“White knuckle sobriety” refers to the practice of desperately holding onto sobriety without working a recovery program. Many programs stress the impossibility of maintaining sobriety by sheer force of will, but there are some—few and far between—who are able to for some time. The problem with white-knuckling sobriety is that it does not allow for…
Details12-Step recovery focuses on helping others as a way to maintain sobriety. The Twelfth Step states: “Having had a spiritual awakening as the result of these steps, we tried to carry this message to alcoholics, and to practice these principles in all our affairs.” Sponsorship is a concept that arises from the need to carry…
DetailsOvercoming addiction requires that we make a promise to ourselves that we are willing to go to any lengths for victory over drugs and alcohol. Not everyone is willing to go through the process of recovery and many people fall victim to the delusion that they can drink or use again after some time sober.…
DetailsAddiction is a complex disease marked by chronic and compulsive substance use despite negative consequences. Physical dependence, on the other hand, is when the brain physiologically changes as a result of substance use, requiring users to continue taking the drug to stave off withdrawal symptoms. While physical dependence is often a part of addiction, it…
DetailsNobody 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…
DetailsTranscendental meditation has grown in popularity as more and more celebrities are discussing its benefits. The practice is a form of silent mantra meditation aimed at avoiding distraction and promoting relaxation and awareness. Transcendental meditation is described as an effortless form of meditation that bring about wonderful benefits with only twenty minutes of practice twice…
DetailsSuffering from addiction causes one to have many questions. We don’t know why we can’t stop, why addiction has taken over our lives, and why we continue to go turn to substances even when we don’t want to. Addiction treatment often incorporates programs that educate clients about the nature of the disease of addiction. By…
DetailsBefore sobriety, we rarely gave much thought to staying healthy and hydrated. In recovery, however, we should begin to take time to focus on improving our health by meeting our daily requirements of vitamins, minerals, and water. Staying hydrated can provide major mental and physical health benefits that will keep us happy and motivated throughout…
DetailsNewcomers are often dismayed to hear that they should wait one year before getting into a relationship. Waiting one year is not a rule, but a very sound suggestion based on the cumulative experience of countless men and women in recovery. The first year of sobriety should be focused on the enhancement of our spiritual…
DetailsAlcoholism is a disease that affects more than just the sufferer. Family and friends are also greatly affected when they have a loved one suffering from alcoholism. It may be difficult for them to determine the best course of action to take to support their loved one suffering from alcoholism, and they may be dealing…
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