If I have said it once, I have said it a hundred times plus – the road to recovery is not an easy one, but a road worth traveling. There is going to be difficulties, the only difference is, that in recovery, you have gained a better understanding of what brought on your addiction and developed tools to help counteract it from rearing its evil ways again. However, as I have also said before, relapse happens in recovery, and unfortunately, more times than not. As far as percentage of those who relapse during recovery, that is a hard question to answer in exact numbers. For one thing, not all report that they have relapse, not all re-enter a treatment center, and some never live to tell. Various numbers have been stated anywhere from 70% to 90% of addicts in recovery will relapse. Are them numbers correct, it is hard to determine. What is more important than what numbers can tell you is what you can do to help an addict in recovery who has relapsed, get back on the right track.
It is hard to see a love one return to drugs or alcohol after they left an addiction treatment program, sometimes devastating. Family embers can feel that all that effort was in vain, by both the addict and themselves. Some may want to throw the towel in and just give up while others want to do everything in their power to “fix” things to the extent there is nothing they wouldn’t sacrifice to get their loved one back on the right track. Neither one is a healthy response; you can neither throw the towel in nor become self sacrificing.
Here are some important tips to help you help the relapsed addict get back on track while protecting your own well being.
Remember who controls ownership of the addiction. This is the addicts’ battle and they need to own it, not you.
Hold the addict accountable for their recovery from the relapse.
Do not make excuses for the addict , dismiss the problem, or take on the addicts problems.
Encourage the addict to re-enter their original addition treatment plan and or attend addiction support group meetings.
Don’t push. Make your feelings heard as far as them seeking out help with direction then step back. They have to want to get back on the right track and no amount of pushing will change that. It is not your job to make them better; it is theirs alone.
Avoid the blame game. Do not try to remove the addicts’ guilt or anxiety about relapsing. Allow them to work through their feelings and it can be those exact feelings of guilt that can lead them back to recovery. Allow them to own them. However, don’t try to get the addict to feel guilty either. Inflicting guilty feelings will work in reverse than self-guilt and not motivate them to seek help.
Take care of yourself and do not allow the addict to pull you down with them.
Set an example of healthy living and healthy decision-making.
Be supportive by not having addictive substance in your home.
Don’t be discouraged and try to stay optimistic. The National Institute on Drug Abuse states that drug addiction often requires more than one round of therapy. A relapse does not mean that the addict will never lead a “clean life” just that they may require more than one round in treatment.
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, February 19, 2010
Thursday, February 18, 2010
The Blame Game in Addiction
The road to recovery is a difficult one, for the one in recovery and those who support that person. It is hard enough without having the blame game going on. All the blame game does is shift responsibility for ones actions on to another. By doing so, one can never move forward successfully.
Common blaming that happens with addiction can involve a parent blaming a child for ruining their reputation, a child blaming the parents for being a bad influence, not being there for them, not caring for them, neglecting them, and a mess load of other dysfunctions, an addicts relapse do to the treatment center they attended, and on and on and on. Regardless of what the blame game centers around, it never works and it is never productive.
Treatment programs designed to help addicts recover from addictions are very clear that assigning blame has no place in the recovery regimen. It’s not about making the individual feel bad about the person they are now, how they got in this situation, what they may have done along the way that harmed themselves and others. On the contrary, the purpose of drug and alcohol treatment programs is to give the client the confidence and self-discipline to move forward in their lives free and clear of addiction.
Where blame game can really come into play is after the recovering addict returns home. It is not uncommon for family members or those that were close to the recovering addict during their addictive state to have ill feelings towards a lot of the actions the addict did prior to recovery. However, these same individuals play a huge role in the recovering addicts’ continued sobriety and by constantly monitoring, scolding, being critical or negative only drives the recovering addict in to feelings of being out of control making relapse much more likely.
It can be hard to avoid the blame game, especially when trust levels have been severely broken, and even more so if the support system has not received any counseling about addiction and how to deal with a family member with an addiction and recovery. Just as when we were children and peers requested, we did not lie about our actions because the out come would be far worse than the initial consequences, the same goes with addiction recovery. The important thing to remember is to not assign blame. For the addict – don’t assign blame to yourself for becoming an addict or to others for putting you into your current position. For the family and friends of the addict – do not assign blame to the addict for somehow ruining your life. Own up to your own individual actions and responsibilities whether you are an addict or part of an addict’s support system. The only truly supportive and reinforcing way of interacting is by steering clear of the blame game.
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
Common blaming that happens with addiction can involve a parent blaming a child for ruining their reputation, a child blaming the parents for being a bad influence, not being there for them, not caring for them, neglecting them, and a mess load of other dysfunctions, an addicts relapse do to the treatment center they attended, and on and on and on. Regardless of what the blame game centers around, it never works and it is never productive.
Treatment programs designed to help addicts recover from addictions are very clear that assigning blame has no place in the recovery regimen. It’s not about making the individual feel bad about the person they are now, how they got in this situation, what they may have done along the way that harmed themselves and others. On the contrary, the purpose of drug and alcohol treatment programs is to give the client the confidence and self-discipline to move forward in their lives free and clear of addiction.
Where blame game can really come into play is after the recovering addict returns home. It is not uncommon for family members or those that were close to the recovering addict during their addictive state to have ill feelings towards a lot of the actions the addict did prior to recovery. However, these same individuals play a huge role in the recovering addicts’ continued sobriety and by constantly monitoring, scolding, being critical or negative only drives the recovering addict in to feelings of being out of control making relapse much more likely.
