Stop enabling them. Yes, it is easier said then done at times, but remember, each time you enable them, the sicker they get. The more they manipulate, the more they take, and the worse you feel. You may find yourself doing things for an addict due to the type of relationship you had prior to their addiction that you wouldn’t even do for a stranger. Ask yourself, would you do it for a stranger? Would you bail a person out of jail that you didn’t know? No, you wouldn’t. Even if the addict is a family member, they are a shell of whom you used to know.
Enabling can be as simple as calling into work for tem because they cannot function. Making up excuses for their behavior does not make them hold any accountability for their actions.
Quit bailing them out of situations they get themselves into because of their addiction. This is often one of the hardest things for parents as they have nurtured this family member since infancy. Their son or daughter spends up all their funds on drugs and has no food for the house. It kills a parent to think that their child is going without food and have a hard time putting the foot down when the addict ask for money for groceries. As a parent or any body for that matter who is dealing with an addict, you have to it perfectly clear that you will not help them in any fashion continue to live in their current lifestyle. This includes no longer bailing them out of jail, missed payments (rent, vehicle, lights, etc). If we keep an addict from constantly escaping bottom, knowing they must hit bottom before they will get better, it will never happen.
Stop believing everything they say. If you heard it once, you have heard it a million times “just this one time, if you help me now I promise I will go get help.” That old song and dance is just that, a song and dance that you must let go in one ear, out the other, and not give it a second thought. Do not believe what they say, only what they do. Keep your boundaries clear and strong.
Take care of you. Dealing with an addict is exhausting. You have to take care of you first. There is nothing you can do an addict other than set clear-cut boundaries. Let them know you will not continue to help them on their path to self-destruction until after they seek professional help. It is fine to tell them you love them, but will not accept their current lifestyle or behavior. This does not make you a bad person. This makes you someone who needs to remain healthy and sane, one who recognizes that the only way your loved one is going to get the type of help he or she need is by hitting bottom.
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, January 29, 2010
Thursday, January 28, 2010
How to Support a Family Member in Rehab
Addiction affects all those that are exposed to the addict and is more often than not hit hardest on family members. When you play a role in getting a family member into rehab, you will experience a multitude of feelings. This can be extremely overwhelming and at times hard to keep in check.
If you have found yourself in the position of supporting a family member in rehab there are some important things to keep in mind at all times.
First off, any family member affected by another’s addiction should seek help themselves to understand the addiction and work through how it has effected their life. However, outside of that, some other important factors must be followed.
When your loved one is admitted into a rehabilitation center for addiction, it is important to not break the rules. They will be discussed with you in detail as well as given to you in written form. If a rule demands that you do not bring in even chewing gum to your family member, do not do it. The rules are there for the best interest of your family member; not to punish or torture them. Even if you do not like the rules or disagree with them, remember always, it is in the best interest of your family member and others in rehab.
In the beginning, visitation may be restricted, however, when it is allowed visit when you can, if it is the right thing for you and the therapist working with your family member advises.
Often time’s therapist will invite you to partake in family sessions. These can be invaluable to both you and your family member in rehab. Participate openly and honestly during these sessions. Do not minimize the situation as not to hurt your family members feeling or to cause an upset. This is the time to make sure your feelings are also heard honestly and will play a large role in your family members’ acceptance of the depth of their addiction as well as help work towards their recovery.
Honor your family members’ privacy. If they choose not to share with others on the outside their location, keep it private unless they give you permission otherwise.
Before bringing anything into the facility talk to the staff and ask what is appropriate for your family member in regards to gifts, magazines, etc.
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
If you have found yourself in the position of supporting a family member in rehab there are some important things to keep in mind at all times.
First off, any family member affected by another’s addiction should seek help themselves to understand the addiction and work through how it has effected their life. However, outside of that, some other important factors must be followed.
When your loved one is admitted into a rehabilitation center for addiction, it is important to not break the rules. They will be discussed with you in detail as well as given to you in written form. If a rule demands that you do not bring in even chewing gum to your family member, do not do it. The rules are there for the best interest of your family member; not to punish or torture them. Even if you do not like the rules or disagree with them, remember always, it is in the best interest of your family member and others in rehab.
In the beginning, visitation may be restricted, however, when it is allowed visit when you can, if it is the right thing for you and the therapist working with your family member advises.
Often time’s therapist will invite you to partake in family sessions. These can be invaluable to both you and your family member in rehab. Participate openly and honestly during these sessions. Do not minimize the situation as not to hurt your family members feeling or to cause an upset. This is the time to make sure your feelings are also heard honestly and will play a large role in your family members’ acceptance of the depth of their addiction as well as help work towards their recovery.
Honor your family members’ privacy. If they choose not to share with others on the outside their location, keep it private unless they give you permission otherwise.
Before bringing anything into the facility talk to the staff and ask what is appropriate for your family member in regards to gifts, magazines, etc.
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, January 27, 2010
The Twelve Step Promises
The Twelve Step Promises plays a significant role in ones recovery and something that should be reflected upon frequently, regardless of how long you have been “clean”. Just as one may have to reflect on an owners’ manual to help path the way in repairing something, the same goes with the Twelve Step Promises. If you have not reflected on them lately, take the time to do so today. There is no time like the present.
The Twelve Step Promises
If we are painstaking about this phase of our development, we will be amazed before we are half way through.
We are going to know a new freedom and a new happiness.
We will not regret the past nor wish to shut the door on it.
We will comprehend the word serenity and we will know peace.
No matter how far down the scale we have gone, we will see how our experience can benefit others.
That feeling of uselessness and self-pity will disappear.
We will lose interest in selfish things and gain interest in our fellows.
Self-seeking will slip away.
Our whole attitude and outlook upon life will change.
Fear of people and of economic insecurity will leave us.
We will intuitively know how to handle situations, which used to baffle us.
We will suddenly realize that God is doing for us what we could not do for ourselves.
"Are these extravagant promises? We think not. They are being fulfilled among us - sometimes quickly, sometimes slowly. They will always materialize if we work for them.” (AA Handbook, p 83-84)
What have you done lately to work towards to keeping or making these promises? Have you made necessary changes needed to obtain these promises?
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 Twelve Step Promises
If we are painstaking about this phase of our development, we will be amazed before we are half way through.
We are going to know a new freedom and a new happiness.
We will not regret the past nor wish to shut the door on it.
We will comprehend the word serenity and we will know peace.
No matter how far down the scale we have gone, we will see how our experience can benefit others.
That feeling of uselessness and self-pity will disappear.
We will lose interest in selfish things and gain interest in our fellows.
Self-seeking will slip away.
Our whole attitude and outlook upon life will change.
Fear of people and of economic insecurity will leave us.
