One reason some people start using drugs is to overcome physical pain, while in other cases drugs are used as a means to escape emotional pain. While drugs do provide a temporary reprieve from suffering, it eventually leads to more pain and usually only furthers the users difficulties. The user’s problematic life – now complicated and made worse by the addiction – soon spirals out of control and may never be solved without outside intervention.
Those who are in pain – whether emotional or physical – should only use drugs as a last resort, and use it with extreme caution. This is because drugs can, in a short time, drastically alter the brain and body, making the user dependent on the drug. Additionally, drug use isolates users and disconnects them from everything around them: their family, their friends, and their work. Their world starts to revolve around drugs and they think about how to get the next hit and get high again.
As the addiction progresses, drug addicts start having troubles caused by their drug use. They lose their job, they are ostracized by the society, and even their friends and family may abandon them. They will also experience various medical disorders due to their unhealthy lifestyle. Without professional help, it is very likely that a drug user will succumb to his or her, limiting the chance of treatment in each day that passes, until the point that any help may be futile and the addict – as have been unfortunately been the case in many people – can no longer cope either with or without drugs.
There are many answers on addiction, but the most important of these is rehab treatment, which has to be taken as soon as possible as the longer treatment is postponed the more difficult it would be for the addict to return to normal life. This is why it’s important for drug addicts to find treatment on drug rehab centers that doesn’t just stop the addiction, but helps them regain a fresh start in life.
The best possible time for getting de-addicted is before forming the habit, which is to say that it’s best to never start using drugs at all. But it can’t always be helped. So what drug addicts can do is to try to find answers on addiction as soon as they recognize that they have a problem with their drug use. Given a timely intervention, and that treatment is provided through a rehab program, and with a strong will to recover, a drug addict can overcome his or her addiction and lead a clean and healthy life, free from the pains and dangers of drug use.
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
Monday, February 27, 2012
Illinois Rehab Centers
Going to an Illinois rehab center is the best solution for anyone who wishes to stop their drug addiction. It is the way in order to overcome drug dependency and get another chance to find a successful life by being a happy and healthy person. With the right treatment, a drug addict can eliminate his harmful habits and, in the process, improve his health, self-regard and relationships with other people, especially his family. Going to rehab is the best choice for Illinois residents who want start anew in life.
Kicking the Habit. Stopping all drug use is the first, crucial step to treating an addiction. But this will not come easy, and most time, will require the assistance of experienced staff and health care providers who can oversee that treatment is proceeding safely and effectively. Through this, Illinois rehab patients have the choice to live a purposeful and empowered life.
Eased Into Recovery. Drug addiction is characterized by chronic compulsive behavior where the drug addict seems unable to function without getting a hit of his drug of choice. Thankfully, drug rehabs can provide treatment for the abuse of any type of substance, whether it be prescription drugs of hard drugs. The comfortable facilities of the rehab center will provide a conducive environment for reflection and recovery, letting patients resolve their own issues and drug use as it would suit them best.
Finding the Right Treatment. Going to a rehab program is a hard choice to make for drug addicts because they have become dependent on their drugs and many of them believe they can’t find of happiness without using it. But continuing to abuse drugs is extremely dangerous: in fact, thousands die from drug overdose every year, and many more suffer various painful medical conditions brought on by drug use. In this light, finding the right treatment isn’t just another chance at life, it might be the only hope of staying alive after such risky habit as drug use.
Approaches to Recovery. Illinois rehab center can provide different types of treatments but the goal is the same in all: to end the cycle of addiction. Depending on the need of the patient, treatment may include psychiatric consultation, individualized nutritional planning and fitness activities. Since each individual have different rates of progress, the length and duration of treatment may also vary. Regardless of the approach and duration, treatment will be scientific and tested to be effective.
Going to Illinois rehab has many benefits, not the least being rescued from what would eventually be a fatal habit. Undergoing treatment can bring physical, mental, emotional, social and even spiritual improvements to each patient. During treatment, patients are also provided with a good, wholesome environment where access of drugs is not only prohibited, but the only available elements are beneficial to the health of the patients and will help him recover. While some may take a long time, with the right approach and the support of one’s family and friends, anyone can find recovery in the end.
Kicking the Habit. Stopping all drug use is the first, crucial step to treating an addiction. But this will not come easy, and most time, will require the assistance of experienced staff and health care providers who can oversee that treatment is proceeding safely and effectively. Through this, Illinois rehab patients have the choice to live a purposeful and empowered life.
