Signs of a relapse – what can you look out for?

A relapse doesn’t start when we pick up the substance of our choice, it starts with thoughts and with behaviors, picking up the substance is the end result of the relapse. Here are some of the behaviors to look out for, you can prevent a relapse if you become aware of the danger signs and […]

“Secrets keep you sick”

This is a common statement that is used in recovery, but do you know what it actually means, or why we say it? Secrets create the breading ground for shame. However, the more shame you hold, the more secrets you’ll keep the worse you feel about yourself. Eventually this becomes a perpetual cycle, a trap […]

Why go to rehab?

Its easy to have preconceived ideas, fears, and concerns about things we don’t know or understand. The unknown can seem scary, and we can get overwhelmed with doubts and worry.At a time when so much is already out of control, painful and chaotic, it is helpful to understand the process and the benefits that a […]

Why are Boundaries with your addict so important?

If you throw a frog into a pot of boiling hot water, she will jump out straight away, but if you put her into a pot of water and slowly raise the temperature, she will stay in that water until she is cooked. That’s how I felt, cooked! During the many years of my loved […]

There is always hope 

So often in addiction we lose hope that recovery is possible, every relapse feels like a failure, and we lose faith that things will ever change.  “Why can’t you just change, just make a decision, you just need to STOP!” How many times have we heard that, said that, prayed for it, only to be […]

Shame and guilt in addiction

People who are addicted to substances or certain behaviors suffer from terrible shame and guilt.  Shame and guilt from the way they behave, the damage and pain they inflict on their families and the people who love them, wanting and wishing that they could “just stop” and not being able to mange to do exactly […]

Recovery – walking a tight rope

Every addiction arises from an unconscious refusal to face and move through your own pain. Every addiction starts with pain and ends with pain. Whatever the substance you are addicted to alcohol, food, legal or illegal drugs, or a person you are using something or somebody to cover up your own pain. – Eckhart /Tolle […]