MedWorm: Addiction

I'm better.

Heroin Addiction Codependence — Sun, 06 Jul 2008 02:04:00 +0100

I'm better. We talked a lot. I think he heard me, and I think I heard him. Neither of us is going anywhere tonight and probably not any time soon. We're real fucked up, crazy people, but we're also fucked up, crazy in love. It hasn't stopped. I can't take my eyes off of him when he's in the room with me.Sometimes I think the story of my life will be a battle between passion and spirit. Tonight, passion is winning. Passion usually wins with me. (Source: Heroin Addiction Codependence)

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Ouch

Addiction and Recovery News — Sat, 05 Jul 2008 23:18:00 +0100

In a talk about the genetics of addiction, an expert makes the following point:"Addicts find it difficult to receive pleasure," said Prof van den Brink. "They are not likely to enjoy most of the ordinary things most of us enjoy, experiences such as a day at the beach or night at a club. They are looking for more and more stimulus." This trait in me is the bane of my wife's existence. (Source: Addiction and Recovery News)

Knowing god’s will

A Dozen Steps — Sat, 05 Jul 2008 23:00:15 +0100

Interesting… How many of us have the audacity to think that we might know God’s will? Think about it… to approach making the statement that I know what God’s will is for me, or you, imho (lol), I believe that I would have a level of arrogance higher than that I’d had before. Place my thought plane on a plane equal to God’s? Am I kidding? Linda said it this morning (nothing original but - thanks my friend) “True humility is the desire to seek and do God’s will.” This is for me… I have only one way of knowing that I am doing God’s will. Hindsight. What is more important to me is the desire to seek and do God’s will. Even as I live a moment that is severely uncomfortable or fearful to me I can only step back, take a look (hindsight) and then decide to accept that everything is as it is supposed to be. Then I can find peace. My challenge is to stop, take a breath, clear my head and then take a look. That is where I get lost. I react on impulse. I know better but it still happens on occasion. Which is where I now have to accept my imperfection as a human being. AND - that that imperfection is okay. Then, lastly, attempt to wrap my brain cells around allowing myself to be vulnerable to a member of the opposite sex who is much younger, with help, because that person showed some personal interest and excited me, only to be rejected by silence - one more unavailable person who appeared available and wasn’t. Add to it that I had nothing to do with the first meeting and talk and… there you have it in a nutshell - I believed it was a God thing. Another one… and - it wasn’t. Tags: 7th-step, alcoholics-anonymous, depression, faith, fear, loneliness, selfishness, trustShare This (Source: A Dozen Steps)

Drug enforcement and drug consumption. no relationship?

Addiction and Recovery News — Sat, 05 Jul 2008 19:11:00 +0100

From libertarian drug policy expert Jacob Sullum:With the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration celebrating its 35th birthday this week, the publication of a new study estimating drug use rates across countries is well-timed. Of the 17 countries surveyed by the World Health Organization, China has the lowest rate of illegal drug use (cannabis and cocaine combined), followed by Japan, while the United States has the highest rate, followed closely by New Zealand. (Here is a comparison table.) "Globally," the researchers report, "drug use is not distributed evenly and is not simply related to drug policy, since countries with stringent user-level illegal drug policies did not have lower levels of use than countries with liberal ones." It may be that the United States has especially stringent drug policies partly because it has especially high levels of drug use. But it seems clear, after you look at drug use not only across countries but over time in the U.S., that the ebbs and flows have little to do with the intensity of drug law enforcement (which is not to say that prohibition itself has no impact)....Getting back to the WHO study, it's striking that the lifetime marijuana use rate in the U.S. (42.4 percent) is more than twice as high as the rate in the Netherlands (19.8 percent), despite the latter country's famously (or notoriously, depending on your perspective) tolerant cannabis policies. The difference for lifetime cocaine use is even bigger: The U.S. rate (16.2 percent) is eight times the Dutch rate (1.9 percet). Do these results mean that draconian drug laws promote drug use, while a relatively laid-back approach discourages it? Not necessarily; that would be a hell of a "forbidden fruit" effect. But one thing that's clear is the point made by the WHO researchers: Drug use "is not simply related to drug policy." If tinkering with drug policy (within the context of prohibition) has an impact, it is hard to discern, and it's small compared to the influence of culture and economics.As one of the commenter points out, his focus on drug policy (in this post, anyway) is limited to policies related to legality of use and possession--not access to treatment or other demand reduction efforts.Also take the time to check out his post from the previous day. It reviews the undeniable lack of progress in high school drug use since the inception of the DEA. (Source: Addiction and Recovery News)

Treatment in iran

Addiction and Recovery News — Sat, 05 Jul 2008 11:45:00 +0100

Iran's surprisingly progressive approach to addiction:Iran’s theocratic government has encouraged and financed a vast expansion in the number of drug treatment centers to help users confront their addictions and to combat the spread of H.I.V., the virus that causes AIDS, through shared needles.The center in central Tehran, which is called Congress 60 and is run by a private nonprofit agency, is one of 600 centers that provide drug treatment across the country with help from government money. An additional 1,250 centers offer methadone, free needles and other services for addicts who are not ready to quit, including food and treatment for H.I.V. and other sexually transmitted infections.Iran’s government, trying to curb addiction’s huge social costs, has been more supportive of drug treatment than any other government in the Islamic world, according to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime.It was not always this way. After the 1979 revolution, the government tried a more traditional approach: arresting drug users and putting them in jail.But two decades later, it recognized that this approach had failed. A sharp increase in the crime rate and the number of people infected with H.I.V., both directly linked to a surge in narcotics use, persuaded the government to shift strategies.“We have realized that an addict is a social reality,” said Muhammad-Reza Jahani, the vice president for the Committee Combating Drugs, which coordinates the government’s efforts to fight drug addiction and trafficking. “We don’t want to fight addicts; we want to fight addiction. We need to manage addiction.” (Source: Addiction and Recovery News)

Motivation to change and homelessness

Addiction and Recovery News — Sat, 05 Jul 2008 11:36:00 +0100

Local conventional wisdom is that homeless addicts and alcoholics are significantly less motivated to change than other addicts and alcoholics. This study in Addictive Behaviors used a emergency department visits as an opportunity to compare the readiness to change in homeless and non-homeless patients with substance use disorders:Substance-using homeless persons frequent emergency departments and hospitals often. However, little is known about how homelessness affects when they seek care and their motivation for substance abuse treatment (SAT). We surveyed homeless (N = 266) and non-homeless (N = 104) substance-using adults sequentially admitted to an urban hospital medicine service, comparing demographics, readiness for change (URICA), and motivating reasons for SAT. Homeless respondents were more likely to be younger, uninsured, have hepatitis B/C, and < style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">although more homeless respondents were in an action stage. They also had similar motivating reasons for wanting SAT, although being homeless was an additional motivator for the majority of homeless respondents. Almost half reported that being homeless caused them to delay seeking health care; paradoxically those citing physical health as a SAT motivator were 3.4 times more likely to have delayed care. While acutely ill homeless persons were at least as motivated for SAT, these data suggest the challenge is getting them to care in a timely manner and tailoring interventions during the care episode to avail of this motivation. (Source: Addiction and Recovery News)

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Everything you've wanted to know about drug addiction

ENCOGNITIVE.COM - Drug Addiction — Sat, 05 Jul 2008 06:10:25 +0100

Tibor A. Palatinus is a trained Narconon Drug Prevention Specialist, Drug Interventionist and Certified Chemical Dependency Counselor. Today, he consults drug users and parents and friends of drug users on how to save an addict's life by getting those in need to the Narconon Drug Rehabilitation program. Since 2001 he has been the Executive Director of Narconon Vancouver Society, in Vancouver, BC. read more (Source: ENCOGNITIVE.COM - Drug Addiction)

Marijuana and other drugs cause brain damage, linked to mental illness

ENCOGNITIVE.COM - Drug Addiction — Sat, 05 Jul 2008 04:40:04 +0100

Study strengthens marijuana brain damage case A new Australian study says long-term, heavy cannabis use causes brain damage that is equivalent to mild-traumatic brain injury or premature aging. The research is published today in the journal Archives of General Psychiatry. The study also found that all users are at risk, and the more you smoke, the more your brain shrinks. Doctors have known for years there is nothing "soft" about the drug cannabis. Professor Jon Currie is the director of addiction medicine at St Vincent's Hospital in Melbourne. read more (Source: ENCOGNITIVE.COM - Drug Addiction)

Deep.

Heroin Addiction Codependence — Sat, 05 Jul 2008 04:35:00 +0100

I'm hurting in a deep, scared way. My husband is really upset with me for the story I've told about what's been happening between us. He says that he's hurt because he feels like he doesn't know me and like I don't know him.I can understand that feeling. It's probably pretty shocking to read exactly what your partner thinks about the things you've been doing, especially when you're already feeling awful about yourself. I'm sorry that he got into my business that way.While I've told him about everything I've written about here, I've definitely written it bigger here than I've told him. My feelings have been stronger here, truer to what is going on inside me, than I've shared with him. That's something I need to own...I haven't been clear about how deeply angry and afraid I've been. After a while, it started to seem pointless to talk about things with him. If I try to talk about how angry it makes me that he's not working, he would get angry and yell at me. My talking about it didn't change his behavior, and it didn't change mine. It started to seem that there's no reason to talk about it until I'm ready to leave.I'm not ready to leave. I'm not ready to be left. I want my husband. I want him different, but I want him, and I want to be different with him.He says that what hurts the most is that I don't seem to think that he wants to get a job. I think I'm not sure if he wants to get a job or not...what upsets me about his unemployment has nothing to do with whether or not he WANTS a job. It's that he doesn't have one. I don't really care if he wants one. I want him to have one. I want him to support himself.What hurts me the most is his lack of empathy. It hurts me that he'd read all this crap and not think, "This sounds really hard for her," or, "She's really hurting." All he hears is me yelling at him. And I think that his lack of empathy for me has been one of the things that's been bothering me even before this whole blog-reading episode. I work all day, and I get home, and he's cold or angry or indifferent. He's never said, "I'm sorry you have to work all day." He never asks about my day, never shows any interest or empathy in the way that I'm paying for his screw-ups.I feel so fucked up tonight, so afraid of him leaving or me wanting him to leave. The sickest thing is that I'm much more concerned with how he's hurting than with how I'm hurting. All of his focus is on him. Much (but not all! I'm getting better!) of my focus is on him.I spent a lot of time with my sponsor this evening, and she suggested that we try marital counseling. I think that's a brilliant idea. There's some options for places with sliding scale fees that might be feasible. I think a third party could give us both a lot of insight into where we keep going wrong. I know that he and I love each other, and I refuse to believe that it's not possible for us to be together. I'm willing to try, to keep trying, to do whatever it takes to make us work. I don't know if he is. (Source: Heroin Addiction Codependence)