We will intuitively know how to handle situations, which used to baffle us.
We will suddenly realize that God is doing for us what we could not do for ourselves.
"Are these extravagant promises? We think not. They are being fulfilled among us - sometimes quickly, sometimes slowly. They will always materialize if we work for them.” (AA Handbook, p 83-84)
What have you done lately to work towards to keeping or making these promises? Have you made necessary changes needed to obtain these promises?
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, January 26, 2010
The Genetics of Addiction
As of date, there is no one 100% scientific fact that a certain gene condemns you to becoming addicted to drugs or alcohol at birth. However, scientist do say that there are numerous genes that can play a role in addiction but none powerful enough to make you a predetermined addict. .
When you hear the term “Genetic Model” in regards to addiction, the specialist is looking for those genes pronounced to play a role in addiction growth. As stated before, scientist believes there are several genes that can play a role in addiction such as the A1 allele of the dopamine receptor DRD2. This particular gene is thought to play a role in addiction problems with alcohol, cocaine, and compulsive gambling. Depending on the genes present and the percentage of people who share this gene with a particular addiction determines who may thought to be at a higher risk for that particular addiction.
Once an addiction receptiveness gene is identified, research then looks at how this gene affects the brain’s circuitry and influences a predisposition for drug use, abuse, dependence, and withdrawal. The idea behind it is to create a drug that can block, turn off, or reverse the function of that gene. Researchers are learning more and more about how genes influence various aspects of ones life and are showing some promises in the field of drug addiction. However, genes alone are not responsible for drug abuse or addiction. Other factors come into play such as environment and mental and physical well-being.
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
When you hear the term “Genetic Model” in regards to addiction, the specialist is looking for those genes pronounced to play a role in addiction growth. As stated before, scientist believes there are several genes that can play a role in addiction such as the A1 allele of the dopamine receptor DRD2. This particular gene is thought to play a role in addiction problems with alcohol, cocaine, and compulsive gambling. Depending on the genes present and the percentage of people who share this gene with a particular addiction determines who may thought to be at a higher risk for that particular addiction.
Once an addiction receptiveness gene is identified, research then looks at how this gene affects the brain’s circuitry and influences a predisposition for drug use, abuse, dependence, and withdrawal. The idea behind it is to create a drug that can block, turn off, or reverse the function of that gene. Researchers are learning more and more about how genes influence various aspects of ones life and are showing some promises in the field of drug addiction. However, genes alone are not responsible for drug abuse or addiction. Other factors come into play such as environment and mental and physical well-being.
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, January 25, 2010
What makes an Addict?
Some people may question if they are an addict, whether it be to alcohol, drugs, the internet, sex, gambling, or what not. So how does one really decipher if they are an addict?
Where is the line drawn between responsible indulgence of something and an addictive indulgence? There is a difference between indulging, abusing, and being addicted. While there is no one set criteria that define an addict, there are some characteristic traits that can put you at a higher risk of being an addict. A strong indicator that you may have a problem is wondering if you are an addict in the first place.
One characteristic trait that is often found in addicts is compulsive behavior. When a person engages repeatedly and often unconsciously in one certain thing is considered compulsive behavior. When an obsessive compulsion begins to dictate one’s daily activity and rule one’s life, it might be time to seek outside intervention.
Lack of self-control is another characteristic often found in addicts. When one feels they have no power over their own self-control, is unable to exert any control over choices or feels powerless over a habit or substance, that person is in danger of addiction.
A huge common characteristic amongst addicts is the refusal to accept responsibility whether it is for the addiction or their actions due to their addiction. Everything is always someone else’s fault. The stronger the addition grows, the more blame game is done. If a person feels the need to hide their habits or vices with stories, blame games, lies, or by seeking solitude, it is time to seek help.
Substitution is another characteristic that can be found in some addicts. When a person is fronted by another of concern of a current addiction issue, the person my very well stop what they were confronted about, but just substitute one addiction for another. Cigarette smokers may very well pick up eating; eating disorder pick up smoking, gamblers pick up shopping, alcoholics pick up illegal drug use, and drug users substitute alcohol for their addiction. Although the first concerned addiction may have ceased, the additive behavior manifest elsewhere. It is that addictive behavior trait that still needs to be addressed for any type healthy recovery.
It is not uncommon for addicts to have multiple vices. For example, a workaholic might begin drinking too much after hours, “to take the edge off,” falling into alcoholism or other addictions. Another common denominator is family history of addiction or addictive behavior. Although it doesn’t mean every person born to an alcoholic parent will grow up to be an alcoholic, but is at a higher risk. It is unsure yet, as experts argue, if there are genetic factors passed along or if the addictive traits are learned.
Insecurity and a general overall unhappiness also play a role in many addicts’ lives. It is kind of like the chicken and the egg, which comes first, the emotional ill well being, or the addiction leading to the emotional well-being.
If you question if you may be an addict, your best bet is to seek medical advice. If you are questioning it, more than likely you are at high risk of being an addict, if not already.
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
Where is the line drawn between responsible indulgence of something and an addictive indulgence? There is a difference between indulging, abusing, and being addicted. While there is no one set criteria that define an addict, there are some characteristic traits that can put you at a higher risk of being an addict. A strong indicator that you may have a problem is wondering if you are an addict in the first place.
One characteristic trait that is often found in addicts is compulsive behavior. When a person engages repeatedly and often unconsciously in one certain thing is considered compulsive behavior. When an obsessive compulsion begins to dictate one’s daily activity and rule one’s life, it might be time to seek outside intervention.
Lack of self-control is another characteristic often found in addicts. When one feels they have no power over their own self-control, is unable to exert any control over choices or feels powerless over a habit or substance, that person is in danger of addiction.
A huge common characteristic amongst addicts is the refusal to accept responsibility whether it is for the addiction or their actions due to their addiction. Everything is always someone else’s fault. The stronger the addition grows, the more blame game is done. If a person feels the need to hide their habits or vices with stories, blame games, lies, or by seeking solitude, it is time to seek help.
Substitution is another characteristic that can be found in some addicts. When a person is fronted by another of concern of a current addiction issue, the person my very well stop what they were confronted about, but just substitute one addiction for another. Cigarette smokers may very well pick up eating; eating disorder pick up smoking, gamblers pick up shopping, alcoholics pick up illegal drug use, and drug users substitute alcohol for their addiction. Although the first concerned addiction may have ceased, the additive behavior manifest elsewhere. It is that addictive behavior trait that still needs to be addressed for any type healthy recovery.
It is not uncommon for addicts to have multiple vices. For example, a workaholic might begin drinking too much after hours, “to take the edge off,” falling into alcoholism or other addictions. Another common denominator is family history of addiction or addictive behavior. Although it doesn’t mean every person born to an alcoholic parent will grow up to be an alcoholic, but is at a higher risk. It is unsure yet, as experts argue, if there are genetic factors passed along or if the addictive traits are learned.
