Crack is a freebase form of cocaine that provides a brief but intense high when smoked. Smoking crack allows the drug to reach the brain very quickly and create a strong surge in dopamine, leading to short-term feelings of euphoria. Crack is less expensive that cocaine, leading to it being used more often in impoverished…
Early recovery can be a confusing time. We want to get involved in a long-term recovery program but are unsure about the pros and cons of each program. There are 12-step programs, religious programs, secular programs, and different programs focused on overcoming different addictions. One of the great things about early sobriety is that we…
Prescription drug abuse is a growing problem in the United States. Benzodiazepines, such as Valium and Xanax, are a class of drug often prescribed to treat anxiety. In the short-term, benzodiazepines can be effective in treating mental health concerns, but when abused or taken over a long period of time, they can cause major health…
Harris Wittels, co-executive producer of Parks and Recreation and inventor of the word “humblebrag,” passed away from a heroin overdose in February of 2015. Wittels was well-respected in the comedy world and wrote for shows like The Sarah Silverman Program, Eastbound and Down, and, most famously, Parks and Recreation. His story and struggles with addiction,…
We are often surprised to find that many of the people attempting to help us recover in treatment have their own personal experience with addiction and recovery. Their experience, strength, and hope will be invaluable as we enter into a process of addressing and treating our own problems. However, there will also be those who…
The importance of being connected with others in recovery cannot be understated. Getting involved with others who are attempting to recover from addiction is a great way to develop a support system that can help us get through the difficult times we may face in on our journey of recovery. Attending meetings, having a sponsor,…
Newcomers to the rooms of 12-step recovery programs like Alcoholics Anonymous may hear the word “member” and think that there is some sort of process required to officially join. Fortunately, this is not the case. There are no dues, fees, secret handshakes, or passwords to become a member of a 12-step recovery group. All you…
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…
Many men and women suffering from the disease of addiction have problems with humility. Our egos are often overblown and not reflective of the true reality of our lives. That is not to say we cannot be confident, but we cannot allow our egos or overconfidence to get in the way of our sobriety. When…
Patience can mean the difference between recovery and continued addiction. When we are patient, we are able to stay honest, open-minded, and willing to go through the process of recovery. Without patience, we may be less likely to reach a point where we are able to develop all the tools necessary to overcome addiction. Patience,…