In early sobriety, when are brains are healing from the damaging effects of drugs and alcohol, we usually have to deal with problems relating to memory and concentration. Early recovery is a difficult time because we have so much to learn, but may still feel mentally “foggy” for a long time. Here are three tips…
DXM, or dextromethorphan, is a common ingredients in many over-the-counter cough medicines. It is often abused in high doses because it has dissociative, sedative, and stimulant properties. Due to its availability, one in ten teenagers reported abusing DXM in 2008. When taken as directed, DXM-containing medications are effective cough suppressants, but when abused, they can…
Anxiety can be difficult to deal with in a healthy way, and it often feels more prominent during the first few crucial weeks or months of sobriety. Our minds and bodies are still healing from the damages of drugs and alcohol, and as a result we may feel more susceptible to feelings of stress, anxiety,…
The great Russian novelist Fyodor Dostoevsky once said, “The greatest happiness is to know the source of unhappiness.” When we enter into recovery, we often felt disconnected from ourselves for quite some time. We don’t know what truly makes us feel happiness aside from intoxication, nor do we know what makes us unhappy. Recovery is…
Metta is a Buddhist concept that loosely translates to “loving-kindness.” Additional meanings of the term may be friendliness, benevolence, goodwill, amity, and empathy for others. Metta is a means of recognizing that there is a sense of solidarity in humanity, and approaching others with a sense of friendliness, consideration, and generosity. Recovery focuses on living…
There is nothing wrong with discussing one’s past during treatment and recovery. The problem arises when our discussions turn from a frank and honest examination of our past to romanticizing our addiction. Often, addiction has consumed our lives to such a degree that we have little else to talk about. When we begin telling “war…
Famed author Fyodor Dostoevsky, in his 1863 essay Winter Notes on Summer Impressions, said, “Try to pose for yourself this task: not to think of a polar bear, and you will see that the cursed thing will come to mind every minute.” Dostoevsky was noting the fact that when we actively try not to think about…
Nobody wants to admit that they have a problem with drugs and alcohol. We are often trying to convince ourselves that we do not have a problem just as much as we are trying to convince others. Through all forms of self-deception, we will try to prove to ourselves that our drinking or drug use…
Grounding techniques comprise a variety of practices that can limit negative thoughts and emotions by connecting one back with the present moment. Grounding techniques are often used for those suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and dissociation, but can also be helpful in managing anxiety, panic, and addiction cravings. One of the great things about the…
Sometimes it can feel like we have so many racing thoughts that it’s impossible to think clearly. Getting our thoughts down on paper by journaling can be a great way to declutter our minds. Writing down our problems in a daily journal is a great way to gain an objective view of what is going…