The Importance of a Truly Fearless and Thorough Inventory in Sobriety

“The best reason first: If we skip this vital step, we may not overcome drinking. Time after time newcomers have tried to keep to themselves certain facts about their lives. Trying to avoid this humbling experience, they have turned to easier methods. Almost invariably they got drunk. Having persevered with the rest of the program, they wondered why they fell. We think the reason is that they never completed their housecleaning. They took inventory all right, but hung on to some of the worst items in stock. They only thought they had humbled themselves. But they had not learned enough or humility, fearlessness and honesty, in the sense we find it necessary, until they told someone else all their life story. More than most people, the alcoholic leads a double life. He is very much the actor. To the outer world he presents his stage character.”- pg. 73 Into Action from The Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous

When it comes to our step work, it is important that we are thorough and fearless from the very start if we are going to stay sober Through going to an affordable rehab, AA, or drug addiction detox we can be shown precisely how to recover as well as get the tools needed to achieve lasting recovery. If we are not honest and we cut corners in our inventory no matter how tempting or scary it is then our work would have been for nothing. The alcohol addiction help that is available to us only works if we do it with complete abandon and honesty. If we are able to walk through our fears by taking contrary action then we will be rewarded and be blessed with a life full of peace, love, serenity, and happiness amongst many other things.

Helping Others Discover Their Higher Power

“Even though your protégé may not have entirely admitted his condition, he has become very curious to know how you got well. Let him ask you that question, if he will. Tell him exactly what happened to you. Stress the spiritual feature freely. If the man be agnostic or atheist, make it emphatic that he does not have to agree with your conception of God. He can choose any conception he likes provided it makes sense to him. The main thing is that he is willing to believe in a power greater than we and that he live by the spiritual principles. When dealing with such a person, you had better use everyday language to describe spiritual principles. There is no use arousing any prejudice he may have against certain theological terms and conceptions about which he may already be confused.”- pg. 93 Working with Others from the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous

This excerpt from the big book very much goes hand in hand with our third tradition which states that the only requirement for A.A. membership is a desire to stop drinking. That means that regardless of our religious/ spiritual beliefs or lack thereof we still get the opportunity to receive alcohol addiction help. Through going to a 30 day rehab program, A.A., or drug addiction detox we get the tools needed to come up with our own concept of a higher power. It is important when carrying the message to another alcoholic that we make the fact that they can choose their own higher power very clear. Many of us have either grown up with the concept of a damning or shaming God or no concept at all. So the idea of having to rely on a particular higher power can be scary. The fact that we get to mold our concept of a power greater then ourselves is an amazing part of recovery. It can be a source of love, comfort, and peace.

Finding Freedom in Steps Four and Five

“Having made our personal inventory, what shall we do about it? We have been trying to get a new attitude, a new relationship with our creator, and to discover the obstacles in our path. We have admitted certain defect; we have ascertained in a rough way what the trouble is; we have put our finger on the weak times in our personal inventory. Now these are about to be cast out. This requires action on our part, which, when completed, will mean that we have admitted to god, to ourselves, and to another human being, the exact nature of our defects. This brings us to the fifth step in the program of recovery mentioned in the preceding chapter. This is perhaps difficult- especially discussing our defects with another person. We think we have done well enough in admitting these things to ourselves”. – Pg.72 Into Action from the big book of Alcoholics Anonymous

Looking at the things we have done prior to receiving alcohol addiction help as well as sharing it with another person can be terrifying. Many of us have done things we are so ashamed of that we swear we will take them to the grave. With that being said the main hope is that by the time we get to this step there has been a good amount of time sober and we have done the work in a drug addiction detox, AA, or 30 day rehab program so that despite our fears we are able to walk through them, do this step, and come out the other side. Within the fourth and fifth step lies huge relief and freedom. It is these steps that allow us to overcome anything and be okay with who we are and what we have done in the past. These are the steps that show us not only how to forgive other but also how to forgive ourselves.

Working With Another Alcoholic

“If you are satisfied that he is a real alcoholic, begin to dwell on the hopeless feature of the malady. Show him, from your own experience, how the queer mental condition surrounding that first drink prevents normal functioning of the will power. Don’t, at this stage, refer to this book, unless he has seen it and wishes to discuss it. And be careful not to brand him as an alcoholic. Let him draw his own conclusion. If he sticks to the idea that he can still control his drinking, tell him that possibly he can- if he is not too alcoholic. But insist that if he is severely afflicted, there may be little chance he can recover by himself. Continue to speak of alcoholism as an illness, a fatal malady. Talk about the conditions of body and mind which accompany it.” – Pg.92 Working With Others, from the big book of Alcoholics Anonymous

When talking to people about this disease and the potential need for alcohol addiction help it is important that we don’t preach or recite lines from the big book. Instead we can share our experience, strength, and hope and talk about their options as far as a drug addiction detox, AA, 30 day rehab program, and other treatment options are concerned. We are there to be of service not to try and convince the person that they are an alcoholic and need help. It is also imperative that we do not diagnose others for it is necessary that we come to that conclusion on our own. Within this realization come enough pain, desperation, surrender, and willingness to get us to do the work needed to get and stay sober. It is only when we are standing at that turning point in our lives that we have a fighting chance at recovery. It is a life full of promise, hope, and joy and we would not want to rob anyone of this journey.