Insecurity and a general overall unhappiness also play a role in many addicts’ lives. It is kind of like the chicken and the egg, which comes first, the emotional ill well being, or the addiction leading to the emotional well-being.
If you question if you may be an addict, your best bet is to seek medical advice. If you are questioning it, more than likely you are at high risk of being an addict, if not already.
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, January 22, 2010
Teenage Prescription Drug Abuse
The new drug of choice amongst teenagers today is not the so much the cocaine, LSD, and ecstasy as was in the 1960’s, but rather painkillers and other prescription drugs giving this generations teen use the name “Generation Rx.”
Teens have found it easy to get their high straight out of their parent’s and grandparent’s medicine cabinets; so much so that studies are reflecting that teens today are more likely to have abused prescription drugs vs. illegal drugs.
Can part of this be due to the ADHD trend that has been seen throughout the schools U.S. wide - where kids are being medicated with the same drugs that end up being abused as well?
Teens get involved in prescription drugs in a variety of ways and it is unsure how much exactly the widespread prescribed use of ADHD meds has played into the Generation Rx. However, they have been introduced to prescription drug abuse; even the experimental stage can be very dangerous. Teens already have their own inert sense of indestructibility and that they are immune to the problems they see on the streets such as homelessness, addiction, and even incarceration. They look at their drug experimentation as something every teen does, just part of growing up, for fun, and just to “party”. They do not look at what it can actually lead to – long-term addiction, homelessness, incarceration, and even death. Some teens do just experiment and stop, however a significant number continue to use and develop a dependency.
There is no one set formula that can predict which teen will develop a dependency to prescription drugs and which won’t. It is just as likely that the popular teen carrying an honor roll status from a two parent home can become an addict just as quick as the teen from a broken family living on welfare with a “C” to failing average. Remember, addiction doesn’t show favoritism.
The best you can do is to stay in touch with your teen, what is going on in their life, and what they are doing. Be aware of what prescription drugs you have in your home and be responsible for them. If you think your teen may be experimenting with prescription drugs, check your own medicine cabinet and put prescription medication up. Seek consul for your teen if you feel your teen is using with your family doctor.
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
Teens have found it easy to get their high straight out of their parent’s and grandparent’s medicine cabinets; so much so that studies are reflecting that teens today are more likely to have abused prescription drugs vs. illegal drugs.
Can part of this be due to the ADHD trend that has been seen throughout the schools U.S. wide - where kids are being medicated with the same drugs that end up being abused as well?
Teens get involved in prescription drugs in a variety of ways and it is unsure how much exactly the widespread prescribed use of ADHD meds has played into the Generation Rx. However, they have been introduced to prescription drug abuse; even the experimental stage can be very dangerous. Teens already have their own inert sense of indestructibility and that they are immune to the problems they see on the streets such as homelessness, addiction, and even incarceration. They look at their drug experimentation as something every teen does, just part of growing up, for fun, and just to “party”. They do not look at what it can actually lead to – long-term addiction, homelessness, incarceration, and even death. Some teens do just experiment and stop, however a significant number continue to use and develop a dependency.
There is no one set formula that can predict which teen will develop a dependency to prescription drugs and which won’t. It is just as likely that the popular teen carrying an honor roll status from a two parent home can become an addict just as quick as the teen from a broken family living on welfare with a “C” to failing average. Remember, addiction doesn’t show favoritism.
The best you can do is to stay in touch with your teen, what is going on in their life, and what they are doing. Be aware of what prescription drugs you have in your home and be responsible for them. If you think your teen may be experimenting with prescription drugs, check your own medicine cabinet and put prescription medication up. Seek consul for your teen if you feel your teen is using with your family doctor.
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, January 21, 2010
Dealing with the Past Vs. Present Trust Issues
In the past, before recovery, everyone who cared about you and even some that didn’t had their own thoughts on your ability to make wise choices for your life. They had just cause to distrust your abilities in that fashion, after all, you were hurting if not killing yourself with your addiction as well as others. So it pretty much goes without saying that when you were chasing the high you did have problems making wise choices for yourself and others in your life. Your addiction in a sense had all of your senses blinded. You were not always capable of making healthy or wise decisions for yourself, family, or friends.
But somewhere along the way you were presented with a decision that you made, recovery – that first step to getting healthy. It may have been a forced or made decision for you, but that next decision in your life that you made, the one to commit to your recovery after you had been through detox – that decision was yours and yours alone. Moreover, the decision each day you rise and every minute afterwards to remain true to your recovery is yours and yours all alone. The stronger you get in your recovery, the healthier you are in making solid wise and healthy decisions in your life. So now you find yourself asking why others cannot se that you are capable of making healthy and wise decisions now that you are no longer chasing the high of your addiction. You may be feeling beat down due to others asking you to prove you are capable to be given the trust to even make the smallest of decisions for others (this especially crops up when there are children involved).
Remember, addictions do not just afflict the user, but everyone around them as well. Those that have been affected by your addiction also need to seek consul on their own feelings and work through them.
Tell yourself daily when you are feeling as if you are not trustworthy that you have nothing to prove to anyone except for yourself. Tell yourself “I am thoughtful, responsible, strong, confident, and courageous.” Continue to make healthy and wise decisions for yourself and your actions will speak far louder than words.
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
But somewhere along the way you were presented with a decision that you made, recovery – that first step to getting healthy. It may have been a forced or made decision for you, but that next decision in your life that you made, the one to commit to your recovery after you had been through detox – that decision was yours and yours alone. Moreover, the decision each day you rise and every minute afterwards to remain true to your recovery is yours and yours all alone. The stronger you get in your recovery, the healthier you are in making solid wise and healthy decisions in your life. So now you find yourself asking why others cannot se that you are capable of making healthy and wise decisions now that you are no longer chasing the high of your addiction. You may be feeling beat down due to others asking you to prove you are capable to be given the trust to even make the smallest of decisions for others (this especially crops up when there are children involved).
Remember, addictions do not just afflict the user, but everyone around them as well. Those that have been affected by your addiction also need to seek consul on their own feelings and work through them.
Tell yourself daily when you are feeling as if you are not trustworthy that you have nothing to prove to anyone except for yourself. Tell yourself “I am thoughtful, responsible, strong, confident, and courageous.” Continue to make healthy and wise decisions for yourself and your actions will speak far louder than words.
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, January 20, 2010
Wasted Days and Wasted Nights
Before recovery time was something wasted; wasted on how one was going to catch their next high, living the life of an addict. Because of this, many people in recovery try as the might to make up for that lost time, make up for the birthdays and other significant events in their life lost or a loved ones life. We make promises and commitments in all good intentions that in reality we don’t have the time or energy to fulfill. We don’t want to miss out in anything that we let pass by in our life because we were to busy getting high.
