or drugs, be aware that there is help for you. A Better Tomorrow is waiting for a call from you to show you how good life can be again.
If you need help, are struggling with an addiction, or know of someone who is, please contact A Better Tomorrow Treatment Center today. We are here to help.
http://www.abttc.net/
Phone: 800.971.1586
Fax: 800.401.8464
24 Hour Addiction HelpLine
Tel. (800) 396-9389 (7 days 24 hours)
e-mail: info@24houraddictionhelp.com
http://www.24houraddictionhelp.org/
Feel free to follow us on Facebook and Twitter too!
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ABTomorrow
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/ABTomorrow
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Can a pet be the motivation you need in your recovery?
The last place you want to be is back in the pit of addiction. You have worked long and hard to get where you are today. It hasn’t been easy, but it has been rewarding. Kudos to you for all you have achieved.
A crucial part of your recovery is to reach a point where you can help others. If you are attending a twelve step program, chances are you have had the help of a sponsor. This would be someone who is in recovery themselves, reaching out to help you. If you feel that you are in a solid enough position yourself, you might consider becoming a sponsor. Believe in yourself, this is something you can do. If you don’t feel ready for this type of commitment, don’t worry about. At some point in the future you will be ready and you will take the initiative and responsibility to help someone else.
A pet might be a viable answer for you, especially if you are new to the road of recovery. The best pet may be a puppy or young dog that will form a bond with you as you will with it. A dog will show you unconditional love and acceptance. They don’t ever judge you. They will run to you barking and excited every time you walk through the door. They don’t care where you’ve been or what you’ve done before in your life. They will play with you, walk with you, run with you or just sit quietly by your side, enjoying the companionship. They are there if you need them, no matter time of the day or night it might be. They don’t ask for much besides food and water in their bowls and an occasional trip outside. A dog never gets tired of your company and they don’t talk to others about you.
If you have a story to share, please do. Someone else may be able to benefit from it. If one of these suggestions has worked for you, or if you have found a better way, let us hear from you. Reaching out to others is a powerful healer. If you or someone you know has a problem with drugs or alcohol, put them in touch with A Better Tomorrow. The staff is waiting to hear from you and to guide you to the path of recovery.
If you need help, are struggling with an addiction, or know of someone who is, please contact A Better Tomorrow Treatment Center today. We are here to help.
http://www.abttc.net/
Phone: 800.971.1586
Fax: 800.401.8464
24 Hour Addiction HelpLine
Tel. (800) 396-9389 (7 days 24 hours)
e-mail: info@24houraddictionhelp.com
http://www.24houraddictionhelp.org/
Feel free to follow us on Facebook and Twitter too!
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ABTomorrow
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/ABTomorrow
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Go Back to School
Contrary to what some people may believe, you’re never too old to go back to school. Maybe it was the pressure from your job that led to your addiction problems. If it was, I’m sure you will want to change careers. Don’t even let the thought cross your mind that you’re too old for that. There was a woman at our church that never finished high school. She got married and raised 10 kids. She went back to school when she was 60 and graduated with a business degree five years later.
If you don’t want to tackle college and all of the classes you would need for a degree, you might consider a trade school. There are trade schools everywhere and they are not just for high school age kids. There are plenty of grown ups who are looking to change careers for a variety of reasons.
You don’t know what you want to be when you grow up? That’s OK too. Colleges and trade schools have career counselors who can talk to you and help you decide what type of career you are best suited for. You might just want to take some basic classes that you would need no matter what major you ended up declaring.
Take some fun classes. Try your hand at art such as painting or sculpting, or try a music class, maybe picking up an instrument. You might be a good writer and want to consider a career in journalism. There are as many classes available as you can imagine. This can be a positive move for you during recovery. Some institutions even offer on line classes so you only have to go to the school for certain things. Give it some thought; it might work in your favor.
If you have changed careers and found a better life for yourself, let us hear from you. If you or someone you know has a problem with alcohol or drugs, A Better Tomorrow is there to help you find your way back. All you have to do is pick up the phone and make the call.
If you need help, are struggling with an addiction, or know of someone who is, please contact A Better Tomorrow Treatment Center today. We are here to help.
http://www.abttc.net/
Phone: 800.971.1586
Fax: 800.401.8464
24 Hour Addiction HelpLine
Tel. (800) 396-9389 (7 days 24 hours)
e-mail: info@24houraddictionhelp.com
http://www.24houraddictionhelp.org/
Feel free to follow us on Facebook and Twitter too!
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ABTomorrow
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/ABTomorrow
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
More Ideas to Shore up Your Recovery
We’ve already touched on Journaling, but there are other forms of writing that can be just as helpful. Try your hand at poetry. Not the flowery kind, unless you feel moved in that direction. Try putting your feelings and thoughts about your addiction into a poem. It doesn’t have to be professional, you’re shooting for therapeutic. Don’t discount this idea; it might be easier than you think.
Write a farewell letter to your addiction. Tell it how and why you fell into its grasp. Explain how you felt when you were in its deepest pit of despair. Give it all the gory details you suffered at its hand. Let it know how much you lost of yourself and your life while you were tied to it. Tell it how you are faring now, without its devastating and debilitating effects holding you down. Let it know that you never want to see it or think about it again.