It can be hard to avoid the blame game, especially when trust levels have been severely broken, and even more so if the support system has not received any counseling about addiction and how to deal with a family member with an addiction and recovery. Just as when we were children and peers requested, we did not lie about our actions because the out come would be far worse than the initial consequences, the same goes with addiction recovery. The important thing to remember is to not assign blame. For the addict – don’t assign blame to yourself for becoming an addict or to others for putting you into your current position. For the family and friends of the addict – do not assign blame to the addict for somehow ruining your life. Own up to your own individual actions and responsibilities whether you are an addict or part of an addict’s support system. The only truly supportive and reinforcing way of interacting is by steering clear of the blame game.
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, February 17, 2010
What is Addiction Recovery?
Addiction Recovery is far more than not using your drug of choice any longer or any kind of mood altering substance. It has to be your way of life. It is a healing of your addictive behaviors and thinking and growing with knowledge about how to deal with life’s situations differently than you had in the past. It is about being healthy in all aspects of your life, emotionally, physically and spiritually. It is a never-ending journey, but a good one – not dreaded as life was in the past. Recover will always be your work in progress.
Addiction recovery is about human development. When an addiction begins, human growth becomes stunted. Your addiction led you to make numerous bad decisions for your life. Recovery is about learning and making the right decisions, the decisions that enhance your life rather than ones that are detrimental.
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 recovery is about human development. When an addiction begins, human growth becomes stunted. Your addiction led you to make numerous bad decisions for your life. Recovery is about learning and making the right decisions, the decisions that enhance your life rather than ones that are detrimental.
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, February 16, 2010
The Myths behind Relapse
In recovery come relapse. Not everyone will experience a relapse, but many will. It is very common for an addiction to rear its wicked ways after leaving a recovery/treatment center, especially if the addict is placed in the same situations or surroundings and does not have a strong support system. Treatment is just part of the recovery; the rest has to do with the addicts themselves and how hard they work their program.
Of course, it is never anyone’s goal in recovery to relapse by any means unless their motivation to go into a recovery treatment center was not an fully honest motive. However, we all make mistakes in life; no one is perfect and susceptible to relapse. What is important is how one chooses to deal with their relapse – if they use it as a learning experience in order to lessen the chances of future relapses.
There are many myths about relapse, such as relapse is a sign of a poor treatment center, a sign of recovery failure, poor motivation, etc. I would like to take this time to demystify these myths to help anyone better understand the cycle of recovery.
Myth: Relapse is a sign of a poor treatment/recovery center
False: As with anything, you get out what you put in, meaning if you are willing to do the work required out of you during your stay at a recovery/treatment center you will be better armed to deal with relapse. The fact of the matter is, relapse can happen if you self clean or have gone through a recovery/treatment center. The difference is, with recovery/treatment centers you are given tools to help deal with possible relapse.
Myth: I have failed my recovery when I relapsed
False: You have not failed, and your recovery is not flawed. You made a mistake. Identify that mistake and learn from it so it can be avoided in the future.
Myth: Relapse equals poor motivation
Addiction is a disease. Think of it somewhat like cancer - remission time being clean. When a cancer patient comes out of remission, does it mean they had poor motivation? No. No one is guaranteed a lifetime of abstinence no more than a cancer patient is guaranteed a lifetime of being in remission. However, an addict does have a more control over relapse whereas a cancer patient has no control. Unfortunately, relapse is a normal part of the addictive disease and no matter how sincere you are about recovering you can slip up.
Myth: Relapse begins when you use
False: Relapse occurs when you revert back to your old ways of thinking and behaving, when you put yourself in dangerous situations, isolate yourself, stuff feelings, don’t seek support when in any of these situations, etc. The fact is, the minute you use is the conclusion of the relapse not the beginning.
Myth: Relapse is unpredictable
False: All the signs are there that show you are headed to using again. Having the disease of addiction means that you cannot control your use once you start using. It doesn't mean that you have no control over whether or not you use therefore it is predictable and preventable if you are honest with yourself and pay attention to the signs.
Myth: I am not using my old drug of choice so it isn’t relapse.
True and False. Any kind of mood altering substance that you use to anesthetize your feelings is a relapse however, it can also be considered a second hand addiction. Second hand addiction is a substitute addiction that some pick up when they are in recovery. Either way, both are no good!
Myth: I relapsed so now all my progress is lost.
False: That would be lie saying you built half a house and ran out of supplies and because so, all was lost. Nope, you just regroup and get more supplies, or in the case of relapse, regroup, get yourself clean and back into recovery again. The tools you have learned, they may require some brushing up, but you still got the skills to get the job accomplished. However, the quicker you get to it, the better. As with the house, if you leave it too long the elements will tear away at it, the same way your addiction will tear away at your life.
Myth: Since relapse is common, then it’s okay to have one.
Plain and simple False:– relapse is dangerous. Relapse will return to the unmanageable and insanity of your addiction if not addressed immediately. For some, a relapse can mean the end to where the addict never comes back to recovery. This way of thinking is dangerous. Never think of relapse as “okay” but more like a bee sting to someone who is highly allergic that doesn’t have an Epi-Pen to counteract it. It can easily result in death!
Be aware of your triggers and steer clear of them. Work the program and keep yourself within a strong support system. Be honest with yourself in your checks and balances and if you see any signs of reverting into old ways of thinking or behavior, ask for help! If you do relapse, get back on track with your recovery immediately.
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
Of course, it is never anyone’s goal in recovery to relapse by any means unless their motivation to go into a recovery treatment center was not an fully honest motive. However, we all make mistakes in life; no one is perfect and susceptible to relapse. What is important is how one chooses to deal with their relapse – if they use it as a learning experience in order to lessen the chances of future relapses.
There are many myths about relapse, such as relapse is a sign of a poor treatment center, a sign of recovery failure, poor motivation, etc. I would like to take this time to demystify these myths to help anyone better understand the cycle of recovery.