Eased Into Recovery. Drug addiction is characterized by chronic compulsive behavior where the drug addict seems unable to function without getting a hit of his drug of choice. Thankfully, drug rehabs can provide treatment for the abuse of any type of substance, whether it be prescription drugs of hard drugs. The comfortable facilities of the rehab center will provide a conducive environment for reflection and recovery, letting patients resolve their own issues and drug use as it would suit them best.
Finding the Right Treatment. Going to a rehab program is a hard choice to make for drug addicts because they have become dependent on their drugs and many of them believe they can’t find of happiness without using it. But continuing to abuse drugs is extremely dangerous: in fact, thousands die from drug overdose every year, and many more suffer various painful medical conditions brought on by drug use. In this light, finding the right treatment isn’t just another chance at life, it might be the only hope of staying alive after such risky habit as drug use.
Approaches to Recovery. Illinois rehab center can provide different types of treatments but the goal is the same in all: to end the cycle of addiction. Depending on the need of the patient, treatment may include psychiatric consultation, individualized nutritional planning and fitness activities. Since each individual have different rates of progress, the length and duration of treatment may also vary. Regardless of the approach and duration, treatment will be scientific and tested to be effective.
Going to Illinois rehab has many benefits, not the least being rescued from what would eventually be a fatal habit. Undergoing treatment can bring physical, mental, emotional, social and even spiritual improvements to each patient. During treatment, patients are also provided with a good, wholesome environment where access of drugs is not only prohibited, but the only available elements are beneficial to the health of the patients and will help him recover. While some may take a long time, with the right approach and the support of one’s family and friends, anyone can find recovery in the end.
Friday, February 24, 2012
Looking for a Suitable Drug Addiction Treatment Center?
Are you looking for a suitable drug addiction treatment center for you or your family member? You might have to address many things before finalizing a particular drug rehab center. A lot of drug addicts get panicked at the thought of going through drug and alcohol treatment. Most of the time, they are afraid of the treatment methods that will make their life much simpler. Thus, choosing the right drug addiction treatment and a drug rehab center requires a lot of patience, diligence and investigation.
While deciding on a drug/alcohol rehabilitation center, there are a lot of factors to be considered. Therefore, it is good to carry out a thorough investigation in advance. It is good to be upfront about your situation and ask as many questions from the professionals as possible. This will eventually make your stay in the rehab center more productive.
Choosing a location or an area is the first and foremost issue to address. A peaceful location with a warm climate has many advantages. Therefore, rehab centers in Texas, Florida or Arizona are very popular choices and usually make for the best treatment center experience.
The second deciding factor is whether you prefer a gender specific or co-ed rehabilitation center. You will find programs that are specifically designed for men and other centers designed only for women. In addition, there are co-ed rehab centers providing treatment services for both men and women.
Most of the individuals looking for drug addiction treatment decide on co-ed facilities. Substance abuse programs in these centers are focused on the behavior, causes, values and social aspects of no particular gender – which, usually, proves to be more comprehensive and more supportive.
The next factor that plays an important role in choosing a drug rehab center is the emotional intelligence and stability of the person. You must consider whether you want to choose a spiritual rehab center, which centers on treating an individual through spirituality based on accepted spiritual teachings. Or you can opt for a holistic rehab center. Holistic treatment centers lay the groundwork for an unadulterated and clean way of life. Their substance abuse programs are based on meditation and yoga practices and they aim at reestablishing equilibrium and restoring balance of mind, body and soul.
Additionally, the duration of a program at any center should be given consideration. The most common programs lasts thirty, sixty or ninety days. The duration of a program also depends on the structure of the program. Every program has its own pros and cons, but one should give more preference to, "the longer – the better." A ninety day program gives you enough time for detoxification, counseling and support.
Every center has their unique programs with different time length. So you should choose the one that suits you and your requirements. Contacting the drug rehab centers and their treatment team support staff members is your first step towards a life of recovery – your family and friends want you to recover and to make a positive change in your life. Don't be afraid to ask for their support in making your decision!
While deciding on a drug/alcohol rehabilitation center, there are a lot of factors to be considered. Therefore, it is good to carry out a thorough investigation in advance. It is good to be upfront about your situation and ask as many questions from the professionals as possible. This will eventually make your stay in the rehab center more productive.
Choosing a location or an area is the first and foremost issue to address. A peaceful location with a warm climate has many advantages. Therefore, rehab centers in Texas, Florida or Arizona are very popular choices and usually make for the best treatment center experience.