Set some goals for yourself. They could be short term or long term or a combination of the two. Write them down on a piece of paper that you can carry with you. Take it out and read it frequently, evaluating any progress you might have made towards reaching the goals.
Try writing a list of things you are grateful for. Head the list with the fact that you are free of your addiction and go from there. When you think you have completed this list, hang it where you will see it every day. I’m betting as the day’s progress you will find a lot more that you will want to add to that gratitude list.
If you are feeling like you could conquer the world, go to blogger.com and start a free blog of your own about your progress in recovery. If you have found another way to keep yourself moving forward, share it with us.
Your successes might be just what someone else needs to get them on the right path. If you or someone you know has a problem with drugs or alcohol A Better Tomorrow is there to help you get on the road to recovery. All you have to do is make the call.
If you need help, are struggling with an addiction, or know of someone who is, please contact A Better Tomorrow Treatment Center today. We are here to help.
http://www.abttc.net/
Phone: 800.971.1586
Fax: 800.401.8464
24 Hour Addiction HelpLine
Tel. (800) 396-9389 (7 days 24 hours)
e-mail: info@24houraddictionhelp.com
http://www.24houraddictionhelp.org/
Feel free to follow us on Facebook and Twitter too!
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ABTomorrow
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/ABTomorrow
Monday, December 14, 2009
Physical Activities to Help in Recovery
After breaking your addiction, it is important to keep your self busy and what better way to do that than by taking care of yourself physically. Of course a good diet is a must. It will keep you feeling healthy and keep your energy level up too.
There are a variety of physical activities that will fit the bill. If you have been inactive you might want to start off slow with a walking program. It doesn’t have to be done everyday but some find that it’s easier to keep at it if it’s consistent. If walking is to tame for you, try jogging. This can be done outdoors if the weather in your area permits but a treadmill will work just as well. There are fit clubs in just about every town. They offer a variety of workouts and activities that might include swimming, weights, aerobics classes, stair steppers, and treadmills. They usually have personal trainers available if you’re not quite sure where to start.
If you enjoy the outdoors but want something a little more than a walk, try a bicycle. Most towns allow bicycles to share the road with cars. You might try city parks for a little more scenery. Bigger towns might offer bike trails that will keep you out of traffic. It’s really all personal preference. As you build up your stamina you might consider entering local foot and/or bicycle races. If you are lucky enough to live near mountains you might try your hand at mountain climbing, mountain biking or just walking the trails.
Whatever you choose to do, it’s important to remain active and keep a positive outlook on life. If you have found activities that have helped you on your road to recovery we would love to hear from you. Others may well benefit from your experiences. If you or someone you love has an addiction to drugs or alcohol, let them know they are not alone. There is help available at A Better Tomorrow. They are waiting for your call. Go ahead and do it now, for yourself, or for someone you love.
If you need help, are struggling with an addiction, or know of someone who is, please contact A Better Tomorrow Treatment Center today. We are here to help.
http://www.abttc.net/
Phone: 800.971.1586
Fax: 800.401.8464
24 Hour Addiction HelpLine
Tel. (800) 396-9389 (7 days 24 hours)
e-mail: info@24houraddictionhelp.com
http://www.24houraddictionhelp.org
Feel free to follow us on Facebook and Twitter too!
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ABTomorrow
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/ABTomorrow
Friday, December 11, 2009
Recovery is a Blank Slate
You have escaped the power of drugs and now you are able to contemplate the rest of your life. Recovery is the rest of your life and it’s a blank slate right now. You are in control of your destiny, creating a life of recovery and you are responsible for all of it. It’s up to you to decide how you will fill that blank slate. You are creating your own success and as they say, the ball is in your court now.
Addiction is a disease and you cannot underestimate its power. At the same time, you don’t need to live in fear of it. Make a zero tolerance pact with yourself concerning a relapse. Don’t allow yourself to even think about where you have been. Sure there are some who suffer a relapse, but it doesn’t have to mean you will. If you have to think about drugs, think only of the down side. We all have the possibility of another relapse in us, the better question is, are we capable of another recovery?
Don’t forget to take care of your spiritual self. Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics anonymous twelve step programs saw the need for a spiritual connection to a higher power. If you don’t have a relationship with God, consider giving it a try. If you have a relationship with God, work on making it better.
Spend time with your family. There is a bond there that you will not experience any where else. If the ties were damaged, work hard on repairing them. If there is any possibility that you can mend these fences it will only serve to make the rest of your life better.
If you or someone you love has a problem with drugs or alcohol, rest assured that there is help out there. A Better Tomorrow is just waiting to hear from you. They are ready to help get you on the road to recovery. You deserve a better life so make the call.
If you need help, are struggling with an addiction, or know of someone who is, please contact A Better Tomorrow Treatment Center today. We are here to help.
http://www.abttc.net/
Phone: 800.971.1586
Fax: 800.401.8464
24 Hour Addiction HelpLine
Tel. (800) 396-9389 (7 days 24 hours)
e-mail: info@24houraddictionhelp.com
http://www.24houraddictionhelp.org/
Feel free to follow us on Facebook and Twitter too!