Without some degree of humility

A Dozen Steps — Sat, 05 Jul 2008 02:41:56 +0100

No alcoholic can stay sober at all… Then, directly related to self-centeredness in the extreme, “Unless they develop much more of this precious quality than may be required just for sobriety, they still haven’t much chance of becoming truly happy.” Which, for now, is where I lose understanding. The state of mind is such that faith and humility are sorely lacking meaning that selfishness is on the table. Do the right thing, do the right thing, do the right thing… and? What? “Humility, as a word and as an ideal, has a very bad time of it in our world.” It is having a very bad time of it in my world - now! Thankfully, this too shall pass. Whenever God seems as if He’s farther away than normal, check who’s moved. Me. Selfish. Do the right thing and the exact same old crap continues to happen, without fail. One specific area, the single most fearful area, stays precisely where it has always been despite making use of new lessons and “seeing” God at work. “Not only is the idea misunderstood; the word itself is often intensely disliked.” Master of self-delusion. Keep my will out of it, part of the solution. Let Go and Let God. Same results. Faith struggles. What am I willing to do today to not drink alcohol? ANYTHING!!! Whatever it takes… Meeting - check. Shared it - check. Prayed - check. Talked to another alkie - check. Gave thanks - check. Helped someone else - check. Acceptance? Nope! God Box? Been there, done that with this again and again. Willing to do it again? Nope… Selfishness. “We are sure that no class of people in this world ever made a worse mess of trying to live by this formula than alcoholics.” “Material satisfactions were not the purpose of living.” That’s right! That was etched in stone decades ago and also hasn’t changed ever! Hell, now there’s two areas… In a few minutes my head will hit the pillow and there won’t be any booze in me! I’m damn well a miracle! “The attainment of greater humility is the foundation principle of each of A.A.’s Twelve Steps!” Accept and deal… and… have a good night… :) Tags: 7th-step, alcoholics-anonymous, depression, faith, fear, loneliness, selfishness, trustShare This (Source: A Dozen Steps)

Happy fourth of july

What Winners Do — Fri, 04 Jul 2008 14:29:33 +0100

Happy Fourth of July to everyone. I hope you have fun gathering with friends and family to celebrate our countries independence. Maybe catch a parade, have a cookout and wrap the day up with some fireworks. What could be better than that? Last year’s Fourth of July was a pretty difficult time for me. Being 6 months into my recovery, I was still filled with a lot of uncontrollable emotions that had been ignored for so long. I kind of had an emotionally draining day which left me looking for something… anything to make it stop. I guess that’s why I popped a pill. Last year on this day I was about 6 months into my recovery. On the morning of July fourth I had written a Happy Fourth of July post talking about what this holiday meant to me. All of the reminiscing had gotten me pretty down which should have been a red flag. But I didn’t pay attention to my feelings and just went through the motions of the day. When I had gotten home that night I headed straight into the bathroom, opened up the drawer, and took over the counter medication for no reason other than to fall into sleep without having to think about anything. For someone else this may not have been a big deal. For me? It was huge. I felt that I had relapsed. I accpeted that I had screwed up, I looked at the situation very closely and tried to see where it began going wrong and I tried to learn something from that experience. This Fourth of July I am in a very different place from last year. Sure, fireworks and parades can still get me choked up ( yeah, I don’t know either) but I’m not feeling sad and depressed about “the good old days”. I’m trying to live in the moment… not in the past. Random PostsOctober 5, 2007 -- So You Have An Addictive Personality…What Does That Mean? (5)December 6, 2007 -- In Addiction Recovery, What Do The Winners Do? (6)December 12, 2007 -- Examining Yourself In Addiction Recovery (2)April 25, 2008 -- When Drugs And Alcohol Are Your Top Priority…There’s Not Room For Much Else (5)April 2, 2008 -- Accept The Things I Cannot Change (7) (Source: What Winners Do)

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Alcoholics anonymous - who can join aa?

Addiction Recovery Blog — Fri, 04 Jul 2008 14:14:42 +0100

In Alcoholics Anonymous or AA, there is only one requirement to attend any meeting. You do not have to sign up, pay money, or even talk if you don’t want to. You can go and just listen. Anominity is a tradition for 12 steps and it doesn’t matter what background you come from. There is only one requirement for attending meetings and that is: A desire to stop drinking. When I first went to an AA meeting, I thought I was joining a club of some sort. I was ready for the once over by the entrance committee or meeting some eligibility or screening requirements. There are none. Just go, simply attend. You will be surrounded by people from all walks of life who share one thing in a common, alcoholism. They are heading down the path of alcohol recovery by speaking and learning from like-minded individuals. As with anything new, there may me some awkwardness or discomfort about going to your first meeting. With empathy and caring I say ‘Get over it’, just go. It really is that important to successful recovery. If you know anyone involved in 12 step groups, don’t be shy, give them a call and ask if you can go with them. If you don’t know where a meeting is just call information and ask for AA. In most cities and counties, they maintain an inter-group hotline to give out meeting information. You can even go to Google on your computer and search: “AA meetings (your hometown, state)”, you will be amazed at the number of meetings near you that you did not know about. I strongly suggest that you get involved and start sharing in the meetings and start working a program, as opposed to trying to learn by observation from the back row or the outside. It is one of those things you can study until the cows come home, but at some point you must take action. A thought is just a thought, an emotion just an emotion, but nothing really happens until you take action. Bonus Tip: And to get the ball rolling if you are new, when the leader asks if there are any newcomers, raise your hand and say your name and “I’m new and can use some help”. That is it. I guaranty people will approach you after the meeting to offer help. That is why they are members of Alcoholics Anonymous. And now I would like to invite you to access our alcoholism and alcohol answers at our alcohol frequently asked questions page. You may also claim our Free, massive Recovery Help Resource Guide. To gain instant access, visit us at: http://AddictionRecoveryBasics.com Thank you from Bill Urell and the Addiction Recovery Basics Network. (Source: Addiction Recovery Blog)

Losing the war on drugs

Addiction and Recovery News — Fri, 04 Jul 2008 00:27:00 +0100

Drug policy focused on supply is not working. (Source: Addiction and Recovery News)

Alcohol and drug detox - beginning the road to recovery

Addiction Recovery Blog — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 13:52:04 +0100

Alcohol and drug detox is the first phase of any rehab treatment for hard-core substance abusers, and it is designed to rid your body of the toxics it has accumulated from chronic alcohol and drug consumption. But alcohol and drug detox has built-in measures to control the severity of any withdrawal symptoms, and is done in a medical setting. Successful alcohol and drug detox can take anywhere from three to fourteen days, depending on the physical condition of the person being treated. During the course of the detox, the patient may receive medications to reduce their symptoms. Alcohol And Drug Detox Treatment Phases There are three phases to an alcohol and drug detox program. During the first phase, the doctor will pay close attention to the patient’s symptoms and manage them as needed to maintain his or her comfort. The second phase of an alcohol and detox program is the physical detoxification phase, during which the patient learns basic nutrition so that his or her system can continue to rid itself of accumulated poisons and rebuild itself with a balanced food plan. Finally, the patient will undergo emotional detoxification, learning to understand the emotional reasons for his or her dependency on drugs and/or alcohol, and finding ways to keep them from reasserting their control. Beyond Alcohol And Drug Detox Alcohol and drug Detox are essential if a substance abuser is to take control of his or her life, but they are simply the first steps in a long process. Detox centers offer the assistance their patients need for pain management, proper nutrition, and regular sleep. But no matter how much they do to repair a person’s health, alcohol and drug detox facilities will fail if they do not tackle the psychological aspects of addiction. Simply completing a two-week alcohols and drug detox program will not undo a lifetime of substance abuse. Accept that your alcohol and drug detox is just the first step on a lifetime journey, which along with counseling, loving support form friends and family, and perhaps medication, will heal you a bit more each day. You can also find more info on Detox. detoxbliss.com is a comprehensive resource which provide information about Diets. (Source: Addiction Recovery Blog)

Significant july dates in a.a. history

A Dozen Steps — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 11:19:06 +0100

Significant July Dates in A.A. History from AA History Lovers at Yahoo! Groups; July 1939 - Warren C. joined A.A. Cleveland, caused debate because he was not hospitalized. July 1944 - Bob writes article for Grapevine “On Cultivating Tolerance”. July 1962 - ‘Victor E’ cartoon first appeared in Grapevine. (some say May 1962). July 1-3, 1960 - 25th Anniversary of AA in Long Beach, CA. July 2-3, 1955 - 20th Anniversary Convention at St. Louis, MO. The Three Legacies, of Recovery, Unity, and Service, turned over to the movement by the old timers. AA comes of Age. July 2, 1960 - Father Ed Dowling dies. July 2, 1965 - “Best of Bill” and Pocket-Sized “12 and 12″ 1st sold. July 2, 1965 - 1st “La Vigne”, Canadian Grapevine, published. July 2-4, 1965 - 30th Anniversary of AA in Toronto. Adopted “I Am Responsible.” July 2, 1993 - 50 years of AA celebrated in Canada. July 2, 2000 - 20 millionth copy of Big Book given to Al-Anon in Minneapolis, MN. July 3-5, 1970 - 35th Anniversary of AA in Miami. “Declaration of Unity”. Bill’s last public appearance. July 3-6, 1980 - 45th Anniversary of AA in New Orleans. First true marathon meeting was held. July 3-6, 1980 - Gay AA’s have own program at 40th AA Anniversary in New Orleans. July 4, 1939 - 1st AA meeting started in Flatbush, NY. July 4-6, 1975 - 40th Anniversary of AA in Denver. Worlds largest coffee server serves 1/2 million cups a day. July 5-7, 1985 - 50th AA Anniversary in Montreal, Canada. Ruth Hock given 5,000,000th Big Book. House of Seagrams flew their flags at half mast for 3 days. July 5-8, 1990 - 55th AA Anniversary in Seattle, WA. Nell Wing given 10,000,000th Big Book. July 7, 1940 - Bill attends 1st Summer Session at School of Alcohol Studies at Yale University. July 8, 1940 - 1st AA Group formed in Dayton, Ohio. July 10, 1941 - Texas newspaper publishes anonymous letter from founding member of Texas AA Group. (Larry J) July 11, 1960 - Time published article called “Passionately Anonymous” on the 25th Convention. July 14, 1939 - Dr Tiebout gives Big Book to Marty M. who promptly throws it back at him. July 15 1938 - 1st documented use name Alcoholics Anonymous, A.A. archives letter Bill to Willard Richardson. July 16, 1965 - Frank Amos, AA Non-Alcoholic Trustee, dies. July 18 1938 - in letter to Dr. Richards at Johns Hopkins, Bill used Alcoholics Anonymous as working title for Big Book & name for the fellowship. July 20, 1941 - First AA group formed in Seattle, Washington. July 22, 1877 - Willian Duncan Silkworth born in Brooklyn, NY. July 22, 1980 - Marty M. early AA woman and founder of NCADD dies. July 23, 1940 - Philly AA’s send 10% of kitty to Alcoholic Foundation, sets precedent. July 23, 1943 - New Haven CT Register reports arrival of AA’s to study with E M Jellinek. July 24, 1943 - L.A. press reports formation of all-Mexican AA Group. July 28-30, 1950 - First AA International Convention held in Cleveland, Ohio. Twelve Traditions adopted. Dr. Bob made last appearance at large AA gathering. July 31, 1972 - Rollie H dies sober in Washington DC. Tags: AA History, alcoholics-anonymous, gratitude, RecoveryShare This (Source: A Dozen Steps)