Myth: Relapse is a sign of a poor treatment/recovery center
False: As with anything, you get out what you put in, meaning if you are willing to do the work required out of you during your stay at a recovery/treatment center you will be better armed to deal with relapse. The fact of the matter is, relapse can happen if you self clean or have gone through a recovery/treatment center. The difference is, with recovery/treatment centers you are given tools to help deal with possible relapse.
Myth: I have failed my recovery when I relapsed
False: You have not failed, and your recovery is not flawed. You made a mistake. Identify that mistake and learn from it so it can be avoided in the future.
Myth: Relapse equals poor motivation
Addiction is a disease. Think of it somewhat like cancer - remission time being clean. When a cancer patient comes out of remission, does it mean they had poor motivation? No. No one is guaranteed a lifetime of abstinence no more than a cancer patient is guaranteed a lifetime of being in remission. However, an addict does have a more control over relapse whereas a cancer patient has no control. Unfortunately, relapse is a normal part of the addictive disease and no matter how sincere you are about recovering you can slip up.
Myth: Relapse begins when you use
False: Relapse occurs when you revert back to your old ways of thinking and behaving, when you put yourself in dangerous situations, isolate yourself, stuff feelings, don’t seek support when in any of these situations, etc. The fact is, the minute you use is the conclusion of the relapse not the beginning.
Myth: Relapse is unpredictable
False: All the signs are there that show you are headed to using again. Having the disease of addiction means that you cannot control your use once you start using. It doesn't mean that you have no control over whether or not you use therefore it is predictable and preventable if you are honest with yourself and pay attention to the signs.
Myth: I am not using my old drug of choice so it isn’t relapse.
True and False. Any kind of mood altering substance that you use to anesthetize your feelings is a relapse however, it can also be considered a second hand addiction. Second hand addiction is a substitute addiction that some pick up when they are in recovery. Either way, both are no good!
Myth: I relapsed so now all my progress is lost.
False: That would be lie saying you built half a house and ran out of supplies and because so, all was lost. Nope, you just regroup and get more supplies, or in the case of relapse, regroup, get yourself clean and back into recovery again. The tools you have learned, they may require some brushing up, but you still got the skills to get the job accomplished. However, the quicker you get to it, the better. As with the house, if you leave it too long the elements will tear away at it, the same way your addiction will tear away at your life.
Myth: Since relapse is common, then it’s okay to have one.
Plain and simple False:– relapse is dangerous. Relapse will return to the unmanageable and insanity of your addiction if not addressed immediately. For some, a relapse can mean the end to where the addict never comes back to recovery. This way of thinking is dangerous. Never think of relapse as “okay” but more like a bee sting to someone who is highly allergic that doesn’t have an Epi-Pen to counteract it. It can easily result in death!
Be aware of your triggers and steer clear of them. Work the program and keep yourself within a strong support system. Be honest with yourself in your checks and balances and if you see any signs of reverting into old ways of thinking or behavior, ask for help! If you do relapse, get back on track with your recovery immediately.
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, February 15, 2010
How to Avoid Second Round Addiction
Second hand addiction is a substitute addiction that some pick up when they are in recovery. Common second hand addictions are over eating, anorexia, bulimia, exercise, gambling, spending, and work. The difficult part of these types of addictions is some may not really appear as an addiction such as work and exercise and thought socially acceptable. Some may not even realize they are replacing one addiction with another or do so under the guise of being a necessity, not an addiction.
So how does one know if they are substituting one addiction for another? Start by first being honest with yourself and ask yourself if new behavior is escalating. What purpose is it serving? Is it distracting you from feeling – masking feelings such as fear, loneliness, anxiety, anger, inadequacy? Is the time being used in the new behavior an excuse to not accept social invites or try new things?
Your addiction that led you to recovery had tattletale signs that marked it as an addiction. If you are feeling that your new behavior is your addiction disease immerging again in just a new form, you have picked up a second hand addiction.
Just like before recovery, when you had to own up to your addiction, you need to do so again. Say it aloud and tell someone else. Do not allow yourself to slip back into denial or minimize the problem. There is no shame in admitting that we have picked up a second hand addiction nor is it uncommon. However, what is important is that you do something about it when you realize that your new behavior is no longer a healthy one for 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
So how does one know if they are substituting one addiction for another? Start by first being honest with yourself and ask yourself if new behavior is escalating. What purpose is it serving? Is it distracting you from feeling – masking feelings such as fear, loneliness, anxiety, anger, inadequacy? Is the time being used in the new behavior an excuse to not accept social invites or try new things?
Your addiction that led you to recovery had tattletale signs that marked it as an addiction. If you are feeling that your new behavior is your addiction disease immerging again in just a new form, you have picked up a second hand addiction.
Just like before recovery, when you had to own up to your addiction, you need to do so again. Say it aloud and tell someone else. Do not allow yourself to slip back into denial or minimize the problem. There is no shame in admitting that we have picked up a second hand addiction nor is it uncommon. However, what is important is that you do something about it when you realize that your new behavior is no longer a healthy one for 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
Friday, February 12, 2010
Check and Balances during Recovery
Recovery is no picnic at times and face it, we don’t always live the most perfect structured lives. At times, it is imperative that we check in with ourselves by doing an honest assessment of our recovery and our lives in general. No one is perfect and is why it is so important to perform regular check and balances on our recovery. It keep us honest with ourselves and can be the point that saves you from a relapse.
The easiest way to do a check and balance on your recovery is to be honest with yourself. Don’t make excuses for negative behavior. Own it and move passed it.