The second deciding factor is whether you prefer a gender specific or co-ed rehabilitation center. You will find programs that are specifically designed for men and other centers designed only for women. In addition, there are co-ed rehab centers providing treatment services for both men and women.
Most of the individuals looking for drug addiction treatment decide on co-ed facilities. Substance abuse programs in these centers are focused on the behavior, causes, values and social aspects of no particular gender – which, usually, proves to be more comprehensive and more supportive.
The next factor that plays an important role in choosing a drug rehab center is the emotional intelligence and stability of the person. You must consider whether you want to choose a spiritual rehab center, which centers on treating an individual through spirituality based on accepted spiritual teachings. Or you can opt for a holistic rehab center. Holistic treatment centers lay the groundwork for an unadulterated and clean way of life. Their substance abuse programs are based on meditation and yoga practices and they aim at reestablishing equilibrium and restoring balance of mind, body and soul.
Additionally, the duration of a program at any center should be given consideration. The most common programs lasts thirty, sixty or ninety days. The duration of a program also depends on the structure of the program. Every program has its own pros and cons, but one should give more preference to, "the longer – the better." A ninety day program gives you enough time for detoxification, counseling and support.
Every center has their unique programs with different time length. So you should choose the one that suits you and your requirements. Contacting the drug rehab centers and their treatment team support staff members is your first step towards a life of recovery – your family and friends want you to recover and to make a positive change in your life. Don't be afraid to ask for their support in making your decision!
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
Rehab Centers for Gays and Lesbians
Millions of people in the United States are now addicted to drugs and alcohol but refuse to seek treatment. Sadly, some of these people are gays and lesbians who are afraid to enter rehab not because they don’t want treatment, but because they are afraid of possible discrimination and misunderstanding that might happen during treatment. It is the aim of gay friendly rehab centers to inform such individuals that there are in fact many rehab centers that particularly cater to the LGBT community and whose treatment programs are more effective for them.
In most cases, only the family of a drug addict – or even just a single family member the addict cares about – is enough to convince him or her to seek treatment. But one problem is that the right moment to intervene with an addict’s habit also has to be timed in order to create the best impact. And along with the caring family member or friend, a specialist also has to be present so that the whole situation is handled professionally and do not escalate.
This is to assist the drug addicts into the treatment and guide them through all its phases. Without support, drug addicts will not be able to pull themselves up, especially when their body is still dependent on the drug. This will continue until they finish the detox phase of the treatment, where they clear out all the addictive substances from their body and starts progressing towards recovery.
In many cases, gays and lesbians have become dependent on drugs that they have forgotten how to function without its influence. In such cases, these individuals will be temporarily provided with a substitute medication to help them stop their dependency in a safe and painless way. The substitute drug will be slowly reduced until a patient can fully function once again while drug free. But stopping the use of drugs is only the first step of the program: to get fully treated, an addict must lose his desire of drugs and be filled with a desire to lead a clean and healthy life. That too is the goal of every rehab center.
We intend to do this by providing the patients with an environment where they can relax and think about the causes and consequences of their addiction. A rehab center will help them through this by having them participate in different programs that include group counseling, personal one-on-one discussions with a professional therapist, and various meditative and creative activities.
The goal of all the drug rehabilitation programs is to lead the patients into lasting recovery. When the patients are agreeable to the program, and if they have the determination to stay in the path to recovery, rehab centers for gays and lesbians will remain their dedication to helping drug addled individuals in the LGBT community. Even if the treatment will not be especially easy as it will force the patients to confront their personal issues – the cause of their addiction – and resolve that along with their addiction.
Lastly, the support of the family should not be forgotten. Rehab centers know that recovering from drug addiction will be a very big relief for all drug addicts, but any sense of accomplishment will be diminished if the recovered addict can’t find a family to celebrate his achievements with. Additionally, it will be the family that will continue to support the recovering addict and help him deal with the changes in his life.
In most cases, only the family of a drug addict – or even just a single family member the addict cares about – is enough to convince him or her to seek treatment. But one problem is that the right moment to intervene with an addict’s habit also has to be timed in order to create the best impact. And along with the caring family member or friend, a specialist also has to be present so that the whole situation is handled professionally and do not escalate.
This is to assist the drug addicts into the treatment and guide them through all its phases. Without support, drug addicts will not be able to pull themselves up, especially when their body is still dependent on the drug. This will continue until they finish the detox phase of the treatment, where they clear out all the addictive substances from their body and starts progressing towards recovery.