Although we may not be able to move mountains yet, we can focus on what we can do. It is not how much we get done in a day as much as it is the quality of what we do succeed. Focus on your daily responsibilities’ and only schedule in what is reasonable. Make sure you allow time for meetings and reflection. While attending your daily responsibilities, make sure you do so with a kind heart and leave resentment at the door. In time, as you strengthen your commitment to recovery your stamina will become much more enduring. After all, by entering into recovery and working the plan you have already climbed one of the biggest mountains you will ever climb in your life.
Repeat to yourself when feeling stretched thin on time:
“I will get done everything I really need to do today if I focus on being kind to the women and men who cross my path.”
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
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Although we may not be able to move mountains yet, we can focus on what we can do. It is not how much we get done in a day as much as it is the quality of what we do succeed. Focus on your daily responsibilities’ and only schedule in what is reasonable. Make sure you allow time for meetings and reflection. While attending your daily responsibilities, make sure you do so with a kind heart and leave resentment at the door. In time, as you strengthen your commitment to recovery your stamina will become much more enduring. After all, by entering into recovery and working the plan you have already climbed one of the biggest mountains you will ever climb in your life.
Repeat to yourself when feeling stretched thin on time:
“I will get done everything I really need to do today if I focus on being kind to the women and men who cross my path.”
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
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Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Just for Today: Gratefulness
“I will accept my life, gratefully, just as it is.”
How many of us really live by that statement? What does being grateful really mean? Does it mean to be just thankful for the immediate tangible things or people in our lives?
Being grateful is the same as being appreciative or thankful for the people that have touched our lives even in the smallest of ways to the big and obvious as well. You may thank your sponsor when he or she pulls you through a tough time, but do you thank the person who smiled at you on the street? Do you return that smile, or just brush by?
Being grateful is being grateful for all good things that touch you. It can be as small as a person who shared their story at a meeting or the one who passed the sugar for your coffee during break. The people who made it possible for your AA group to meet by supplying the building, the means, the snacks, etc.
To be grateful for something is to be mindful of it, to allow it to be a part of your thoughts and thereby dictate your actions. To be grateful in life, all you have to do is to stay alert, watch your surroundings, and not take even the smallest of things for granted. There are limitless opportunities everyday where we can exercise our thankfulness and gratefulness. It starts with two very simple yet very under used words – Thank You.
By being grateful for the smallest of things as well as the obvious, we gain a bigger appreciation for what all is good in our lives and the world around us. By showing that appreciation back to those givers, and making yourself one of those people a person can put on their grateful list only rises your self esteem and your general over all natural good feel. It is an addiction, but a great one! It is one that will make you smile, feel good, is super healthy, and one you will want to pass on to others.
Being grateful to others around you, your recovery, and even the small things in life may seem so simple, yet sadly is not expressed near as much as it should be; yet it is the easy thing you can do that doesn’t cost you a cent, but pays back hundreds.
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!
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Monday, January 18, 2010
Recovery for Men ~ “A Man’s Way Through the Twelve Steps”
The piece I want to share with everyone today is something I was sent on Facebook that I thought was rather intriguing. It is a book review of “A Man’s Way Through the Twelve Steps” written by Dan Griffin done by William L. White, MA from the Chestnut Health Systems out of Bloomington Illinois.
Here is a just a small script of the book itself “Rob, a twenty-seven- year-old financial advisor with five years of sobriety, commented: Being a man in the Twelve Step program means that I have to be able to identify and reveal my feelings and secrets to other men. In our culture, men are often expected to keep their emotions and difficulties to themselves. Not only is the program itself challenging, but developing deeply emotional relationships adds to it.” p.12
“A Man's Way” Reviewed by Bill White in Alcoholism Treatment Quarterly
The collective experience—the ‘‘we’’—from which the 12 Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) were formulated was distinctly masculine. In the intervening years, concerns about gender and AA have focused on the history of women pioneers in AA, feminist critiques of AA, research on recovery outcomes for women in AA, the growth of women’s meetings in AA, and explorations of the phenomenology of women’s recovery in AA. All of this scrutiny unfolded within the larger cultural context of an evolving ‘‘women’s movement’’ which in turn spawned a multi-branched ‘‘men’s movement.’’
This newly published book is written within the tradition of this latter movement. This book is about ‘‘how men live as men’’ and how men live as men in addiction recovery. Griffin offers a personal guide through 12-Step recovery with a particular focus on men’s roles, men’s health, and the capacity of the 12 Steps to spark processes of personal transformation that involve far more than the removal of alcohol and other drugs from men’s lives.
“A Man’s Way through the Twelve Steps” will find appreciative audiences among men in recovery and the women and men living with men in recovery. I suspect the book will find its place in treatment centers and the newly spreading renewal centers and recovery community centers as a source for seminars or a recovery book club selection. Addiction professionals may find this book helpful as a recommended resource for some of their male clients. The book’s strength is in the breadth of issues addressed, the stories, and voices of men in recovery, and the gentle guidance that is offered. It is at heart a book in which men in recovery share their ‘‘experience, strength, and hope’’ with other men. I greatly enjoyed this book and closed the last page with only two wishes: that the book would have used the lives of historical figures in recovery to illustrate some of its themes and that the book would have included references to recent scientific literature that support its suggestions.
There is a growing professional and scientific interest in the long-term, lived experience of addiction recovery. Dan Griffin has added a valuable piece of literature on the phenomenology of addiction recovery among men.
William L. White, MA
Chestnut Health Systems
Bloomington, IL USA
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
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Friday, January 15, 2010
Getting over a hump…
It’s not just holidays that can risk someone sobriety. It can be a birthday, a anniversary, a death of a loved one, actually any day of the week for that matter can risk ones path in recovery. During those times it is important to get all the extra support and tips you can get your hands on for help in getting over the hump.
Here are some useful tips to keep you from relapsing:
1. Keep a plan
When you know a certain time of your life is going to be extra difficult to get though, plan ahead of time on how you intend on spending your days throughout this time. If you have family and friends who are supportive of your recovery, plan to spend the majority of this time with them. If the occasion requires you to attend an event where alcohol is being served, bring a fellow AA member, strong family support member, or your sponsor with you. Plan events that are fun during this time that will take you away from thinking about using.
2. Request extra support
Ask for extra support from family members and friends who truly have your back in your recovery process. Be up front and tell them your concerns, fears and weakness. If they are truly supportive of your recovery, they will welcome the chance to help you through rough patches.
3. Emergency Call List
Have a list of at least 10 people you can call when you are feeling weak. Carry it along with your cell phone wherever you go.