You can make it as simple as just answering a few questions as honestly as possible or just kind of summarize your last week and seeing what you think you should be doing differently.
Questions you will want to ask yourself are:
Am I surrounding myself with positive people?
Am I facing my problems head on or burying them?
Am I living in the day rather than fixating on the past?
Am I actively practicing/pursuing my spirituality?
Am I practicing positive thinking?
Am I doing what is needed to avoid H.A.L.T.? (hunger, anxious, lonely, tired)
Am I attending support meetings?
By answering these questions on a regular basis you are better able to see what areas of your life might need a little more work and help to prevent relapse. It is not a way of punishing yourself for mistakes made, every one makes them, just a way of getting back on the right track.
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 easiest way to do a check and balance on your recovery is to be honest with yourself. Don’t make excuses for negative behavior. Own it and move passed it.
You can make it as simple as just answering a few questions as honestly as possible or just kind of summarize your last week and seeing what you think you should be doing differently.
Questions you will want to ask yourself are:
Am I surrounding myself with positive people?
Am I facing my problems head on or burying them?
Am I living in the day rather than fixating on the past?
Am I actively practicing/pursuing my spirituality?
Am I practicing positive thinking?
Am I doing what is needed to avoid H.A.L.T.? (hunger, anxious, lonely, tired)
Am I attending support meetings?
By answering these questions on a regular basis you are better able to see what areas of your life might need a little more work and help to prevent relapse. It is not a way of punishing yourself for mistakes made, every one makes them, just a way of getting back on the right track.
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, February 11, 2010
Sex Addiction
As sex addiction escalates, the addict addiction can result in harmful effects on his or her family. Sex addiction can be compulsive masturbation and extensive use of pornography to more extremes like exhibitionism, voyeurism, child molestation, and rape. It is said that 71% of child molesters are sex addicts.
It is not uncommon for sex addicts to have multiple partners. A sex addict is at high risk of contracting a sexually transmitted disease and makes them a high risk for spreading such diseases by the multitude.
There are numerous treatment centers for drug and alcohol addictions, gambling, and eating disorders, but what about sex addiction. Sex addiction has only been looked at as an addiction for a short period of time. With all the scuttle butt about Tiger Woods it is coming to the head lines more than it ever has, so as unfortunate as the entire Tiger Woods story is, it may have a positive outcome with more emphasis being put on sex addiction treatment.
There is no way to tell right now what type of effect sex addiction treatment would do as far as lowering numbers of child molestations, rape, and disease control. But if it can protect one child, save one person from becoming a victim of rape, or stop one person from contracting a sexually transmitted disease that could kill them, isn’t it worth the effort to find out?
Some may question how or why a sex addict is a sex addict. It varies with each addict generally there are three factors that play into it – biological, psychological, and spiritual reasons.
Biological sex addict is someone who has conditioned their body to receive endorphins (brain chemicals) primarily through reinforcing a fantasy state with the ejaculation that provides these chemicals to their brain.
Psychologically sex addict uses sex to medicate or escape physical, emotional, or sexual abuse.
Spiritually, a person is filling up the God hole in them with their sexual addiction. The addiction is their spirituality; it comforts them, celebrates them, and is always available and present.
Sex addicts can develop from one or more of these factors and why a therapist is the best route to recovery so the factors playing a role into the addiction are addressed appropriately.
Researchers report that an individual’s sex addiction can also stem from a way of coping with daily life stressors – the higher the stress- the more the addict has to seek out relief through their sexuality. The individuals cannot always stop this addiction themselves.
Addictions come in many forms, substances, and actions. They all require the same intensive attention of treatment. Does this mean that all child molesters or rapist are sex addicts and with treatment can be cured? Personally, I do not believe all can be cured, or that all child molesters and rapist are sex addicts. However, if one individual with a sex addiction can be helped, think of those that can escape abuse by their addiction.
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 not uncommon for sex addicts to have multiple partners. A sex addict is at high risk of contracting a sexually transmitted disease and makes them a high risk for spreading such diseases by the multitude.
There are numerous treatment centers for drug and alcohol addictions, gambling, and eating disorders, but what about sex addiction. Sex addiction has only been looked at as an addiction for a short period of time. With all the scuttle butt about Tiger Woods it is coming to the head lines more than it ever has, so as unfortunate as the entire Tiger Woods story is, it may have a positive outcome with more emphasis being put on sex addiction treatment.
There is no way to tell right now what type of effect sex addiction treatment would do as far as lowering numbers of child molestations, rape, and disease control. But if it can protect one child, save one person from becoming a victim of rape, or stop one person from contracting a sexually transmitted disease that could kill them, isn’t it worth the effort to find out?
Some may question how or why a sex addict is a sex addict. It varies with each addict generally there are three factors that play into it – biological, psychological, and spiritual reasons.
Biological sex addict is someone who has conditioned their body to receive endorphins (brain chemicals) primarily through reinforcing a fantasy state with the ejaculation that provides these chemicals to their brain.
Psychologically sex addict uses sex to medicate or escape physical, emotional, or sexual abuse.
Spiritually, a person is filling up the God hole in them with their sexual addiction. The addiction is their spirituality; it comforts them, celebrates them, and is always available and present.
Sex addicts can develop from one or more of these factors and why a therapist is the best route to recovery so the factors playing a role into the addiction are addressed appropriately.
Researchers report that an individual’s sex addiction can also stem from a way of coping with daily life stressors – the higher the stress- the more the addict has to seek out relief through their sexuality. The individuals cannot always stop this addiction themselves.
Addictions come in many forms, substances, and actions. They all require the same intensive attention of treatment. Does this mean that all child molesters or rapist are sex addicts and with treatment can be cured? Personally, I do not believe all can be cured, or that all child molesters and rapist are sex addicts. However, if one individual with a sex addiction can be helped, think of those that can escape abuse by their addiction.