In many cases, gays and lesbians have become dependent on drugs that they have forgotten how to function without its influence. In such cases, these individuals will be temporarily provided with a substitute medication to help them stop their dependency in a safe and painless way. The substitute drug will be slowly reduced until a patient can fully function once again while drug free. But stopping the use of drugs is only the first step of the program: to get fully treated, an addict must lose his desire of drugs and be filled with a desire to lead a clean and healthy life. That too is the goal of every rehab center.
We intend to do this by providing the patients with an environment where they can relax and think about the causes and consequences of their addiction. A rehab center will help them through this by having them participate in different programs that include group counseling, personal one-on-one discussions with a professional therapist, and various meditative and creative activities.
The goal of all the drug rehabilitation programs is to lead the patients into lasting recovery. When the patients are agreeable to the program, and if they have the determination to stay in the path to recovery, rehab centers for gays and lesbians will remain their dedication to helping drug addled individuals in the LGBT community. Even if the treatment will not be especially easy as it will force the patients to confront their personal issues – the cause of their addiction – and resolve that along with their addiction.
Lastly, the support of the family should not be forgotten. Rehab centers know that recovering from drug addiction will be a very big relief for all drug addicts, but any sense of accomplishment will be diminished if the recovered addict can’t find a family to celebrate his achievements with. Additionally, it will be the family that will continue to support the recovering addict and help him deal with the changes in his life.
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
Drug Treatment Centers in Florida
Nearly all U.S. states, not the least Florida, where the gay population remains high, report an increasing number of cases of drug addiction. Given that more gays are getting treated (compared to the overall population), this means that are a lot more people getting exposed to the dangerous and debilitating effects of drugs. This is alarming as many drugs are known to have non-breakable compounds that can cause severe physical problems. Every year, thousands lose their lives to drugs and many, many more are forever damaged.
The drug treatment centers in Florida aims to mend this serious problem by treating drug addicted individuals and providing them, and their families, with resources that will help them avoid using drugs. However, solving the problem isn’t as straightforward as it may seem, as treatment may differ with each patient and approaches have to be modified repeatedly in order to provide lasting recovery.
Individuals who have become dependent on a drug can only find treatment in a full rehab program, which has to include detoxification, psychiatric evaluation, personal and group counseling, as well as different methods of relapse prevention, such as Narcotics Anonymous meetings. The rehab must also be able to provide a client-focused treatment, one that adjusts depending on the needs of the client.
Various phases of treatment include detoxification, behavioral therapy, educational seminars, meditation, and aftercare, etc. Detox helps to remove toxins and prepares the patient's body for rest of the treatment. The group sessions that are organized in the drug rehab facilities help the patients share and discuss their problems and gain hope for a better future. Educational seminars make the patients aware of the negative consequences of addiction and positive effects of treatment.
There are also many people who enter treatment just as they are still in the initial or moderate level of addiction. They are, of course, welcome and accommodated. Patients are treated based on the degree of their addiction, with consideration to their history and family background, health, and determination to recover. Because of this, a detailed initial analysis and diagnosis is often the first part of treatment, oftentimes preceding detoxification.
Drug treatment centers in Florida assure that patients are release only if their chance of relapsing has been absolutely minimized. The doctors, counselors and staff members all put an effort to make each patient understand the need for leading a clean, drug-free life. During their stay, they are provided with various activities that would help them recover from their addiction, while simultaneously giving them the will to resist using drugs again.
The drug treatment centers in Florida know that removing drugs from the patient’s body is only the first step of treatment. In order to really help recovering drug addicts, they should develop the determination to live a drug-free and fulfilled life and have the support of their family and friends. This is why family are involved in the treatment and are also guided on how to best assist their loved one in his or her new life.
The drug treatment centers in Florida aims to mend this serious problem by treating drug addicted individuals and providing them, and their families, with resources that will help them avoid using drugs. However, solving the problem isn’t as straightforward as it may seem, as treatment may differ with each patient and approaches have to be modified repeatedly in order to provide lasting recovery.
Individuals who have become dependent on a drug can only find treatment in a full rehab program, which has to include detoxification, psychiatric evaluation, personal and group counseling, as well as different methods of relapse prevention, such as Narcotics Anonymous meetings. The rehab must also be able to provide a client-focused treatment, one that adjusts depending on the needs of the client.
