It is my responsibility to take care of myself, even though I have loved ones who will assist me when I need them. I understand that I am the centre of my own universe–as indeed we all are–and that is the way it’s supposed to be. Are you taking care of yourself or putting the needs of others ahead of your own? … [Read more...] about Are You Making Self-Care a Priority?
loving an addict
It’s Okay to Ask for Help!
There is a wonderful saying that tells us “Our secrets keep us sick.” Many loved ones of addicts don’t talk about their struggles or reach out for help because of the shame they feel for being in this situation. But until we ask for and receive the help we need, we don’t learn how to do things differently. Recovery begins with self-awareness and with the willingness to ask for assistance when we need it. … [Read more...] about It’s Okay to Ask for Help!
Harnessing the Law of Attraction for Recovery
Life often falls into a routine existence, with days blending into each other, leaving us feeling like we're sleepwalking through existence. But there's a powerful tool that can transform this autopilot life: the Law of Attraction. About five years ago, I rediscovered this principle. Initially, during my early recovery from addiction, I didn't give it much thought. Now, with 36 years of sobriety, I see its profound impact. The Law of Attraction, much like gravity, is a universal force that … [Read more...] about Harnessing the Law of Attraction for Recovery
How Can We Educate Young People About Pot?
Q: How can we educate young people to understand that even experimenting with pot can be a slippery slope, particularly when the family doctor has said it's harmless if they only smoke pot occasionally? Doctors are amazing people, and I have some great doctors now. I've also had some not-so-great doctors over the years as well. The truth is that doctors simply don't know everything. For a doctor in today’s world to say that smoking pot – even occasionally – is fine, is just wrong. I used to … [Read more...] about How Can We Educate Young People About Pot?
The Concept of “Choice” in Addiction
Having compassion for the addict you love does not mean that you continue to enable them. Enabled addicts do not recover – because, really, why should they if others are going to do everything for them? Having compassion means learning how to be emotionally healthy in your relationship with your addicted loved one, so that both of you – and your whole family – can truly recover. … [Read more...] about The Concept of “Choice” in Addiction