4. Exercise
Pump it up during this time! You should be engaging in regular exercise as it is, but during these time increase the amount you do. Go running, skating, biking, cross country skiing, take a yoga class or water aerobics, anything, just get up and get moving.
5. Stay away from slippery places.
In slippery places I am referring to places where you used to use or drink. There is no reason to take a trip down memory lane, frequent your old drinking spot, or hang out with the old crowd you used to use with. No good can come of it so stay away from those locations. If the people you used to hang with had your best interest at heart, they would have encouraged you to seek help in the first place.
6. Create new traditions
Your previous holiday celebrations more than likely included your drug of choice. Old holiday traditions can even trigger the feel of the need to use. So start replacing those triggers with new traditions. Make a annual event of playing a board game with the family every holiday, going for a walk, or any of a thousand other things you can do to make a change in the previous pattern.
7. Daily Gratitude
The quickest way to cure the blues is to reflect on all those things you have to be thankful for. When you are feeling down, write down everything you have to be thankful for, big and small and do not stop until you have at least 10 things on your list. Put your list somewhere that is easily seen and reflect on it often throughout your day. Do this every morning until you have gotten over the hump. Leave your list on your refrigerator, bathroom mirror, or anywhere easily seen for reflection.
8. Volunteer
One of the great things about giving back is how it makes one feel – great!!! There are so many people in need around everyone’s community, people who are homeless, hungry, jobless seeking job skills and a mess load of other conflicts. Now is a great time to volunteer at a local shelter, soup line, or church. Offer your expertise in your chosen craft to help teach another. Visit retirement homes and nursing homes. There are so many things and ways a person can volunteer that will not only help others, but you as well.
9. Write a journal
Be open with yourself about how you are struggling. Write down what steps you are taking to avoid relapsing. Write down why relapsing is not in your best interest. Date it, and write in it as much as you need to throughout a day. Next time you find yourself in a rough patch you can always go back and reflect on old entries, see how far you have come and see what different things helped pull your through in the past.
10. One Day at a Time
Take life one day at a time. Stay in the moment and don’t let the next day effect your current sobriety. If something is bothering you, talk, talk and talk some more until you are feeling better. Celebrate your sobriety and live 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
Here are some useful tips to keep you from relapsing:
1. Keep a plan
When you know a certain time of your life is going to be extra difficult to get though, plan ahead of time on how you intend on spending your days throughout this time. If you have family and friends who are supportive of your recovery, plan to spend the majority of this time with them. If the occasion requires you to attend an event where alcohol is being served, bring a fellow AA member, strong family support member, or your sponsor with you. Plan events that are fun during this time that will take you away from thinking about using.
2. Request extra support
Ask for extra support from family members and friends who truly have your back in your recovery process. Be up front and tell them your concerns, fears and weakness. If they are truly supportive of your recovery, they will welcome the chance to help you through rough patches.
3. Emergency Call List
Have a list of at least 10 people you can call when you are feeling weak. Carry it along with your cell phone wherever you go.
4. Exercise
Pump it up during this time! You should be engaging in regular exercise as it is, but during these time increase the amount you do. Go running, skating, biking, cross country skiing, take a yoga class or water aerobics, anything, just get up and get moving.
5. Stay away from slippery places.
In slippery places I am referring to places where you used to use or drink. There is no reason to take a trip down memory lane, frequent your old drinking spot, or hang out with the old crowd you used to use with. No good can come of it so stay away from those locations. If the people you used to hang with had your best interest at heart, they would have encouraged you to seek help in the first place.
6. Create new traditions
Your previous holiday celebrations more than likely included your drug of choice. Old holiday traditions can even trigger the feel of the need to use. So start replacing those triggers with new traditions. Make a annual event of playing a board game with the family every holiday, going for a walk, or any of a thousand other things you can do to make a change in the previous pattern.
7. Daily Gratitude
The quickest way to cure the blues is to reflect on all those things you have to be thankful for. When you are feeling down, write down everything you have to be thankful for, big and small and do not stop until you have at least 10 things on your list. Put your list somewhere that is easily seen and reflect on it often throughout your day. Do this every morning until you have gotten over the hump. Leave your list on your refrigerator, bathroom mirror, or anywhere easily seen for reflection.
8. Volunteer
One of the great things about giving back is how it makes one feel – great!!! There are so many people in need around everyone’s community, people who are homeless, hungry, jobless seeking job skills and a mess load of other conflicts. Now is a great time to volunteer at a local shelter, soup line, or church. Offer your expertise in your chosen craft to help teach another. Visit retirement homes and nursing homes. There are so many things and ways a person can volunteer that will not only help others, but you as well.
9. Write a journal
Be open with yourself about how you are struggling. Write down what steps you are taking to avoid relapsing. Write down why relapsing is not in your best interest. Date it, and write in it as much as you need to throughout a day. Next time you find yourself in a rough patch you can always go back and reflect on old entries, see how far you have come and see what different things helped pull your through in the past.
10. One Day at a Time
Take life one day at a time. Stay in the moment and don’t let the next day effect your current sobriety. If something is bothering you, talk, talk and talk some more until you are feeling better. Celebrate your sobriety and live 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
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Self Pity?
No one is above not feeling self-pity from time to time. Often times are expectations of what we feel our life should be and what in reality it is varies leaving us to question “why me?” leading to wallowing in self-pity. Recovery is no different. We have set expectations about how our life should be, where it should be leading to, and expectations that are not always met. It’s funny how some think that just by going to a rehab should change everyone’s outlook on them and their past behaviors –as all should be forgotten and put into the past, no questions asked, no forgiveness needed because, after all they were an addict and not in their right mind. However, when reality hits that it doesn’t work that way, self pity rears its ugly head.
When the world doesn't measure up to our expectations, it's often our expectations that need adjusting, not the world. Start making those adjustments by comparing your life today with the way it used to be, developing gratitude for your recovery. Extend this exercise in gratitude by counting the good things in your life, becoming thankful that the world does not conform to our expectations but exceeds them. If you continue working the Twelve Steps, further cultivating gratitude and acceptance, what can be expected in the future is more growth, more happiness, and more peace of mind. Acceptance of our lives, just for today, frees us from our self-pity.
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
When the world doesn't measure up to our expectations, it's often our expectations that need adjusting, not the world. Start making those adjustments by comparing your life today with the way it used to be, developing gratitude for your recovery. Extend this exercise in gratitude by counting the good things in your life, becoming thankful that the world does not conform to our expectations but exceeds them. If you continue working the Twelve Steps, further cultivating gratitude and acceptance, what can be expected in the future is more growth, more happiness, and more peace of mind. Acceptance of our lives, just for today, frees us from our self-pity.