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/
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Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ABTomorrow
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Wednesday, February 10, 2010
The Road to Recovery
It would be nice to think that everyone who enters into a treatment facility does so for on main purpose, to seek help in stopping whatever compulsive behavior they are presenting with – drinking, drugs, gambling, eating, sex, shopping, etc. There are many forms of addiction and each has there own negative consequences. However, not all that enter the doors of an addiction treatment facility do so by their own choice for the main purpose of recovery. Some are forced into treatment through court proceedings while others may be forced through pressure by friends and family. Some do so as a substitute for a jail or prison term or for a reduction in time for a incarceration. Some of that percentage will complete an addiction program successfully, some won’t.
When you come to the realization on your own that you no longer have control over your addiction, rather it controls you, admit you have a problem, and admit you cannot fix it without help, you have made the first step in your road to recovery.
Along the way on your road to recovery you will experience many ups and downs but one thing that recovery offers while in treatment is that you have all the support you need to get through the hard times, unlike when you were on your own. Addiction on the other hand offers nothing but downs. There are no upsides in the road of addiction. Although you may struggle from time to time during your recovery, the struggles will be nothing compared to those you had with addiction and when those bumps are crossed there are many many many upsides in your life.
When you are in recovery, sometimes it can be discouraging when you hit a rocky patch. Remind yourself of the rocky life you had before with no upsides. Remember that it is just a patch in the road and nothing you cannot overcome. After all, the hardest part of your recovery was admitting you had a problem and asking for help. When you hit a rough spot or a bump along the way, reach out to those in your support circle, your sponsor, or a group and that bump will become much more manageable and you will soon find yourself on the other side.
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 come to the realization on your own that you no longer have control over your addiction, rather it controls you, admit you have a problem, and admit you cannot fix it without help, you have made the first step in your road to recovery.
Along the way on your road to recovery you will experience many ups and downs but one thing that recovery offers while in treatment is that you have all the support you need to get through the hard times, unlike when you were on your own. Addiction on the other hand offers nothing but downs. There are no upsides in the road of addiction. Although you may struggle from time to time during your recovery, the struggles will be nothing compared to those you had with addiction and when those bumps are crossed there are many many many upsides in your life.
When you are in recovery, sometimes it can be discouraging when you hit a rocky patch. Remind yourself of the rocky life you had before with no upsides. Remember that it is just a patch in the road and nothing you cannot overcome. After all, the hardest part of your recovery was admitting you had a problem and asking for help. When you hit a rough spot or a bump along the way, reach out to those in your support circle, your sponsor, or a group and that bump will become much more manageable and you will soon find yourself on the other side.
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, February 9, 2010
Intervention
If you haven’t seen the TV specialty series Intervention, you may want to catch it next time it is on. Intervention itself, as demonstrated on the program, can play a huge role in an addict entering into a treatment facility. However, not every intervention is successful.
No one can be forced to go into treatment no matter what the stakes are. However, an intervention can often open up the eyes of an addict into seeing what damage they are doing to themselves and others around them. It can also force them to see their soon coming rock bottom.
Interventions are far more successful if all parties involved are solid on their commitment on what they will and will not do any longer for the addict. If there is still one or two people hanging on the sidelines willing to still enable the addict, they see that window and are not forced to see the bottom.
Interventions are a very involved process that requires extensive planning and should not be done just on a whim. It can be done by family members and those close to the addict with out profession help, though is generally more effective with the services of someone who can help the family and friends also work through their roles. Interventionists are trained counselors specific to addiction that can help you draw up your bottom line and see the importance of the follow through. They can help you conduct an intervention in a safe and productive manner. The most important part of an intervention though is to have it set up to where immediately after the intervention, your loved one goes directly into a treatment center if they say they are willing to go. If you wait even a day, the addict will more than likely change their mind.
If the addict refuses the help, you have to stick to your bottom line and stop enabling the addict in all fashions, emotionally, financially, and even shelter. The intervention will not be totally lost then as the addict sees that the family and friends involved meant what they said. The addict will then see the road they are just became a whole lot harder to continue and may be what it takes for them to willingly enter into a treatment center. As long as the addict continues to have others around him or her that support their addiction in any form, they will continue to use. Love the person you knew before the addiction enough to not let them to continue destroying their life or yours.
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
No one can be forced to go into treatment no matter what the stakes are. However, an intervention can often open up the eyes of an addict into seeing what damage they are doing to themselves and others around them. It can also force them to see their soon coming rock bottom.
Interventions are far more successful if all parties involved are solid on their commitment on what they will and will not do any longer for the addict. If there is still one or two people hanging on the sidelines willing to still enable the addict, they see that window and are not forced to see the bottom.
Interventions are a very involved process that requires extensive planning and should not be done just on a whim. It can be done by family members and those close to the addict with out profession help, though is generally more effective with the services of someone who can help the family and friends also work through their roles. Interventionists are trained counselors specific to addiction that can help you draw up your bottom line and see the importance of the follow through. They can help you conduct an intervention in a safe and productive manner. The most important part of an intervention though is to have it set up to where immediately after the intervention, your loved one goes directly into a treatment center if they say they are willing to go. If you wait even a day, the addict will more than likely change their mind.
If the addict refuses the help, you have to stick to your bottom line and stop enabling the addict in all fashions, emotionally, financially, and even shelter. The intervention will not be totally lost then as the addict sees that the family and friends involved meant what they said. The addict will then see the road they are just became a whole lot harder to continue and may be what it takes for them to willingly enter into a treatment center. As long as the addict continues to have others around him or her that support their addiction in any form, they will continue to use. Love the person you knew before the addiction enough to not let them to continue destroying their life or yours.