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ABTomorrow
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/ABTomorrow
Addiction is a disease and you cannot underestimate its power. At the same time, you don’t need to live in fear of it. Make a zero tolerance pact with yourself concerning a relapse. Don’t allow yourself to even think about where you have been. Sure there are some who suffer a relapse, but it doesn’t have to mean you will. If you have to think about drugs, think only of the down side. We all have the possibility of another relapse in us, the better question is, are we capable of another recovery?
Don’t forget to take care of your spiritual self. Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics anonymous twelve step programs saw the need for a spiritual connection to a higher power. If you don’t have a relationship with God, consider giving it a try. If you have a relationship with God, work on making it better.
Spend time with your family. There is a bond there that you will not experience any where else. If the ties were damaged, work hard on repairing them. If there is any possibility that you can mend these fences it will only serve to make the rest of your life better.
If you or someone you love has a problem with drugs or alcohol, rest assured that there is help out there. A Better Tomorrow is just waiting to hear from you. They are ready to help get you on the road to recovery. You deserve a better life so make the call.
If you need help, are struggling with an addiction, or know of someone who is, please contact A Better Tomorrow Treatment Center today. We are here to help.
http://www.abttc.net/
Phone: 800.971.1586
Fax: 800.401.8464
24 Hour Addiction HelpLine
Tel. (800) 396-9389 (7 days 24 hours)
e-mail: info@24houraddictionhelp.com
http://www.24houraddictionhelp.org/
Feel free to follow us on Facebook and Twitter too!
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ABTomorrow
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/ABTomorrow
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Take Responsibility and Let Time Heal the Rest
You have kicked your addiction and you are ready to get on with the rest of your life. You are to be commended for your achievements. You have made mistakes in the past, and hurt others by making the decisions that you made. If you were like most addicts you probably lied to a multitude of people. You may have taken money or other items that could be sold to support your habit. Undoubtedly there were harsh words spoken and maybe a few bridges burnt along the way.
As part of your recovery and getting on with your life, you need to acknowledge the wrongs you have done, and the people you have hurt. You need to realize that just because you have gotten your act together, doesn’t mean others are willing to forgive and/or forget. Life will not be the same as it was before you became addicted to drugs, at least not in the beginning. They say that time heals all wounds and I believe this is mostly true. Eventually, when people realize that you are accepting responsibility for your actions, they will be able to set aside the hard feelings they harbored, and accept you back into their lives.
Trust is a big issue for most people. You violated that trust, probably more than once. It was not lost in a day, and it will not be earned back in a day either. It took time for you to heal and reach this point in your recovery and you have to allow others time to heal also. It is not something you can rush and it will take an on going effort on your part to see it through. Don’t lose heart in the uphill struggle. One by one, you will regain the trust and friendship of most of those individuals that you have harmed. You may not win them all back, and that is a reality that you need to accept. You do the best you can and knowing that it was your best, you’ll be able to deal with any problems.
If you found another way to deal with the problem of being a recovering addict, let us hear from you. Your experiences may be just what someone needs to help them. If you or someone you know is addicted to drugs and are ready to get started on the road to recovery, contact A Better Tomorrow. They are waiting to hear from you, all you have to do is make the call.
If you need help, are struggling with an addiction, or know of someone who is, please contact A Better Tomorrow Treatment Center today. We are here to help.
http://www.abttc.net/
Phone: 800.971.1586
Fax: 800.401.8464
24 Hour Addiction HelpLine
Tel. (800) 396-9389 (7 days 24 hours)
e-mail: info@24houraddictionhelp.com
http://www.24houraddictionhelp.org/
Feel free to follow us on Facebook and Twitter too!
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ABTomorrow
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/ABTomorrow
As part of your recovery and getting on with your life, you need to acknowledge the wrongs you have done, and the people you have hurt. You need to realize that just because you have gotten your act together, doesn’t mean others are willing to forgive and/or forget. Life will not be the same as it was before you became addicted to drugs, at least not in the beginning. They say that time heals all wounds and I believe this is mostly true. Eventually, when people realize that you are accepting responsibility for your actions, they will be able to set aside the hard feelings they harbored, and accept you back into their lives.
Trust is a big issue for most people. You violated that trust, probably more than once. It was not lost in a day, and it will not be earned back in a day either. It took time for you to heal and reach this point in your recovery and you have to allow others time to heal also. It is not something you can rush and it will take an on going effort on your part to see it through. Don’t lose heart in the uphill struggle. One by one, you will regain the trust and friendship of most of those individuals that you have harmed. You may not win them all back, and that is a reality that you need to accept. You do the best you can and knowing that it was your best, you’ll be able to deal with any problems.
If you found another way to deal with the problem of being a recovering addict, let us hear from you. Your experiences may be just what someone needs to help them. If you or someone you know is addicted to drugs and are ready to get started on the road to recovery, contact A Better Tomorrow. They are waiting to hear from you, all you have to do is make the call.