Dear husband,

Heroin Addiction Codependence — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 04:47:00 +0100

First, I'd like to say to you what I said the night I first found your needles. Do you remember what I said? I bet you don't. You don't remember things like I do.I asked you to sit down, and I knelt down in front of you. I said, "I love you very, very much. No matter what, I love you."And tonight, I hope you know that I love you very, very much. No matter what, I love you.I saw that you've been reading my writing here on this website and that you've gone through quite a big chunk of my email. I also see that you seem to be pissed off right now, and you seemed to be pissed off this morning. I can imagine that reading my view of what's been going on in our lives could be pretty painful for you. I'm sorry if you're hurting because of the things I've said here.I'm not sorry, though, for the things I've said. They are things I've needed to say, and they are true things. This is a safe place for me to say these things, and it has been incredibly healing for me to write the story of what has been happening to me through your addiction. It's helped me to process all my crazy, conflicted feelings, and it's even helped some other folks deal with similar situations. Writing this story has been one of the surprising gifts of going through this painful experience...the people I've met, the pleasure I've gotten from writing it all out...I've never done anything like this before, and I'm proud of what I've written here. I'm proud of the way I've grown.I understand that you are going through a lot of hard stuff right now. I understand that getting clean is really, really hard. I know that you've tried some to find a job. I see the efforts that you have made. I also understand that I have played a role in creating the tension in our home, and I'm working really hard on myself to stop contributing to our problems.I always knew that you might make your way here one day, and I've thought a lot about what it would be like. There's a part of me that wants you to be amazed by how beautifully I've written our ugly life story. I know that's not likely. There's also a part of me that hope you've been able to see through all the negative things I've said about you to the good things. There are good things here, and I still see them. I think I see them more than anybody on this earth, more than you even.I wonder at your anger over the things you've seen here. I don't expect that any of it has been a surprise, since you've been living it. I've not kept my feelings from you. I've not disguised the fact that I've been afraid, hurt, tired, frustrated...Every situation that I've written about here, we've talked about. I also know that I should get out of your head. I don't like going through your head, and it doesn't serve me to try to understand you from the inside out. I've never been able to figure out your mind. I think that's part of what has been so attractive about you.I'm honestly surprised, too, that you'd bother going through my email, which I must have left open carelessly. That is uncharacteristic of me, as I'm generally so guarded with my things after all the stealing that has happened in our house. I'm surprised because I never thought what I might be saying or thinking or feeling was really all that important to you.I guess there's a little grace in this situation, isn't there? We're going to have to talk about it. You've heard me...you have to have heard me after seeing the stuff I've written here.I'm going to go get in bed next to you right now. I'm going to put my arms around you, and I'm going to bury my face in your neck and breathe deeply. I guess it's possible you'll read this in the morning. I'm planning to talk to you about it after we're both home tomorrow, and probably after my meeting. I'll need the clarity I'll get from my meeting to talk to you right.Good night. (Source: Heroin Addiction Codependence)

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Expertise matters at a rehab center

Cliffside Malibu — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 23:42:57 +0100

So you need a rehab center in Malibu. And you have no idea where to turn, or even where to start looking. Don’t worry—you aren’t the only one. The truth is that many prospective patients are overwhelmed by the number of rehab centers in Malibu, so much so that they assume that every Malibu rehab facility must be more or less the same. But that’s not how it is. As a point of fact, a rehab center in Malibu can be no more or less effective than the individuals who staff it. And that, in a nutshell, is why it’s so important that you get the right kind of care from the right kind of people. The bottom line is that expertise matters at a rehab center, in Malibu or anywhere else. So do empathy and experience. Rehabilitation is an arduous process. To come through it successfully, you’re going to need proper support from caregivers who are deeply committed to helping you get where you need to go. Given the stakes in the fight against addiction, you simply can’t afford to settle for anything less than that. (Source: Cliffside Malibu)

How to stop drinking and taking drugs

Addiction Recovery Blog — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 13:52:41 +0100

If you’re looking for advice on how to stop drinking and taking drugs, hopefully I can help. But before I do that, let me give you the bad news first … If you’re looking for a genuine solution to alcoholism or drug addiction and really want to stop drinking and using, ultimately the only person that can make it happen is YOU. Sounds kind of obvious, I know. But you’ll be amazed how many addicts miss that one, single, potentially life-altering fact. Because if you’re like most alcoholics and drug addicts, you’re so deep in DENIAL, playing the blame game, that you can’t see you’re the cause and ultimately it’s YOU that has to take responsibility for turning your life around. That may sound harsh, but it’s true. Yes, life may have been hard and there may have been all sorts of justifiable reasons for you picking up a bottle or taking that hit, but ultimately you still CHOSE to do so. Am I saying then that addiction is simply a choice and it’s simply a matter of will power in you overcoming your fight with alcohol or drugs? Not at all … because I do believe that addiction is a disease, but you do have a CHOICE as to what you do about it. Life has dealt many of us a pack of cards that is far from ideal, but it’s how you respond to that, that will ultimately determine where you end up and the quality of life you lead. But you can’t do anything about your life and make changes for the better - until you can look yourself in the mirror and say, ‘I have to take full responsibility for my alcoholism or drug addiction - and the resulting mess my life has become - because only I have the power to get myself out of this.’ There can be no ‘but’s’ and ‘if’s’. No conditions. ‘If it is to be, it’s up to me’ has to be your motto … And then … only then are you ready, ready to change, ready to be helped and ready to turn your life around. So STEP ONE in how to stop drinking and taking drugs, the most crucial step, is an ATTITUDE. An attitude that says, ‘I’m ready to stop making excuses and to take full responsibility for taking the ACTION I need to take to overcome my addiction.’ And then everything will fall into place and be easy is what you’re hoping I’m going to say next, right? Wrong! Sorry to disappoint you, but then it gets really tough. That is when the struggle really begins because you’ll have to start facing all your demons and be prepared to get really uncomfortable, before things get better. The easy option is always to pick up or have a drink if things get tough or uncomfortable. That’s why Step One and taking responsibility for everything you do becomes so important. Because yes, you may still fall occasionally, but you’ll know it’s only you that can change things, so you’ll keep picking yourself up again until you’ve turned your life around. If you’re really serious about wanting to find out how to stop drinking and taking drugs, the information I’ve just shared with you is CRITICAL. Because it should form the foundation on which you build your recovery, without it everything else becomes almost impossible. So what comes after Step One? What are the things you need to be doing and the actions you need to be taking to get clean and sober? I’ve put together a website that may be able to help you. Follow the link from my Bio. You’ll particularly want to focus on the treatment and recovery sections where I’ve put together loads of valuable information that help you in your quest to change your life and overcome alcoholism and drug addiction. Carl-Peter is the Author of Addiction Uncovered - a Book he Wrote to Help Others Struggling with Alcoholism and Drug Addiction, which You can Download FREE at his website, http://www.alcoholism-and-drug-addiction-help.com - where you can also find Loads of Valuable Help and Advice on How to Treat and Recover from Alcoholism and Drug Addiction. (Source: Addiction Recovery Blog)

The heart of true sobriety

A Dozen Steps — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 11:19:25 +0100

Today’s Daily Reflection; The Heart Of True Sobriety “We find that no one need have difficulty with the spirituality of the program. Willingness, honesty and open-mindedness are the essentials of recovery. But these are indispensable.” Alcoholics Anonymous, p. 570 And we are then offered three questions: Am I honest enough to accept myself as I am and let this be the ‘me’ that I let others see? Yes_____ No_____ Do I have the willingness to go to any length, to do whatever is necessary to stay sober? Yes_____ No_____ Do I have the open-mindedness to hear what I have to hear, to think what I have to think, and to feel what I have to feel? Yes_____ No_____ Questions which may lead us to knowledge we didn’t think we had… “If my answer to these questions is ‘Yes,” I know enough about the spirituality of the program to stay sober.“ Then, “As I continue to work the Twelve Steps, I move on to the Heart of True Sobriety: serenity with myself, with others, and with God as I understand Him.“ I no longer have the need to “manipulate” others to discover what I did in that black out I was in last night that those others didn’t know I was in… thankfully! Tags: 7th-step, alcoholics-anonymous, Recovery, sobrietyShare This (Source: A Dozen Steps)

Headaches.