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, February 8, 2010
Living with an Addict
Addiction doesn’t just effect the addict, but everyone and everything in its path. Anyone who has ever lived with an addict or is living with an addict is quiet aware of this fact. Living with an addict is a painful experience that has long lasting consequences. Everything from ones emotional well being to financial well being can be destroyed and at the least, severely damaged. The best way to avoid this type of devastation is to change your living situation or encourage the addict to get help. More often than not, it is easier to move out of the situation then get the addict to accept the help they desperately need. They have to want it and no matter how much you want it, and all your good intentions in staying in the current situation, the addict will not seek the help needed until they hit their bottom. This does not mean your words go unheard, just that sometimes actions need to follow behind the words to make them really sink in.
Until you are ready to follow through with the ultimate ultimatum – leaving the addict- here are some tips to help you deal with a person who is addicted to drugs or alcohol.
Put you first. You have to take care of you. If you put all your efforts into the addict you will quickly become emotionally drained. You lose focus of who you are as a person and will not be able to separate “you” from the addiction.
Protect your finances. Seriously! Addiction has no conscious and a open wallet is fair game to an addict no matter how much you may want to believe they would never take from you what was not theirs. They will and although they may show remorse from time to time, remember, an addict learns quickly to become manipulative in order to get their next fix. Valuables can easily become missing. Draw the line the first time something is taken to feed the addicts addiction. If they will steal once from you, they will do it again. Use that behavior as a strong indicator that you need to separate yourself from the addict.
Stop enabling. Do not be their proxy for their responsibilities. Do not make excuses for their behavior or their inability to do what is required of them such as call into work for them. And by all means, if they get into legal trouble due to their addiction, do not bail them out of it. An addict needs to feel the consequences of their addiction. It may be that court involvement may be what it takes them to hit their bottom and get the help they need.
If the addict displays abusive behavior, draw the line and separate from the addict. Addiction is not a free pass for physical or emotional abuse. Stay away from the addict until they have sought help and have gained sobriety.
Join a support group. There is much to be learned from others who are experiencing the same thing as you. It can give you insight to your own behavior and role in your loved ones addiction and give you alternate ways in dealing with the addict.
If there are children involved in the relationship, always put their best welfare first. You may want to believe that the addict will stand a bigger chance of seeking help if they have a bigger support circle, but if the support circle does nothing but enable and does not have solid boundaries drawn, more often than not it only prolongs the addiction. Your children’s emotional and physical well being is far more important than an addict is.
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
Until you are ready to follow through with the ultimate ultimatum – leaving the addict- here are some tips to help you deal with a person who is addicted to drugs or alcohol.
Put you first. You have to take care of you. If you put all your efforts into the addict you will quickly become emotionally drained. You lose focus of who you are as a person and will not be able to separate “you” from the addiction.
Protect your finances. Seriously! Addiction has no conscious and a open wallet is fair game to an addict no matter how much you may want to believe they would never take from you what was not theirs. They will and although they may show remorse from time to time, remember, an addict learns quickly to become manipulative in order to get their next fix. Valuables can easily become missing. Draw the line the first time something is taken to feed the addicts addiction. If they will steal once from you, they will do it again. Use that behavior as a strong indicator that you need to separate yourself from the addict.
Stop enabling. Do not be their proxy for their responsibilities. Do not make excuses for their behavior or their inability to do what is required of them such as call into work for them. And by all means, if they get into legal trouble due to their addiction, do not bail them out of it. An addict needs to feel the consequences of their addiction. It may be that court involvement may be what it takes them to hit their bottom and get the help they need.
If the addict displays abusive behavior, draw the line and separate from the addict. Addiction is not a free pass for physical or emotional abuse. Stay away from the addict until they have sought help and have gained sobriety.
Join a support group. There is much to be learned from others who are experiencing the same thing as you. It can give you insight to your own behavior and role in your loved ones addiction and give you alternate ways in dealing with the addict.
If there are children involved in the relationship, always put their best welfare first. You may want to believe that the addict will stand a bigger chance of seeking help if they have a bigger support circle, but if the support circle does nothing but enable and does not have solid boundaries drawn, more often than not it only prolongs the addiction. Your children’s emotional and physical well being is far more important than an addict is.
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, February 5, 2010
Crystal Darkness ~ Documentary Series on Crystal Meth
This is a video series about crystal meth that was locally produced by Global Studio and Reno youth advocates, including discussion by Reno teens. It was shown throughout Washoe County on all major television networks and local channels.
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 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, February 4, 2010
Matt S. Sharing his Road to Recovery Through Thanks
ABT received a wonderful letter from a former client, Matt S. Matt has allowed us to share his letter and story here in hopes it may inspire another to reach out and get the help they need.
Good morning! I was a client at ABT from Dec 7, 2009 to Jan 5, 2010. I would have liked to stay longer, but due to insurance and financial reasons, there just was no way I was able to. This was an amazing experience that I will never forget.
Though there were good days and bad, coming out to ABT, from Indiana, taught me about patience and tolerance of others. It allowed me to learn more about the tools/techniques that is helping me in my recovery. It will be 60 days on February 5, which I have been clean and sober. This time around has been a little easier, because I finally became honest/open about myself and have fully admitted I am powerless over drugs/alcohol and my life has become unmanageable.
People need to learn not to look at the differences, but the similarities of each other. We all have a disease of addiction and go through the same program. Now it is up to each person, whether they are committed to wanting the help and accepting themselves for whom they are. They can only make that ultimate decision.