Various phases of treatment include detoxification, behavioral therapy, educational seminars, meditation, and aftercare, etc. Detox helps to remove toxins and prepares the patient's body for rest of the treatment. The group sessions that are organized in the drug rehab facilities help the patients share and discuss their problems and gain hope for a better future. Educational seminars make the patients aware of the negative consequences of addiction and positive effects of treatment.
There are also many people who enter treatment just as they are still in the initial or moderate level of addiction. They are, of course, welcome and accommodated. Patients are treated based on the degree of their addiction, with consideration to their history and family background, health, and determination to recover. Because of this, a detailed initial analysis and diagnosis is often the first part of treatment, oftentimes preceding detoxification.
Drug treatment centers in Florida assure that patients are release only if their chance of relapsing has been absolutely minimized. The doctors, counselors and staff members all put an effort to make each patient understand the need for leading a clean, drug-free life. During their stay, they are provided with various activities that would help them recover from their addiction, while simultaneously giving them the will to resist using drugs again.
The drug treatment centers in Florida know that removing drugs from the patient’s body is only the first step of treatment. In order to really help recovering drug addicts, they should develop the determination to live a drug-free and fulfilled life and have the support of their family and friends. This is why family are involved in the treatment and are also guided on how to best assist their loved one in his or her new life.
Monday, February 20, 2012
Treatment at Gay Friendly Rehab
Gay Friendly Rehab has found that the number of gays and lesbian people who seek treatment for drug addiction rises much faster than the general population. Some suspected reasons for this is that gays and lesbians use drugs as a coping mechanism to feelings of discrimination and sexual repression and the widespread use of certain drugs (crystal meth in particular) within the gay clubbing community.
Because of this, there is a need for more drug addiction treatment centers that focuses on treating to gay and lesbian individuals as addicts have a better chance of recovery when they enter a facility that houses patients from similar backgrounds and belief systems.
However, this should not be taken to mean that gays and lesbians cannot be treated in facilities with patients of mixed sexuality. Based on interviews, gays and lesbians respond positively to treatment programs as long as individuals feel comfortable about their environment – the rehab doesn’t have to be exclusive, it just has to be Gay Friendly Rehab. Gay and Lesbian addicts report that they appreciate having therapists and other addictions professionals address their lifestyle and sexuality issues directly.
Gay and lesbian substance abusers can get treatment either at a gay and lesbian exclusive rehab facility, or at a mixed sexuality facility; but one that observes a determined tolerance and freedom of expression towards all genders and sexualities.
Advocates of both argue the relative merits of each, and it seems that either type of facility can offer good support and treatment, and it simply comes down to an individual comfort level. If a patient does not feel comfortable discussing personal issues in a mixed sexuality environment, then Gay Friendly Rehab is the better choice, but if he or she is comfortable contributing openly and honestly within a mixed a facility then there is really no problem.
Ultimately, an attitude of respect and tolerance is all that is required in a drug treatment center for gay and lesbian patients to be comfortable and be encouraged to recover. It is recommended that gay or lesbian drug addicts seeking recovery ensure that they are comfortable during the duration of their treatment – to help them focus on dealing with the issues of their addiction – go to Gay Friendly Rehab.
Because of this, there is a need for more drug addiction treatment centers that focuses on treating to gay and lesbian individuals as addicts have a better chance of recovery when they enter a facility that houses patients from similar backgrounds and belief systems.
However, this should not be taken to mean that gays and lesbians cannot be treated in facilities with patients of mixed sexuality. Based on interviews, gays and lesbians respond positively to treatment programs as long as individuals feel comfortable about their environment – the rehab doesn’t have to be exclusive, it just has to be Gay Friendly Rehab. Gay and Lesbian addicts report that they appreciate having therapists and other addictions professionals address their lifestyle and sexuality issues directly.
Gay and lesbian substance abusers can get treatment either at a gay and lesbian exclusive rehab facility, or at a mixed sexuality facility; but one that observes a determined tolerance and freedom of expression towards all genders and sexualities.
Advocates of both argue the relative merits of each, and it seems that either type of facility can offer good support and treatment, and it simply comes down to an individual comfort level. If a patient does not feel comfortable discussing personal issues in a mixed sexuality environment, then Gay Friendly Rehab is the better choice, but if he or she is comfortable contributing openly and honestly within a mixed a facility then there is really no problem.