If you need help, are struggling with an addiction, or know of someone who is, please contact A Better Tomorrow Treatment Center today. We are here to help.
http://www.abttc.net/
Phone: 800.971.1586
Fax: 800.401.8464
24 Hour Addiction HelpLine
Tel. (800) 396-9389 (7 days 24 hours)
e-mail: info@24houraddictionhelp.com
http://www.24houraddictionhelp.org/
Feel free to follow us on Facebook and Twitter too!
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ABTomorrow
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/ABTomorrow
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
The Benefits of Journaling
You don’t have to be a great writer to reap the benefits of keeping a personal journal. You don’t have to have neat penmanship and you don’t need to be a good speller. If you can read what you write, that’s all that’s necessary. A journal could be done on a computer as well as on paper. Make it convenient for yourself. You don’t have to write in a journal every day, but it is beneficial to you if you do. If you feel the need, especially in the beginning, you may want to go back to it several times in one day. The good thing about using a notebook is that it is portable and you can carry it with you no matter where you go. A laptop would work the same way, but most computers are stationary.
A journal is nothing more than putting your thoughts and feelings on paper. It can contain anything you want to commit to it. You can share it with others, or you can keep it to yourself. The benefit comes from putting your thoughts into words. At some point you may want to go back and read what you have written. It’s a visible tool you can use to see how you are progressing through your recovery. We all have things locked inside of us that we may not feel we can share with anyone else.
Putting it down on paper is a way of sharing. Just writing it down can be a reliever of the stress we suffer from keeping it locked inside ourselves. In a way, it is like sharing it with another person. Once we write it down on paper, we can look at, think about it, analyze it, and quite possibly start to recover from it. At some point, you may even be able to talk about it with someone else, although it’s not imperative that you do. It’s whatever you feel comfortable doing.
Journaling can be a great stress reliever. It can help you solve problems. You will be able to see things more clearly as you read what you have written. The mind is only capable of so much and rarely can you envision the ‘whole picture’. Putting it in writing can help you do that.
If journaling has helped you in your recovery process, let us hear about it. If you have found something that works as well or better, tell us about that too. If you or someone you love has an addiction problem, there is help out there. A Better Tomorrow is waiting to hear from you, today. Make the call, life can be better.
If you need help, are struggling with an addiction, or know of someone who is, please contact A Better Tomorrow Treatment Center today. We are here to help.
http://www.abttc.net/
Phone: 800.971.1586
Fax: 800.401.8464
24 Hour Addiction HelpLine
Tel. (800) 396-9389 (7 days 24 hours)
e-mail: info@24houraddictionhelp.com
http://www.24houraddictionhelp.org/
Feel free to follow us on Facebook and Twitter too!
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ABTomorrow
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/ABTomorrow
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Life After Death
The life of an addict can be broken down into three phases. The first phase would be life before drugs. The second phase could be considered death. The third phase, and hopefully the last for you, is life after death.
Phase one covers all of the time from your birth to the point in time where drugs became your obsession. Relationships with family and friends were built. Your school years came and most likely went according to schedule. You had a variety of jobs and maybe even embarked on a career. You surely formed serious relationships, maybe even got married and had children. All of these relationships and events could be categorized from the pits to the best, or somewhere in between. No matter how you would rate each of them, they were real.
Phase two began as phase one started to fade. Drugs became more important than anything or anyone in your life. It was definitely the end of life as you knew it. There was trust that is no more. You began alienating yourself from people, family, friends and co-workers because no one could understand what you were going through. The truth is, they did understand what you were going through, they just couldn’t see a reason why. They wanted what was best for you and you only wanted the release you found in drugs. The paths were not compatible. Separation was inevitable. Addiction is a lonely place, a death in almost every sense of the word.
Life after death is hopefully your final phase. You have kicked the habit and are working hard to stay away from the temptation of drugs. You are most likely trying to mend all the broken fences of relationships with family and friends. You are heading towards being an acceptable part of society again. If you haven’t started working yet, you will. No one is about to tell you that any of this is easy, but you can do it. You will have to work long and hard to earn back the trust you threw away. Your life will go in the direction you want, you are totally in charge of your destiny.
If you have found a way that worked well for you, please share it with us so others may benefit from your trials. If you or someone you know has a problem with addiction we want you to be assured that there is help available. A Better Tomorrow is the answer and they are waiting to hear from you.
If you need help, are struggling with an addiction, or know of someone who is, please contact A Better Tomorrow Treatment Center today. We are here to help.
http://www.abttc.net/
Phone: 800.971.1586
Fax: 800.401.8464
24 Hour Addiction HelpLine
Tel. (800) 396-9389 (7 days 24 hours)
e-mail: info@24houraddictionhelp.com
http://www.24houraddictionhelp.org/
Feel free to follow us on Facebook and Twitter too!
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ABTomorrow
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/ABTomorrow
Phase one covers all of the time from your birth to the point in time where drugs became your obsession. Relationships with family and friends were built. Your school years came and most likely went according to schedule. You had a variety of jobs and maybe even embarked on a career. You surely formed serious relationships, maybe even got married and had children. All of these relationships and events could be categorized from the pits to the best, or somewhere in between. No matter how you would rate each of them, they were real.
