MedWorm provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest medical blog items that have been tagged with 'alcoholics'. Sat, 03 Sep 2011 02:01:05 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5182330&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fserenity-and-the-serenity-prayer%2F Alcoholics Anonymous members have made the Serenity prayer part of recovery. It asserts five basic elements of the recovery program. A belief in something other than ego-self Serenity – one of the goals of recovery Acceptance of …, e.g., loss of control Courage to make changes Wisdom of recovery that is gained from other members, Spirituality, meditation and literature God grant me the Serenity to Accept the things I cannot change, Courage to change the things I can, and Wisdom to know the difference.   Whether we belong to this church or that, whether we are humanists, agnostics, or atheists, most of us have found these words a wonderful guide in getting sober, staying sober, and enjoying our sobriety. Whether we see the Serenity Prayer as an actual prayer or... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5182330 Thu, 01 Sep 2011 05:21:27 +0100 5182330 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5182331&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fwhat-does-letting-go-mean%2F Let go as they fall “To let go does not mean to stop caring, it means ’I can’t do it for someone else. To let go is not to cut myself off, its the realization I can’t control another human. To let go is not to enable, but to allow learning from natural consequences. To let go is to admit powerlessness, Which means the outcome is not in my hands. To let go is not to try to change or blame another, it’s to make the most of myself To let go is not to care for, but to care about. To let go is not to fix, but to be supportive. To let go is not to judge, but to allow another to be a human being. To let go is not to be in the middle arranging all the outcomes, but to allow others to affect their own destinies. To let go is not to be protective, it’s to permit another to face reali... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5182331 Wed, 31 Aug 2011 17:16:04 +0100 5182331 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5169713&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fam-i-an-alcoholic%2F Individual drinking habits may be found on a continuum from responsible drinking through alcohol abuse to alcoholism, or physical dependence. There are many signs that may point to an alcohol problem. Drunkenness on its own or solitary drinking does not necessarily indicate alcoholism. The questionnaire will be meaningful to you only if you are honest with yourself when taking it. The important question is: Is your use of alcohol creating significant negative consequences in your life? Do you sometimes drink heavily after a setback or an argument, or when you receive a poor grade? When you experience trouble or are undergoing stress, do you always drink more heavily than usual? Can you handle more liquor now than you could when you first began drinking? Have you ever awakened the “... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5169713 Sat, 27 Aug 2011 15:30:01 +0100 5169713 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5159847&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Faa-works-long-term%2F Conclusions The findings highlight the unique and positive impact of AA involvement on long-term SUD treatment outcome and extend understanding of why AA is beneficial for patients. Research report; Predictors of 4 year outcome of community residential treatment for patients with substance use disorders. Addiction. 2008 Apr;103(4):671-80. Laffaye C, McKellar JD, Ilgen MA, Moos RH. See also; Brief-TSF is designed to as adjunctive therapy for anti-craving medication. Twelve Step Facilitation 12th Step Works Are there Patterns to Denial Behavior? :Sweden Likes AA TooAlcoholics Anonymous with Narcotics Anonymous success in England12 Step Treatment Reduces Healthcare DemandSpiritual Awakening for RecoveryDouble Trouble in Recovery (Source: Recovery Is Sexy.com) Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5159847 Thu, 25 Aug 2011 02:27:00 +0100 5159847 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5131058&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fchildren-of-dysfunctional-parents%2F Recently I published an article about Children of Hoarders an issue I was unaware of until I accidentaly stumbled upon their website. There was a large response to this article. It seems there are similarities between Children of Hoarders and Children of Alcoholism (ACOA). It highlighted my need to become aware of other groups of children with similar problems. Are there other similar ‘children of ……….’ conditions? Does the same pattern of psychological illness appear in these children of ……..? Do some of these children become codependent? Some that I can think of are children of …; Drug addicts Compulsive gamblers Mental health sufferers Sex addicts Workaholics Religious sects I’m particularly interested in self-help, mutual-help type groups or organisations as well as... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5131058 Sun, 14 Aug 2011 08:43:36 +0100 5131058 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5125970&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fthe-purpose-of-alateen%2F Alateen is part of Al-Anon, which helps families and friends of alcoholics recover from the effects of living with the problem drinking of a relative or friend. Alateen is a recovery program for young people. Alateen groups are sponsored by Al-Anon members. The program of recovery is adapted from Alcoholics Anonymous and is based upon the Twelve Steps, Twelve Traditions, and the Twelve Concepts of Service. The only requirement of membership is that there be a problem of alcoholism in a relative or friend. Al-Anon/Alateen is not affiliated with any other organization or outside entity. What Alateen members learn compulsive drinking is a disease. they can detach themselves emotionally from the drinker’s problems while continuing to love the person. they are not the cause of anyone else’... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5125970 Thu, 11 Aug 2011 19:49:32 +0100 5125970 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5107903&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Faction-and-patience%2F In shame and despair, I went to my first A.A. meeting.  By some minor miracle, I was able to suspend opinion, analysis, judgment, and criticism, and instead to listen and hear.  I heard someone say that A.A. works for those who work for it, those who put ACTION into the program.  For me, at the time, action consisted of simply showing up at an A.A. meeting and following the suggestions I heard….The first step in the process of ‘coming to believe’ had been taken. AA Came to Believe, page 42 - :Action and PatienceTHE AA TOOLS OF RECOVERYSPIRITUAL AWAKENINGRelapse PreventionAl-Anon 12-Step Recovery Program (Source: Recovery Is Sexy.com) Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5107903 Tue, 09 Aug 2011 15:16:00 +0100 5107903 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5107901&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation.com%2F12-steps-for-young-women%2F Hazelden Study Signals Importance of Twelve Step Meeting Attendance for Young Women in Early RecoveryThe frequency of attending Twelve Step mutual support meetings following addiction treatment can help predict success in early recovery for young women, according to a data analysis study.Meeting attendance frequency predicted both abstinence from substance use and number of drinking days at six months post-treatment for young women studied, reports Audrey A. Klein.Analysis focused on 139 young women, age 17-23, attending Twelve Step-based residential treatment for a substance use disorder. They were statistically compared to a sample of 237 young men who attended the same treatment program during the same time period. The analysis showed young women were as likely as young men to attend Tw... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5107901 Tue, 09 Aug 2011 12:10:01 +0100 5107901 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5107902&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation.com%2F12-step-and-mutual-help-programs%2F Twelve-Step and Mutual-Help Programs for Addictive DisordersThis important statement was made after an extensive review of outcomes research on addiction treatment. It reflects the conclusions of recent scientific reviews that alcohol and other drug addictions are chronic, relapsing diseases of the brain.The Minnesota Model, which throughout the 1980s featured 28 days of intensive inpatient and residential treatment, has more recently evolved to a longer continuum of care and greater reliance on outpatient treatment. Brief detoxification establishes abstinence, and patients move to successively less intensive levels of care from inpatient, to partial, to intensive outpatient, to less frequent outpatient visits. The model of chronic illness, which O’Brien and McLellan used in comparin... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5107902 Mon, 08 Aug 2011 04:37:18 +0100 5107902 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5103517&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fco-dependent-relapse%2F A Checklist of Symptoms Leading to Co-dependent Relapse: Co-dependent : A Person who has let someone else’s behavior affect him or her and is obsessed with controlling others behaviour Denial Patterns: I have difficulty identifying what I am feeling I minimize, alter, or deny how I truly feel. I perceive myself as completely unselfish and dedicated to the well-being of others. Low Self-esteem Patterns: I have difficulty making decisions. I judge everything I think, say, or do harshly, as never “good enough.” I am embarrassed to receive recognition and praise or gifts. I do not ask others to meet my needs or desires. I value others’ approval of my thinking, feelings, and behaviors over my own. I do not perceive myself as a lovable or worthwhile person. Compliance Patterns: I c... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5103517 Sat, 06 Aug 2011 15:48:00 +0100 5103517 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5103519&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fhow-children-deal-with-parents-alcoholism%2F Millions of Americans suffer from the psychological and physical disease of alcoholism. The resulting emotionally destructive impact on the children of alcoholic parents and the family unit is enormous. Alcoholic parents usually act out their addiction in one of two negative ways: violent and abusive behavior or emotional unavailability and neglect. People who grow up in an alcoholic family often demonstrate a pattern of specific emotional issues and behaviors as a result of their parent’s addiction and dysfunction. For example, among alcoholic families, there is a high percentage of abuse — physical, verbal and sexual. The resulting dangerous climate in the home often pits the children against one another. Full story at; How children deal with parents’ alcoholism » Lifestyl... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5103519 Fri, 05 Aug 2011 23:49:49 +0100 5103519 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5097100&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2F4-absolutes%2F The Four Absolutes As used by the Oxford Group and early Alcoholics Anonymous before the Twelve Steps were written # – Absolute Honesty Both with ourselves and with others, in word, deed, and thought. # – Absolute Unselfishness To be willing, wherever possible, to help others who need our help. # – Absolute Love You shall love the Higher Power with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind. And. . . you shall love your neighbor as yourself. # – Absolute Purity Purity of mind, of body, and of purpose. These were not used in the AA program as it was thought that alcoholics could not do anything absolutely – except drink. And that an absolute demand in recovery would be too much for alcoholics; thus the suggested program of recovery. Never-the-... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5097100 Fri, 05 Aug 2011 08:57:29 +0100 5097100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5097101&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2F24-workplace-actions-of-acoas%2F Adult Children of Alcoholism / Addiction in the Workplace ACOA’s often transfer behaviour learned in childhood into other adult spheres of life. In true co-dependency style these often confuse and confound us. Some of these are; We confuse our boss or supervisor with our alcoholic parents and have similar relationship patterns, behaviors, and reactions that are carryovers from childhood. We confuse our co-workers with our siblings or our alcoholic parents and repeat childhood reactions in those working relationships. We expect lavish praise and acknowledgment from our boss for our efforts on the job. Authority figures scare us and we feel afraid when we need to talk to them. We get a negative gut reaction when dealing with someone who has the physical characteristics or mannerisms ... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5097101 Thu, 04 Aug 2011 05:47:09 +0100 5097101 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5078041&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fteens-its-not-your-fault%2F It’s Not Your Fault! Hi!   Are you worried that your Mom or Dad drinks too much or uses drugs? You are right to be concerned— about their safety and health, about what will happen to you, about their embarrassing you or criticizing you unfairly, about breaking promises, about driving under the influence, and about lots of other things that create unpredictability and confusion. While you cannot stop your parent from drinking or using drugs, you can take steps to make things better for yourself. Facts You Should Know… One in four youth under age 18 lives in a family where a person abuses alcohol or suffers from alcoholism. Countless others are affected by a family member’s use of drugs. Remember: You are not alone. Lots of teens are in your situation a... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5078041 Fri, 29 Jul 2011 04:07:53 +0100 5078041 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5062503&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Ffirst-3-steps-of-aa-define-the-problem-solution%2F Image via Wikipedia In 1934, Bill W., cofounder of Alcoholics Anonymous, got a call from a former drinking buddy, Ebby T. "Rumor had it that he’d been committed for alcoholic insanity," Bill recalled. "I wondered how he had escaped." In reality, Ebby was two months sober. This disappointed Bill, who wanted to recapture the spirit of their earlier drinking escapades. When Ebby came to visit, Bill pushed a drink across the table. Ebby refused it. "The door opened, and he stood there, fresh-skinned and glowing," Bill recalled. "He was inexplicably different. What had happened?" The answer to that question eventually brought Bill to sobriety, and to the Twelve Steps of AA. Before Bill could formulate the Twelve Steps of AA, he had to make two disco... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5062503 Sun, 24 Jul 2011 15:02:47 +0100 5062503 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5062504&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fabout-alcoholics-anonymous%2F Image via Wikipedia A Few Basic Facts About AA Alcoholics Anonymous is well-known as an organization for people who want to stop drinking. At the same time, there are some points about A.A. that may be unclear to the general public and even to professionals working to help problem drinkers. Founded in the United States in 1935, when one alcoholic discovered he could stay sober by helping another alcoholic, Alcoholics Anonymous now has more than two million members in some 180 countries. A.A.’s sole purpose is helping people recover from the disease of alcoholism, and it has no affiliation with any other group or organization. Members anywhere in the world can come together to form an A.A. group, of which there are an estimated 106,000 worldwide. Among other facts about Alcoholics An... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5062504 Sun, 24 Jul 2011 02:55:50 +0100 5062504 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5051244&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fcelebrity-sober-companions%2F Everyday people in recovery often turn to 12 Step Fellowship support groups or an Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) sponsor when they face a possible relapse, but some celebrities and other wealthy addicts are turning to paid “sober companions” to help maintain their sobriety, the New York Times reported. Sober companions like Ronnie Kaplan, a former addict and ex-con, can earn fees of up to $1,000 per day for their services. “I get there and I sit him down and relax his mind,” Kaplan said of his interaction with one wealthy client. “I ask him ’What brought this on?’ It’s always something.” Kaplan said he will even search the client’s home for drugs if he thinks it is warranted. Some sober companions become part of a celebrity’s entourage, like a perso... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5051244 Fri, 22 Jul 2011 02:11:52 +0100 5051244 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5029221&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Frecovery-self-awareness%2F Meditating Mindfulness for Recovery Mindfulness is a form of self-awareness training adapted from Buddhist mindfulness meditation. It has been adapted for use in treatment of depression, especially preventing relapse and for assisting with mood regulation. Mindfulness has been described as a state of being in the present, accepting things for what they are, i.e. non-judgementally. It was originally developed to assist with mood regulation and relapse prevention in depression and has been found to have considerable health benefits. These exercises are designed to introduce the principles and can be used by anyone recovering from a mood altering disease such as alcoholism, compulsive gambling, food problems, addiction, codependency or adult children of alcoholics.. If you let cloudy water s... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5029221 Fri, 15 Jul 2011 00:01:05 +0100 5029221 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5029222&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fbeyond-co-dependency%2F : And Getting Better All the Time By Melody Beattie A book for any one who has had a relationship with an alcohol, addict or compulsive gambler. Adult Children of Alcoholism / addiction, wives, husbands, parents &etc. Review By Neal J. Pollock (VA USA) While I have not read Melody Beattie’s other works, I thought this a very valuable book in and of itself. It sheds much light on the topic and helped me to become sensitized to the obvious signs of co-dependency in people. By doing this, it enabled me to avoid situations where I could become codependent in a relationship. I think that, as in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, there are levels of psychological situations and/or problems. Thus, there may be people inherently inclined towards co-dependency, but there may also be peopl... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5029222 Thu, 14 Jul 2011 11:47:07 +0100 5029222 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5029223&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fsurrender-to-win-2%2F Willingness is the key The Higher Power Is Good “Before Alcoholics Anonymous, I could not, or would not, admit I was wrong. My pride would not let me. And yet I was ashamed of me. Caught in this conflict, I banished the Higher Power from my life because I felt He asked me to adhere to a behavior pattern too high for a man of my human frailty. Somehow, I believed that there could be no forgiveness of any failure, that he Higher Power required me to be all good. The moral of the story of the Prodigal Son eluded me. “Since I thought trying was not enough, I stopped trying. That made me feel guilty. For a while, alcohol blotted out the guilt. Then alcohol became the greatest cause of my guilt. I had to be beaten to a pulp physically, mentally and emotionally, become bankrupt in all... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5029223 Wed, 13 Jul 2011 11:25:41 +0100 5029223 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5008669&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2F12-12th-step-activities%2F Service to Others in Sobriety This twelth step work activity list was developed by talking to Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous members for a research project. They seem to apply to all 12 Step Fellowships. Took calls or spent time with a sponsee Guided an alcoholic/addict through the 12-Steps Held a service position in a 12-Step program (Within meetings; coffee maker, door greeter, chairperson, secretary, treasurer) (Outside of meetings: service delegate, public outreach organizer (i.e. jails, etc.), literature delegate). Say something positive to an alcoholic/addict Listened to an alcoholic/addict for at least 10 minutes at meetings, on the phone or face-to-face Say hello to a newcomer Reached out to an alcoholic/addict having a hard time Shared personal story wi... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5008669 Thu, 07 Jul 2011 15:42:00 +0100 5008669 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4997829&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fbig-book-quick-reference%2F A quick reference guide to the Alcoholics Anonymous Big Book. We offer this quick guide in the hope that it may help another. It is not complete but may serve as a starting point. The Principles of the 12 Step Program Step 1 Honesty  Step 2 Hope Step 3 Faith Step 4 Courage Step 5 Integrity Step 6 Willingness Step 7 Humility  Step 8 Brotherly Love Step 9 Justice Step 10 Perseverance Step 11 Spirituality Step 12 Service Helpful Index of References AA Origin:  XV-XVII AA Organization:  XIX, 567 AA Program Summary:  164 Acceptance:  14, 30, 449, 452 Admission:  25, 72-73 Agnostics:  44-57 Alcoholic:  XXIV-XXVII Alcoholism:  30-43 Aloneness:  17, 89 Ambition:  68, 7... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4997829 Sun, 03 Jul 2011 15:14:00 +0100 4997829 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4968578&cid=t_107150_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F06%2F25%2Fwhen-your-workplace-is-toxic%2F If you find yourself in a toxic relationship, you always have the option of ditching the friend and moving on. However, when the environment in which you make your bread and butter damages your self-esteem and robs you of self-confidence, you can’t exactly walk out… if you want to eat that night. What to do? More than a few friends have complained to me recently about toxic workplaces and their dilemma of how to live sanely within insane walls. So I thought about this more, consulted some experts, and offer a few suggestions. 1. Keep the focus on you. Just like you learn in a 12-step groups for friends and families of alcoholics, the only person you can totally control is yourself, so it’s best to begin there. Theoretically, no one can make you feel a certain way unless you allo... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4968578 Sat, 25 Jun 2011 12:18:01 +0100 4968578 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4953373&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2F12-steps-for-a-sponsor%2F Twelve Steps of SponsorshipThese can be applied to all 12-Step anonymous fellowships such as Al-anon, Alateen, Gamblers Anonymous, Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous etcI will not help you to stay and wallow in limbo.I will help you to grow, to become more productive, by your definition.I will help you become more autonomous, more loving of yourself, more excited, less sensitive, more free to become the authority for your own living.I cannot give you dreams or “fix you up” simply because I cannot.I cannot give you growth, or grow for you. You must grow for yourself by facing reality, grim as it may be at times.I cannot take away your loneliness or your pain.I cannot sense your world for you, evaluate your goals for you, tell you what is best for your world; because you have your... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4953373 Sun, 19 Jun 2011 15:36:13 +0100 4953373 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4893923&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fstages-in-the-alcoholic-family%2F Chaos in alcoholic familiesA family with an alcohol in its midst will go through several stages in dealing with the chaos and disruption caused by the alcoholic. These stages are described below in order of appearance.Denial: Early in the development of alcoholism, occasional episodes of excessive drinking are explained away by both marriage partners. Drinking because of tiredness, worry, or a bad day is not unbelievable. The assumption is that the episode is isolated and is, therefore, not a problem.Attempts to Eliminate the Problem:The non-alcoholic spouse realizes that the drinking is not normal and tries to pressure the alcoholic to quit, be more careful, or cut down. At the same time, the spouse tries to hide the problems from the outside and keep up a good.front. Children may start t... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4893923 Fri, 03 Jun 2011 19:03:25 +0100 4893923 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4828988&cid=t_107150_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F05%2F14%2Fthe-interventionist-an-interview-with-joani-gammill-about-addiction%25e2%2580%25a8%25e2%2580%25a8%25e2%2580%25a8%2F Today I have the honor of interviewing a friend of mine who has just written a compelling memoir, The Interventionist, about addiction from the perspective of both an addict and an interventionist. You begin your book with the quote from Khaled Hosseini’s book, The Kite Runner: “And that, I believe, is what true redemption is … when guilt leads to good.” Do you believe your work with other addicts is partly what keeps you clean and sober? Why compels you to enter into such hopeless situations and try to fix things? Joani: I think as the quote infers “when guilt leads to good,” my work with addicts and alcoholics assuages my own continued ambivalence about my responsibility about having this disease. It is not at all logical. There is no “choice” about having this ... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4828988 Sat, 14 May 2011 10:29:48 +0100 4828988 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4872481&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2Ffht-X0H6iyI%2F It’s Not Your Fault! Hi!  Are you worried that your Mom or Dad drinks too much or uses drugs? You are right to be concerned— about their safety and health, about what will happen to you, about their embarrassing you or criticizing you unfairly, about breaking promises, about driving under the influence, and about lots of other things that create unpredictability and confusion. While you cannot stop your parent from drinking or using drugs, you can take steps to make things better for yourself. Facts You Should Know… One in four youth under age 18 lives in a family where a person abuses alcohol or suffers from alcoholism. Countless others are affected by a family member’s use of drugs. Remember: You are not alone. Lots of teens are in your situation and it’s important to addr... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4872481 Mon, 09 May 2011 15:34:00 +0100 4872481 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4872482&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FNzuGazygTRo%2F Coupleship: How to Build a RelationshipA recovery book about the process of being in a relationship.Forming a happy, joy-filled partnership is one of the greater challenges. Through Coupleship, many can find greater understanding and tools to: Enhance a current marriageMake a decision about commitmentExplore ways to find a partnerLoving and being loved isn’t a skill, its a learned process sprinkled with a little magic. Explore, learn and understand.About the AuthorSharon Wegscheider-Cruse, is a nationally known consultant, educator and author.She was the founding chairperson of the National Association for Children of Alcoholics.She is a family therapist who has conducted workshops around the world and has consulted with the military, school systems, business and industry, treatment ... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4872482 Mon, 09 May 2011 14:10:00 +0100 4872482 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4872486&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2F7rStxdPvF-I%2F This is a key video about Bulimia from Face The Issue and narrated by Catherine Zeta-Jones.Catherine Zeta-Jones in Legend of ZorroThis is a quote from a sufferer of Bulimia.for the past week i keep binging..ive been on a diet now since about 4 months or so and ive lost [edit]… i was doing really good and i hardly ever binged maybe once in the whole time.. all of a sudden in the past 2 weeks ive binged (and then purged) about 6 times.. i dont know whats wrong with me.. i feel so out of control.. i hate purging i know not even half the food comes up and then i feel guilty im really scared to gain weight again, i promise myself i wont do it the next day and then i do.. i just want control over my mind again but it seems liek i cant get control of it.someone please help.. Share, print or... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4872486 Fri, 06 May 2011 15:50:01 +0100 4872486 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4872487&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2F44G-oFFWOsQ%2F A classic recovery book for adult children of alcoholics.Have you ever said that to yourself? Or, I’ll never be like …? First published 20 years ago, It Will Never Happen to Me is the definitive book/workbook for adult children of alcoholics. With her reassuring and informative approach, Claudia Black expertly identifies common issues faced by children who grew up in alcoholic families–shame, neglect, unreasonable role expectations, and physical abuse. Using narratives and profiles, she describes survival techniques characteristic of children raised in alcoholic families, including the unspoken laws of don’t talk, don’t trust, and don’t feel. First explaining how such learned responses cause difficulties in adulthood, Black carefully guides readers in identifyi... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4872487 Fri, 06 May 2011 15:50:00 +0100 4872487 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4775606&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fgamblers-anonymous-and-the-12-steps%2F How an informal society has altered a recovery process in accordance with the special needs of problem gamblersThis paper discusses how Gamblers Anonymous (GA) members approach the 12 Steps of recovery, originally advanced by Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) as a spiritual solution to alcoholism.GA’s approach finds unique expression in its fourth step, which in AA involves a written "moral inventory."In GA, members are expected to make a financial inventory alongside the moral one. Pecuniary matters are important to gamblers given the debt loads many of them carry.Debt, which is technically a Step 4 and Step 9 (making amends) issue, in practice is typically addressed early in the program, with preceding steps addressed later.The spiritual process central to 12 Step programs will n... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4775606 Mon, 02 May 2011 16:15:00 +0100 4775606 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4775607&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fi-finally-listened-to-their-stories%2F Comments made by a recovering member of Alcoholics Anonymous about the process of recovery.This provides evidence that getting sober is a process not a sudden or once only event.1. I had tried before, and didn’t succeed. This time I really tried using AA as part of my Recovery Program. Although I was court-mandated; I listened; I learned; and I call it a blessing.2. …the biggest thing with me is my Spirituality in the Program. I believe strongly that my Higher Power, whom I call God, is the One who has given me sobriety… the reprieve…3. When I finally sat down and listened to others’ stories, it really was an awakening… I might actually be able to stay sober…4. I got a Sponsor… he didn’t take any flack… he didn’t feel sorry for me… he was actually very hard on m... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4775607 Sun, 01 May 2011 16:48:00 +0100 4775607 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4771346&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FagcQoTi0I3A%2F 20 Questions; Are You A Recovering Alcoholic?To find out, ask yourself the following questions, and answer them as honestly as you can.Do you find more time for work these days?Has your home life become happier?Do you find that you are less shy with other people?Is the fact that you are not now drinking affecting your reputation positively?Are you waking up in the morning without guilt and remorse?Are your financial difficulties becoming easier to manage?Do you turn to sober companions and a superior environment?Are you now more concerned with your family’s welfare?Has your ambition increased?Do you have a craving to pray and meditate at a definite time daily?Do you feel gratitude when you wake up in the morning?Do you sleep better?Is your efficiency increasing?Is not-drinking affect... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4771346 Fri, 29 Apr 2011 16:54:00 +0100 4771346 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4734613&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fthe-original-working-manuscript-of-alcoholics-anonymous%2F The Book That Started It All: The Original Working Manuscript of Alcoholics AnonymousThe original manuscript of Bill Ws (co-founder of AA) last year sold for over a million dollars. It was handed to Hazelden to copy in its entirety. Complete with notations by Bill W and others it forms a unique record of the writing of the Big Book.Click on the image to see reviews and purchase.- Share, print or e-mail this articleAA Original Manuscript (Copy on Sale)Bill and Lois’ Story on VideoFree AA MP3s and Film of Bill W.Should AA be open to other Maladies10 Pointers to Recovery (Source: Recovery Is Sexy.com) Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4734613 Thu, 21 Apr 2011 13:32:29 +0100 4734613 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4724268&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fresolve-to-be-thyself%2F Resolve to be thyself; and know that who finds himself, loses his misery.–Matthew ArnoldIn recovery from alcoholism, addiction and ACOA our need for approval compels us to try to look good – no matter what’s going on. We imagine that somehow everything will be okay as long as it looks okay. Our hearts may be breaking from fear, disillusionment, and rejection, real or imagined, but we keep smiling so that no one will guess. Why do we do this to ourselves? Is it so hard to turn to a friend and say, “Hey, I’m hurting. I’ve been having a bad time and I need help”? Would the earth tremble if we said it right out, just like that?We’re not likely to get what we don’t ask for.  Instead of denying that our knees are shaking, our hands are sweat... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4724268 Mon, 18 Apr 2011 16:21:00 +0100 4724268 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4724267&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation.com%2Faa-helps-reduce-victimisation-symptoms-and-drinking%2F We examined the associations of recent victimization with subsequent participation in alcohol-related treatment and mutual help, and with short- and long-term drinking and health outcomes.Treatment-naïve men and women having an alcohol use disorder with (n = 73) or without (n = 491) recent violence victimization were assessed at baseline and 1 and 8 years later.Victimized individuals had moredays intoxicated,drinking problems,symptoms of depression, andphysical health problems at baseline, andwere more likely to attend Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) during Year 1.Victimization at baseline predicted re-victimization at 1 year, and more depressive symptoms and physical health problems at 8 years.Participation in alcohol-related treatment or AA during Year 1 was associated with fewer drinking pro... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4724267 Sun, 17 Apr 2011 16:46:00 +0100 4724267 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4724270&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Faffirmations-for-recovery%2F On Becoming Your Own Loving ParentAffirmations to be Repeated Each DayThese affirmations apply to recovering addicts, alcoholics, co-dependents, adult children of alcoholics / addicts and anyone working for recovery from a dysfunctional upbringing.Affirmations with other recovery program work are a powerful tool for addressing our critical nature toward ourselves and others. These affirmations represent the basic truths that most of us did not receive as children, but we can claim as adults. Read these affirmations out loud for several weeks.  You may also write down some of them and post them where you can read them. With affirmations, we begin to change our inner Critical Parent.  We learn to give ourselves a break.It is okay to know who I am.It is okay to trust ... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4724270 Sun, 17 Apr 2011 16:32:00 +0100 4724270 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4696958&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fal-anon-12-step-recovery-program%2F Families of alcoholics / addicts often walk on eggsFor those who don’t know or have never heard of Al-anon, it is a 12-step recovery program that is the counter-part to the Alcoholics Anonymous 12-step recovery program. It was initiated by Lois Wilson (the wife of Bill Wilson; one of the original founders of Alcoholics Anonymous) as a safe haven and support group for anyone who is dealing with a loved ones alcoholism (and/or drug addiction)I have been attending Al-anon meetings for 20 years and came away from my first meeting thinking…”What a bunch of losers, as well as… I heard some interesting things here.”As a professional family substance abuse counselor, I encourage my clients to attend Al-anon and find out if it is something they wish to incorporate in t... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4696958 Fri, 08 Apr 2011 16:23:02 +0100 4696958 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4684767&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fyour-first-aa-meeting%2F Practically nobody looks forward to going to their first Alcoholics Anonymous meeting.In most cases this is an occasion of extreme shame, dread and despair. The majority of individuals going to AA for the first time are doing so reluctantly, either because they have promised someone else to go or because they have been directed to attend by a judge, an employer, a therapist or an addictions treatment program.Even first timers who "go on their own" are usually in an intensely ambivalent and negative state. Nobody wishes to need the help that is provided by AA, and as a result virtually everyone attending their first meeting wishes that they were someplace else doing something else.It is an act of great courage to walk into an AA meeting for the first time. Many people with severe ... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4684767 Thu, 07 Apr 2011 16:25:00 +0100 4684767 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4684768&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fgolden-rules-for-recovery%2F When I first got sober an AA member said it was the little things that were the key to making his spiritual life so fulfilling. These are examples of some of the many keys that helped keep him sober.If you open it, close it.If you turn it on, turn it off.If you unlock it, lock it up.If you break it, admit it.If you can’t fix it, call in someone who can.If you borrow it, return it.If you value it, take care of it.If you make a mess, clean it up.If you move it, put it back.If it belongs to someone else, get permission to use it.If you don’t know how to operate it, leave it alone.If it’s none of your business, don’t ask questions.Anonymous Related articlesTiger Woods Truths of his Greatest Legacy (recoveryissexy.com)Fear of Change (alcoholismcoach.com)The Last Bargain ... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4684768 Wed, 06 Apr 2011 16:47:00 +0100 4684768 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4684770&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fcoping-depression-in-adult-children-of-alcoholics%2F Coping Behavior and Depressive Symptoms in Adult Children of AlcoholicsThis research examined whether adult children of alcoholics (ACOAs) would report more depressive mood symptoms as compared to non-ACOAs, whether coping behaviors differed as a function of ACOA status, and whether specific coping behaviors were related to depressive mood symptoms in ACOAs.Participants were 136 college students categorized as ACOAs and 436 college students categorized as non-ACOAs.As compared to non-ACOAs, ACOAs reported significantly more symptoms of depressive mood.On the COPE Inventory, ACOAs reported higher use of the following coping strategies:Withdrawal and defend themselves physically, cognitively and emotionally,Denial,Focus on Venting of Emotions,Humor, andSubstance Use.For both the ACOA and non... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4684770 Tue, 05 Apr 2011 14:51:08 +0100 4684770 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4600800&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fwhat-aa-is-not%2F AA is not an institutional clearing program. It does not promise that we will receive suspended sentences, probations, or paroles. AA does not promise conditional releases, stays of proceedings, or the early releases from prisons or hospitals.AA is not a "dating game" nor is it a lonely hearts club or a place to find a temporary or permanent lover.AA is not an employment agency or manpower training program. It does not promise that we’ll all find jobs, get rich, or even become financially solvent.AA is not a charitable organization like the welfare system or the Salvation Army. It doesn’t promise that we’ll be loaned money or given cigarettes. AA is not a bank or a credit union, and is not set up to provide funds for anyone.AA is not a church program or a religi... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4600800 Wed, 16 Mar 2011 16:18:00 +0100 4600800 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4600801&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Faggression-and-hostility-in-recovered-alcoholics-2%2F This study was designed to examine aggression in a group of socially well-adapted recovering alcoholics. The question addressed was whether the treatment, together with long-term abstinence from alcohol, could reduce aggression and hostility in recovered alcoholics. Sixty four male stable alcoholics with at least 3 years sobriety were compared with 69 non-alcoholics. Neither group had any other psychological problems.Both groups were given a questionnaire on general characteristics as well as aggressive and hostility traits.After a 3-year abstinence, men from the recovering alcoholics group displayed greater signs of hostility and covert aggression.  They were different from non-alcoholics on measures for indirect aggression, irritability, negativism, suspicion, resentment, and guilt.... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4600801 Wed, 16 Mar 2011 09:33:23 +0100 4600801 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4592699&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation.com%2Fharm-reduction-and-the-12-steps%2F Conclusion: Complementary conceptualizations of harm reduction and 12-step approaches have the potential to broaden the range of options available to people experiencing substance use problems.Posted online on March 11, 2011. (doi:10.3109/10826084.2010.548435) Heather Sophia Lee, Malitta Engstrom, and Scott R. PetersenRelated articlesAA & 12-Step Treatment (twelvestepfacilitation.com)12-Step Treatment More Effective than Alternative (recoveryissexy.com)Women & the 12 Steps of AA (recoveryissexy.com)The 12 Steps and Catholicism (recoveryissexy.com)Alcohol Use and Unsafe Sex by People with HIV (Source: Twelve Step Facilitation.com) Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4592699 Mon, 14 Mar 2011 16:00:00 +0100 4592699 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4566345&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fprinciples-of-recovery%2F Image via WikipediaThese are the Guiding Principles of Recovery for alcoholics, addicts and co-dependentsThere are many pathways to recovery.Recovery is self-directed and empowering.Recovery involves a personal recognition of the need for change and transformation.Recovery is holistic.Recovery has cultural dimensions.Recovery exists on a continuum of improved health and wellness.Recovery is supported by peers and allies.Recovery emerges from hope and gratitude.Recovery involves a process of healing and self-redefinition.Recovery involves addressing discrimination and transcending shame and stigma.Recovery involves (re)joining and (re)building a life in the community.Recovery is a reality. It can, will, and does happen.Source: CSAT White Paper: Guiding Principles and Elements of Recovery-Or... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4566345 Wed, 09 Mar 2011 16:03:00 +0100 4566345 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4560607&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fam-i-controlling-2%2F Some insightful questions to examine possible relationship problems in recovery.I must be "needed" in order to have a relationship with others.I value other’s approval of my thinking, feelings and behaviors over my own.I agree with others so they will like me.I focus my attention on protecting others, even from themselves.I believe most other people are incapable of taking care of themselves.I keep score of "good deeds and favors," becoming very hurt when they are not repaid.I am very skilled at guessing how other people are feeling.I can anticipate others’ needs and desire, meeting them before they are asked to be met.I become resentful when others will not let me help them.I am calm and efficient in other people’s crisis situations.I feel good about ... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4560607 Mon, 07 Mar 2011 16:25:00 +0100 4560607 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4554797&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Flast-call-for-alcoholism-recovery%2F  A recovery book Last Call is the first book, outside of Alcoholics Anonymous’ own publications, to offer an insider’s perspective on how and why AA is the most effective alcoholism treatment program in the world.Using powerful first-person narratives — composites of many individual experiences with the disease and recovery — Hedblom demystifies the meetings, the twelve steps, the Promises, and the sponsors"I knew about drunk, but did not know anything about living sober. I hadn’t really been sober for fifteen years. It wasn’t enough that I stopped drinking. I had to learn how to live."The journey from alcoholic insanity to sobriety — and the pivotal role of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) in navigating that transition — is the focus of... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4554797 Sun, 06 Mar 2011 16:36:00 +0100 4554797 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4552150&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fagnostics-and-alcoholics-anonymous%2F Image via WikipediaFor agnostics who would like to work the steps, this version of the Twelve Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous provides slightly different wording of the six steps that make reference to God or a Higher Power. This version of the Twelve Steps seems to have originated in agnostic A.A. groups in California.1. We admitted we were powerless over alcohol-that our lives had become unmanageable.2. Came to believe and to accept that we needed strengths beyond our awareness and resources to restore us to sanity.[Original: Came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity.]3. Made a decision to entrust our will and our lives to the care of the collective wisdom and resources of those who have searched before us.[Original: Made a decision to turn our wills an... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4552150 Sat, 05 Mar 2011 17:59:00 +0100 4552150 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4552072&cid=t_107150_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F03%2F05%2F7-reasons-charlie-sheen-may-hate-alcoholics-anonymous%2F In one of the myriad interviews he gave over the last week, Charlie Sheen said clearly that he hates AA. A lot of people have trouble with Alcoholics Anonymous. AA is full of people and people can be messy and flawed. The human train wreck formally known as Charlie Sheen is a common sight in the AA meeting halls. The only difference between Mr. Sheen and other self-absorbed, delusional, frantic addicts is the size of the audience to which they rant. These people do not last long in AA. They mock the Fellowship and the 12 Steps (PDF) as too religious or simplistic. AA is beneath them. Here are a few possible reasons why Charlie Sheen might hate AA so much. Reasons Why Charlie Sheen May Hate AA He would have to admit he is powerless. He would need to embrace Humility. Deep tissue Change wo... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4552072 Sat, 05 Mar 2011 16:13:27 +0100 4552072 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4528016&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fnarcissism-in-a-bottle%2F : The Self Centerdness of Addiction | RecoveryView.com.Over the years I have listened to a sort of running monologue from clients who grew up with an addicted parent. It goes something like this: “I felt like it was all about them, like what was going on inside of me was sort of invisible, like what they wanted or needed always came first.” They go on and on describing a family dynamic that circulated around the immediate needs of the addict. They talk about how they often found themselves staying quiet and well behaved so as not to disturb a drunk or hung-over parent or bring a torrent of anger down on them. They also describe a world in which their other parent was constantly over-burdened; hiding the extent of the problem and working double time to make the family seem “normal”.... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4528016 Mon, 28 Feb 2011 07:52:36 +0100 4528016 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4517356&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation.com%2Faa-videos-for-healthcare-workers%2F Alcoholics Anonymous produces many materials for education and training of professional workers. Here are three of the most common occupational groups that encounter alcoholics.AA Video for Healthcare ProfessionalsA.A. Video for Legal and Corrections ProfessionalsA.A. Video for Employment/Human Resources ProfessionalsRelated articlesCounseling and the 12 Steps of AA (twelvestepfacilitation.com)Peers Help Alcoholics in Many Ways (twelvestepfacilitation.com)AA and Treatment Work Better Together (twelvestepfacilitation.com)Mutual Aid Groups in Psychiatry and Substance Misuse. (twelvestepfacilitation.com)Alcoholics AnonymousRandom ArticlesAA DiversityRecovery from the Perspective of Addicted WomenAA and Recovery HousesWhat Are Drug Users Looking For?What is Brief-TSF? (Source: Twelve Step Faci... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4517356 Thu, 24 Feb 2011 16:31:00 +0100 4517356 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4512619&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation.com%2Ffacilitating-mutual-support-group-participation%2F If a healthcare or social service provider suspects that a patient or client has a substance use disorder (SUD), the provider should ensure that the client receives formal treatment. Once the client receives formal treatment—or if he or she refuses or cannot afford treatment— the provider’s next step is to facilitate involvement in a mutual support group.Matching clients to treatment based solely on gender, motivation, cognitive impairment, or other such characteristics has not been proved to be effective.Clients who are “philosophically well matched” to a mutual support group are more likely to actively participate in that group. Thus, the best way to help a client benefit from mutual support groups is to encourage increased participation in his or her chosen group.Professional ... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4512619 Wed, 23 Feb 2011 16:43:00 +0100 4512619 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4495441&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2F12-step-treatment-30-better%2F Image via WikipediaResearchers from Stanford University found that a 12-step oriented treatment program that included attending Alcoholics Anonymous meetings boosted two-year sobriety rates by 30% compared to cognitive-behavioral (CB) programs, the BBC reported.Twelve-step oriented programs also cost 30% less than CB-based treatment for addiction, the researchers said.Lead study author Keith Humphreys said the spiritual dimension of AA may explain why recovering alcoholics in such programs are better able to resist the temptation to return to drinking.The study appears in the journal Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research.See alsoSpiritual Health BlockagesA Woman’s Way Through the Twelve StepsGay & Lesbian RecoveryTwelve Step Christianity – A Recovery BookMilitary Famil... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4495441 Thu, 17 Feb 2011 06:26:54 +0100 4495441 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4495442&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fconstruction-industry-sobriety%2F Helping others stay sober in the construction industry Nonprofit group aids workers fighting substance abuseFred Myers wants to help people in and out of the construction industry to stay sober and productive.That has been his mission since October 2007, when Myers, a retired construction executive, founded the nonprofit Sober Corps, which connects at-risk substance abusers with mentors.The program, complements and builds off 12-step programs like Alcoholics Anonymous.Full story at; Helping others stay sober in the construction industry Share, print or e-mail this articleDeaf & Hard of Hearing Addiction TreatmentDisruptive DoctorsWomen’s LibidoLegal, but LethalAl-anon Helps Alcoholics Too (Source: Recovery Is Sexy.com) Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4495442 Thu, 17 Feb 2011 06:26:53 +0100 4495442 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4489984&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2F8A5Eh-hqYy4%2F CONCLUSIONS: NA/AA can support and supplement residential addiction treatment as an aftercare resource.In view of the generally poor alcohol use outcomes achieved by drug-dependent patients after treatment, the improved alcohol outcomes of NA/AA attenders suggests that the effectiveness of existing treatment services may be improved by initiatives that lead to increased involvement and engagement with such groups.Gossop M, Stewart D, Marsden J. Addiction. 2008 Jan;103(1):119-25. Epub 2007 Nov 20. Attendance at Narcotics Anonymous and Alcoholics Anonymous meetings, frequency of attendance and substance use outcomes after residential treatment for drug dependence: a 5-year follow-up study.See also;Twelve Step Facilitation is designed to support people returning to their communityMy First Yea... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4489984 Tue, 15 Feb 2011 15:17:03 +0100 4489984 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4489985&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FEsEBu0zngAk%2F These symptoms and characteristics of the thoughts and actions of a codependent are offered as a tool to aid in self-evaluation.Denial Symptoms: I have difficulty identifying what I am feeling.I minimize, alter or deny how I truly feel.I perceive myself as completely unselfish and dedicated to the well being of others.Low Self Esteem Symptoms: I have difficulty making decisions.I judge everything I think, say or do harshly, as never “good enough.”I am embarrassed to receive recognition and praise or gifts.I do not ask others to meet my needs or desires.I value others approval of my thinking, feelings and behavior over my own.I do not perceive myself as a lovable or worthwhile person.Compliance Symptoms: I compromise my own values and integrity to avoid rejection or others anger... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4489985 Tue, 15 Feb 2011 15:17:02 +0100 4489985 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4489986&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FZa0qJUk3-VE%2F Stop Enabling the AlcoholicDiscontinuing “enabling,” along with putting the onus for the drinker’s behavior and its consequences on the drinker.Do not cover up for them. Let them be responsible for their actions.Accept your responsibility, if any, for enabling, and then transfer 100 percent of the responsibility back to the alcoholic once you have talked it over.He or she is then unable to use you as an excuse.Enabling includes protecting the problem drinker from the negative consequences of alcohol use. After all, if someone makes excuses when you miss appointments because of drinking too much, reheats dinner because you’ve missed it after stopping at the bar on the way home from work, readily has sex with you even if you’re drunk, or lends you money every time you lose your job... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4489986 Tue, 15 Feb 2011 15:17:00 +0100 4489986 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4478164&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation.com%2Fresearch-confirms-aa-effectiveness%2F Science Validates Long Held Beliefs About AAThere have been many studies extolling the benefits of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) participation. Indeed, 12-Step therapy (TS) is the prevailing alcohol treatment model in the United States. The focus of current research has now shifted from whether TS is beneficial to those with alcohol-related problems to questions of why and how TS is successful.Research presented at a symposium in 2001 indicates that AA participation directly affects abstinence and affects abstinence indirectly through lifestyle changes.Researchers confirmed that those with support from AA members were more likely to remain abstinent than those whose support came only from non-AA members or those with no support at all.The results of another study suggest that even in partner-i... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4478164 Mon, 14 Feb 2011 15:52:00 +0100 4478164 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4489988&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2F8A_Dtuz42jM%2F CONCLUSIONS: Adolescent COAs are at risk for depression, suicide, eating disorders, chemical dependency, and teen pregnancy. It has been proposed that mental health professionals teach core resiliency factors to promote healthy behaviors for this vulnerable population.Children of addicted parents are the highest risk group of children to become alcohol and drug abusers because of both genetic and family environment factors.Twenty-two percent of those studied identified themselves as a child of an alcoholic. This is consistent with current estimates of children of parental period alcoholics, which is calculated to be 22%. In another study among 595 African American boys age 13 to 17 years, identified that 23% of the participating teens were COAs. The National Association of Children of Alco... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4489988 Sun, 13 Feb 2011 15:32:00 +0100 4489988 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4470532&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Falcoholism-affects-the-entire-family-2%2F …Not Just the AlcoholicHow many people are involved in the life of any one alcoholic? Family, friends, employer, co-workers… It is important to remember that all these people are affected by alcoholism-not just the alcoholic. Many of them spend a lot of time and energy trying to "fix" the alcoholic: covering up for them, punishing them, taking responsibility for them.For over 56 years, Al-Anon Family Groups (including Alateen for younger members) has been providing help and hope to families and friends of alcoholics. In non-professional, mutual support meetings, members share their own experience, strength, and hope to help one another to recover from the effects of alcoholism. Living with alcoholism has been described as living on a merry-go-round, where each family memb... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4470532 Sat, 12 Feb 2011 15:25:00 +0100 4470532 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4450525&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fthe-high-functioning-alcoholic%2F Understanding the High Functioning Alcoholic: Professional Views and Personal InsightsWho is the typical alcoholic among the 12.5 million living in the United States now? Many, if not most of us when asked that question, would envision a skid row bum or someone at least out of work or with little education locked into a low-skill, low-paying job. But that is not accurate, according to the results of a national study released in June, 2007 by the National Institutes of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism.The NIAAA determined that alcoholics in the United States really fall into five subtypes, including nearly 20 percent who are "highly functional alcoholics, well-educated with good incomes." They include corporate presidents, powerful politicians, police, lawyers, doctors, scientists, an... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4450525 Tue, 08 Feb 2011 16:48:51 +0100 4450525 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4439026&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Frecognizing-co-dependency%2F Alcoholism may be a disease of isolation, but it is rarely an individual problem. Understanding how "enabling" works is the first step in helping both the alcoholic and the co-dependent seek help.Enabling is any action by another person or an institution that intentionally or unintentionally has the effect of facilitating the continuation of an individual’s addictive process.Who Is An Enabler? Most often, enablers are persons who genuinely care about the alcoholic — family, friends, co-workers, clergy.Their love and concern, unfortunately, often leads them to do things that actually help the alcoholic stay that way.They "cover" for the alcoholic, inventing excuses for absenteeism, tardiness, or inappropriate behavior.They "save" the alcoholic by taking... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4439026 Sat, 05 Feb 2011 15:12:00 +0100 4439026 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4429230&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Falateens-purpose-2%2F Cover via AmazonAlateen is part of Al-Anon, which helps families and friends of alcoholics recover from the effects of living with the problem drinking of a relative or friend. Alateen is a recovery program for young people. Alateen groups are sponsored by Al-Anon members.The program of recovery is adapted from Alcoholics Anonymous and is based upon the Twelve Steps, Twelve Traditions, and the Twelve Concepts of Service.The only requirement of membership is that there be a problem of alcoholism in a relative or friend.Al-Anon/Alateen is not affiliated with any other organization or outside entity.What Alateen members learncompulsive drinking is a disease.they can detach themselves emotionally from the drinker’s problems while continuing to love the person.they are not the cause of anyone... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4429230 Wed, 02 Feb 2011 15:04:36 +0100 4429230 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4414681&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fhelping-others-helps-alcoholics%2F Stay on the Road to RecoveryResearcher Pagano Reports Findings in Alcoholism Treatment Quarterly, Says Other Chronically Ill Patients May Benefit Too Participating in community service activities and helping others is not just good for the soul; it has a healing effect that helps alcoholics and other addicts become and stay sober.In a review article published in the Volume 29 issue of Alcoholism Treatment Quarterly, Maria E. Pagano, PhD, sheds light on the role of helping in addiction recovery, using the program of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) as a prime example. She cites a growing body of research as supporting evidence.“The research indicates that getting active in service helps alcoholics and other addicts become sober and stay sober, and suggests this approach is applicable to al... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4414681 Sat, 29 Jan 2011 15:38:00 +0100 4414681 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4411728&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fyour-loved-ones-addiction%2F Educating Yourself About Your Loved One’s AddictionRegardless of the status of your loved one’s recovery program or lack thereof, I recommend to clients that they educate themselves about substance abuse to discover as much as they can on a personal level.We all know knowledge is power, therefore the more you learn, the calmer your state of mind will be.Concepts to ExploreHere are some concepts to consider which may help when furthering your education of your loved ones addiction issues (they are expanded upon in the original article, see below): Do Your Own Research on AddictionBe Wary of Well-Meaning AdviceBe Mindful of Who You Talk ToAttend Open Alcoholics Anonymous Meetings (meetings open to anyone with or without an addiction issue)Attend Al-Anon meetings (meetings for the... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4411728 Fri, 28 Jan 2011 15:09:00 +0100 4411728 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4399830&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Faa-is-a-diverse-fellowship%2F Image via WikipediaAlcoholics Anonymous is known for the diversity of its membership, with A.A. members from every walk of life sitting side by side in the approximately 100,000 A.A. groups in the United States and Canada. Over the years, though, professionals-doctors, lawyers, airplane pilots, and others-have established a few A.A. groups for those in their field.Given their common concerns and issues, these members have found A.A. meetings with peers useful. Such groups, which are autonomous along with every other A.A. group, are usually found in large metropolitan areas. They function as any other A.A. meeting.Among their other purposes, these groups can allay the fears of new A.A. members who may feel more comfortable in a meeting of their peers. The preamble read at “Birds of a Feat... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4399830 Wed, 26 Jan 2011 15:29:00 +0100 4399830 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4389367&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fcan-alcoholism-be-cured-2%2F No, alcoholism cannot be cured at this time. Even if an alcoholic hasn’t been drinking for a long time, he or she can still suffer a relapse. Not drinking is the safest course for most people with alcoholism.Can alcoholism be treated?Yes, alcoholism can be treated. Alcoholism treatment programs use both counseling and medications to help a person stop drinking. Treatment has helped many people stop drinking and rebuild their lives.Does alcoholism treatment work?Alcoholism treatment works for many people. But like other chronic illnesses, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and asthma, there are varying levels of success when it comes to treatment. Some people stop drinking and remain sober. Others have long periods of sobriety with bouts of relapse. And still others cannot stop drinki... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4389367 Sun, 23 Jan 2011 15:38:00 +0100 4389367 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4386472&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fstress-a-danger-in-early-recovery%2F Alcoholics should avoid excessive physical and emotional stress during early abstinence.Researchers have found that an important system (The HPA axis) of the body that regulates stress, hunger and illness is “stunned” during alcoholic drinking.The researchers tested alcoholics in early recovery (less than 12 months) and found that the HPA axis recovers after about 8 weeks.Any stress can trigger an abnormal response but moderate to extreme stress can be dangerous to abstinence and may trigger a relapse.Reference; May 2007 issue of Alcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research.Recovery Bloggers comments; The most dangerous time for recovery from alcoholism is the first 3 months. Many do not stay sober in the first 3 months.Some alcoholics have been known to exercise to extreme attempt... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4386472 Sat, 22 Jan 2011 15:49:00 +0100 4386472 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4382953&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2F7-cs-for-alcoholic-detachment%2F Image via WikipediaChildren, Adult Children and partners of alcoholics often develop seven ways or attitudes to deal with the drinker. These are;Guilt and shame implied by the alcoholic about causing them to drink excessivelyIf I caused alcoholism, I must be able to find a remedyIf I can’t cure it I can control the behaviour and drinkingAvoiding self-care in deference to the alcoholics needsFearfully not expressing own needs and feelingsMaking poorly considered decisions – unhealthy, irrationalBelittling self, abilities, accomplishments and potentialIn recovery children of alcoholics and co-dependents learn to reverse these attitudes. Quite simply these principles are life attitudes.The Seven C’s of Another Persons Alcoholism – DetachmentI didn’t Cause itI can’t Cur... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4382953 Fri, 21 Jan 2011 15:40:00 +0100 4382953 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4377794&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fchildren-of-alcoholics-week-2011%2F Sunday, February 13 – Saturday, February 19MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN THE LIFE OF COA’s AND HONORING RECOVERY –AN ANNUAL CELEBRATION OF HOPE AND HEALING (From the NCOA website)During Children of Alcoholics Week you and your organization can be a part of a grassroots nationwide and international celebration spreading the word that children living with addiction in the family need the support of caring adults. During this week we join our voices and connect our activities to raise awareness that children of addiction can be encouraged and supported just knowing there are safe people who can help. By raising our voices together we can encourage able, caring adults to be there for children who suffer when a parent abuses alcohol and other drugs.We can also reach the children with imp... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4377794 Fri, 21 Jan 2011 00:12:24 +0100 4377794 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4352853&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation.com%2Fare-12-step-programs-for-teens-effective%2F Image by beachblogger42 via FlickrAre 12-Step Programs for Teens Effective? Research shows that these types of programs are beneficial for teens. One particular study tracked the progress of 160 youngsters with an average age of 16, over the course of four and six week treatments based on AA’s 12-Step Program. The teens were re-evaluated six months after their treatment finished and again after the first, second, fourth, sixth and eighth year following treatment.What researchers found was that even small amounts of treatment were beneficial, even if teens decided to quit attending treatments after awhile. It appears after considering all factors, that for each meeting that youth attended, they gained two additional days of sobriety. Those who received the greatest benefit, however, wer... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4352853 Sat, 15 Jan 2011 09:33:24 +0100 4352853 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4352855&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Ftypes-of-12-step-meetings-2%2F Within Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous Gamblers Anonymous, Al-anon and Adult Children of Alcoholics there are 2 basic types of meetings for fellowship and recovery.The two most common kinds of 12-Step meetings are:OPEN MEETINGS: As the term suggests, meetings of this type are open to members and their families and to anyone interested in solving a personal problem or helping someone else to solve such a problem.Most open meetings follow a more or less set pattern, although distinctive variations have developed in some areas. A chairperson describes the program briefly for the benefit of newcomers in the audience and calls speakers who relate their personal histories and may give their personal interpretation of the programAt the end of the meeting there is usually a period for lo... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4352855 Fri, 14 Jan 2011 15:44:01 +0100 4352855 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4349703&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fhumility-and-surrender%2F Conclusions. The present results suggest that, relative to their more humble counterparts, recovering alcoholics who lack humility (ie., high narcissists) do not have more difficulty surrendering to the idea they are powerless over their drinking problem.However, recovering alcoholics who lack authority-related humility do show a marked lack of faith in the proposition that God offers a viable solution to their alcohol problem.Consequently, they are quite reluctant to surrender their willfulness, and thereby accept help from a Higher Power.Given that faith in the existence, availability or efficacy of a Higher Power is difficult for this subsample of individuals, it seems likely that – in the context of 12-step recovery – deficits in humility may serve to increase a clients vul... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4349703 Fri, 14 Jan 2011 15:44:00 +0100 4349703 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4343346&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fdoctor-bobs-relief-from-alcoholism-2%2F  "It is a most wonderful blessing to be relieved of the terrible curse with which I was afflicted. My health is good and I have regained my self-respect and the respect of my colleagues. My home life is ideal and my business is as good as can be expected in these uncertain times."Dr Bob, cofounder of Alcoholics AnonymousFrom the book; Alcoholics Anonymous, pg. 180. Fourth Edition Alcoholics Anonymous – Big Book 4th EditionA Certain Kind of Faith (recoveryissexy.com)Dr. Bob’s Way coming to Akron (recoveryissexy.com)Abstinence rates in AA (twelvestepfacilitation.com) Share, print or e-mail this articleWhat is Alcoholics Anonymous?The Spirituality of ImperfectionAA Takes it’s First StepsDoctor Bob’s Relief from AlcoholismSister Ignatia – The D... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4343346 Thu, 13 Jan 2011 06:34:26 +0100 4343346 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4327068&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fthe-12-steps-and-catholicism%2F Image via WikipediaVenerable Matt Talbot Resource Center: The 12 Steps and Catholicism.Those who have been blessed with recovery from addiction with the help of the 12 Steps and their families and friends. Addiction and compulsive behaviors have made the life of many a person and their loved ones unmanageable to varying degrees. Gratefully we live at a moment when recovery is possible in ways that weren’t prior to the program that was started by Alcoholics Anonymous.One of my purposes in making this an annual celebration is to make clear the connection between religion and spirituality that is often severed because of a faulty understanding of 12 Step Programs. I also want to show that you can be in recovery and still be a very good Catholic. In other words there is no conflict bet... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4327068 Sun, 09 Jan 2011 14:26:41 +0100 4327068 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4322698&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fgetting-active-in-aa%2F This is an extract from the book ‘Living Sober’ by Alcoholics Anonymous.It is very hard just to sit still trying not to do a certain thing, or not even to think about it. It’s much easier to get active and do something else-other than the act we’re trying to avoid.So it is with drinking. Simply trying to avoid a drink (or not think of one), all by itself, doesn’t seem to be enough. The more we think about the drink we’re trying to keep away from, the more it occupies our mind, of course. And that’s no good. It’s better to get busy with something, almost anything, that will use our mind and channel our energy toward health.Thousands of us wondered what we would do, once we stopped drinking, with all that time on our hands. Sure enough, when we did stop, all those hours we ha... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4322698 Thu, 06 Jan 2011 14:07:23 +0100 4322698 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4309860&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Finside-a-a-with-writer-clancy-martin%2F | Radio Times | WHYY.Philosophy professor and writer CLANCY MARTIN credits Alcoholics Anonymous with saving his life.  In The drunk’s club: A.A., the cult that cures, his cover story in the January issue of Harper’s Magazine, Martin tells his own story (his father is also an A.A. veteran) of recovery and takes readers inside A.A., exploring its culture and history as well as the controversies over the nature of alcoholism. Martin is a contributor to Harper’s Magazine and is a professor of Philosophy at University of Missouri, Kansas City.MP3 recording at – Inside A.A. with writer Clancy Martin Related articlesThe Aa Tools of Recovery (recoveryissexy.com)Came to Believe (recoveryissexy.com)Should AA be open to other Maladies (recoveryissexy.com) Share, print or e-m... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4309860 Tue, 04 Jan 2011 05:27:49 +0100 4309860 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4305109&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fbeing-of-freedom%2F Image via WikipediaBeing of Freedom We do not regret the past, nor wish to shut the door on it.  We comprehend the word serenity and we know peace.  We live a life of balance by taming the many voices within so that they may serve their individual purpose without taking over and destroying the perfect harmony of our being. We give up the mastermind of our own self-will to follow the light of our spirit and live a humbled existence.  We know the gift of life comes from deep within by experiencing the gratitude of this very moment.  We accept that Thy will leads us to true freedom.Being of Freedom « The Hazelden Blog.Related articlesHeart of Serenity (recoveryissexy.com)Two Wolves (recoveryissexy.com)Disturbing Denial (recoveryissexy.com) Share, print or e-mail this articleStepping Ston... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4305109 Mon, 03 Jan 2011 10:07:13 +0100 4305109 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4305110&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fthe-promises-of-acoa-recovery%2F Image via WikipediaAdult Children of Alcoholics is an anonymous Twelve Step, Twelve Tradition program of women and men who grew up in an environment of addictiveness (alcohol or other substances) or in other-wise dysfunctional homes. Our willingness and resiliency bring us together.We share our experience, strength, and hope to validate our experience as well as give some hope to the new member. We take positive action in our lives today. By practicing the Twelve Steps, focusing on “The Solution”, and accepting a loving Higher Power of our own understanding, we find freedom from the past and a way to improve our lives.These are The Promises of ACoA RecoveryWe will discover our real identities by loving and accepting ourselves.Our self-esteem will increase as we give ourselves approval ... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4305110 Mon, 03 Jan 2011 03:46:55 +0100 4305110 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4302976&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fthe-nature-of-spirituality-in-recovery-2%2F Stories of Spiritual Awakening; The Nature of Spirituality in RecoveryAddiction to substances is considered a medical disease, characterized by the continued use of substances despite significant substance-related problems.The heavy use of substances is often related to, and precipitated by, the individual’s need to improve intolerable emotional states.The utility of drugs for making the individual “feel better” or “feel normal” can lead to regular use. In some cases, regular users become addicted to drug use, a transition that is the result of complex interactions of biological, psychological, and cultural factors.Addiction can lead to the loss of family, friends, work, and home. It is often associated with the development of a set of behaviors and thought patterns that enable t... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4302976 Sat, 01 Jan 2011 15:19:00 +0100 4302976 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4305111&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fwomen-the-12-steps-of-aa%2F 12 Steps lead women upwardsWomen and the Twelve Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous: A Gendered NarrativeThis paper examines how women “work” the twelve steps of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) from a gendered perspective.Feminist critics of AA havechallenged the language of AA’s Twelve Steps,the spiritual nature of the steps, andthe male-dominated culture of the Twelve-Step program.This paper offers insight into how women in AA approach, interpret, and utilize the Twelve Steps to recover from alcoholism.Through survey and narrative data, findings suggeststhat women working AA’s Twelve Steps become empowered andchange for the better in spite of the male-dominated culture and language of the Twelve Steps andregardless of the difficulty they may have encountered in completing these steps.In part... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4305111 Fri, 31 Dec 2010 15:21:02 +0100 4305111 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4302287&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2Fzxsr76yUkPU%2F Image via WikipediaAlateen saved mom’s life, made mine better :: Lifestyles :: Post-Tribune.Dr. Wallace: My parents are divorced and I live alone with my mother, who is a recovering alcoholic. Mom has been recovering for more than a year. That’s when she decided to stop drinking and enrolled in Alcoholics Anonymous. She did this because I had been attending Alateen, a group where teens learn how to cope with parents who are alcoholics.More at; Alateen Made my Life BetterRelated articlesAl-anon MP3 Podcasts (recoveryissexy.com)Help an Alcoholic 8 (recoveryissexy.com)Adult Children of Alcoholics can Practice ‘being normal’ (recoveryissexy.com) Share, print or e-mail this articleRandom Articles10 Relationship MythsAlcoholic Cirrhosis of the LiverAct As If BeliefReleasi... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4302287 Thu, 30 Dec 2010 03:19:14 +0100 4302287 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4300718&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fwhat-co-dependency-is-not%2F Sometimes people mistake the milk of human kindness for co-dependency. Thus, when co-dependent women start to recover, the pendulum swings the other way and they become determined not to "caretake" or to give away too much. They don’t want to offer care unless someone asks. This is fine, and for some a necessary part of the recovery, but some distinctions are in order.Empathy, sensitivity, care, compassion, and tenderness are wonderful traits. Being deeply involved and nurturing in a relationship can reflect a person’s wonderful capacity for intimacy. The ability to protect and care for children is a skill to be highly valued. When you comfort someone in need, you bestow a precious gift. Tuning in to the needs of others is beautiful. The codependent woman does not need to get... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4300718 Wed, 29 Dec 2010 15:45:01 +0100 4300718 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4309858&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2FFVR8l7VtyuQ%2F A researcher studying the influence of spirituality on sobriety encourages recovering alcoholics to nourish their spiritual needs through praying, taking a course in meditation, or simply walking in the woods.“While people’s actual beliefs don’t seem to change during recovery, the extent [to which] they have spiritual experiences and are open to spirituality in their lives does change,” said Elizabeth Robinson, Ph.D., a research assistant professor at the Addiction Research Center at the University of Michigan’s Department of Psychiatry.While anecdotal evidence indicates that spirituality plays a role in alcohol recovery, until recently there were few hard data to prove if and how it impacts sobriety.Now a team of researchers at the University of Michigan Addi... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4309858 Mon, 27 Dec 2010 02:04:08 +0100 4309858 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4302289&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2F6UXBnW6HjLU%2F Take care of yourself“Live a full life of your own.”“Make sure you live a life of your own that does not depend on the undependable person.”“Carry on with your life after you’ve let the alcoholic know you aren’t babysitting anymore.”“Let them go, and focus on your own health and peace of mind.”These comments from masters underline the importance of taking care of yourself despite the problems with the drinker.Often, however, in an attempt to hide a family member’s alcohol abuse from others, spouses withdraw and isolate themselves from friends and other family members.Taking care of yourself might mean signing up for a class in the evenings, getting together with buddies from the past, or going away by yourself for a weekend.See also;AA and ... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4302289 Sun, 26 Dec 2010 15:28:01 +0100 4302289 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4288668&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fshould-aa-be-open-to-other-maladies%2F Should Non-Alcoholics Be Allowed In AA?Bill Wilson, A Co-Founder of AA Replies In This AudioFor decades many non-alcoholics have wanted to attend or join Alcoholics Anonymous meetings. Attending and listening at open AA meetings does not seem to be a problem at most AA groups. But non-alcoholics are not allowed to speak or share at AA meetings; or join AA.The reason for this is AA’s singleness of purpose principle. The Traditions of AA are as follows;Number – 3 – The only requirement for A.A. membership is a desire to stop drinking.Number – 5 – Each group has but one primary purpose – to carry the message to the alcoholic who still suffers.These and others have been adhered to around the world to prevent the message of AA to alcoholics being diluted.Bill Ure... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4288668 Fri, 24 Dec 2010 15:21:00 +0100 4288668 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4287585&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FN0vztXo_0FE%2F Image via WikipediaMany areas of our life need healing.One important part of our life is our sexuality. Our feelings and beliefs about our sexuality, our ability to nurture, cherish, and enjoy our sexuality, our ability to respect ourselves sexually, our ability to let go of sexual shame and confusion, may all be impaired or confused by our co-dependency.Our sexual energy may be blocked. Or for some of us, sex may be the only way we learned to connect with people. Our sexuality may not be connected to the rest of us; sex may not be connected to love – for others or ourselves.Some of us were sexually abused as children. Some of us may have gotten involved in sexuality addictive behaviors – compulsive sexual behaviors that got out of control and produced shame.Some of us may have... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4287585 Thu, 23 Dec 2010 15:44:00 +0100 4287585 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4287587&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FhDfPTM_iT2c%2F The “Good-Enough Sex” model for couple sexual satisfaction “Then we have the voices who cry for sex and more sex; who bewail the institution of marriage; who think that most of the troubles of the race are traceable to sex causes. They think we do not have enough of it, or that it isn’t the right kind. They see its significance everywhere. One school would allow man or woman no flavour for their fare and the other would have us all on a straight pepper diet. We want to stay out of this controversy. We do not want to be the arbiter of anyone’s sex conduct. We all have sex problems. We’d hardly be human if we didn’t. What can we do about them?Whatever our ideal turns out to be, we must be willing to grow toward it.” Alcoholics Anonymous, pp 69. The Goo... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4287587 Mon, 20 Dec 2010 15:19:01 +0100 4287587 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4287588&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2F6iKgemJAL-0%2F During the past 12 months how often have you: Given money to your partner thinking he/she might buy alcohol or drugs with it?Purchased alcohol or drugs for your partner?Taken over your partner’s typical chores and responsibilities neglected because of his/her drinking or drug use?Lied or made excuses to family or friends to hide your partner’s drinking or drug use?Drank or used drugs with your partner, or in your partner’s presence?Told your partner that it was okay to drink or use drugs on certain days or for special family or social gatherings?Borrowed money to pay bills caused by your partner’s drinking or drug use?Changed or cancelled family plans or social activities because your partner was drinking, using drugs, or hungover?Had sex with your partner when you ... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4287588 Mon, 20 Dec 2010 15:19:00 +0100 4287588 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4287590&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FlQa8_FSAwnc%2F .A new research study reveals a strong link between alcohol dependency and gambling problems, Reuters reported.According to researchers at the Research Institute on Addictions at the University at Buffalo, N.Y., adults with an alcohol addiction are 23 times more likely to have a gambling problem than those who do not drink.“If you’re in trouble with alcohol, the odds you’re also in trouble with gambling increase enormously,” said lead author Dr. John W. Welte. “Most of that correlation is that problem behaviors tend to cluster in the same people.”The study also found factors that identified which racial and ethnic groups were more likely to have a gambling problem. “Gambling is more common among lower socioeconomic people, blacks and Hispanics, than among ... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4287590 Fri, 17 Dec 2010 17:57:02 +0100 4287590 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4266279&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fmeetings-spirituality-recovery%2F The effects of spirituality in Alcoholics Anonymous on alcohol dependenceNew research shows that attending Alcoholics Anonymous meetings may increase spirituality and help decrease frequency and intensity of alcohol useAlcoholics Anonymous is a widely known 12-step program that can help individuals control their dependence on alcohol, and spirituality is a large partA new study shows that spirituality does increase over time, which can lead to better alcohol outcomes and an improved rate of recoveryThese results indicate that spirituality is an important factor in the multi-faceted recovery from an alcohol-use disorderAddictions, whether it is to drugs or alcohol, are a very difficult hurdle for individuals to overcome. But, there are ways to help people with their recovery through 12-step... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4266279 Thu, 16 Dec 2010 15:30:00 +0100 4266279 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4287580&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2F0eucu1e7scE%2F Image via WikipediaThe effects of Alcoholics Anonymous on women returning from prisonThis new research is the first of its kind to analyze the effects of Alcoholics Anonymous attendance in incarcerated women and its effectsThe effects of alcohol abuse, as well as recovery from it, have been intensely studied. However, incarcerated women have remained an extremely understudied population despite steadily increasing in recent decades. One of the main ways to help individuals (as well as prisoners) with their recovery is through a 12-step program like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA).A new study released in the March 2011 issue of Alcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research, which is currently available at Early View, explores that subject in detail and found that AA attendance of at least once... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4287580 Wed, 15 Dec 2010 17:30:21 +0100 4287580 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4266280&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fal-anon-mp3-podcasts%2F An official Al-anon MP3 websiteFor over 55 years, Al-Anon (which includes Alateen for younger members) has been offering strength and hope for friends and families of problem drinkers. It is estimated that each alcoholic affects the lives of at least four other people… alcoholism is truly a family disease. No matter what relationship you have with an alcoholic, whether they are still drinking or not, all who have been affected by someone else’s drinking can find solutions that lead to serenity in the Al-Anon/Alateen fellowship.New Podcast website Welcome to “First Steps to Al-Anon Recovery” from Al-Anon Family Groups. This is a series of podcasts to discuss some common concerns for people who have been affected by someone else’s drinking.Drinking During the HolidaysJanie, Ern... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4266280 Wed, 15 Dec 2010 16:16:27 +0100 4266280 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4266281&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2F10-pointers-to-recovery%2F Seek and yee shall findThese Ten Pointers are a summary of the lifesaving directions to recovery from alcoholism given in ‘How It Works’, chapter 5 of Alcoholics Anonymous – the AA Big Book.Completely give yourself to this simple Program.Practice rigorous honesty.Be willing to go to any lengths to recover.Be fearless and thorough in your practice of the principles.Realize that there is no easier, softer way.Let go of your old ideas, absolutely.Recognize that half measures will not work.Ask a Higher Power’s protection and care with complete abandon.Be willing to grow along spiritual lines.Accept the following ideas:that you cannot manage your own life;that probably no human power can restore you to sanity;that A Higher Power can and will if sought.See also12 Spiritual QuestionsThe L... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4266281 Wed, 15 Dec 2010 15:29:38 +0100 4266281 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4287582&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2FhX39Ac69zrE%2F In conclusion, compared with individuals who participated only in professional treatment in the first year after they initiated help-seeking, individuals who participated in both treatment and AA were more likely to achieve remission.Individuals who entered treatment but delayed participation in AA did not appear to obtain any additional benefit from AA.Moos, Rudolf H. and Moos, Bernice S.  Paths of entry into Alcoholics Anonymous: Consequences for participation and remission.  Alcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research 29(10):1858-1868, October 2005.Brief-TSF is designed as adjunctive therapy with AA.Random ArticlesAbstinence Best for AlcoholicsAddiction Professional Reference GuideThe psychiatric management of patients with alcohol dependenceDual dependenceMaking Alcoholi... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4287582 Sun, 12 Dec 2010 01:20:33 +0100 4287582 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4287583&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2F652viuRP4ug%2F Postural sway among abstinent alcoholics can be improved up to a pointExcessive sway during quiet standing is a common and significant consequence of chronic alcoholism, even after prolonged sobriety, and can lead to fall-related injury and even death.A new study of residual postural instability in alcohol-abstinent men and women shows that alcoholics improve with prolonged sobriety, but the improvement may not fully erase the problem of instability.Results will be published in the March 2010 issue of Alcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research and are currently available at Early View.“Caricatures depict acutely intoxicated individuals with a stumbling, weaving, wobbly gait,” said Edith V. Sullivan, professor in the department of psychiatry and behavioural sciences at Sta... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4287583 Sat, 11 Dec 2010 01:15:03 +0100 4287583 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4253456&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FZoViqCqG69Q%2F The Big Book of “Alcoholics Anonymous” includes the story of a woman whose drinking landed her in jail twice and nearly ruined her third marriage. Her final drunk, she recalls, lasted 60 days around the clock. “It was my intention, literally, to drink myself to death,” she said. Joining AA saved her life, largely because it helped her overcome the habit of resentment.This woman wrote that “self-pity and resentment were my constant companions … for I seemed to have a resentment against everybody I had ever known.” Moreover, “the only people who would support this attitude or whom I felt understood me at all were the people I met in bars and the ones who drank as I did.”AA recognizes that resentment is toxic to our inner lives. The case i... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4253456 Sun, 05 Dec 2010 03:37:37 +0100 4253456 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4253457&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FfdFyZa5Rz4M%2F • “If I could have stayed cool, I’d still be drinking. Very quickly, though, I started getting into trouble. Going to sixth grade got in the way of my life, which consisted of getting drunk as much as possible.” [After rehab] “I was going to A.A. meetings. Everyone was older, even most of the kids at the young people meetings. But I found that alcoholics understand other alcoholics. . . . Regardless of how young or old or ‘special’ I am, in A.A. I’m just a drunk.” Tina, who joined A.A. at 13• “I loved drinking and was as addicted to the lies, the shady people and places as I was to the alcohol. My grades suffered until I stopped going to school altogether. . . . I found myself in places without any idea of how I had gotten there. I overdosed on alcohol.” Since comin... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4253457 Sun, 05 Dec 2010 03:37:34 +0100 4253457 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4220462&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2FAkreI4Vn5yg%2F Phases of Alcoholism RecoveryThe recovery process in Alcoholics Anonymous includes several general phases that people may pass through. These are not time related but are usually dependent on the persons particular circumstances.Initial SobrietySurrenders to alcohol – accepts alcoholismBegins humble search for selfRestoration of physical health beginsRestoration of memory beginsRestoration of mental functions beginsBegins to practice self-honestyIs pre-occupied with sobrietyGrowth of open-mindednessLessening of needless guiltFreely discusses alcohol and its problemsMild depression and anxiety lessensMental functions are more alertLearning SobrietyAccepts and owns their alcoholismLoss of freedom acknowledged and acceptedAlibis replaced by sound reasons for sobrietySocial pressures to ... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4220462 Mon, 29 Nov 2010 19:56:20 +0100 4220462 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4203318&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fnew-aa-speaker-tapes-mp3%2F A new collection of Speaker Tapes has been found in America. The collection of MP3 tracks includes; Alcoholics Anonymous AA Founders AA Pioneers Big Book Authors Al-anon Narcotics Anonymous This library of tapes is estimated at 50,000 on wire recordings, reel-to-reel tapes, cassettes and dates back to the 1940′s. Collected by Bill and Arbutus O’Neal of Texas. This collection is progressively being converted to MP3 however there are currently several hundred available for free down load. These AA speaker tapes are mostly American but there are talks from Australia, Britain, Germany and Tokyo. Go to; Recovery Speakers Donations to the project are welcome Related articles MP3 Recovery Tracks for Lesbians in AA (recoveryissexy.com) The AA Tools of Recovery (recoveryi... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4203318 Fri, 26 Nov 2010 15:19:00 +0100 4203318 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4220465&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2FwoSHiCJzUU0%2F CONCLUSIONS: Application of social learning, behavior economic, and social control theories may help to identify predictors of remission and thus to allocate treatment more efficiently.Research; Moos RH, Moos BS. Protective resources and long-term recovery from alcohol use disorders. Drug Alcohol Depend. 2007 Jan 5;86(1):46-54.   Motivational Interviewing, Second Edition: Preparing People for Changeby William R. Miller, Stephen RollnickRead more about this title…Random ArticlesBrief-TSF theoryROLE OF SIGNIFICANT OTHERSSlips and RelapsesWorking with Twelve Step ApproachesUnderstanding Stress & alcohol (Source: Twelve Step Facilitation.com) Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4220465 Tue, 23 Nov 2010 18:57:08 +0100 4220465 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4197371&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fwhat-is-alcoholics-anonymous%2F AA's logoAmerican history includes many social movements that aimed to help people stop drinking. There was Prohibition, of course. But there was also the Anti-Saloon League, the American Temperance Society, the Washingtonian Temperance Society, the Women’s Christian Temperance Union, and more. Only one such movement survived — Alcoholics Anonymous (AA).AA not only survived, it spread across the world. Today, AA lists its membership at over 2 million, with over 100,00 groups in Australia, Africa, Asia, and Europe as well as North and South America, even Russia. If ever there was evidence that sobriety can be mass-produced, it is in AA.AA began with the chance meeting of two people on May 12, 1935: Bill W., an alcoholic stockbroker from New York, and Dr Bob S., an alcoholic surg... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4197371 Sat, 20 Nov 2010 16:31:49 +0100 4197371 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4190528&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation.com%2Fmaking-alcoholics-anonymous-easier%2F Effectiveness of Making Alcoholics Anonymous EasierMost treatment programs recommend clients attend 12-step groups, but many drop out posttreatment. The effectiveness of Making Alcoholics Anonymous [AA] Easier (MAAEZ ), a manual-guided intervention designed to help clients connect with individuals encountered in AA, was tested using an "OFF/ON" design (n = 508). MAAEZ effectiveness was determined by comparing abstinence rates of participants recruited during ON and OFF conditions and by studying the effect of the number of MAAEZ sessions attended.At 12 months, more clients in the ON condition (vs. OFF) reported past 30-dayabstinence from alcohol (p = .012),drugs (p = .009), andboth alcohol and drugs (p = .045).In multivariate analyses, ON condition participants had significantly ... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4190528 Sat, 20 Nov 2010 15:17:16 +0100 4190528 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4187055&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2F6_fstvQOMSg%2F In this study, researchers assessed participation in AA, abstinence, and other alcohol outcomes over 5 years among 349 patients who entered treatment at baseline and attended AA at least once during follow-up.Four patterns of AA attendance emerged:low (mainly during the year following treatment entry);medium (about 60 meetings per year with a slight increase by year 5);high (over 200 meetings per year with a slight decrease by year 5); anddeclining (almost 200 meetings the year following treatment entry and about 6 meetings in year 5).Abstinence (past 30 days) in year 5 significantly differed across groups:79 percent of patients with high attendance reported abstinence, followed by73 percent with medium attendance,61 percent with declining attendance, and43 percent with low attendance.Pati... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4187055 Fri, 19 Nov 2010 18:29:05 +0100 4187055 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4187056&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2FqPmRjnYgmms%2F This article explores the roots and spiritual dimensions of 12-step recovery programs. It further explores the ways in which theoretical and clinical knowledge about the delivery of spiritual care interventions may be gained from an understanding of AA’s spiritual approach to recovery.Alcoholics Anonymous and Nursing; Lessons in Holism and Spiritual Care. Eileen M. McGee, J Holist Nurs 2000; 18; 11.Brief-TSF can assist patients cease alcohol consumption.Random ArticlesBrain Damage & CirrhosisTreating Alcoholism as a Chronic DiseaseAdjunctive therapyThe Experiences of Alcohol DependenceThe Brief-TSF Model (Source: Twelve Step Facilitation.com) Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4187056 Thu, 18 Nov 2010 18:27:40 +0100 4187056 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4168215&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Finfertility-treatment-in-recovery%2F This article is based on the book, "Pregnancy Miracle" by Lisa Olson. Lisa is an author, researcher, nutritionist and health consultant who dedicated her life to creating the ultimate pregnancy solution guaranteed to permanently reverse the root of infertility, help you get pregnant quickly and naturally and dramatically improve the overall quality of your life,  without the use of prescription medication and without any surgical procedures. Learn more by visiting her website: Infertility Treatment  Click Here! Share, print or e-mail this articleRandom ArticlesSex is Good for your HealthLife Cycle of a PenisGood-Enough SexSymptoms of Co-dependenceRecovery Self-awareness (Source: Recovery Is Sexy.com) Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4168215 Mon, 15 Nov 2010 15:42:00 +0100 4168215 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4172332&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fcame-to-believe%2F The spiritual adventure of Alcoholics Anonymous as experienced by individual members. Over 75 A.A. members from all over the world describe the wide diversity of convictions implied in “God as we understood Him.” Especially helpful to those who confuse “spiritual” with “religious.” - Order now >> Came to Believe - Share, print or e-mail this articleAction and PatienceThe Alcoholics Anonymous Spiritual AwakeningMany Faiths Aid RecoveryBill W was Spiritual not ReligiousReligious 12-Step Fellowship Links (Source: Recovery Is Sexy.com) Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4172332 Sun, 14 Nov 2010 15:30:24 +0100 4172332 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4164705&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fthe-aa-tools-of-recovery%2F Many AA meetings read what is called the Tools of Recovery at the beginning of the meeting. ABSTINENCE We commit ourselves to stay away from the first drink, one day at a time. MEETINGS We attend A.A. meetings to learn how the program works, to share our experience, strength and hope with each other, and because through the support of the fellowship, we can do what we could never do alone. SPONSOR A sponsor is a person in the A.A. program who has what we want and is continually sober. A sponsor is someone you can relate to, have access to and can confide in. TELEPHONE The telephone is our lifeline — our meeting between meetings. Call before you take the first drink. The more numbers you have, the more insurance you have. LITERATURE The Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous is our... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4164705 Sun, 14 Nov 2010 15:30:23 +0100 4164705 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4159516&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FPzXkHcBVhDs%2F Image via Wikipedia We Agnostics Yet we had been seeing another kind of flight, a spiritual liberation from this world, people who rose above their problems. They said [the Higher Power] made these things possible, and we only smiled. We had seen spiritual release, but liked to tell ourselves it wasn’t true. Actually we were fooling ourselves, for deep down in every man, woman, and child, is the fundamental idea of [a Higher Power]. It may be obscured by calamity, by pomp, by worship of other things, but in some form or other it is there. For faith in a Power greater than ourselves, and miraculous demonstrations of that power in human lives, are facts as old as man himself. We finally saw that faith in some kind of [Higher Power] was a part of our make-up, just as much as the feelin... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4159516 Wed, 10 Nov 2010 16:38:00 +0100 4159516 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4159518&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2F7fKiJ3Jw9uY%2F A Bill of Rights For Adult Children of Alcoholics / Addicts and, in fact, all people. Bill of rights I do not have to feel guilty just because someone else does not like what I do, say, think, or feel. It is OK for me to feel angry and to express it in responsible ways. I do not have to assume full responsibility for making decisions, particularly where others share responsibility for making the decision. I have the right to say, "I don’t understand" without feeling stupid or guilty. I have the right to say "I don’t know" I have the right to say "no" without feeling guilty. I do not have to apologize or give reasons when I say no. I have the right to ask others to do things for me. I have the right to refuse requests which others make of... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4159518 Tue, 09 Nov 2010 16:19:00 +0100 4159518 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4143021&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fwhat-is-acoa-co-dependency-2%2F You can talk to a dozen experts, read a dozen books and get a dozen different interpretations of ACOA co-dependency.   Many accept it as a disease in as much as it has an onset, is progressive, predictable and in time potentially fatal, although other causes of death are generally cited.   It is assumed that all Adult Children of Alcoholics (ACOA’s) are co-dependents, but we each act out this illness in a different way.  Basically, there are two general concepts: As children growing up in an alcoholic or dysfunctional home environment, we learned to hide or divorce our feelings, our true selves (also knows as the "Inner Child") and we adopted a survival role in order to cope with the stresses.   The experts in the field of alcoholism have ... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4143021 Sun, 07 Nov 2010 13:37:06 +0100 4143021 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4139489&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2F6D3ph0fRMyk%2F The "Good-Enough Sex" model for couple sexual satisfaction From AA; "Then we have the voices who cry for sex and more sex; who bewail the institution of marriage; who think that most of the troubles of the race are traceable to sex causes. They think we do not have enough of it, or that it isn’t the right kind. They see its significance everywhere. One school would allow man or woman no flavour for their fare and the other would have us all on a straight pepper diet. We want to stay out of this controversy. We do not want to be the arbiter of anyone’s sex conduct. We all have sex problems. We’d hardly be human if we didn’t. What can we do about them? Whatever our ideal turns out to be, we must be willing to grow toward it. Alcoholics Anonymous, p... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4139489 Thu, 04 Nov 2010 14:37:15 +0100 4139489 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4143023&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Faa-still-works-2%2F An Historical Piece – AA Still Works After Twenty-Nine Years Marty M’s story "Women Suffer Too" was the first woman’s story in the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous. Today, as it was in April 1939 when I attended my first meeting, the Twelve Steps are to me the heart of the AA program. Desire to stop drinking By the time I gathered up courage to attend a meeting, I had read the Big Book three times. And I had studied several hundred times the pages containing the Twelve Steps and the suggestions on how to use them. They didn’t seem easy to me — they didn’t even seem simple, in spite of the clarity of language. But I was eager to go to work on all of them, for they seemed to me the key to that which I so desperately needed: assurance that I wo... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4143023 Thu, 04 Nov 2010 14:37:14 +0100 4143023 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4125288&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fis-it-harm-reduction-or-harm-continuation%2F Conclusions This author is of the opinion that what is ‘passed off’ as harm reduction in the UK is, in reality, a process that facilitates the continued use of toxic, psychoactive drugs. Whether or not that is the intention is open to speculation. What is indisputable is the fact that it is simply not working insofar as the rehabilitation and recovery of addicts and alcoholics are concerned – an outcome which includes relinquishing criminal activities, living in a safe and stable environment, and, in the fullness of time through gainful employment, becoming a self supporting member of society. Further, the architects of this disaster persist in hiding their failure by the time consuming and expensive process of producing sanitised statistics (which do not in anyway aid recovery b... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4125288 Mon, 01 Nov 2010 15:31:53 +0100 4125288 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4122080&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fmind-guide-to-relaxation%2F Image via Wikipedia Learning how to relax improves day-to-day living, and can be a valuable tool for coping with stress of any kind. Suitable for anyone in recovery from alcoholism, addiction, ACOA, co-dependency, compulsive gambling & etc. This booklet explores why people have problems trying to relax and how to resolve them. It explains how to introduce more relaxation into your everyday life, and how to take it further. It is not designed to go into specific deep relaxation techniques. Topics in this article include; What’s the link between stress and relaxation? What’s wrong with the way I relax now? How does relaxation differ from recreation? I feel too tense to relax. What can I do? How can I introduce more relaxation into my everyday life? How can I ta... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4122080 Sat, 30 Oct 2010 16:57:00 +0100 4122080 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4139488&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2FjZag1xg42EA%2F CONCLUSIONS: Promoting self-help group involvement appears to improve posttreatment outcomes while reducing the costs of continuing care. Even cost offsets that somewhat diminish over the long term can yield substantial savings. Actively promoting self-help group involvement may therefore be a useful clinical practice for helping addicted patients recover in a time of constrained fiscal resources. Humphreys K, Moos RH. Encouraging posttreatment self-help group involvement to reduce demand for continuing care services: two-year clinical and utilization outcomes. Alcohol Clin Exp Res. 2007 Jan;31(1):64-8. Brief-TSF is designed to encourage 12-Step involvement. Random ArticlesReferral To 12-Step GroupsTARGET POPULATIONSMinority Disparities in Alcohol Use and TreatmentCommunity Helping and A... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4139488 Fri, 29 Oct 2010 14:53:54 +0100 4139488 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4119726&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fdeaf-and-hard-of-hearing-recovery-2%2F Image via Wikipedia Deaf and Hard of Hearing Alcoholics Anonymous 12 Steps Recovery Resources This website has many resources for alcoholics with hearing problems. Click on links below; Links To World Wide Resources For Family & Friends Of Alcoholics Alcoholics Anonymous in American Sign Language  (ASL) – 5 volume set 1/2″ – VHS (Note: Only the first 164 pages is available in ASL) Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions in American Sign Language (ASL) – 5 volume set 1/2″-VHS Home page; http://www.dhh12s.com/ - Share, print or e-mail this articleDeaf and Hard of Hearing RecoveryAA & Professional Workers (Source: Recovery Is Sexy.com) Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4119726 Thu, 28 Oct 2010 16:51:00 +0100 4119726 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4119727&cid=t_107150_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fforgiveness-of-self-2%2F Image via Wikipedia I have studied many ways to self-forgiveness and have found this to be the definitive document on the why, who, how and where of forgiveness. Recovering members of 12-Step fellowships, such as Alcoholics Anonymous, Al-anon, ACOA, Gamblers Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, may find this helpful. It is important to forgive ourselves for our own confusion and unhappiness. It’s important to forgive ourselves for our own failures and stuckness––for the dreams, desires and visions that did not come true. If it seems that we may go unfulfilled in the ways we expected or strived for, we must be especially kind to ourselves in self-forgiveness. It is also important to forgive ourselves for the wounds we carry and the harm we caused others. Through the medium of prayer or me... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4119727 Wed, 27 Oct 2010 16:53:00 +0100 4119727