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, January 13, 2010
Patience is a Vertue
During your recovery process, you may find yourself short in patience with yourself and others. You may expect things to happen more quickly then they are and find yourself frustrated by the process at times. These are normal emotions to have however, your response to these emotions are crucial to your sobriety. Pre-recovery, when faced with strong emotions, the first thing one did was to drown them in their drug of choice. What the recovery process is trying to teach you is healthy ways to deal or cope with the strong feelings you will have along the way and throughout your life in general.
It is important for you to learn to have patience with all things but even more so with yourself. You have to keep the faith and the courage to follow through, accepting your imperfections and setting plans to fix the ones that hold you back. Each day is anew, new challenges, and new gains. You have heard the saying “change doesn’t happen overnight” and in recovery, change can be ever going. The best changes start with a single thought and then active support and forward movement from then on, one-step at a time, one day at a time.
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
It is important for you to learn to have patience with all things but even more so with yourself. You have to keep the faith and the courage to follow through, accepting your imperfections and setting plans to fix the ones that hold you back. Each day is anew, new challenges, and new gains. You have heard the saying “change doesn’t happen overnight” and in recovery, change can be ever going. The best changes start with a single thought and then active support and forward movement from then on, one-step at a time, one day at a time.
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, January 12, 2010
Wet Brain
One tragic consequence of consuming alcoholic drinks for years is a syndrome called Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome or more commonly known as “Wet Brain.” “Wet Brain Syndrome” is known by several other names including Korsakoff psychosis, alcoholic encephalopathy, and Wernicke's disease. Wet Brain occurs when there is a severe deficiency of Thiamine, a form of Vitamin B1, in ones body due to malnutrition commonly associated with alcoholics. If caught on its early onset, the effects of Wet Brain can be partially reversed through large doses of Thiamine. In the late stages of Wet Brain, there is no treatment and the effects from it are permanent if not deadly.
Malnutrition occurs in alcoholics leading to the lack of Thiamine in the system through poor eating habits, damaged gastro intestinal system that does not allow for proper absorption of essential nutrients, and liver damage. Thiamine deficiency leads to significant brain cell death and serious structural damage in other areas of the brain such as the brain stem, cerebral cortex, and the pons.
Symptoms of Wet Brain include:
• Ataxia, an irregular gait – wide stance and short step
• Confusion, which often manifests as apathy to external surroundings and low voluntary verbal participation
• Confabulation – telling of events that did not happen, and believing them to be true
• Dementia
• Hallucination – visual, aural or tactile
• Loss of control over eye movements
Sadly, if left untreated, Wet Brain Syndrome can lead to coma or even death. The death rate due to Wet Brain is 20 percent. Prompt treatment will lead to a full mental recovery for about 20%, a recovery from ataxia for about 40% and a recovery from irregular eye movement for about 60%.
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
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Monday, January 11, 2010
Dealing with Emotional Pain
In life there will always be pain. There is no getting around it. Sometime, somehow, you will be hurt. By being hurt, I am not referring to falling down and breaking a bone or skinning the knee. I am talking about emotional pain. Suffering emotional pain, even as difficult as it may be, is a natural part of growth. It gives one a better understanding of the world around them. It gives perspective.
In life, we all deal with a loss or a change in our life that was not wanted. It can bring on insecurities, doubts, fear, sadness, and a mess load of other feelings all at one time that can feel insurmountable. However, once we work through them we can see that we survived and gained insight in how to deal with emotional trauma.
Recovery is much the same. You will be dealing with many deep emotional issues that you have bottled up and buried with your addiction in order not to feel the pain. These issues need to be dealt with in order to get to the other side. However, if you are feeling the pain of the emotional issues you know you are on your way. The path through your pain affirms that you are alive, really alive and making a new journey, one that will change your life for the better. So do not run from the pain of emotional hurt; rather embrace it and embrace a brighter future.
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
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Friday, January 8, 2010
Accomplishing your dreams and hopes
Everyone has dreams and hopes for their future. Those in recovery have a whole newfound set of dreams and hopes. Once clouded by their addiction, dreams and hopes were deep buried, thought unattainable, or purely non-existent. Like the Christmas song “Put One Foot in Front Of Another” from the Christmas animation “Santa Claus is Coming to Town”, the first step in achieving anything is making that first step towards it. You already have begun that by getting help with your addiction and maintaining a clean recovery.
Regardless of what your dreams or hopes are - may they be big or small; in order to achieve it you must act on it. You can sit back and write down your dreams and hopes, but if you do not take them any further than that, they will never materialize. Say your dream is go back to school, just looking at the courses offered does not take you over the gap of dream into action to accomplishment. However, when you actively enroll in a class you took that first step towards achievement. Now you just need to keep stepping towards that goal.
Two things hold people back from achieving dreams and hopes – motivation, and fear of failure. Lack of motivation can make it difficult to get started on a project, especially if it is something you don’t want to do. If it is something that needs to be done, you may need to change your approach or break the project down in smaller bites to achieve it. If you still can’t seem to get the motivation to do something that is necessary, you may be dealing with some depression and should consider talking to someone. Fear of failure can be overcome by taking small steps until the fear diminishes. By breaking the task down, with each accomplishment the fear will begin to dissolve resulting in a completed project and a rise in your own self-esteem.
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
Regardless of what your dreams or hopes are - may they be big or small; in order to achieve it you must act on it. You can sit back and write down your dreams and hopes, but if you do not take them any further than that, they will never materialize. Say your dream is go back to school, just looking at the courses offered does not take you over the gap of dream into action to accomplishment. However, when you actively enroll in a class you took that first step towards achievement. Now you just need to keep stepping towards that goal.
Two things hold people back from achieving dreams and hopes – motivation, and fear of failure. Lack of motivation can make it difficult to get started on a project, especially if it is something you don’t want to do. If it is something that needs to be done, you may need to change your approach or break the project down in smaller bites to achieve it. If you still can’t seem to get the motivation to do something that is necessary, you may be dealing with some depression and should consider talking to someone. Fear of failure can be overcome by taking small steps until the fear diminishes. By breaking the task down, with each accomplishment the fear will begin to dissolve resulting in a completed project and a rise in your own self-esteem.
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, January 7, 2010
Dangers of Underage Drinking
It is well known that the younger a child begins to drink alcohol, the higher risk they have of becoming an alcoholic in their adult years. Early drinking sets up a pattern to addictive drinking as adults. Youth reasoning behind drinking is merely to get drunk, not as a casual drink between friends, but for partying purposes. They do not have healthy boundaries set. It is up to parents to make sure there are strong boundaries set in order to raise their children into adults with healthy boundaries when it comes to drinking.