Heroin Addiction Codependence — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 01:05:00 +0100

One of my jobs is causing me some grief. I am excited to have something to obsess about that isn't my husband. Isn't that insane?I find, however, that even when I'm obsessing about something that isn't my husband, I'm still inadvertently obsessing about my husband. I'm an expert at obsessing about him. The problem at my work involves a few issues that allow me to obsess about my husband vicariously. For instance, people expect me to think for them instead of finding information for themselves. I'm in situations where I'm expected to be more responsible than is my fair share. These situations remind me of home.There are also moments when some of the folks I'm around at this job are irrational and angry. Irrational and angry is quite familiar to me. Irrational and angry people make me feel kind of like I have razor burn on the inside...like I have razor burn on the inside, and someone is drenching it with alcohol. My insides are rather irritated. If you could see my insides, the parts where I keep my emotions, it would be really red and festery.I'm not doing a good job of using my tools presently. It's been a while since my step group met, and I'm not able to get to as many meetings as I used to make. I can't go to yoga as much as I like to go. I'm not sleeping enough. I'm not praying enough. I'm tired and hungry and angry all the time. I can feel all the effects of these slips, but there's not a damn thing I can do about it until one of these jobs lets up. (Source: Heroin Addiction Codependence)

Because alkies are big “cupcakes” [tribute to george carlin]

A Dozen Steps — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 00:21:57 +0100

I’ve just received this in my email and will pass it on to all of you. I always enjoyed George Carlin especially his insight. He wrote this shortly after his wife’s death a few years ago. It’s truth ought to be force fed to our “politicians!” (one man’s opinion) A Wonderful Message by George Carlin The paradox of our time in history is that we have taller buildings but shorter tempers, wider Freeways, but narrower viewpoints. We spend more, but have less, we buy more, but enjoy less. We have bigger houses and smaller families, more conveniences, but less time. We have more degrees but less sense, more knowledge, but less judgment, more experts, yet more problems, more medicine, but less wellness. We drink too much, smoke too much, spend too recklessly, laugh too little, drive too fast, get too angry, stay up too late, get up too tired, read too little, watch TV too much, and pray too seldom. We have multiplied our possessions, but reduced our values. We talk too much, love too seldom, and hate too often. We’ve learned how to make a living, but not a life. We’ve added years to life not life to years. We’ve been all the way to the moon and back, but have trouble crossing the street to meet a new neighbor. We conquered outer space but not inner space. We’ve done larger things, but not better things. We’ve cleaned up the air, but polluted the soul. We’ve conquered the atom, but not our prejudice. We write more, but learn less. We plan more, but accomplish less. We’ve learned to rush, but not to wait. We build more computers to hold more information, to produce more copies than ever, but we communicate less and less. These are the times of fast foods and slow digestion, big men and small character, steep profits and shallow relationships. These are the days of two incomes but more divorce, fancier houses, but broken homes. These are days of quick trips, disposable diapers, throwaway morality, one night stands, overweight bodies, and pills that do everything from cheer, to quiet, to kill. It is a time when there is much in the showroom window and nothing in the stockroom. A time when technology can bring this letter to you, and a time when you can choose either to share this insight, or to just hit delete… Remember; spend some time with your loved ones, because they are not going to be around forever. Remember, say a kind word to someone who looks up to you in awe, because that little person soon will grow up and leave your side. Remember, to give a warm hug to the one next to you, because that is the only treasure you can give with your heart and it doesn’t cost a cent. Remember, to say, ‘I love you’ to your partner and your loved ones, but most of all mean it. A kiss and an embrace will mend hurt when it comes from deep inside of you. Remember to hold hands and cherish the moment for someday that person will not be there again. Give time to love, give time to speak! And give time to share the precious thoughts in your mind. AND ALWAYS REMEMBER: Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away. Tags: George Carlin, Paradox, Reality, truthShare This (Source: A Dozen Steps)

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The most effective rehab center is the one that is most committed from start to finish

Cliffside Malibu — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 22:32:31 +0100

The most effective rehab center is the one that’s most committed to serving the individual needs of its individual clients. Remember, addiction is a personal disease, and addiction recovery can only go forward on personal terms. In the fight against substance abuse, you need your own battle plan, not someone else’s. That’s why it’s so vital that you find a rehab center that recognizes you as you actually are, and aims to treat your needs as they actually exist. Given the stakes, anything less than that simply isn’t good enough. The bottom line here is that your rehab center experience can only be successful if it’s uniquely your own. Some rehab centers really do aim to serve their clients on a case-by-case basis. The difference, for you, is more important than any in the world. Here’s hoping you can muster the courage and the wisdom you’ll need to make the right choice. (Source: Cliffside Malibu)

Addiction is a disease

Addiction Recovery Blog — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 13:54:23 +0100

Addiction is a bad disease. A really bad disease. Addiction is sneaky and patient; it waits for its victims and subtly takes control of their lives. An addict (an alcoholic is just an alcohol addict) is someone whose life is controlled by drugs, someone whose thinking is dominated by thoughts of drugs, thoughts of how and where to get more, thoughts of when to use and get high next. Most addicts do not even realize they are thinking like this…it has become part of them. Here’s what I know: About 10% of people become addicted to mind and mood altering substances. There is a genetic component, and addiction is a disease of feelings. The best definition I know is “if alcohol and/or other drugs are causing a problem, then you probably have a problem with drugs or alcohol”. Normal people, non-addicts, can “take it or leave it”. Let’s use alcohol as the example, although this applies just a well to other drugs, (yes, alcohol is a drug). An alcoholic (alcohol addict) cannot take it or leave it. He or she meets the definition of addiction if ANY of the following apply: 1. Compulsive use, such as saying: “I will not drink, because …” an important event the next day, perhaps an athletic event or exam, request of family member, or just wanting to take a day off from drinking. The non-alcoholic can do this, not drink, for any reason. The alcoholic MIGHT do it, but is equally likely NOT to do what he says he wants to do. He cannot reliably not drink. 2. Inability to control the amount used. A non-alcoholic can stop by the bar and have A DRINK with friends and then go home. An alcoholic MIGHT do that, but is equally likely to stop by the bar, telling his family he will have one drink and be right home, or telling his friends he will meet them after a drink at a movie or bowling alley. He or she then does not show up for friends, and gets home a week from Tuesday. The alcoholic is not able to predict what will happen once he has one drink. 3. Continued use in spite of adverse consequences. I do not know any alcoholics who stop drinking because they get a DUI. They might stop drinking and DRIVING, but this is not enough to get their attention. Most sober people would think a DUI is an adverse consequence of drinking. Another common adverse consequence is the disintegration of relationships. Family conflicts and general dissatisfaction with relationships is a frequent result of alcohol use. It is impossible to be present in a relationship, with a partner, friend, coworker, or anyone else, if your first love is alcohol. Relationship problems? Think alcohol is the solution? Try looking at alcohol as the problem, or part of the problem. If it is not part of the problem, go back to drinking after trying several months of sobriety. It is important to note that alcohol in and of itself is not a bad thing. It is an inanimate object. The problem is what we do with alcohol…and what we let it do to us. If you think you have an alcohol or drug problem, or if you have general problems with family, friends, work, or school, try being emotionally present, clean and sober, for starters. If we are clean and sober, we get to do life on life’s terms, not life through a haze. If it is impossible for you to stop and stay stopped, and be happy about it (This is the clincher), get help from others who have been there and understand the dilemma. Dr. Dawn Obrecht is the only MD addiction medicine specialist on the western slope of Colorado. She is a Fellow of the American Society of Addiction Medicine and her office is in Steamboat Springs. She does consultations and referrals anywhere in the country and can be reached at 970-846-8479 or through http://www.docdawn.com (Source: Addiction Recovery Blog)

A reflection to move forward with…

A Dozen Steps — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 06:15:12 +0100

Sacrifice = Unity = Survival The Daily Reflection for June 30th is certainly one to take forward into July and even after that. “The unity, the effectiveness, and even the survival of A.A. will always depend upon our continued willingness to give up some of our personal ambitions and desires for the common safety and welfare. Just as sacrifice means survival for the individual alcoholic, so does sacrifice mean unity and survival for the group and for A.A.’s entire fellowship.” Making it a real challenge for me at this moment to quantify (wrong word, I know but) with this; “Take away my difficulties, that victory over them may bear witness to those I would help of Thy Power, Thy Love, and Thy Way of Life.” Neatly ignoring the very next sentence: “May I do Thy will always.” Tags: 3rd-step, Attraction, Basic Human Instincts, Recovery Principles, respect, Worthiness, Wrong DependenceShare This (Source: A Dozen Steps)

Pain patients sue state of washington

Addiction Inbox — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 00:42:00 +0100

Do doctors suffer from "opiophobia?" The opium family of painkillers has always been a bane and a boon to the human race, as evidenced by nurses injecting morphine into agonizingly wounded soldiers, and street junkies selling the clothes off their back for another fix.However, as I wrote in an earlier post, "The Morphine Scandal," the ironies fly thick and fast: In many cases, pain relief is the one thing doctors can offer their patients, and the one thing they withhold. Studies show that 70 per cent of patients present with painful conditions. Typically, non-addicted patients take morphine therapeutically for pain at doses in the 5 to 10 mg. range. But experienced morphine addicts regularly take several hundred milligrams a day—a huge difference.Now, a lawyer for a pain relief advocacy group has filed suit against the state of Washington, claiming that overly stringent guidelines on prescription pain medications have had a negative effect on pain management across the country. Attorney Laura D. Cooper, who filed the suit on behalf of a group of Washington residents being treated for pain, said in an Associated Press article by Donna Gordon Blankinship that the state's regulations were comparable to setting a limit on the amount of insulin a doctor could prescribe for diabetic patients. Cooper alleged that the Washington standards have been used as guidelines by insurance companies and workman's compensation boards.The AP article also quoted Siobhan Reynolds of the Internet-based Pain Relief Network: "The ramifications are enormous. You never see on a death certificate that people died of pain, but people die of pain all the time."The lawsuit features an excerpt from a University of Wisconsin textbook on pain medicine, Bonica's Management of Pain, 3rd edition:"Opiophobia is the syndrome of failure to administer adequate opioid analgesics because of the fear of producing addiction or toxicity. The etiology of opiophobia is multifactorial: Peer pressure (provider and patient), regulatory agency pressure (real or perceived), and lack of education on opioids and the fundamentals of pain management all contribute to its persistence.... All of these factors contribute to the underuse of these relatively simple and very effective medications, due to no fault of the patients. "According to Drug Law Blog, the complaint "asks the court to declare that the state guidelines 'do not constitute enforceable law of any kind and should be stricken and removed from all state publications of every variety,' and seeks other additional relief, including an injunction against enforcement."As for concerns about addiction, recent evidence for the heritability of opiate addiction looks strong. “Harvard did some really superb studies using a huge cohort of military recruits in the U.S. Army,” according to Mary Jeanne Kreek, a specialist in opiate addiction at Rockefeller University in New York. “Heroin addiction has even a larger heritable component than any of the other addictions, so that up to 54% of heroin addictions seem to be on a genetic basis or a heritable basis.”Photo Credit: Opioid.org (Source: Addiction Inbox)

Helping you win the fight against alcoholism

Cliffside Malibu — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 23:58:32 +0100

Alcohol rehab has to start with a personal decision to seek help. No one can get better for you in an alcohol rehabilitation facility. No one can heal you against your will, or save if you refuse to be saved. Alcoholism is a profoundly intimate disease. Beating it, in turn, demands a profoundly personal effort. The good news is that the care you get from a private alcohol rehab facility will be instrumental in helping you get where you need to go. The catch is that that care can only be as useful as you make it. The practical implication here is that you have to be ready for a fight the day you check into an alcohol rehab clinic. Remember, alcohol rehab isn’t easy. Those patients who get better in California rehabs are the ones who commit themselves to their alcohol rehabilitation programs, and resolve to make the healing process work for them. In the end, anything less than your best effort simply won’t get the job done. (Source: Cliffside Malibu)

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Angels.

