We have dozens of adjectives to describe anger. Annoyed, bitter, frustrated, resentful, livid, and countless others are all ways of describing the emotion. Those that struggle with a substance use disorder are often well acquainted with this feeling since the powerlessness we experience leaves us in a constant battle with it. Even after reaching recovery, […]
Therapy
Made a Decision: The Choice to Get and Stay Sober
The rise of intervention-based reality TV has created a false notion in the realm of substance use disorders and recovery: that a person must reach a “bottom” or the end of the road before they are willing to get sober. While it’s true that family members and loved ones should set and hold onto healthy […]
The “God” Concept and the 12 Steps
The word “god” is an early barrier for many when they walk into a 12 Step meeting. On top of this, it’s a term that makes its appearance very quickly in meetings. In fact, even those that are not familiar with the reference and discussion of god in 12-Step programs see it almost immediately upon […]
Trust the Process
Sitting in a room of strangers and discussing depression, grief, trauma, or familial problems can sound like an absolute nightmare, particularly for those with substance use disorder, who often feel separate from their fellows. If you look at the structure of a 12-Step program, you’ll see that while working individually with a sponsor is touted […]
Is it Apathy or Something More?
Apathy is a word we hear a lot around recovery, however, it might be something that we don’t entirely understand. There is an inherent idea that compares it to depression or casts it as only a symptom of another mental health diagnosis. Apathy is a challenge all on its own and it can be difficult […]
I’ve Already Been to Therapy
Understanding the nature of substance use disorder and addiction continues to grow and new light continues to be shed on the mental aspect of the disease. While the focus has long been on the actual substance sought out and the effects suffered as a result, a better understanding of the motivation many have to use […]