Alcoholism has no boundaries, no geographical boundaries, no economics status boundaries, and no age criteria as seen in this following clip from ITNNEWS and in the following newsprint from BBC News.
Although both the video clip and the news article is Britain based, the effects of alcohol is worldwide.
Parents who allow their children alcohol at home may be increasing the chances of future drinking problems, says England's chief medical officer.
Sir Liam Donaldson accused some parents of a "laissez-faire" approach and said letting children taste alcohol to ready them for adulthood was "misguided".
Evidence showed that this could lead to binge drinking in later life, he said.
New official guidance says under-15s should drink no alcohol, with under-18s drinking only under supervision.
Legally, parents and carers can give their children alcohol at home from the age of five onwards.
Middle-class obsession'
However, Sir Liam described the idea of a glass of watered-down wine for a child as a "middle-class obsession", and criticised the approach among some parents towards their children getting drunk.
He said: "Across England, 500,000 children between the ages of 11 to 15 years will have been drunk in the past four weeks.
"The science is clear - drinking, particularly at a young age, a lack of parental supervision, exposing children to drink-fuelled events and failing to engage with them as they grow up are the root causes from which our country's serious alcohol problem has developed."
He added: "The more [children] get a taste for it, the more likely they are to be heavy drinking adults or binge drinkers later in childhood."
He announced a major publicity campaign on the subject in England, which will get under way in January 2010.
Similar advice is expected in Scotland at around the same time. In Wales, a health spokesman said work was already under way to tackle drinking among young people.
The advice was welcomed by alcohol campaign groups, although Alcohol Concern said that the availability of alcohol at "pocket money prices" was a key factor in abuse and should be addressed by ministers.
Sir Liam said that he wanted to address the "ready availability" of cheap alcohol and called on supermarkets and corner shops to "take a stand".
He said that he would be able to "shout louder" about his suggestion for a 50p minimum price for alcohol - rejected by Prime Minister Gordon Brown - after he steps down next year.
Jeremy Todd, chief executive of the parenting charity Parentline Plus, praised the guidelines.
He said: "Parents can have a huge influence on their child's drinking choices.
Parental influence
"Rates of teenage drunkenness are higher amongst both the children of parents who drink to excess and the children of parents who abstain completely.
"Whilst parents have a greater influence on their children's drinking patterns early on, as they grow older their friends have a greater influence.
"It is therefore crucial for parents to talk to their children about alcohol and its effects."
Professor Ian Gilmore, president of the Royal College of Physicians and chair of the Alcohol Health Alliance, said: "We know that adults who drink sensibly tend to pass these habits on and that some families choose to introduce alcohol to their children younger than 15 in a supportive environment."
He stressed that not drinking alcohol at all remained the "healthiest option" for children.
Alison Rogers, chief executive of the British Liver Trust, said: "While Sir Liam's statement is very strong and gives clear clinical guidance, the issues of pocket-money pricing and easy availability of alcohol need to be addressed if it is to have any impact on the life-style choices we are making."
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
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Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Giving yourself permission to have fun
Recovery is hard work, but one must not lose focus on having fun sometimes too. In fact, you can actually have more fun now in recovery than you could when you were actively using. Through working on your recovery, you have opened up your real self, a new zest on life, a spiritual awakening. There is reason to smile more and frown less and its okay. No, it is better than okay. You have the right to smile, the right to feel joy and you need to give yourself permission to feel these things, enjoy them, and have fun.
You have earned the right to feel your new awakening and all the good it has to offer as long as it does not threaten your abstinence. Go out for dinner with your friends, enjoy a movie, and enjoy gatherings or any of the other numerous activities that life presents to us daily.
You have gained the tools for recovery so you can expect to have more fun. Use the inventory, the amend steps, and clear away any emotional debris that can be standing in the way of your pure enjoyment of your recovery. Tell yourself “I will let myself enjoy life and have fun.”
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
You have earned the right to feel your new awakening and all the good it has to offer as long as it does not threaten your abstinence. Go out for dinner with your friends, enjoy a movie, and enjoy gatherings or any of the other numerous activities that life presents to us daily.
You have gained the tools for recovery so you can expect to have more fun. Use the inventory, the amend steps, and clear away any emotional debris that can be standing in the way of your pure enjoyment of your recovery. Tell yourself “I will let myself enjoy life and have fun.”
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, January 5, 2010
Relationships After Addiction
You had an addiction in the past and worked hard to get out of its grip. You were successful and are now on the road to recovery. You are to be applauded for the job you’ve done so far. Recovery is an ongoing process. One of the things that can cause a setback is a personal relationship that occurs to soon in recovery.
Recovery is full of relationships and most of them are quite healthy. You most likely belong to a support group and have formed many relationships there. Those people understand and empathize with the pains and trials of recovery. Friendships and lasting bonds may be formed and they will help in the recovery process.
Aside from these peer support relationships you are working on family relationships also. You may even have professional relationships that form with your therapist or the addiction professionals that you are working with. All of these are beneficial to your recovery.
Many addicts of drugs and alcohol experience a lessening of sexual desires due to the effects of substance abuse. With addiction, all of your energy, thoughts and feelings are tied to the substance you are using. You don’t have the time or the inclination to care about another person. Now that you are no longer addicted, you are experiencing normal sexual desires and you are vulnerable to creating strong infatuations or romantic feelings that have long been dormant.
Romantic relationships or volatile sexual relationships are rarely helpful or beneficial to the recovering addict. The very nature of romance or sexual relationships turn your attention to others when it really needs to be focused on internal healing that is a part of your recovery. This is no way means you will never be able to have a personal relationship in the future. It merely means that you should be cautious about the timing of such a union. There is no time frame set in stone, it’s something you will have to consider and decide on your own. If you have thoughts to share about this process, please let us know.
If you know someone who is addicted to a substance, let them know that A Better Tomorrow can help them to recovery. You’ve been there, help them make this step.
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
Recovery is full of relationships and most of them are quite healthy. You most likely belong to a support group and have formed many relationships there. Those people understand and empathize with the pains and trials of recovery. Friendships and lasting bonds may be formed and they will help in the recovery process.
Aside from these peer support relationships you are working on family relationships also. You may even have professional relationships that form with your therapist or the addiction professionals that you are working with. All of these are beneficial to your recovery.
Many addicts of drugs and alcohol experience a lessening of sexual desires due to the effects of substance abuse. With addiction, all of your energy, thoughts and feelings are tied to the substance you are using. You don’t have the time or the inclination to care about another person. Now that you are no longer addicted, you are experiencing normal sexual desires and you are vulnerable to creating strong infatuations or romantic feelings that have long been dormant.