Heroin Addiction Codependence — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 23:22:00 +0100

I swear, sometimes in yoga class when it's that part where we say OM, I can hear angels. They usually start singing in the middle of the second Om.Is that weird? (Source: Heroin Addiction Codependence)

Remember when i never finished anything i started?

What Winners Do — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 15:15:34 +0100

Back in the old days I would take on a commitment of some sort whether it be with school, work or social and then I would no doubt fall short of what I commited to do because I would talk myself out of it. Maybe it was going to interfere with me being messed up. Maybe it was because I got messed up the night before and couldn’t drag my lazy ass out of bed. There were many reasons that all had the same conclusion… I never finished anything I started. This is why still now, a year and a half into my recovery, I am pleasantly surprised when I actually finish something I started. Let me tell you about my latest start to finish. Around the time that I wrote the post on finding your life’s purpose I was presented with an opportunity to volunteer my time painting faces at a local farm’s 100 year anniversary celebration. Since I had just blogged about being open to different roles in life I decided to try my hand at a new role in life: children’s face painter. I have always been great at drawing and really interested in art and I soon realized that I was really excited about being able to try this out. Then it happened. That little voice in my head that tries to tell me that I’m not going to be as good at this as I think I am and that I’m going to end up embarrassing myself starting piping up. I hear this voice less and less these days but wouldn’t you know it… here she was. I know you’re saying, “Erin, your just volunteering to paint kids faces. What’s the big deal?” The big deal was that when I agreed to do this it just felt so right that I began to wonder if maybe this is an experience I could expand on and actually try doing this as a job. The big deal was that I was going to have to be out there dealing with the public and doing something that I had never done before in my life. I put a lot of time into practicing and learning everything I could about the best practices of face painting before hand so that I would feel confident. The more I practiced the more I began to realize just how much I loved body art. That voice in my head thrived on all the hard work I put into this. She was telling me that it was ridiculous of me to think that I could make anything out of face painting. I was wasting my time once again on something that I would never follow through with… because I never follow through with anything. This time I decided to tell this little voice to eff off. I decided to act as if I had all the confidence in the world about my artistic skills and that I would be able to handle this commitment with calmness and grace and see it out till the end. Saturday and Sunday came and went without a hitch. Between the two days I volunteered about 7 hours of my time to face painting. There was a steady stream of kids the entire time I was there. I had no breaks in between kids… didn’t even pee. I loved it and I felt really great about myself for actually doing something that I said I would and seeing it through till the end. I have decided to move forward with trying to turn my interest in body art into a career. I’ll keep you posted on how it’s coming and give you the URL for my site once there is some content on there. Random PostsOctober 30, 2007 -- You Have Got To Check Out Mereggie, A.K.A. Me Reggie McDonald - A True Story (4)January 1, 2008 -- Addiction Recovery:Ringing In The New Year (1)April 9, 2008 -- Facing Problems Head On In Recovery (4)August 20, 2007 -- Addiction Recovery: A Little Peace Of Mind Goes A Long Way (4)May 26, 2008 -- Happy Memorial Day… And Thank You (0) (Source: What Winners Do)

Alcohol and alcoholism - what do we really know about alcohol?

Addiction Recovery Blog — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 13:55:58 +0100

Blackouts Do not remove his bottles from their hiding place, because when he goes to hide more, it will indicate to him the extent of his drinking, if his head is sufficiently clear to identify such sickness. Alcoholics suffer from blackouts and do not always remember where they have hidden their bottles, often concealed when drunk and he cannot remember where. Always there is the need to have yet another hidey-hole and we forget. Sometimes it is even better to bring one out of deep hiding, because you will most probably know where most of them are anyway, and put something for him into one of his more obvious and easily accessible hiding places, before he wrecks the house looking for it. He will, you know! Blackouts need an explanation. In a blackout does not mean that they are lying down unconscious on the floor. Alcoholics can be walking about or sitting quietly, apparently having a reasonably normal conversation with you, whatever a normal conversation is with a drunk, drinking, and then later, when they are not drinking, remember nothing about it. This is a blackout. They can promise in all sincerity so that you will believe them to take you all to the beach in the morning and then in the morning, when you are all kitted up, ready to go, he arrives downstairs looking like something out of a horror movie and nobody is going anywhere. He knows nothing at all about it. And, you are not going anywhere. For sure. Also, it is often during these blackouts that the most violent scenes take place, and you wonder desperately why they do not believe you when you confront them with what they have said or done the next day, or in the morning, and you start to wonder if you are going out of your mind. One handy thing to remember is not to put alcoholics to bed when they are in a state of collapse, as they think that all is well when they awaken to orderly surroundings, and once again when you try to tell them what they did, and what happened, they do not believe you, as they were most likely in a blackout again. Waking up in bed, with clothes neatly and tidily folded on the chair, gives the impression that everything is alright, and this can often be far from the truth. If they fall asleep on the stairs, or on the settee, or on the floor, or slumped over the table just make sure that their clothing, their tie, belt, collar and any other tight items are undone, and that they are in a safe position and not lying directly on their backs, so that they hopefully will not choke on their own vomit. Although you may be displeased with him, do this carefully and with love, for under all that alcohol and unacceptable behaviour he is still your partner, the one you married, and love and perhaps sleep with, and then when he awakes at three or four or five or six in the morning, perhaps on the kitchen floor, hopefully not still in a blackout, he may once again be able to see the extent of his drinking, and where it has taken him. He cannot help his drinking. He is powerless over his drinking. He has no control over his intake of alcohol. He might make the decision right then to do something about it. No-one can ever know when that moment will arrive. That moment of “Had enough of it all …..” Remember that the basic plan behind all of our suggestions is to make him aware, and not to criticise or judge him. We know that he is sick, but he does not, and we can all help when he is ready. By making him responsible for all of the things that he does when he is drinking we are doing the very best that we can for him. If we keep making him responsible for his conduct he will hopefully say one day “Enough” and put down the glass. Everyone has a chance at this from time to time, but we do not make things tough enough for them, and they keep on having people doing things for them, and picking up the pieces all the time, so they do not have to stop drinking. As long as you continue to pick up the pieces, that is doing things for him, putting him to bed, giving him money, lying for him, fetching his booze from the off licence, cashing his cheques for him, going to the cash machine for him, jumping for him, dancing for him, and so on - nothing is more certain than that he will continue to drink. Stop it. Try one or two things ….. Do not continue to try to conceal what is happening in your lives, in your family and in your home. This is like trying to stop the rain coming down. Be honest. Stop denying what is happening. Make him totally responsible for his drinking. Make him totally responsible for the results of his drinking, no matter what they may be. Perhaps falling over in the street. Drinking and driving. Court appearances. Bailiffs coming. Do not cover up anything for him. Stop lying for him. Do not apologise for him. Try not to argue with him or to bring up controversial subjects for discussion with him when he is drinking. You cannot win an argument with a drunk. We know how difficult these things are but try them when you judge it right. You only will be the judge. No-one knows him and his moods better. You will know, better than anyone, when it is safe to talk to him about certain things. When he is drinking or drunk and drinking and he wants to bring some controversial subject up for discussion, try saying “We will discuss this tomorrow morning” - or - “We will have a talk when you are not drinking!” Be positive. Agree. Tomorrow. He will be pleased with that. You agreeing. Try not to use the expression “When you are sober” for it is not recommended. This implies that he is drunk, and even if he is, it is judgmental and he will deny it, and so an argument ensues. Using “Not whilst you are drinking” most especially if he has glass-in-hand, refers to an established fact, and is not an opinion. Try “Not whilst you are drinking” then, it can sometimes just stop things right there. You cannot, in any case, successfully argue with a drunk who is drinking. You will already be aware that your opinions are always questionable. Worthless. You will already also be aware that your answers and comments are always wrong. Not sometimes, as with reasonable people, but always wrong. He has no thought processing that will allow you to be right. While the drinking is going on all that we are trying to do is cool it. Cool things down, so that you do not find yourself snapping back and buying the full package. When he has had enough one day and is not drinking it could be a good time to say to him that there is help for him from … Alcoholics Anonymous P.O.Box 1 10, Toft Green York, YO1 7NJ National Helpline Number 0845-769-7555 and in your local paper Ken Grigor ez048-1248 20th June, 2008 If I can be of help to you, please call me in Plymouth onTelephone Number 01752-350602eMail kengrigor@blueyonder.co.ukNothing is ever too much trouble.No time is inconvenient.(nil onerosius, semper opportune)= Ken G (Source: Addiction Recovery Blog)

Discouraged, depressed, sad, lonely and still sober

A Dozen Steps — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 06:15:28 +0100

My first thoughts subsequent to deciding on a title for this are… For those profundity pushers who offer newcomers this phrase “do the right thing and the right thing will happen,” I want to say - for who? Because it is my experience that it is a matter of perspective whether this will hold true for you. It might be that if you do the right thing, the right thing will happen - for someone else! The trap is coming to believe that if you do the right thing, the right thing will happen for you! For ex., my biggest challenge personally - intimate relationships; Attracted to a newcomer: the right thing is to leave the newcomer out of my personal world until the person has the opportunity to get and stay sober. You can be friends. I do the right thing and… no, that wasn’t meant to be. Okay, it’s okay… Have a friend attempt a match-up with someone with long-term sober/clean time. Get silly, excited, even child-like. I do the right thing - maintain reasonable expectations, keep it in the day, stay in contact with HP, no forcing my will on anything. No matter, it wasn’t meant to be and I can’t say I’ll ever be happy with the way that ended. The lower power is a s******. Again, have a friend attempt a match-up - this time with an “earthling” who is seemingly attracted in return. Shortest vision of all. Just a few days. Do the right thing, don’t get ahead of yourself, be a friend first, communicate. Once again, as if on cue, this wasn’t meant to be because I was simply an ends to a means i.e. had I been able to offer a ride on a motorcycle, this would have come to pass. Judged… and wrongly. The mistake? Misperceived the attraction. There is not much more to these situations except to say that I put into effect lessons I had learned and did the right things. I suppose I developed an expectation that there might be a caring partner that H.P. thought I was worthy of. Not happening… This is an example of my depression - and I’m still sober. Through anything, A.A. and my God, despite how I misunderstand Him, see to it that I don’t have to drink alcohol. What would that solve? Or - how much worse could I make life were I to pick up a drink? Not worth it… Tags: 11th-Tradition, 3rd-step, Attraction, Basic Human Instincts, Recovery Principles, respect, Worthiness, Wrong DependenceShare This (Source: A Dozen Steps)

Want to be in my club?

