What is Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) & How Does It Aid in Recovery?
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a psychotherapy developed to treat severe psychosocial disorders, including borderline personality disorder, and has expanded to help with anxiety, PTSD, depression, and substance use disorders. It enables individuals to regulate intense emotions and manage self-destructive behaviors by striking a balance between self-criticism and the motivation for change. DBT achieves this […]
The Maintenance Steps of AA: Steps 10 Through 12
The Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) program’s Steps 10, 11, and 12 are crucial for maintaining sobriety and fostering spiritual growth. These “Maintenance Steps” involve daily self-inventory, consistent prayer and meditation, and helping others. Engaging in these practices reinforces recovery and contributes to long-term sobriety. In the journey of recovery from alcohol and substance use, the Alcoholics […]
Steps 8 and 9: Making Amends in Recovery
Steps 8 and 9 of Alcoholics Anonymous are crucial for recovery, focusing on making amends and repairing relationships damaged by addiction. Step 8 involves listing those harmed and becoming willing to make amends, while Step 9 entails making direct amends where possible, except when it would cause further harm. This process fosters accountability, reduces shame […]
Steps 6 and 7: Becoming Ready for Change
Steps 6 and 7 of the 12 Steps in AA and NA are crucial for recovery, focusing on becoming ready to have character defects removed and humbly asking a Higher Power to do so. These steps involve deep self-reflection, identification of shortcomings, and a willingness to surrender behaviors that hinder personal growth. By practicing humility […]
Personal Inventory: Navigating Steps 4 and 5
Key Takeaways: This article discusses Steps 4 and 5 of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA), focusing on the importance of self-reflection and accountability. Step 4 involves conducting a moral inventory, while Step 5 involves sharing that inventory with a higher power, oneself, and another person. These steps are crucial for personal growth, overcoming […]
Exploring the 12 Steps: Surrender - Steps 1 Through 3
This article discusses the first three steps of the 12 Steps program for addiction recovery, known as the “Surrender” steps. It emphasizes admitting powerlessness, believing in a higher power, and making a decision to turn one’s life over to that power. The article also provides practical advice on how to work through each of these […]
What Are the 7 Stages of Grief? A Guide for Those in Recovery
Key Takeaways: This article discusses the seven stages of grief, as popularized by Elisabeth Kübler-Ross, and how they relate to individuals in addiction recovery. It emphasizes that grief is a personal and non-linear process, affecting both emotional and physical health, and suggests coping strategies such as seeking support and practicing self-care, particularly for those maintaining […]
My Journey as a Gay Man in Recovery
For years, Kevin used alcohol to cope with who he was and who he thought he needed to be. His drinking eventually spiraled into alcoholism, and he found at risk of losing everything. In this article, Kevin shares how accepting who he is has played a critical role in his recovery.
Coping As a New Mother in Recovery
Being a new mother in recovery can be a challenging road, however, with healthy coping tools and support, you can flourish as a new sober mom. Learn more here.