Phase two began as phase one started to fade. Drugs became more important than anything or anyone in your life. It was definitely the end of life as you knew it. There was trust that is no more. You began alienating yourself from people, family, friends and co-workers because no one could understand what you were going through. The truth is, they did understand what you were going through, they just couldn’t see a reason why. They wanted what was best for you and you only wanted the release you found in drugs. The paths were not compatible. Separation was inevitable. Addiction is a lonely place, a death in almost every sense of the word.
Life after death is hopefully your final phase. You have kicked the habit and are working hard to stay away from the temptation of drugs. You are most likely trying to mend all the broken fences of relationships with family and friends. You are heading towards being an acceptable part of society again. If you haven’t started working yet, you will. No one is about to tell you that any of this is easy, but you can do it. You will have to work long and hard to earn back the trust you threw away. Your life will go in the direction you want, you are totally in charge of your destiny.
If you have found a way that worked well for you, please share it with us so others may benefit from your trials. If you or someone you know has a problem with addiction we want you to be assured that there is help available. A Better Tomorrow is the answer and they are waiting to hear from you.
If you need help, are struggling with an addiction, or know of someone who is, please contact A Better Tomorrow Treatment Center today. We are here to help.
http://www.abttc.net/
Phone: 800.971.1586
Fax: 800.401.8464
24 Hour Addiction HelpLine
Tel. (800) 396-9389 (7 days 24 hours)
e-mail: info@24houraddictionhelp.com
http://www.24houraddictionhelp.org/
Feel free to follow us on Facebook and Twitter too!
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ABTomorrow
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/ABTomorrow
Monday, December 7, 2009
Support Groups
There are numerous support groups that exist for a variety of reasons. We have discussed two of the largest and best known groups, Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous. The alcoholic does not exist in a vacuum. Their addiction causes problems and concerns for others as well, including friends, co-workers and family members. There are support groups available for them as well as for the recovering alcoholic.
Al-Anon has been in existence for over 55 years offering hope and support to those adults who are affected by a problem drinker. Each alcoholic affects the life of at least four other people. It doesn’t matter whether the alcoholic is still drinking or not, if you have a relationship with them, you need the support, strength and fellowship of Al-Anon. Al-Anon was formed by Lois Wilson in 1951. She is the wife of the co-founder of Alcoholics Anonymous, Bill Wilson.
Alateen is part of Al-Anon but is for young people ages 12 to 20. Alateen groups are sponsored by Al-Anon members. Its goal is to help them recover from the effects of living with the problem drinking of the alcoholic. In terms they can easily understand they learn that compulsive drinking is a disease and that they are not the cause of anyone else’s drinking or behavior. They are advised that they cannot change or control anyone but themselves. They learn that they can still love the person while detaching themselves emotionally from the drinker’s problems. They discover that they can build satisfying life experiences for themselves, no matter what else is happening in their home.
There are other support groups that are run by churches, hospitals, clinics and work places. Whether you are the recovering alcoholic or a friend or relative of an alcoholic, it is important for you to know that there are support groups available to help you face life. There are Nar-Anon groups for the families and friends of drug addicts. If there is no support group in your area, contact the national group and find out about starting one of your own.
If you or someone you know has a problem with an addiction to drugs or alcohol, A Better Tomorrow is waiting to hear from you. They can get you started down the recovery road.
If you need help, are struggling with an addiction, or know of someone who is, please contact A Better Tomorrow Treatment Center today. We are here to help.
http://www.abttc.net/
Phone: 800.971.1586
Fax: 800.401.8464
24 Hour Addiction HelpLine
Tel. (800) 396-9389 (7 days 24 hours)
e-mail: info@24houraddictionhelp.com
http://www.24houraddictionhelp.org/
Feel free to follow us on Facebook and Twitter too!
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ABTomorrow
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/ABTomorrow
Al-Anon has been in existence for over 55 years offering hope and support to those adults who are affected by a problem drinker. Each alcoholic affects the life of at least four other people. It doesn’t matter whether the alcoholic is still drinking or not, if you have a relationship with them, you need the support, strength and fellowship of Al-Anon. Al-Anon was formed by Lois Wilson in 1951. She is the wife of the co-founder of Alcoholics Anonymous, Bill Wilson.
Alateen is part of Al-Anon but is for young people ages 12 to 20. Alateen groups are sponsored by Al-Anon members. Its goal is to help them recover from the effects of living with the problem drinking of the alcoholic. In terms they can easily understand they learn that compulsive drinking is a disease and that they are not the cause of anyone else’s drinking or behavior. They are advised that they cannot change or control anyone but themselves. They learn that they can still love the person while detaching themselves emotionally from the drinker’s problems. They discover that they can build satisfying life experiences for themselves, no matter what else is happening in their home.
There are other support groups that are run by churches, hospitals, clinics and work places. Whether you are the recovering alcoholic or a friend or relative of an alcoholic, it is important for you to know that there are support groups available to help you face life. There are Nar-Anon groups for the families and friends of drug addicts. If there is no support group in your area, contact the national group and find out about starting one of your own.
If you or someone you know has a problem with an addiction to drugs or alcohol, A Better Tomorrow is waiting to hear from you. They can get you started down the recovery road.