Heroin Addiction Codependence — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 00:03:00 +0100

View my page on The Junky's Wives ClubI'm an internet freak. I know it. Soon, I'll be doing 12 steps so that I an put the laptop down. But I just discovered Ning, and I thought it might be fun to build a little community. My favorite people in the world are the people I've met through recovery, and my secret Cuntface society, although it is in a serious summertime slump, has been a lot of fun...so I've made a new one, a Junky's Wives Club.(Please don't challenge me on that apostrophe's placement. I know it's improper...but what was I supposed to do? The Junkies' Wives Club? The Junkys' Wives Club? They all look crazy.)It's kind of like a Myspace for codependents. If you're married to an addict, mother to an addict, sister to an addict, BFF to an addict...whatever...come over and make friends! Ning has a lot of neat features, too...so if you've been thinking about blogging, you can start a blog there, or post questions. Eventually, I'll get us our own domain name...but for now, you can see it at JWClub.ning.com. (Source: Heroin Addiction Codependence)

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Side effects of opiate addiction

Addiction Recovery Blog — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 13:54:26 +0100

Opiates are often referred to as narcotics and have been used medically to relieve pain for centuries. In the early 19th century, pure morphine extract was suitable for solution, and with the advent of the hypodermic needle in the mid-19th century, injection of morphine became a common method of pain relief. In 1898, heroin was introduced into the medical community as a remedy for addiction to morphine. However, it was soon revealed that heroin was even more likely to produce addiction than morphine. While opiates began their start in the medical community, they have quickly become one of the most commonly abused drug groups. Today, only codeine and morphine are still used in the clinical setting for pain management. The opiates drug group includes opium, morphine, codeine and heroin, among other synthetic opiates such as Demerol. Short-term and Long-term Effects of Opiates Opiates can cause serious health complications, such as fatal overdose, spontaneous abortion, and infectious diseases such as HIV/AIDS and hepatitis, particularly in users who inject opiates. Opiates have short-term effects that appear quite soon after a dose and last a few hours. After injection of opiates, the user typically reports feeling a rush of euphoria, an increase in body temperature, dry mouth, and a heavy feeling in their limbs. The user then spends the next few hours alternating from a wakeful to a drowsy state until the drug wears off. Regular use of opiates leads to a buildup of a user’s tolerance. This means that the user must increase their subsequent dose of opiates to achieve the same effect as before. As the user increase their dose and its frequency over time, they develop physical dependency and addiction. Their body has acclimated to the drug use, and has grown to depend on the presence of drugs in order to function properly. If the user stops the drug flow, uncomfortable and even dangerous withdrawal symptoms may occur. Death from a opiate overdose often occurs when a user who has been off opiates for some time resumes taking the same amount of drug they are used to. During a period of time when a person is not using the body’s tolerance will decrease, the resulting effect is a drug overdose. Opiates also have long-term effects that appear after repeated use over a long period of time. Addicts who have been using for a long period of time often ignore their health because the only thing that matters is getting more of that drug. This self neglect can take the form of not eating and ignoring personal hygiene, which makes the user more susceptible to disease. Longtime users may develop collapsed veins, infections in their heart and valves, and liver disease. Because opiates depress respiration, pulmonary complications, such as pneumonia, may occur in longtime users due to respiratory depression and the poor health of the drug user. Opiate Withdrawal Opiate withdrawal can be incredibly painful, and in some case very dangerous. Withdrawal symptoms may occur as soon as a few hours after the last dose in users who have been regularly abusing opiates. Withdrawal symptoms include intense cravings for opiates, restlessness, body pain, insomnia, diarrhea, vomiting, and cold flashes among other symptoms. In longtime, heavy users who are in poor health, withdrawal can occasionally be fatal. Withdrawal symptoms for most users typically subside within a week. Jastaplace Drug and Alcohol Rehab For more information about treatment and side effects of drug abuse please visit our website at http://www.Action-Drug-Rehab.com (Source: Addiction Recovery Blog)

Me and h.p.

A Dozen Steps — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 21:57:34 +0100

This will come as a surprise to a couple of good friends. It is an example of “thinking?” My thinking overnight based on some words that were offered to me yesterday. But first - regardless of the outcome I am thankful because I have been motivated. The motivation was certainly from the God I understand today. All the frills that came along with it may have hidden its meaning for a day or two but I was finally able to see the signpost. Therefore, within a couple of days the SCCSCU will be in receipt of a letter, however poorly written or not it may be, that they had requested and my disturbance with them had put off. I am still disturbed by their lack of trust in me but I have more important issues to get past. So - from page 85 of AA’s Big Book; “It is easy to let up on the spiritual program of action and rest on our laurels. We are headed for trouble if we do, for alcohol is a subtle foe. We are not cured of alcoholism. What we really have is a daily reprieve contingent on the maintenance of our spiritual condition.” I.E. - for me - through relatively simple consideration last night, I can remember that I am more than simply a drivers license and a motorcycle. I am certainly not a loser because those are two items not in my material inventory today. However, they are certainly within reach. There’s the line though. Being judged for what you don’t have rather than where you are striving to be. And it’s ok. One person doesn’t know - her. One person does know - me. I am able today, by the grace of my God, to pull myself up and take care of business. And not be my own worst judge anymore. “Every day is a day when we must carry the vision of God’s will into all of our activities. ‘How can I best serve Thee - Thy will (not mine) be done.’ These are thoughts which must go with us constantly. We can exercise our will power along this line all we wish. It is the proper use of the will.” I’ve never had it so good! Tags: aa, alcoholics-anonymous, gratitude, the-promisesShare This (Source: A Dozen Steps)

Stop alcohol abuse

Addiction Recovery Blog — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 13:53:27 +0100

Anyone who has got into the bad habit of abusing alcohol or any other substance has fallen into the category of substance abuse. It is a common event and an expensive pastime and will lead to serious health problems as well has ruining family and other relationships. It is estimated that in the US and Canada alone that 100,000 deaths are caused by the result of alcohol abuse every year. Alcohol is on top of the list of drugs most abused by kids between the ages of 12 and 17, in other words minors. The most common cause of death in teenagers are motor accidents due to excessive alcohol, although other resulting behavior patterns include high-risk sexual habits, getting poor grades or low job performance, the use of tobacco products and experimenting with illegal drugs. The problem is that our kids tend to suffer from depression, so alcohol and drugs are just a bi product in the attempt to get over feeling depressed. You know if you have a problem related to alcohol abuse when it effects your health or your natural abilities in your daily life. Alcoholism is just a term used for anyone who is physically or emotionally dependent on alcohol in order to get through the day. There is no defined mode of alcohol abuse as drinking habits vary from getting drunk on a daily basis to just drinking way to much at the weekend. You quite often find that sufferers will tend to be sick or ill on Mondays and Fridays as their mind focuses on their drinking habits. They will probably use having a cold or flu as an excuse. There are others though who might stay dry for weeks or months even, but then will fall by the wayside and start to binge drink to make up for lost time. Once you come off the alcohol you will automatically suffer from withdrawal symptoms such as trembling, delusions, hallucinations, and sweating and if you just stop overnight... (”cold turkey”). Once alcohol dependency begins you are most definitely going to need medical assistance and medical detoxification may also be needed. When somebody actually decides to challenge an alcoholic it is never straight forward. One good bit of advice though is to handle the situation whilst he or she are sober and not under the influence of alcohol. This initial contact is ofter referred to as an intervention and needs to be tackled with forward planning according to the experts in this field. You will be probably get your best advice from a recognized organization such as Alcoholics Anonymous, who have been advising families for many decades now. You should also consider consulting with the alcoholic’s doctor and get advice on what specialist treatments are available, just so that during the confrontation you are able to pass on all the tips and advice that will be necessary for the alcoholic to make the right decision. You will find 9 great tips that will help you achieve your objective on the blog linked below and this will put on the right track to help you in giving the best advice on alcoholism. Discover how to Stop Drinking Alcohol by Ed Philips and Quit Alcohol Today. (Source: Addiction Recovery Blog)

Mdma therapy

Addiction and Recovery News — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 12:39:00 +0100

Mark Kleiman sees an opportunity for research on ecstasy for the treatment of PTSD. (Source: Addiction and Recovery News)

Treatment reform in the u.k.

