Holidays can threaten your recovery For people in recovery from alcoholism or drug addiction, holidays can be a threat to sobriety. In fact, the pressure of forced celebrations and family reunions can send any of us into mood swings. Flip on the television during December and you’re likely to view scene after scene of families […]
Why may anxiety be an issue in recovery? People with alcohol and other drug use disorders often suffer from co-occurring mental health issues. If these go untreated, recovery may be more difficult. For some people alcohol and drug use and withdrawal can cause symptoms of anxiety. In these cases, the substance-induced anxiety will subside with […]
What is the connection between bipolar disorder and addiction? People with alcohol and other substance use disorders often suffer from coexisting mental health issues. If untreated, these can make recovery more difficult. For some people withdrawal from alcohol and drug use can cause symptoms that mimic bipolar disorder. In these cases, the manic or depressive […]
Which prescription drugs are abused? Prescription drug abuse is the fastest growing drug problem in the United States and has been classified as an epidemic by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The most commonly abused prescription drugs fall into three classes: opioids or analgesics for treating pain (painkillers), such as methadone, oxycodone […]
Using this guide Many medications, both over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription (Rx), have mood-altering effects. Not only do these medications have addiction potential of their own, but they may also lead to relapse. This guide lists some common medications to avoid, and others that are safer to use. However, it is not meant to replace the […]
What does it mean to be a loner? A loner is one who avoids others or pursues a markedly independent course in thought or action. How can participation in Twelve Step groups affect your recovery? Some people in early recovery describe themselves as “loners” or “misfits.” For these people recovery can be more difficult. If […]
What is humility? “Humility” is a word that is often misunderstood, particularly by people in recovery from addiction. Humility involves a clear recognition and acceptance of one’s humanness. Learning humility means taking an honest look at your strengths and weaknesses in the spirit of attempting to become what you want to be. Only when you […]
What are affirmations? Affirmations are an essential component of your ongoing recovery. To affirm means to declare something in a positive, firm, true way that is empowering. Affirmations are a way to change the messages of self-talk from negative to positive, from shameful and guilt-ridden to deserving and empowered. When many people first think of […]
Why do you need to resolve issues with challenging people? There will come a time when alcoholics and other drug users need to resolve issues they have with challenging people. These enemies can be people or feelings, and we will have identified many of them through our Fourth Step. Step Eight instructs us to be […]