If you need help, are struggling with an addiction, or know of someone who is, please contact A Better Tomorrow Treatment Center today. We are here to help.
http://www.abttc.net/
Phone: 800.971.1586
Fax: 800.401.8464
24 Hour Addiction HelpLine
Tel. (800) 396-9389 (7 days 24 hours)
e-mail: info@24houraddictionhelp.com
http://www.24houraddictionhelp.org/
Feel free to follow us on Facebook and Twitter too!
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ABTomorrow
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/ABTomorrow
Friday, December 4, 2009
Avoiding a Relapse
Congratulations! You’ve beat your addiction, whatever it might have been but you might still be feeling a bit shaky about your future. That’s totally understandable. You lived in a vacuum of dependence where all you had to drive you was your next fix. The world has opened up for you and you’ll need to figure out how to go about fitting back in.
First off you have got to believe in yourself. You’ve already come through the worst of it. Look at yourself in the mirror each morning and tell yourself, “I am surrounded by people who love and care for me”, “I am free of the past”, “I control my future”, and “I can do this”.
Remember that Rome wasn’t built in a day. You are making changes that will affect the rest of your life. Do not make important decisions without giving yourself time to think it through. If you need to talk to someone, do it. Counseling is not a bad thing. If you don’t want the structure of counseling, talk to someone you trust, be it a friend or family member.
Recovery is your choice. Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you feel you need it. If you have something on your mind or in your heart that you don’t want to trust to another individual, try talking to God or your higher power whoever it may be. If your higher power is God, seek solace and talk to him aloud and trust that nothing you say to Him will come as a shock. He will not judge you for what you are bringing to Him. Let yourself feel the love and acceptance that only He can give you.
If you have found other methods that worked for you, let us know what they are so others might use them too. If you or someone you know has a problem with an addiction there is help available. Call A Better Tomorrow and let them help you find the way back to the life you deserve.
If you need help, are struggling with an addiction, or know of someone who is, please contact A Better Tomorrow Treatment Center today. We are here to help.
http://www.abttc.net/
Phone: 800.971.1586
Fax: 800.401.8464
24 Hour Addiction HelpLine
Tel. (800) 396-9389 (7 days 24 hours)
e-mail: info@24houraddictionhelp.com
http://www.24houraddictionhelp.org/
Feel free to follow us on Facebook and Twitter too!
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ABTomorrow
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/ABTomorrow
First off you have got to believe in yourself. You’ve already come through the worst of it. Look at yourself in the mirror each morning and tell yourself, “I am surrounded by people who love and care for me”, “I am free of the past”, “I control my future”, and “I can do this”.
Remember that Rome wasn’t built in a day. You are making changes that will affect the rest of your life. Do not make important decisions without giving yourself time to think it through. If you need to talk to someone, do it. Counseling is not a bad thing. If you don’t want the structure of counseling, talk to someone you trust, be it a friend or family member.
Recovery is your choice. Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you feel you need it. If you have something on your mind or in your heart that you don’t want to trust to another individual, try talking to God or your higher power whoever it may be. If your higher power is God, seek solace and talk to him aloud and trust that nothing you say to Him will come as a shock. He will not judge you for what you are bringing to Him. Let yourself feel the love and acceptance that only He can give you.
If you have found other methods that worked for you, let us know what they are so others might use them too. If you or someone you know has a problem with an addiction there is help available. Call A Better Tomorrow and let them help you find the way back to the life you deserve.
If you need help, are struggling with an addiction, or know of someone who is, please contact A Better Tomorrow Treatment Center today. We are here to help.
http://www.abttc.net/
Phone: 800.971.1586
Fax: 800.401.8464
24 Hour Addiction HelpLine
Tel. (800) 396-9389 (7 days 24 hours)
e-mail: info@24houraddictionhelp.com
http://www.24houraddictionhelp.org/
Feel free to follow us on Facebook and Twitter too!
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ABTomorrow
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/ABTomorrow
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Celebrate Your Recovery
With the unpleasantness of the chains of addiction behind you, you might well be wondering what comes next. You need to start with a celebration. You’ve worked hard to get where you are today and you’ve earned the right to share your good news with family and close friends. They all worried about you and wanted you to succeed in your fight against addiction. They were probably your staunchest supporters and I believe they still are today.
Family and friends love getting together for no reason at all, think about how much better this will be. They will be celebrating you and your recovery. What better way to celebrate than with a potluck. Most people love potlucks as it is a way for them to show off their culinary skills as well as being able to sample the best dishes of others. Food has long been considered comforting, especially desserts with chocolate at the top of the list.
Nothing soothes the psyche as much as good food and great company. Don’t discount all the agony you went through and the hard work and determination that got you through it. It really does call for a celebration. The positive feed back that you are sure to get from everyone attending will go a long ways towards making you feel better about yourself. These people believe in you. They’re glad that you have reached this point in your recovery and, like you, they have a vested interest in your future. They care about you, more than you may ever be able to appreciate.
If you have kicked your habit, whatever it might have been, and found another way to celebrate, let us know. Your happiness will go a long ways towards making sure you don’t relapse. Count your blessings, everyday. Write them down if you need to, but don’t ever forget them.