Ultimately, an attitude of respect and tolerance is all that is required in a drug treatment center for gay and lesbian patients to be comfortable and be encouraged to recover. It is recommended that gay or lesbian drug addicts seeking recovery ensure that they are comfortable during the duration of their treatment – to help them focus on dealing with the issues of their addiction – go to Gay Friendly Rehab.
Tuesday, January 03, 2012
Recognizing the Powerlessness in Addiction
Addiction negatively influences an addict both physically and psychologically. A dependence on substances develops and withdrawal occurs when the substance is discontinued. The withdrawal for addicts can be extremely difficult producing cravings, thoughts and perceived opportunities to use. An addict begins to feel powerless in addiction, feeling trapped by unwanted thoughts, feelings and behaviors. The serenity prayer gives addicts the outline to combat the feeling of powerlessness.
The serenity prayer is broken down into a few questions that will help recognize and decrease the sense of powerlessness.
Control
To control is to exercise power or authority over something. Oftentimes, addiction will encourage the addict that they are in control over the use of substances. After the body becomes dependent, the brain produces cravings of a physiological nature that an addict cannot control. While the addict believes that he or she can stop substance abuse at anytime he or she wants, he or she is not able to because of physiological effects.
This type of thinking also translates into external situations for an addict. They will always believe that they can control the outcomes of situations based upon their input or involvement. This is most evident in the addict who continues to use despite family confrontations about addiction. The addict will lie and manipulate to continue using drugs and alcohol. He or she will have a false sense of being in control, although people on the outside clearly see the dysfunction.
What is actually in our control is how we respond to others, our own feelings and thoughts, and our physical actions.
Change
Attempting to change something that is not in our control is self defeating behavior. We are only able to change what is in our immediate control: our response to thoughts, to feelings, and to others. The object is to respond and not react to circumstances which are not in our control. We can not change the past or predict the future so remaining in the present is key.
Forcing others to see our perspective or change their point of view is unhealthy, especially when under the influence of alcohol and drugs. Addiction causes addicts to respond irrationally when they are not in control. Addiction leads you to believe that you can control, change and predict outcomes.
Knowing What is in My Control vs. What Is Not
This is where most addicts struggle. Knowing what they can and cannot control. This is a skill that takes time and practice. Addicts will believe that they can control drugs and alcohol use despite negative consequences.
Some questions that may help are:
Attempting to control situations that are not in your control can increase stress and arguments among loved ones. Admitting you are powerless in your addiction is the first step in the 12 Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous. Relinquishing control can be a freeing experience if you are willing to take the risk.
The serenity prayer is broken down into a few questions that will help recognize and decrease the sense of powerlessness.
- What is my control?
- What can I change?
- What can’t I change?
- How do I know the difference?
Control
To control is to exercise power or authority over something. Oftentimes, addiction will encourage the addict that they are in control over the use of substances. After the body becomes dependent, the brain produces cravings of a physiological nature that an addict cannot control. While the addict believes that he or she can stop substance abuse at anytime he or she wants, he or she is not able to because of physiological effects.
This type of thinking also translates into external situations for an addict. They will always believe that they can control the outcomes of situations based upon their input or involvement. This is most evident in the addict who continues to use despite family confrontations about addiction. The addict will lie and manipulate to continue using drugs and alcohol. He or she will have a false sense of being in control, although people on the outside clearly see the dysfunction.
What is actually in our control is how we respond to others, our own feelings and thoughts, and our physical actions.
Change
Attempting to change something that is not in our control is self defeating behavior. We are only able to change what is in our immediate control: our response to thoughts, to feelings, and to others. The object is to respond and not react to circumstances which are not in our control. We can not change the past or predict the future so remaining in the present is key.
Forcing others to see our perspective or change their point of view is unhealthy, especially when under the influence of alcohol and drugs. Addiction causes addicts to respond irrationally when they are not in control. Addiction leads you to believe that you can control, change and predict outcomes.
Knowing What is in My Control vs. What Is Not
This is where most addicts struggle. Knowing what they can and cannot control. This is a skill that takes time and practice. Addicts will believe that they can control drugs and alcohol use despite negative consequences.
Some questions that may help are:
- Does this situation directly involve me?
- What can I do differently to impact this situation?
- Am I attempting to control outcomes?
- How can I manage this situation assertively without the use of drugs and alcohol?
Attempting to control situations that are not in your control can increase stress and arguments among loved ones. Admitting you are powerless in your addiction is the first step in the 12 Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous. Relinquishing control can be a freeing experience if you are willing to take the risk.
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