When I look back over my time in addiction recovery, it would seem that this process was linear. In other words, it would appear that there was some kind of flow that provided me with a sense of well-being and confidence that I would no longer have to worry about picking up a drink or drug again. But this couldn’t be further from the truth. The reality, for me, is that recovery from addiction rarely occurs in a straight line.

Surrender (v) - to give oneself up, as into the power of another; submit or yield. Addiction is a powerful thing. For millions that live with this disease, life can be a constant struggle to go on from day to day. Often, despite their own best efforts, many addicts have difficulty coming to terms with their illness. This is often displayed in the form of such defense mechanisms as denial, blaming, and intellectualization, to name but a few

The abuse of prescription painkillers in the United States has reached epic proportions.  In 2008 drug overdose rates have more than tripled since 1990.  More than 12 million people reported using prescription painkillers non-medically in 2010, that is, using them without a prescription or for the feeling they cause.   

Early recovery can be a difficult time for many individuals. Whether it is the rollercoaster of emotions to PAWS (Post Acute Withdrawal Syndrome) this period can challenge even the most steadfast recovering person.

Unless you’ve been living under a rock then you have undoubtedly heard about the recent admission by Lance Armstrong that he used anabolic steroids during his pursuit of seven straight Tour de France victories from 1999 to 2005.  This public admission has served to once again highlight the use of steroids by athletes to enhance their athletic performance.  From weightlifters like Lou Ferrigno to baseball players like Barry Bonds, the professional sports world has been rocked by these scandals.  But are these substances addictive?

Drug addiction affects people from all walks of life. It is, as the old saying goes, “not a respecter of persons.” Just as the ends of addiction are jails, institutions, and death, the opposite, recovery, can be a beacon of hope. But what can you do to help someone you know who is suffering from the ravages of substance abuse?

Motivational interviewing has been used for over 25 years to help treat those living with substance abuse and mental disorders. This evidence based practice involves using the five stages of change.  This video explores these five stages.

For many an addict, abstinence from mind and mood altering chemicals is a significant achievement.  Addiction has a way of tearing apart a person in ways that are incredibly damaging.  In addition, there is typically a great deal of fall out that results from a person’s self-destructive behavior.

It’s January 1st and it’s a new year. Many people have decided that today will be the day for a fresh start when it comes to addressing issues of addictive behaviors. As for me, it’s simply another day. I don’t mean to downplay the idea of New Year resolutions but I just think that any day we choose can be a new beginning.

Addiction has often been called a “family disease.”  I would expand this definition to include those who are friends as well due the fact that the affected person’s behavior usually has an impact on those around them, whether they are family or friends.  As a result, a pattern of co-dependent behavior can occur.  So what can significant others do to help the active addict?