If you or someone you know is still battling with an addiction, A Better Tomorrow is waiting to hear from you, today. Make the call and start your journey to a better way of life.
If you need help, are struggling with an addiction, or know of someone who is, please contact A Better Tomorrow Treatment Center today. We are here to help.
http://www.abttc.net/
Phone: 800.971.1586
Fax: 800.401.8464
24 Hour Addiction HelpLine
Tel. (800) 396-9389 (7 days 24 hours)
e-mail: info@24houraddictionhelp.com
http://www.24houraddictionhelp.org/
Feel free to follow us on Facebook and Twitter too!
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ABTomorrow
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/ABTomorrow
Family and friends love getting together for no reason at all, think about how much better this will be. They will be celebrating you and your recovery. What better way to celebrate than with a potluck. Most people love potlucks as it is a way for them to show off their culinary skills as well as being able to sample the best dishes of others. Food has long been considered comforting, especially desserts with chocolate at the top of the list.
Nothing soothes the psyche as much as good food and great company. Don’t discount all the agony you went through and the hard work and determination that got you through it. It really does call for a celebration. The positive feed back that you are sure to get from everyone attending will go a long ways towards making you feel better about yourself. These people believe in you. They’re glad that you have reached this point in your recovery and, like you, they have a vested interest in your future. They care about you, more than you may ever be able to appreciate.
If you have kicked your habit, whatever it might have been, and found another way to celebrate, let us know. Your happiness will go a long ways towards making sure you don’t relapse. Count your blessings, everyday. Write them down if you need to, but don’t ever forget them.
If you or someone you know is still battling with an addiction, A Better Tomorrow is waiting to hear from you, today. Make the call and start your journey to a better way of life.
If you need help, are struggling with an addiction, or know of someone who is, please contact A Better Tomorrow Treatment Center today. We are here to help.
http://www.abttc.net/
Phone: 800.971.1586
Fax: 800.401.8464
24 Hour Addiction HelpLine
Tel. (800) 396-9389 (7 days 24 hours)
e-mail: info@24houraddictionhelp.com
http://www.24houraddictionhelp.org/
Feel free to follow us on Facebook and Twitter too!
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ABTomorrow
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/ABTomorrow
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Twelve Step Program – Narcotics Anonymous
A twelve step program is a set of guiding principles outlining a course of action to aid in the recovery from addiction. While twelve step programs have been adapted for use with a variety of compulsion and behavioral problems, this article will focus on its use to treat addiction.
Only two of the words, in two of the steps, of the Twelve Step program used by Alcoholics Anonymous were changed and became the foundation of Narcotics Anonymous. In the first step the word alcohol was replaced by ‘our addiction’. In the twelfth step the word alcoholics was replaced by ‘addicts’. NA is a nonprofit organization that supports men and women who have had major problems with drugs and addiction. The program is group oriented as are other twelve step programs. After Alcoholics Anonymous it is the second largest 12-step organization in existence. There are over 40,000 NA meetings that are conducted in over 125 countries.
Membership in Narcotics Anonymous is totally free. The only requirement to join is a desire to stop using. Meetings are held in a variety of public places such as libraries, hospitals, clinics, community centers, parks or church meeting rooms. Members find a home group, usually one with easy access for them. They are allowed to sit in on other groups particularly if they are out of the area where their home group is located. The group meets regularly to help each other stay clean.
NA defines "clean" as complete abstinence from all mood and mind altering substances, including alcohol. The only interest and focus of these groups is keeping its members clean. NA does not get involved in any outside issues including science, medicine or politics. It also does not endorse any other organizations or institutions. It does not advertise or promote itself in any way. They attract new members through public information and outreach, or word of mouth.
If you, or someone you love, are suffering with an addiction, A Better Tomorrow knows how to help. They are only waiting for your call. Be strong; make that call today to get yourself, or your loved one, on the road to recovery.
If you need help, are struggling with an addiction, or know of someone who is, please contact A Better Tomorrow Treatment Center today. We are here to help.
http://www.abttc.net/
Phone: 800.971.1586
Fax: 800.401.8464
24 Hour Addiction HelpLine
Tel. (800) 396-9389 (7 days 24 hours)
e-mail: info@24houraddictionhelp.com
http://www.24houraddictionhelp.org/
Feel free to follow us on Facebook and Twitter too!
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ABTomorrow
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/ABTomorrow
Only two of the words, in two of the steps, of the Twelve Step program used by Alcoholics Anonymous were changed and became the foundation of Narcotics Anonymous. In the first step the word alcohol was replaced by ‘our addiction’. In the twelfth step the word alcoholics was replaced by ‘addicts’. NA is a nonprofit organization that supports men and women who have had major problems with drugs and addiction. The program is group oriented as are other twelve step programs. After Alcoholics Anonymous it is the second largest 12-step organization in existence. There are over 40,000 NA meetings that are conducted in over 125 countries.
Membership in Narcotics Anonymous is totally free. The only requirement to join is a desire to stop using. Meetings are held in a variety of public places such as libraries, hospitals, clinics, community centers, parks or church meeting rooms. Members find a home group, usually one with easy access for them. They are allowed to sit in on other groups particularly if they are out of the area where their home group is located. The group meets regularly to help each other stay clean.