I am so grateful for the entire staff at ABT and want to say THANK YOU! There are a few individuals that I would like to recognize, who had helped me get through the times during my stay and allowed me to share how I was feeling and not judge.
Kim/Counselor-Kim was my individual counselor and I was blessed to have her. She shared her experience, strength and hope, which allowed me to open up to her. She always carried a smile, which brought so much joy to my life. She would be patient and listen to my needs. She helped me work on my individual needs and guided me in setting up a relapse prevention technique, which has allowed me to be open/honest with myself and others. I am so grateful to have been in her presence. She is truly an inspiration in my life and will be to others.
Brian/Therapist-Brian was my individual therapist during my stay. Brian always opened the door whenever I needed to talk to him. He helped me get in touch with myself and really try to figure out what was hurting me so badly. He allowed me to share things that I have never shared before. He was not there to judge, but to be a sounding board and someone who could help guide me in getting more in touch w/ myself. Thank you Brian for all that you have done.
Kathleen/Interim-Kathleen is full of passion, caringness, love and dedication to what she does and others. She was like a mother to all the clients that go through ABT. There was never a day that she did not approach each individual and ask how they were doing, also offering a hug. Kathleen shared her experience, strength and hope in our sessions, which touched my life in more ways than she knows. ABT is so blessed to have her w/ them. It’s not about the money for her, but it is about giving back and helping others. She is an angel in my eyes and I will always cherish her.
Sorry for rambling on, but I feel we go to long in life without telling others how GRATEFUL we are for them in our lives and for what we have. THANK YOU all at ABT for the dedication, encouragement, love and compassion you give to each individual. Keep doing what you are doing, because it does work!
Have a WONDERFUL Tuesday!
Matthew S.
Matt (age 32) came to ABT from Indiana after struggling with drugs/alcohol for many years. Matt had been in treatment before and was able to maintain 7 months of recovery. However, dealing with every day life and not working a rigorous program, Matt went back out to test the waters once again resulting in his relapse. After a few months, it took Matt down a path of agony and despair and Matt had lost all self-worth. Matt stated “When I awoke on Thursday Dec 4, I picked up the phone and reached out for help. After several hours of research and phone calls, I felt an immediate connection w/ ABT, which I feel, my Higher Power, who I chose to call GOD, led me to them.”
Matt’s first contact with alcohol was at the age of 20 and first contact with drugs was at the age of 23. Matt’s drug of choice was Crystal Meth and has been clean since Dec 5, 2009. Matt now has a sponsor and works a rigorous program on a daily basis. Matt says, “I keep myself connected with positive people, attend meetings on a regular basis and make sure I keep plugged in to the program. It does work, if you work it. You must be willing and able to completely surrender. Don't be afraid to reach out and ask for help. You can do it, if you put your mind to 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
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Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Drug Abuse in the Workplace
The stereotypes of drug addiction are just that – stereotypes. Drug addiction doesn’t pick and choose a particular lifestyle to attack. It is an equal opportunity disease. An addict isn’t always homeless, uneducated, or unemployed. Many addicts are very high functioning members of society. Approximately 75% of adults who abuse drugs are employed full time according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse.
Common indicators of an employee drug abuser is frequent changes in employment, frequently late to work or absent, less productive, work place accident prone leading to workman’s compensation claims, extended breaks and lunches, unauthorized frequent breaks, avoidance of supervisors after break or lunch, poor hygiene, unusual weight loss or gain, poor attitude, attitude changes, and extreme mood swings, erratic behavior, and stealing. However, some employees may show little to no noticeable indications at all. They have grown very good at hiding their problem and covering the signs.
When you suspect an employee of using drugs on the job or signs of drug abuse it is not always easy bringing the subject to the table. However, if the use of drugs or alcohol has an impact on the employees work performance, places the employee at physical danger performing their duties, or puts other employees at physical or interpersonal risk, the employer needs to intervene.
If a workplace drug policy is not already in place it is imperative that one becomes implemented. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), nearly a third of illicit drug users said they would be less likely to work for employers who conducted random drug testing. However, even with solid policies in place, workers who abuse drugs under the guise of bettering work performance will explain away the policy in their mind and continue to use. Prescription drug abusers will use the guise as it is “prescribed medication” and continue to use as well regardless of a policy. So although it will not deter all, it will lessen the numbers.
When you have a suspected drug abuser amongst your staff, you will need to confront the employee about your suspicions. Offer the employee assistance in seeking drug rehabilitation and then initiate random drug testing with consequences for positive drops. The employer will need to begin dealing with the employee’s drug use by no longer enabling the employee and holding them accountable for their actions – unexcused/unexplained absence, tardiness, performance, etc. Drug use in the workplace not only affects the users but the entire operation, from other employees, risks factors, and the bottom dollar.
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
Common indicators of an employee drug abuser is frequent changes in employment, frequently late to work or absent, less productive, work place accident prone leading to workman’s compensation claims, extended breaks and lunches, unauthorized frequent breaks, avoidance of supervisors after break or lunch, poor hygiene, unusual weight loss or gain, poor attitude, attitude changes, and extreme mood swings, erratic behavior, and stealing. However, some employees may show little to no noticeable indications at all. They have grown very good at hiding their problem and covering the signs.
When you suspect an employee of using drugs on the job or signs of drug abuse it is not always easy bringing the subject to the table. However, if the use of drugs or alcohol has an impact on the employees work performance, places the employee at physical danger performing their duties, or puts other employees at physical or interpersonal risk, the employer needs to intervene.
