Detoxing from drugs or alcohol is often the most intense part of recovering from addiction. Withdrawal symptoms can be painful and even dangerous. Despite this, many people try to detox on their own, either unaware of the danger or confident … Read More
Why Group Therapy Is Great for Addiction Recovery
Group therapy has long been a central part of addiction treatment programs. Many people find this intimidating. It’s hard to speak in front of a group and share personal things. Group therapy combines both these things, promoting the practice of … Read More
Should Al-Anon Be Part of Your Recovery Plan?
Typically, joining a 12-step program like AA or NA is one of the first things people think of when they want to get sober. These programs are well known and widely available. Many people will need more intensive treatment, including … Read More
Early Signs You Might Be Heading for Relapse
Relapse rates are notoriously hard to track but the National Institute on Drug Abuse estimates that between 40 and 60 percent of people with substance use disorders relapse within a year after completing treatment. Many people assume relapse is a … Read More
Why Alcohol is a Terrible Way to Relieve Stress
In our culture, we almost take for granted that the way to unwind after a long week is to have a few drinks. The same may be true after a tough day or after hearing bad news. It’s a cliche … Read More
3 Reasons Men Don’t Ask for Help for Addiction
According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, only about 10 percent of American adults who need specialized help for a substance use disorder actually get treatment. That number is surprisingly low when you consider that there are now … Read More
Avoiding the Shame Game: How to Love Yourself and Say Goodbye to Shame
We all know that feelings of shame can arise and make us feel as if we want to curl up in a ball. Especially in early recovery, many of our past behaviors come to the front of our consciousness and … Read More
August in Oregon
Summer is still kicking in Portland. Let’s get the most out of the sunshine while we can. There are endless amounts of sober activities to do here in PDX this August. Here are a few options for some end of … Read More
What We Can Learn From Our Animal Friends
Have you ever watched your pet and thought “wow, if only I could be more like that?” It’s true that animals have a special ability for unconditional love and a carefree attitude. Here are a few vital lessons we can … Read More
A Guide to Non-Attachment and How It Can Help Recovery
Non-attachment is originally a Buddhist concept that involves releasing over-attachment to outcomes and the material world. When we live in a state of non-attachment, we are able to let go of the need for control over the present moment and … Read More