Alcohol and drug withdrawal: Acute and Post-Acute. The acute symptoms are what you feel immediately after you stop drinking and/or using drugs, commonly referred to as detox or withdrawal. This is considered to be the first two weeks after someone stops drinking or using drugs. What most people are not aware of, is what comes next. Post Acute Withdrawal symptoms … Read More
Alcoholics Anonymous – Step One
We admitted we were powerless over alcohol – that our lives had become unmanageable. Many people say step one is the hardest of them all. Some people stumble over the word ‘powerless’ as if it is some personal attack degrading their strength and making them feel weak. Really, it is neither of those things. I am powerless over alcohol because … Read More
Angela Pugh of Kansas City Recovery
Thank you to The Real KC for publishing a piece of my story and sharing a victory in the world of addiction. My Moment There is always that one moment that changes everything. Some call it a light bulb moment, some a moment of truth, or a moment of clarity. Whatever you want to call it, it is … Read More
Addiction: When Should You Get Help?
It’s a new year, and oftentimes we find ourselves contemplating change when the new year begins. New year, new you. Many people who struggle with addiction think about quitting regularly. Most of us know when we have a real problem, and we know the only solution is to stop. Unfortunately, knowing all of that does not make us jump into … Read More
Am I Enabling?
This is such a challenging conversation I have to have with families everyday. The topic of enabling is not a simple one, and there are several ways we enable without realizing it. First, let’s clear up what enabling is. In a nutshell, this is anything we do that ‘enables’ our loved one to continue the addiction we so desperately want … Read More
AA – To The Newcomer
There are so many things to think about as you approach this piece of your life. It is a strange place to be, in your head, thinking about these changes that are necessary, AA, and wondering how it will be. I had a lot of fear about being sober. I feared that I would no longer be funny. I feared … Read More
6 Tips to Stay Sober During the Holidays
We all know that holidays are a stressful time. Most of us struggle with family issues, trying to manage finances, which house do we go to first, who’s cooking, cleaning, and traveling. It’s a lot to think about and worry about. As addicted people there is a general difficulty coping with emotions. It is at the core of why we … Read More
12 Steps and Anonymous
Sometimes people are confused about how ‘anonymous’ we are in 12 step programs. It can be confusing for people when they are new, and for people who are not members themselves. Also, be aware that you will get different thoughts and opinions from different people. None are right or wrong, good or bad- they are how we interpret things as … Read More
Outpatient Rehab Inpatient Rehab
One of the most common questions I get is “Are there any alcohol rehabs or drug rehabs near me?” The answer is yes. First, let’s talk about the terminology and the different options available to you so you are more clear on what exactly you need. Outpatient Treatment Outpatient drug rehab or alcohol rehab is a regimented program where you … Read More