Romantic relationships or volatile sexual relationships are rarely helpful or beneficial to the recovering addict. The very nature of romance or sexual relationships turn your attention to others when it really needs to be focused on internal healing that is a part of your recovery. This is no way means you will never be able to have a personal relationship in the future. It merely means that you should be cautious about the timing of such a union. There is no time frame set in stone, it’s something you will have to consider and decide on your own. If you have thoughts to share about this process, please let us know.
If you know someone who is addicted to a substance, let them know that A Better Tomorrow can help them to recovery. You’ve been there, help them make this step.
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, January 4, 2010
The Stages of Recovery
There are very definite stages to recovery. Some of them you may have already gone through. It’s always a good idea to know where you have been, where you are heading and the steps you utilized to pass from one to the other.
The first step, of course, is realizing that you have a problem with addiction. The addictive behavior is ongoing at this time, but someone or something has made it clear to you that you need to quit. At this point you have moved from denying that you have a problem to a willingness of acknowledging your addiction.
Next is an honest look at yourself and those around you and admitting the impact that your addiction has on everyone. You will need to admit the realities of your addiction and take a cursory look at what recovery would mean.
This next step starts with a clear resolution from you to quit the addiction. This is the time that you will take a hard look at what you will be facing including abstinence, moderation, treatment and recovery. This is an active move towards stopping the addiction and starting treatment of some kind.
Changes in perspective, lifestyle, attitude and values come into play at this point. This is your entry into full recovery. It may be shaky ground and you may still feel fragile, but this is where the beginning of your new life will start. Skills will be learned, habits will be formed, behaviors will be developed, and relationships will be built and all of these will help you maintain a life free from addiction.
Everything from here on out is active recovery. For many, this stage will have no end or at least none in the near future. Your commitment is essential. Now you are living out all that you have learned from the first day of quitting your addiction. One of your life goals is to remain addiction free. Surrounding yourself with family and friends, who are willing to help, will be a major plus for you. If you know someone who is still struggling with their addiction, let them know that help is as close as the nearest phone. A Better Tomorrow is waiting for that call. Use what you have learned to help them make that decision.
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 step, of course, is realizing that you have a problem with addiction. The addictive behavior is ongoing at this time, but someone or something has made it clear to you that you need to quit. At this point you have moved from denying that you have a problem to a willingness of acknowledging your addiction.
Next is an honest look at yourself and those around you and admitting the impact that your addiction has on everyone. You will need to admit the realities of your addiction and take a cursory look at what recovery would mean.
This next step starts with a clear resolution from you to quit the addiction. This is the time that you will take a hard look at what you will be facing including abstinence, moderation, treatment and recovery. This is an active move towards stopping the addiction and starting treatment of some kind.
Changes in perspective, lifestyle, attitude and values come into play at this point. This is your entry into full recovery. It may be shaky ground and you may still feel fragile, but this is where the beginning of your new life will start. Skills will be learned, habits will be formed, behaviors will be developed, and relationships will be built and all of these will help you maintain a life free from addiction.
Everything from here on out is active recovery. For many, this stage will have no end or at least none in the near future. Your commitment is essential. Now you are living out all that you have learned from the first day of quitting your addiction. One of your life goals is to remain addiction free. Surrounding yourself with family and friends, who are willing to help, will be a major plus for you. If you know someone who is still struggling with their addiction, let them know that help is as close as the nearest phone. A Better Tomorrow is waiting for that call. Use what you have learned to help them make that decision.
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, January 1, 2010
Start the New Year out Right.. Find the Power in Yourself
You have achieved an all important goal by defeating your addiction. You may have had help, but never forget that it would not have happened at all without your commitment and hard work. You are to be applauded for your success. Recovery is what remains ahead of you. For most, it will take the rest of their lives.
You have inner strengths and abilities that will aid in your recovery process. Willpower is the inner strength that will carry you through the hard times and propel you to success and achievement of your life goals. If you think that willpower is something that only belongs to successful people, you need to rethink that right now. We all have willpower, but it does not work by itself. We have to jump start it and nurture it in order for it to work for us. It can be developed within us, just like any other skill.
It is likely that your willpower, or lack of willpower, played a part when you were falling prey to your addiction. You lacked the inner strength to say ‘no’. It’s no secret where that lack of strength ended. Willpower can be developed and can help you overcome such things as laziness, procrastination, low self-esteem, weakness in body mind and soul and lack of self-control to name just a few.
It is your right to develop this ability and your privilege to live a life enhanced by it. This is not a process that requires more than you have to work with. You won’t have to perform any super human feats such as sleeping on a bed of nails, major fasting or suffering of any type. You just have to make up your mind that you want to increase your willpower. With training and exercising of your willpower, you will find yourself empowered by strength, courage and assertiveness. As it grows you will find it easier to get rid of undesirable habits and attitudes that stand in the way of a successful life at home, at your jobs and in your relationships.
Good habits can be formed in as little as 30 days. The repetitive reinforcement of those 30 days will become an effortless part of your life. There are many books and web sites devoted to developing your willpower. Find one that you feel will work for you and get started on your way to a brighter future. If you have used this method in your recovery or have ideas that have worked for you, please share them with us. If you know someone locked in an addiction, let them know that A Better Tomorrow can help them find their way back. All it takes is one phone call. Let them know that they deserve the chance.
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
You have inner strengths and abilities that will aid in your recovery process. Willpower is the inner strength that will carry you through the hard times and propel you to success and achievement of your life goals. If you think that willpower is something that only belongs to successful people, you need to rethink that right now. We all have willpower, but it does not work by itself. We have to jump start it and nurture it in order for it to work for us. It can be developed within us, just like any other skill.
It is likely that your willpower, or lack of willpower, played a part when you were falling prey to your addiction. You lacked the inner strength to say ‘no’. It’s no secret where that lack of strength ended. Willpower can be developed and can help you overcome such things as laziness, procrastination, low self-esteem, weakness in body mind and soul and lack of self-control to name just a few.
It is your right to develop this ability and your privilege to live a life enhanced by it. This is not a process that requires more than you have to work with. You won’t have to perform any super human feats such as sleeping on a bed of nails, major fasting or suffering of any type. You just have to make up your mind that you want to increase your willpower. With training and exercising of your willpower, you will find yourself empowered by strength, courage and assertiveness. As it grows you will find it easier to get rid of undesirable habits and attitudes that stand in the way of a successful life at home, at your jobs and in your relationships.
Good habits can be formed in as little as 30 days. The repetitive reinforcement of those 30 days will become an effortless part of your life. There are many books and web sites devoted to developing your willpower. Find one that you feel will work for you and get started on your way to a brighter future. If you have used this method in your recovery or have ideas that have worked for you, please share them with us. If you know someone locked in an addiction, let them know that A Better Tomorrow can help them find their way back. All it takes is one phone call. Let them know that they deserve the chance.
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
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