Addiction and Recovery News — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 11:55:00 +0100

A direct challenge to the U.K. reliance on methadone. I find it pretty easy to imagine similar circumstances in the U.S. if it weren't for the numbers of recovering people already in the field and the good fortune to have high profile recovery advocates like Senator Harold Hughes and Betty Ford in the right place at the right time. Another article deconstructs the U.K.'s definition of recovery and offers some context. In particular, the inclusion of "sustained control over substance use": ...in talking about voluntary exercised control there is a sense in which the thorny issue of drug user abstinence has been effectively sidestepped. But how is control in this context being defined? Does this definition mean that an individual continuing to use illegal drugs but in a more controlled way can be considered ‘in recovery’? Does it matter in terms of evaluating the effect of services if that element of control cannot actually be defined or measured? Does it matter if, as a result of this definition of recovery, we will not know whether the control that is being exercised is increasing, decreasing, or remaining the same over different lengths of time in treatment? Aside from the difficulty of measuring the element of control, there is also the question of whose definition of control is going to apply in assessing whether the individual is indeed in more or less control of his or her drug use – that of the drug user, the doctor, or the addict’s family? Also what happens if these people disagree in terms of their assessment of how much control the individual is indeed exerting over his or her continued drug use?Also the inclusion of "health and wellbeing and participation in the rights, roles and responsibilities of society": These are grand terms, but what exactly do they mean? Do they mean that drug treatment services need to be enabling drug users to become good parents, to find work, to be housed, to vote, to understand current political issues, to be happier in themselves, to have better relationships with their families and friends, to not commit crime, to be greener in their lifestyle? The list is potentially endless of the things that drug treatment services could see themselves doing which are all cumulatively about maximising an individual’s sense of health and wellbeing. But how well placed are drug treatment services to take on these additional challenges when they have found it so difficult to take on the challenge of enabling individuals to recover from their drug dependence?I might have worded it differently, but this emphasis on recovery as something that is holistic is important. Addiction tends to infiltrate every aspect of the addict's life and it is not always self-correcting once abstinence is achieved. Good treatment and recovery support services must be prepared to address employment, family life, physical health, mental health, community involvement, etc. It is overwhelming, and we don't have to do it all ourselves (Much of it can be achieved through coordination of services--not just passive referrals.) , but the alternative is a system that fails and loses the confidence of addicts, their families, other professional helpers, and the public.When this confidence is lost, the stage is set for criminalization or a system that relies on methadone. (Source: Addiction and Recovery News)

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Casino strike

Gambling Watch Global — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 20:52:51 +0100

The strike at the Brantford Casino is taking a bite out of the city’s budget. Posted at the casino’s east entrance is a large sign proclaiming in bold black letters: “Lost profit.” According to striking workers, the loss to the city since the casino closed its doors June 1 is $275,000. “It’s not just hurting [...] (Source: Gambling Watch Global)

Achieving meaningful and sustainable sobriety

Cliffside Malibu — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 19:52:53 +0100

Painkillers rehab is not for the faint of heart. Whoever you are, however tough you believe yourself to be…painkillers rehabilitation will try your nerve, and test your will. The good news, though, is that you don’t have to face the challenge alone. On the contrary, the support you get from a private painkillers rehab facility will be instrumental in helping you achieve meaningful and sustainable sobriety. The only catch, of course, is that you have to be willing to seek help. Painkillers rehab doesn’t work by magic. If you’re going to get better, it’s going to be because you find the courage to take the first step, by enrolling in an exclusive painkillers rehabilitation program. And please, don’t wait. Successful painkillers rehab will quite literally change your life. You owe it to the people you care about to make the right choice. More importantly, you owe it to yourself. (Source: Cliffside Malibu)

[guest post] internet addiction: a novel disease?

Addiction Inbox — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 17:04:00 +0100

Or a reflection of the new world order? [Editors Note: Addiction Inbox has not covered the so-called behavioral or non-traditional addictions--Internet addiction, video game addiction, compulsive shopping and compulsive gambling--because I am not yet convinced that such behaviors show the same chemical and often inheritable propensities associated with alcoholism and other drug addictions. Nonetheless, I am pleased to offer an alternative view, and to welcome guest blogger Elizabeth Dillon, who contributes a thought-provoking post on internet addiction.] --Dirk Hanson By Elizabeth Dillon It is impossible to deny the incredible significance of the internet and the effects its development has had on the world. Today the internet touches nearly every aspect of our daily lives; we shop online, we keep in touch through email, banking and credit can be taken care of through one click of a mouse, news from all over the world blinks up at us from the screen every time we log on, and communities of people from all over the planet are connected. Despite its obvious countless advantages, there is a rising concern regarding the overuse of the internet on a personal level. There are more and more people each day who feel a compulsive need to be connected to the internet, a need that some scientists and psychiatrists have begun to consider an addiction. This issue drew major media attention in March of this year when Dr. Jerald Block published an editorial in the American Journal of Psychiatry arguing that “Internet Addiction” should be included in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-V), a handbook published by the American Psychiatric Association of recognized psychological conditions. Block raised the question of whether this new phenomenon should be classified as a disease or written off as a bad habit. The traditional view of addiction generally applies to substances like drugs or alcohol and is seen as a result of a combination of genetic and social influences. However, in recent years the definition of addiction has expanded to include different behaviors like gambling and over-eating. The question that remains to be seen is if there are enough similarities between traditional addiction and this so called internet addiction to warrant its acceptance as a disease by the mental health community. For now it is officially titled Internet Addictive Disorder (IAD) or Internet Overuse Syndrome (IOS) and not recognized by the American Psychiatric Association. Block argues that Internet addiction is characterized by the same four factors as traditional addiction: excessive use, withdrawal, tolerance, and negative repercussions. He contends that users are on the internet for so much time that they are unaware of how many hours have gone by, and neglect other basic human desires, often forgetting to eat or use the bathroom. Users feel angry, depressed, and tense when access to the internet is limited and frequently need better tools and more time of use to experience the original satisfaction. Internet addicts also face such harmful consequences as social isolation and poor achievement. The statistics regarding the prevalence of internet addiction in the U.S. vary widely. A random telephone survey estimated 0.3-0.7% of Americans are afflicted, while Maressa Hecht Orzack of McLean Hospital in Massachusetts, estimates that nearly 10% of Americans have experienced some sort of internet dependency. Higher rates of addiction are seen mostly in Asian nations like South Korea and China where the popularity of internet cafes is high and the condition is easier to track because of its public nature. In fact, data from 2006 stated that approximately 210,000 South Korean children (2.1%) were afflicted with internet addiction with about 80% requiring treatment that included the use of psychotropic medication. Another interesting aspect of IAD is that most often individuals who suffer from it also are battling another mental illness. In particular, mood, anxiety, impulse control and substance abuse disorders are common in conjunction with internet overuse. Research has traced other behavioral addictions like gambling and shopping to biological foundations; however the current research on internet addiction merely distinguishes it as a growing issue and draws parallels to other types of addictions. More studies need to be performed on this new phenomenon in order to properly characterize it as an addiction or as simply a destructive behavior. While the internet may not officially be an addiction, there are still many individuals out there who would benefit from treatment. There are currently no proven forms of effective treatment and no available psychotropic medications for IAD. However, like with other addictive habits, cognitive behavioral therapy may be effective. Cognitive therapy is essentially a method that identifies and helps a person to correct specific errors in what he or she is thinking that produces negative or painful feelings. According to Dr. Allison Conner of Cognitive Therapy Associates, an internet addiction could be treated similarly to other addictions. She asserts that, “so many changes need to occur in the person's lifestyle (mental, emotional, physical, social), and support is crucial. A guide or coach is often essential to help ensure success, but most important is the willingness of the addicted person to get real with themselves and stay committed to the goal of recovery.” While we may not see Internet Addiction in the DSM-V handbook anytime soon, the issue is controversial and becoming ever more widespread. Ironically enough, you can even look up online resources if you feel you need help. Elizabeth Dillon is the Director of Communications Management for Cognitive Therapy Associates. Sources: Block, Jerald J. (2008). Issues for DSM-V: Internet Addiction. The American Journal of Psychiatry, 165, 306-307. Goldsborough, Reid, (2008). Internet Addiction Afflicting a Growing Number of Web Surfers. Community College Week, Vol. 20 Issue 11, 0, 22-22. Shaw, Martha Black, Donald W. (2008). Internet Addiction. CNS Drugs, Vol. 22, Issue 5, 13, 353-365. Dr. Allison Conner can be contacted through her website: http://www.cognitive-therapy-associates.com/ or at (212)-258-2577. (Source: Addiction Inbox)

Pathology caused by alcohol drinking

Addiction Recovery Blog — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 13:53:05 +0100

Delirium tremors: This results from the long continued action of the poison on the brain. It occurs in chronic alcoholics due to (1) Temporary excess (2) sudden withdrawal (3) shock after receiving an injury, such as fracture of a bone, or (4) from acute infection, such as pneumonia, influenza, erysipelas etc It typically begins 72 to 96 hours after the last drink. There’s an acute attack of insanity in which the main symptoms are coarse muscular tremors of the face, tongue and hands, insomnia, restlessness, loss of memory, agitation, confusion, disorientation, uncontrollable fear and has tendency to commit suicide, homicide or violent assault or to cause damage to property. Other symptoms are diarrhea, dilated pupils, fever, tachycardia, tachyapnoea and hypertension. There is disorientation as to time and place and a peculiar kind of delirium of horrors owing to hallucination of the sight and hearing. The patient imagines that insects are crawling under the skin, or snakes are crawling on his bed it is considered unsoundness of mind and not intoxication. Death occurs in about 5 to 5$ of the cases. To control agitation diazepam should be given Alcoholic Polyneuritis and Korsakoff’s Psychosis: The symptoms of Polyneuritis are weakness; pain in the extremities, wrist and food drop, unsteady gait, loss of deep reflexes and tenderness of muscles of arms and legs Alcoholic paranoia: In this there are fixed delusions but no hallucinations. The person becomes deeply suspicious of he motives and actions of those he meets and of his family members. Acute Alcoholic hallucinations: Persistent hallucinations develop within 48 hours after cessation of alcohol intake. The hallucinations may be auditory or visual and their content is usually unpleasant and disturbing. The disorder may last several weeks or months Alcoholic epilepsy: seizures occur after a say or more of the terminations of as drinking session Sometimes the attack may occur while the patient is actually drinking Wernicke Encephlopathy: This results from a brain or spinal cord lesion due to heavy drinking, Vitamin B1 deficiency occurs Symptoms include disturbance of consciousness, drowsiness, amnesia, peripheral neuropathy, external ocular palsies and stupor. It has a high mortality and can cause death in 24 hours. If untreated it can progress to a more chronic condition called Korsakoff psychosis, in which impairment of short term memory with inability to learn new information and confabulation (recitation of imaginary experiences to ill gaps in the memory) are seen Cardiac dysrhythmias: In alcohol withdrawal tachyrhythmias are common probably because of high adrenergic nervous system activity, which may cause sudden death. Marchiafava Syndrome: Degeneration of the corpus callosum may occur in alcoholics. Mallory-Weiss Syndrome: Ruptured esophagus with mediastinitis occurs Other pathologies include Malnutrition, Gastric and peptic ulcer, Cirrhosis, Myocarditis pancreatitis and Mental illness http://alcohol-addiction-control.blogspot.com Pradeep Raj is a medical student, doing my MBBS degree in India. He have been involved in alcohol rehabilitation and addiction control programme and creating awareness about alcohol abuse and trying to help the people who are willing to withdraw from alcoholism. http://alcohol-addiction-control.blogspot.com (Source: Addiction Recovery Blog)

Me and h.p.