NA defines "clean" as complete abstinence from all mood and mind altering substances, including alcohol. The only interest and focus of these groups is keeping its members clean. NA does not get involved in any outside issues including science, medicine or politics. It also does not endorse any other organizations or institutions. It does not advertise or promote itself in any way. They attract new members through public information and outreach, or word of mouth.
If you, or someone you love, are suffering with an addiction, A Better Tomorrow knows how to help. They are only waiting for your call. Be strong; make that call today to get yourself, or your loved one, on the road to recovery.
If you need help, are struggling with an addiction, or know of someone who is, please contact A Better Tomorrow Treatment Center today. We are here to help.
http://www.abttc.net/
Phone: 800.971.1586
Fax: 800.401.8464
24 Hour Addiction HelpLine
Tel. (800) 396-9389 (7 days 24 hours)
e-mail: info@24houraddictionhelp.com
http://www.24houraddictionhelp.org/
Feel free to follow us on Facebook and Twitter too!
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ABTomorrow
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/ABTomorrow
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Twelve Step Program—Alcoholics Anonymous
A twelve step program is a set of guiding principles outlining a course of action to aid in the recovery from addiction. While twelve step programs have been adapted for use with a variety of compulsion and behavioral problems, this article will outline its use for Alcoholics Anonymous.
The first twelve step program was devised by Alcoholics Anonymous AA as a recovery tool from alcoholism. The first publication of the Twelve Steps was in 1939 in the book, Alcoholics Anonymous: the Story of How More than One Hundred Men Have Recovered From Alcoholism. The original Twelve Steps published by AA are:
1. We admitted we were powerless over alcohol—that our lives had become unmanageable.
2. Came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity.
3. Made a decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God as we understood Him.
4. Made a searching and fearless moral inventory of ourselves.
5. Admitted to God, to ourselves, and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs.
6. Were entirely ready to have God remove all these defects of character.
7. Humbly asked Him to remove our shortcomings.
8. Made a list of all persons we had harmed, and became willing to make amends to them all.
9. Made direct amends to such people wherever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others.
10. Continued to take personal inventory and when we were wrong promptly admitted it.
11. Sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God as we understood Him, praying only for knowledge of His will for us and the power to carry that out.
12. Having had a spiritual awakening as the result of these steps, we tried to carry this message to alcoholics, and to practice these principles in all our affairs.” http://www.aa.org/en_pdfs/smf-121_en.pdf
We all, at one time or another, seen AA meetings enacted on television. This method of staying dry has worked for countless individuals. Don’t be too quick to discount its power. If you, or someone you love, have a problem with alcohol dependence, contact A Better Tomorrow, today. Give them a call and let them help you to the road of recovery. You can do it!
If you need help, are struggling with an addiction, or know of someone who is, please contact A Better Tomorrow Treatment Center today. We are here to help.
http://www.abttc.net/
Phone: 800.971.1586
Fax: 800.401.8464
24 Hour Addiction HelpLine
Tel. (800) 396-9389 (7 days 24 hours)
e-mail: info@24houraddictionhelp.com
http://www.24houraddictionhelp.org/
Feel free to follow us on Facebook and Twitter too!
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ABTomorrow
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/ABTomorrow
The first twelve step program was devised by Alcoholics Anonymous AA as a recovery tool from alcoholism. The first publication of the Twelve Steps was in 1939 in the book, Alcoholics Anonymous: the Story of How More than One Hundred Men Have Recovered From Alcoholism. The original Twelve Steps published by AA are:
1. We admitted we were powerless over alcohol—that our lives had become unmanageable.
2. Came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity.
3. Made a decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God as we understood Him.
4. Made a searching and fearless moral inventory of ourselves.
5. Admitted to God, to ourselves, and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs.
6. Were entirely ready to have God remove all these defects of character.
7. Humbly asked Him to remove our shortcomings.
8. Made a list of all persons we had harmed, and became willing to make amends to them all.
9. Made direct amends to such people wherever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others.
10. Continued to take personal inventory and when we were wrong promptly admitted it.
11. Sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God as we understood Him, praying only for knowledge of His will for us and the power to carry that out.
12. Having had a spiritual awakening as the result of these steps, we tried to carry this message to alcoholics, and to practice these principles in all our affairs.” http://www.aa.org/en_pdfs/smf-121_en.pdf
We all, at one time or another, seen AA meetings enacted on television. This method of staying dry has worked for countless individuals. Don’t be too quick to discount its power. If you, or someone you love, have a problem with alcohol dependence, contact A Better Tomorrow, today. Give them a call and let them help you to the road of recovery. You can do it!
If you need help, are struggling with an addiction, or know of someone who is, please contact A Better Tomorrow Treatment Center today. We are here to help.
http://www.abttc.net/
Phone: 800.971.1586
Fax: 800.401.8464
24 Hour Addiction HelpLine
Tel. (800) 396-9389 (7 days 24 hours)
e-mail: info@24houraddictionhelp.com
http://www.24houraddictionhelp.org/
Feel free to follow us on Facebook and Twitter too!
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ABTomorrow
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/ABTomorrow
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