If a workplace drug policy is not already in place it is imperative that one becomes implemented. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), nearly a third of illicit drug users said they would be less likely to work for employers who conducted random drug testing. However, even with solid policies in place, workers who abuse drugs under the guise of bettering work performance will explain away the policy in their mind and continue to use. Prescription drug abusers will use the guise as it is “prescribed medication” and continue to use as well regardless of a policy. So although it will not deter all, it will lessen the numbers.
When you have a suspected drug abuser amongst your staff, you will need to confront the employee about your suspicions. Offer the employee assistance in seeking drug rehabilitation and then initiate random drug testing with consequences for positive drops. The employer will need to begin dealing with the employee’s drug use by no longer enabling the employee and holding them accountable for their actions – unexcused/unexplained absence, tardiness, performance, etc. Drug use in the workplace not only affects the users but the entire operation, from other employees, risks factors, and the bottom dollar.
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, February 2, 2010
Triggers and their Detonator
Do you recognize all your triggers? If you are not familiar with that term, a trigger is something that compels you to use your drug of choice or behave in an additive manner. Remember, addiction comes in many forms, not just a bottle or a drug, but also gambling, shopping, sex, and so many more and as many different types of addictions there are, there are thousands upon thousands of possible triggers that can go with those addictions. Triggers are unique to the addict. Just because a certain trigger may make one-person use, doesn’t necessarily mean that same trigger will result in the same effect with another.
Triggers can be internal (feeling motivated) or external (a scent, action, item, etc). Some common triggers for many addicts on the internal factor are shame, boredom, anger, fear, loneliness, and frustration. Internal triggers are often harder to control than external. If a certain television program is known to be a trigger for you, you can stop the detonation of that trigger by simply not watching it however if loneliness is a trigger, it is not easily remedied.
Most addictions are an attempt to self-medicate a painful emotion away. “The more I use, the less I feel.” External triggers can be anything else under the sun and moon from family, financial problems, a phrase, a song, the smell of certain cologne; anything and everything specific to the addict that causes one to use.
It is important to be aware of your triggers in order to avoid them or understand them to counteract with a more productive response. Write a list of all the possible triggers that can affect your recovery. Share them with support people in your life. When you come upon a situation where a trigger is involved, recognize it as such, remove yourself from the situation, and use your support group to help you work past the power of your triggers. Remind yourself how far you have come and how you will not allow the trigger to have the power over you any longer.
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
Triggers can be internal (feeling motivated) or external (a scent, action, item, etc). Some common triggers for many addicts on the internal factor are shame, boredom, anger, fear, loneliness, and frustration. Internal triggers are often harder to control than external. If a certain television program is known to be a trigger for you, you can stop the detonation of that trigger by simply not watching it however if loneliness is a trigger, it is not easily remedied.
Most addictions are an attempt to self-medicate a painful emotion away. “The more I use, the less I feel.” External triggers can be anything else under the sun and moon from family, financial problems, a phrase, a song, the smell of certain cologne; anything and everything specific to the addict that causes one to use.
It is important to be aware of your triggers in order to avoid them or understand them to counteract with a more productive response. Write a list of all the possible triggers that can affect your recovery. Share them with support people in your life. When you come upon a situation where a trigger is involved, recognize it as such, remove yourself from the situation, and use your support group to help you work past the power of your triggers. Remind yourself how far you have come and how you will not allow the trigger to have the power over you any longer.
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, February 1, 2010
Is there such a thing as moderation with a former addict?
Some people think that they can have a drink at a social event and it will be okay, after all it is just one drink and not like they intend on getting drunk in their mind. It may be just a single drink, but is it worth the risk of relapsing back to what you fought so hard to come out of?
It is not uncommon for a former addict to want to and even think they can use in moderation after recovery. Rumors tell us there are other former addicts that have been able to use in moderation and not wind back in to a full blown out addiction mode. Truth of the rumor is however, more have failed than not falling right back into their previous deadly lifestyle.
A.A and other 12-step programs stress more on the side of “Don’t risk your sobriety, it is not worth it” and define an alcoholic as a person who can never drink in moderation. Other programs are more lax on that. The important question that should be asked is – is it worth it? Is it worth the risk of throwing away all that you have gained? Is it worth risking what you are trying to rebuild? Is it worth the risk of your health?
You will hear arguments on both sides of this debate, some with some pretty impressive research, both having their own merits, but regardless of all the research in the world, nothing is more important than your path to a full and healthy life.
Only you know what exactly you put at risk if you pick up a drink. It could be your children, your family relationship, a marriage, your career, your heath, etc. If you can spit on those things and never look back, then go ahead and risk it. But is it really worth the chance?
When you are tempted to give it a try, think about how far you have come and what all you had lost due to your addiction. Nothing can be found at the bottom of the bottle.
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 not uncommon for a former addict to want to and even think they can use in moderation after recovery. Rumors tell us there are other former addicts that have been able to use in moderation and not wind back in to a full blown out addiction mode. Truth of the rumor is however, more have failed than not falling right back into their previous deadly lifestyle.
A.A and other 12-step programs stress more on the side of “Don’t risk your sobriety, it is not worth it” and define an alcoholic as a person who can never drink in moderation. Other programs are more lax on that. The important question that should be asked is – is it worth it? Is it worth the risk of throwing away all that you have gained? Is it worth risking what you are trying to rebuild? Is it worth the risk of your health?
You will hear arguments on both sides of this debate, some with some pretty impressive research, both having their own merits, but regardless of all the research in the world, nothing is more important than your path to a full and healthy life.
Only you know what exactly you put at risk if you pick up a drink. It could be your children, your family relationship, a marriage, your career, your heath, etc. If you can spit on those things and never look back, then go ahead and risk it. But is it really worth the chance?
When you are tempted to give it a try, think about how far you have come and what all you had lost due to your addiction. Nothing can be found at the bottom of the bottle.
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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