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
Exercise as Treatment for Depression, Anxiety, and Addiction
Exercise as a treatment method for depression, anxiety, and addiction makes sense. We hear it everyday… exercise more… you’ll feel better… you’ll live longer… But I’m not sure many people know that exercise is a proven solution for many of our daily woes. Research has proven time and time again that exercise is more successful than any anti-depressant or anti-anxiety … Read More
AA Meetings Kansas City
This is a popular topic in my daily life, personal and professional. We get a lot of people in our sober living home who come from out of state and we are always talking about meetings and where to go. The first thing I want to say about meetings is, they are all different. If you go to one meeting … Read More
90 Meetings in 90 Days
Many people feel overwhelmed when they show up at a 12 step meeting and hear the first recommendation is to attend 90 meetings in 90 days. A meeting every day, for 90 days. For many, the first thought that crosses their mind is how busy they are and how there is no way they can go to a meeting everyday. … Read More
6 Promising Tips To Staying Sober
I always say getting sober isn’t necessarily the hard part. The hard part, is staying sober. When I put down my drink or drug I am dealing immediately with the physical addiction. Withdrawal, detox, being sick, and feeling crappy. After that though, is when the really hard work begins. I wanted to talk about some of the key pieces to … Read More
Am I An Alcoholic?
There is a lot of information out there to help someone identify if they are an alcoholic or addict. And many of the criteria fit me perfectly, but some do not. I wanted to take a minute to go through some of the things I thought about in my own journey that brought me to understand that my drinking was … Read More