Common Relapse Triggers in Addiction Recovery and Treatment Addiction relapse is a common phenomenon; it is part of the recovery process and not a mark of failure. Relapses occur when an addict starts doing their addictive behavior after a period of abstinence. For example, a recovering gambler is said to have relapsed if they place a single bet, as much as if they went to Las Vegas casinos and gambled. Relapse triggers are emotional, physical, or mental events that ‘trigger’ a response that will eventually send you sliding back into relapse and addiction. Addicts have different triggers which vary from being as simple as seeing a tv commercial of your […]

The Dynamics of Effective Sponsorship in Addiction Recovery and Treatment Once you decide to get sober, a sponsor will be vital in facilitating the success of your recovery. This person will take you under their wing, guide you, and hold you accountable in your efforts to recover from addiction. It is always hard to see things clearly when you’re emotionally invested. A sponsor will help with that. Don’t be afraid to approach someone to be your sponsor. Yes, it’s awkward, uncomfortable, and embarrassing, but if you’re committed to living a clean life, it will be worth it. Choosing a good sponsor is a significant determinant to the success of your […]

Self-Confidence and Self-Esteem Issues with Recovering Drug Addicts and Alcoholics Numerous studies have shown a correlation between low self-esteem, drug addiction, and alcoholism. Self-esteem refers to the innate belief that one is bound to fail at something, so why try at all, while self-confidence is believing you lack the ability to accomplish something without giving it a try. If you look at yourself in the mirror and your reaction is anything but positive, then you have self-esteem issues. Normally, people turn to drugs or alcohol to boost their bravado, escape loneliness, or as a pick me up. As such, when one stops using, low self-confidence sets in and since drugs […]

Find a higher power you can trust, believe, and live with…  One that works for you. Addiction Recovery and Treatment:  Create or find your higher power   The Dilemma of understanding and finding your Higher Power Addiction is a very distinctive disorder that not only affects a person physically but also spiritually. Featured in a 12-step addiction program is the definition of the spiritual concept of addiction, which goes thus, “we came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity.” For those that do not believe there is a God, they are liable to falter on the idea of “Supernatural Powers.” It is impossible for […]

Myths Surrounding Addiction And Recovery It sometimes is hard to understand how or why other people get addicted to drugs. They might mistakenly associate those who are addicted to drugs with a lack of morals. Or they believe that those who are addicted to drugs lack willpower. That drug addicts can stop using by choosing to. In reality, having an addiction is a complex disease and quitting takes more than a strong will or good intentions. What Is Drug Addiction? Drug addiction is characterized by drug use and drug-seeking behavior that is difficult to control and compulsive despite detrimental consequences. Most people will voluntarily take their first drug. However, repeated […]

Understanding the Dynamics of Dual Diagnosis in Addiction Recovery Co-occurring disorders or more commonly known as a dual diagnosis is a term used to describe someone who has a substance abuse disorder and a mental health diagnosis. It is common for someone with a mental health problem to self medicate with drugs and alcohol even though drugs and alcohol are known to worsen the mental illness symptoms. Professionally, the fields of recovery from substance abuse and mental health have entirely different cultures. This tends to make finding integrated care challenging. If you have a co-occurring disorder then, you will want to seek out a program that integrates its care at […]