Many addicts say it’s harder to quit than keep using. To stay sober and clean, they need to face overwhelming challenges: tremendous guilt, low self-esteem, isolation, an irate family, problems finding work, and the demand that they change their lives and attitudes and belief systems… it would seem easier to simply keep using.
Worksheet: how to quit drugs and alcohol
We wish it were as easy as: “QUIT, yay, it’s over.” It ain’t. Quitting is more than just quitting. It’s about lifestyle change. This 2-page worksheet is a start at just that purpose…
When somebody you care about is an addict
Questions about substance abuse and addictionSubstance abuse affects everyone involved, not just the addict. The addict’s personality has changed. They tend to lie and ask for money and care little about quality time with those who care about them. They may do and say things that upset others and leave the family ashamed or angry. […]
Addiction: Drugs People Abuse
Or: what do you know about the drugs people abuse? “Drugs are a waste of time. They destroy your memory and your self-respect and everything that goes along with your self-esteem.” –Kurt Cobain Perhaps you’re here because you’re an addict questioning the safety of your drug, or your have a daughter or neighbor with an […]
The benefits of nicotine
I stand amidst a gaggle of Big Tobacco engineers, and someone slips a vial of clear liquid into my hand. A voice utters three important words: “This is nicotine.”
Stuff to know about marijuana
Let me start by saying I don’t have a definitive opinion about marijuana. I don’t support it. I don’t not support it. I have had patients in the past smoke it legally and effectively. Others ran into problems. Everyone is unique, and I’m not here to judge. But I am here to educate, […]
Choosing life over addiction: relapse prevention plan
Addiction handouts, relapse prevention plan. This is an “alternative” two-page worksheet helping people in recovery maneuver through those difficult moments. Page one focuses on identifying warning symptoms and triggers, reviewing negative effects of drugs/alcohol, and the exciting effects of staying clean/sober. Page two is aimed at urge management. Ideally the handout would be filled out […]
Addiction: 4 ways to battle cravings
You’re trying to escape an addiction. That could be food, drugs, alcohol, gambling, or smoking. One of the biggest challenges you’re dealing with, especially at the beginning of your recovery, could be those urges to “feed” the addiction. You’re bound to have cravings. It happens to all recovering addicts, and it isn’t easy. But remember, […]