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Archive for the ‘Emotional Health’ Category

SAD and Addiction

Wednesday, February 17th, 2010

Seasonal Affective DisorderSeasonal depression can be dangerous, especially for those with addiction issues.

Who knew there was a most depressing day of the year? Dr. Cliff Arnall, a British researcher from Cardiff University, did. He recently pinpointed Jan. 18 as 2010’s most depressing day. To arrive at this, he factored in everything from post-holiday blahs and debt to failed New Year’s resolutions and the weather.

On the bright side, that means the worst is over because if you’re reading this, you survived that dreaded day. For those suffering from the winter blahs, though, that offers little comfort. (more…)

Avoiding Burnout

Tuesday, June 23rd, 2009

burnoutSubstance abuse and mental health professionals are at risk of “compassion fatigue.” How do they stay healthy so they can be there to help for years to come?

Professionals who work in the fields of mental health and substance abuse (especially those who deal with dual disorders and confront both on a daily basis) are at a particularly high risk for professional burnout. A phenomenon known as “compassion fatigue” can occur when the pressure from their daily work begins to erode their outlook and attitude, interfering with their personal life and overall well-being.
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Dating Dangers

Friday, April 3rd, 2009

dating dangersIt can be hard to avoid the urge to “couple up” during the first year of recovery, but some treatment programs go out of their way to make it easier to stay focused.

What could be wrong with finding someone you connect with, who understands what you’re going through and wants to offer support and encouragement? Nothing —unless you’re in treatment. Most programs, including 12-step groups, ask that those in treatment or recovery refrain any romantic entanglements during the first year.

Why the one-year rule? Recovery brings about big changes. You’re relearning how to live out in the world, how to work and interact with others in new, healthy ways. It’s a lot of hard work that requires an almost-singular focus. Anyone who’s ever been in a relationship knows that the initial period can be all-consuming … something that’s hardly compatible with the work of ongoing recovery.
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Respect During Recovery

Friday, March 6th, 2009

respectAretha Franklin had it right when she demanded R-E-S-P-E-C-T in her famous song. We need to keep that same tune in mind when interacting with anyone who is dealing with a substance abuse problem.

Televised intervention programs and treatment reality shows can make the process look like a bit of a circus, but in truth, treatment center staff are trained to treat everyone who comes through the doors with respect – and to show family members and others how to do the same.

Emotions are usually running high with all involved by the time someone is approached about seeking treatment for a substance abuse problem. There’s no need to add to that with more drama. Ambushing the person with a problem, running down a laundry list of all they’ve done wrong or bringing up painful family issues in a disrespectful or blaming way will only hinder their ability to accept the help.
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From Hurting to Healing

Wednesday, March 4th, 2009

man-with-hands-on-face-w200

Some experiences are so painful that you’d do anything to avoid reliving them. Unfortunately, that’s just what needs to be done to get to the root of a substance abuse problem or process addiction.

No one willingly chooses to go through pain. In fact, many addictions are born out of a desire to avoid pain in other areas of your life. But that very thing that eases your pain initially can cause even greater pain soon enough. Often, by the time you’re ready to get help, the substance abuse has become the main issue and any past pain is pushed aside. Treat just that chemical dependency, though, and that initial pain is sure to bubble to the surface.
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Before You Can Bloom

Tuesday, February 24th, 2009

TulipsDoes it seem like you’re not making any progress? Is recovery just not moving fast enough to satisfy you? Trust me, you’re not the only one who feels that way. But before you get too discouraged, take a look outside.

Before spring gives way to all those beautiful blooms- the white crocus, yellow daffodils, pink and red tulips- a lot goes on underground. That foundation work isn’t nearly so pretty to look at. In fact, there’s nothing much to see up here on the surface. But underneath, slowly but surely, the day-to-day work is happening that will eventually lead to that showy spring bouquet. Those bulbs don’t look so pretty in the beginning. They’re weathered, dry and peeling. (more…)

Living in a State of Recovery

Tuesday, February 24th, 2009

I’m a finisher. I like to get things done and check them off my list. That accomplishment gives me a feeling of intense satisfaction. Maybe that’s why it’s taken me quite a while to grasp the idea that “recovery” is something I’ll never be able to cross off my life’s to-do list. I’ll never be done.

I will always be a work in progress.
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Holiday Stress

Tuesday, February 24th, 2009

winter snowAs the holidays approach and the to-do list grows, it’s easy to find yourself overwhelmed. The growing Christmas list, the crowds at the mall, the long lines at the grocery store, the endless parties and obligations… before you know it, you’re stressed out. It doesn’t help that the days are shorter and colder, making it tempting to huddle inside where it’s warm and hibernate. But the winter weather has more to offer than just chapped lips and static cling. The nature around us can do a lot to combat stress and depression - if you’ll only give it the chance.
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Thankful for Recovery

Tuesday, February 24th, 2009

At this time of year, it’s natural for people to pause and reflect on all they have to be thankful for. For many, it can also bring up regrets. If you’ve battled a substance abuse problem, those regrets can be especially painful as you remember past mistakes and choices you wish you hadn’t made.

Fortunately, part of being in recovery is focusing on the future and the opportunity you have to make today all that it can be. You can’t do anything about yesterday, last week, last month or last year. Those days are gone, and reliving experiences that you don’t have the power to change can only hurt your recovery.
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Noah’s Notes: Strength and Weakness

Monday, February 23rd, 2009

Rock ClimberEmotional pain is part of emotional health, and every one of us has found our own path to our own pain. If that’s tough news, tough. It’s also reality therapy. So however you think you got here in your life, or who you think got you here, and whether you’re suffering from the need to please, the blame game, or simply sitting there wearing a feeling-sorry-for-yourself party hat at your own pity party, it’s time you knew the party is over.

Character isn’t how we live the life we intend but how we live the life destiny intends. We’re all hurting. What’s hurting you is where your work begins. You’re not expected to finish the work, but neither are you excused from it. It’s time to get busy.
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