Relapse is very common among men and women in the early stages of sobriety. Rates of relapse mirror the recurrence of symptoms of other chronic health problems—about 40 to 60 percent. However, relapse is not a necessary part of the recovery process. There are a variety of things that we can do to help safeguard…
Overcoming 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.…
12-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…
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…
Addiction 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…
Transcendental 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…
Suffering 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…
Newcomers 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…
Alcoholism 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…
In active addiction, our lives were defined by the incessant search for happiness in all things external. Many of us are familiar with thinking that we would be perfectly fine if only we had more money, a better car, or a nicer house. In the absence of drugs and alcohol, we can easily turn to…