A Dozen Steps — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 11:58:36 +0100

This will come as a surprise to a couple of good friends. It is an example of “thinking?” My thinking overnight based on some words that were offered to me yesterday. But first - regardless of the outcome I am thankful because I have been motivated. The motivation was certainly from the God I understand today. All the frills that came along with it may have hidden its meaning for a day or two but I was finally able to see the signpost. Therefore, within a couple of days the SCCSCU will be in receipt of a letter, however poorly written or not it may be, that they had requested and my disturbance with them had put off. I am still disturbed by their lack of trust in me but I have more important issues to get past. So - from page 85 of AA’s Big Book; “It is easy to let up on the spiritual program of action and rest on our laurels. We are headed for trouble if we do, for alcohol is a subtle foe. We are not cured of alcoholism. What we really have is a daily reprieve contingent on the maintenance of our spiritual condition.” I.E. - for me - through relatively simple consideration last night, I can remember that I am more than simply a drivers license and a motorcycle. I am certainly not a loser because those are two items not in my material inventory today. However, they are certainly within reach. There’s the line though. Being judged for what you don’t have rather than where you are striving to be. And it’s ok. One person doesn’t know - her. One person does know - me. I am able today, by the grace of my God, pull myself up and take care of business. And not be my own worst judge anymore. “Every day is a day when we must carry the vision of God’s will into all of our activities. ‘How can I best serve Thee - Thy will (not mine) be done.’ These are thoughts which must go with us constantly. We can exercise our will power along this line all we wish. It is the proper use of the will.” I’ve never had it so good! Tags: aa, alcoholics-anonymous, gratitude, the-promisesShare This (Source: A Dozen Steps)

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Detox-a vital catalyst to the rehabilitation process

Cliffside Malibu — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 05:40:51 +0100

Rapid detox is very often a vital catalyst to the rehabilitation process. After all, some challenges are best faced all at once. There’s no sense in dragging out a detox program any longer than is absolutely necessary. The sooner you finish detox, the sooner you’ll be able to meet the challenges of your primary rehab program. And the sooner you do that, the sooner you’ll be on the road to meaningful and long-term recovery. The plain fact of the matter is that rapid detox changes lives. It will change your life too, provided you have the courage to seek help. As pivotal as rapid detox can be in the healing process, it can’t do anything for those patients who refuse to give it a chance. The day you enroll in a private detox facility will be the day you start remembering that life can and should be a thing worth living. Here’s hoping you can muster the courage to make the right choice. (Source: Cliffside Malibu)

Can you cope?

Addiction Recovery Blog — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 13:59:20 +0100

Can You Cope? You might be surprised, as was I, to learn that by age six or so, we are programmed with the identity we carry with us through life. Our schools do not generally teach about this and we don’t always learn about it until we have issues with which to wrestle in our lives. About three-fourths of all our issues are filtered through this very program! As humans, we need to go through some REDISCOVERY if we are to live successfully from our hearts. According to Alex Loyd, PhD, this programming can be problematic because the programming itself is based on beliefs that may or may not be true. Dr. Loyd has done a great deal of research on this matter and he has worked with clients in a clinical setting for years. He sites, for example, addiction issues. If addictions are interfering with one’s life, addiction has come about because of something the heart remembers when that addict was a little child. Somewhere in that addict’s life he took a ‘vow’. ‘He cut a deal’. He made a ‘contract with the devil’. He made an informal commitment that has affected his life for as long as the vow is in place, and it affects his life negatively. Everyone has these contracts, vows, commitments, and deals to one extent or another. Here’ how it works, according to the good doctor: I can cope with (fill in the blank) IF ONLY I have (fill in the blank). Those blanks may include the following: ” I can do without love IF ONLY I have money. (This is VERY common) ” I can survive without fame IF ONLY I have money. ” If I am rejected, I’ll survive IF ONLY I have money The list goes on. I’m sure you understand the concept. You can easily see that we bargain for one thing, substituting another. Every human being needs food, shelter, and clothing. This is basic to life. Beyond the basics, we substitute. MOST OF THE SUBSTITUTES are substitutes for love! ” We substitute money for love. ” We substitute sex for love. ” We substitute television for love ” We substitute video games for love ” We substitute food for love. ” We substitute drugs for love. Everyone on the planet seeks to AVOID PAIN and PURSUE PLEASURE. If we all participated in a survey about what we REALLY WANT it would only boil down to 4 answers: 1. Love 2. Joy 3. Peace 4. Relationships Our hearts desire those four items. Our hearts KNOW what those desires are. We feel pain and seek to avoid it. THAT PAIN FEEDS THAT LIFE VOW WE MADE EARLY ON. Our very identity rests on the fact that we have pain because we did not receive our heart’s desire. We act accordingly, and it is always negatively. Hence, we have great strife in our life and the stress that accompanies it can make us sick, lead to more negative behaviors, and it can kill us. The real coping mechanism is to allow this pain to heal. We need to forgive those who injured us, wounded us or we THOUGHT/BELIEVED they hurt us. It may only have been our perception, after all. We say to ourselves, “I can’t be okay because such and such happened.” But the truth of the matter is that we ARE okay and we will be okay. We need to ask for healing, and change our paradigm about the injury. We need to heal our heart, then our life can experience healing, as well. Energy medicine is the single most effective way to bring this healing about. Our beliefs and our behavior will help our hearts and our lives can be affected so as to be in synch with one another. Healing will come as a relief and a blessing, creating growth and development for our very souls. When healing comes, we will automatically receive our heart’s desire! Connie Baum is a rural Nebraska woman who is passionate about health and healing. Her website is http://www.motherconnie.com and more information about coping with addictions can be found there in The Healing Codes. She hopes visitors to the site will leave their comments. (Source: Addiction Recovery Blog)

“it” truly does “get better” one day at a time

A Dozen Steps — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 12:36:06 +0100

I’m going to offer you the “challenge” of determining where these quotes come from. They do come from our literature, including the title. I’m having a special time, for me. I have to say “for me” because I’ve been on the other side of this fence for a very long time. I understand the feeling of thinking nothing special will ever happen in your life. Especially when it seems like the phrase “This too shall pass” is a cuss word. And, this special time is full of fear - that it won’t last or isn’t real. Getting re-centered these last few days has actually been difficult. Thank God for Alcoholics Anonymous - in many more ways than one! If it doesn’t last, it will be okay because even the few moments have been full of elation and have been worth every moment. Which is why this passage strikes me as being so timely; “Once we have taken this step, withholding nothing, we are delighted. We can look the world in the eye. We can be alone at perfect peace and ease. Our fears fall from us. We begin to feel the nearness of our Creator. We may have had certain spiritual beliefs, but now we begin to have a spiritual experience. The feeling that the drink problem has disappeared will often come strongly. We feel we are on the Broad Highway walking hand in hand with the Spirit of the Universe.” So, I’m going to make use of another phrase I’m fond of passing along - when you’re on a pink cloud, ride that baby for all its worth! I owe a special thanks to Sheila B. Tags: full heart, gratitude, Happiness, peace of mind, thankfulnessShare This (Source: A Dozen Steps)

Life itself is the journey

A Dozen Steps — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 02:20:47 +0100

Therefore - it has no destination… From “A Two-Way Street” in today’s reflection; “I was always taught to prepare for the journey through life, never realizing until I came to AA - when I honestly became willing to be taught forgiveness and forgiving - that life itself is the journey. The journey of life is a very happy one, as long as I am willing to accept change and responsibility.” The last three days, for me, have been a journey beyond my imagination! Funny thing is - all I did was simply change a very small part of my “routine” and had no expectations at all for anything out of the ordinary. Something certainly out of my ordinary has happened. :) Thank you! Tags: 6th-step, alcoholics-anonymous, faith, fearShare This (Source: A Dozen Steps)

Exclusive, luxurious & the best prescription drug detox facility

Cliffside Malibu — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 22:35:41 +0100

Prescription drug detox can only work if it’s administered by clinical experts. That might sound obvious, but the truth is that too many “exclusive” treatment facilities employ inexperienced or under-qualified caregivers. As should perhaps go without saying, that’s a recipe for failure. If you’re going to get better in prescription drug detox facility, it’s going to be because you get the right kind of care from the right kind of people. Short of that, you can’t ever expect to achieve lasting sobriety. The good news is that there’s plenty of help out there. The only catch is that you have to find it. Some California prescription drug treatment facilities really do deliver on their promises. Some don’t. The difference, for you, is more important than any in the world. The success or failure of your prescription drug detox program will quite literally shape the course of the rest of your life. It’s hard to imagine how you could ever settle for anything less than the best help you can get. (Source: Cliffside Malibu)

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Please leave me alone. i'm tired.

Heroin Addiction Codependence — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 21:33:00 +0100

"I'm really tired.""But what's wrong?""It's a long day, and I'm tired, and I don't want to talk.""Why?""I worked 3 different places today. I'm tired. Please don't keep pushing me.""I don't understand why you always act like that.""I'm just fucking tired, and I don't want to fucking talk.""See? You act like I'm the one who's crazy, but then when you get to the middle of the week, you get all pissed off that you're working so much, and you take it out on me.""I'm just asking you to let me be. I want to take a bath and go to bed. It's been a long day.""See? You have to blame me for everything! Everything is my fucking fault!"By the time we'd finished with this exchange, I was so overwrought, and he was yelling, and I was yelling. I locked myself in the bathroom to get away from him. I really, really was just so tired, and I just wanted to be left alone. I didn't want to fight with him about how I have to over-work to compensate for his unemployment. I was too tired for that...but he wanted to fight about it.Everything is his fucking fault. He's right. I do a great job of ignoring it and trudging along through my life, but really, truly, seriously...it is his fucking fault. I don't want to split my time between three jobs and four jobs and a thousand freelance gigs. I don't want to be tired all the time. I don't want to take up his slack...but the bills have to be paid.For a long time, I'd think that his unwillingness or inability to get and keep a job wasn't a very satisfying reason to leave him...it frustrates me that he won't work, and it frustrates me to have to work more than my share even though he's an able-bodied, intelligent young man...but asking him to leave won't make a difference. I won't be able to stop working a jot if he leaves, as all the same bills still have to be paid.Things have changed, though...it's not pleasant just to have him around. It is becoming more and more unbearable to come home to him, as he's more and more likely to be pissed off at me. I feel like my house is his lair, his filthy, shitty lair. At this point, if I decide to ask him to leave, I'll at least have some peace when I get home. I could clean my house and keep it clean. It would be quiet, and I could be alone.I hang on for the few, sweet moments that pass between us...but they are very fucking few these days, and I am very fucking tired. This life has gone on for too long. (Source: Heroin Addiction Codependence)