The Struggle To Rehab and Sobriety

“How many times people have said to us: “I can take it or leave it alone. Why can’t he? ““Why don’t you drink like a gentleman or quit?” “That fellow can’t handle his liquor.” “Why don’t you try beer and wine?” “Lay off the hard stuff.” “His will power must be weak.” “He could stop if he wanted to.” “She’s such a sweet girl; I should think he’d stop for her sake.” “The doctor told him that if he ever drank again it would kill him but there he is all lit up again.” Now these are commonplace observations on drinkers which we hear all the time. Back of them is a world of ignorance and misunderstanding. We see that these expressions refer to people whose reactions are very different from ours.”-pg.20 There Is A Solution from the big book of Alcoholics Anonymous

If only it was that simple for alcoholics to stop drinking. If these suggestions worked for helpless drinkers like us we would never have to go to the lengths we go to in order to get alcohol addiction help. We wouldn’t have to go to a Los Angeles rehab, AA, or any other California alcohol rehab for that matter. Many people that don’t know what it’s like to suffer from this disease believe that it’s a matter of being weak willed or just not wanting to stop bad enough. There is lack of understanding at times that we suffer from a disease. It’s a disease that makes us think that if we take a drink then we will be okay, and along the way we “forget” about the previous consequences that were a direct result of our drinking. We are sick people trying to get well and alcohol is our medicine/solution until it stops working for us. At this point the only other solutions or options for us are either to get sober or die. If we are fortunate enough we are able to make it into recovery and go onto live an amazing and fulfilling life.

Discovering a Power Greater than Yourself in Sobriety

“Well, that’s exactly what this book is about. Its main objective is to enable you to find a power greater than yourself which will solve your problem. That means we have written a book which we believe to be spiritual as well as moral. And it means, of course that we are going to talk about God. Here difficulty arises with agnostics.  Many times we talk to a new man and watch his hope rise as we discuss his alcoholic problems and explain our fellowship. But his face falls when we speak of spiritual matters, especially when we mention God, for we have re-opened a subject which our man thought he had nearly evaded or entirely ignored. We know how he feels. We have shared his honest doubt and prejudice. Some of us have been violently anti-religious.”-pg. 45 We Agnostics from the big book of Alcoholics Anonymous

It is common for many alcoholics to have issues with the whole God thing especially because of what most of us had to endure prior to receiving alcohol addiction help, as well as the type of religious upbringing most of us had. When we get to the part of the big book that states “either God is everything or he is nothing what is our choice to be?” it can be difficult for us to make that decision. It might seem like enough to have to deal with getting sober, going to a 30 day rehab program, AA, or a drug addiction detox but the fact is that if those things aren’t backed up with spiritual growth followed by a spiritual experience then it is all for nothing. It is not required that we believe in God or a guy in the sky idea but rather that we come up with a concept of a power greater than ourselves that works for us. What this “power” looks like acts like, is called, resides, and any other qualities are entirely up to us as the individual.

Detox That Works In Surroundings That Comfort

At Above It All Treatment and Recovery Center, we have a dedicated detox facility situated on Lake Arrowhead in the San Bernardino Mountains that’s managed by a highly trained staff to make your experience as comfortable and as smooth as possible. Upon arrival, we will fully assess your physical and chemical state. Before we begin your treatment, we will evaluate any injuries you have and perform comprehensive tests to gain an in-depth look at the biochemical, nutritional, and neuro-biological aspects of your addiction.

Detox can be dangerous if not done properly. Many people who attempt detox, either by themselves or under the supervision of someone who is insufficiently trained, fail and relapse because of the painful and unpleasant symptoms they experience when undergoing detox. That’s why it’s critical to work with experienced professionals who will supervise the process from start to finish, and make you feel as comfortable as possible.

With a staff of licensed nurses providing 24-hour care, 7 days a week, you can rest easy knowing that your comfort, safety and ongoing needs are our number one priority. No one slips through the cracks or goes unnoticed here. We have the highest staff-to-client ratio of any drug treatment facility in the country, and we pride ourselves on taking excellent care of our clients. Privacy, confidentiality, and the highest level of care are what you can expect at Above It All Treatment and Recovery Center.

When you call Above It All Treatment and Recovery Center, we will discuss your specific needs for any drug or alcohol detox services. Then, upon admission, we will determine what your detox protocol will be.  If you are interested in learning more, please call for a FREE addiction assessment now:  888-634-4546

When Dating And Recovery Meet

An addict’s recovery holds its own set of issues. Individuals struggling with addiction must piece together their life while fighting cravings and temptation along the way. Due to the focus and dedication required to properly engage in the recovery process, dating is generally frowned upon. In this entry, we will delve into the reasoning behind it all.
In some cases, a new relationship garnered during the initial recovery process can become an entirely new addiction. New relationships often provide those involved with feelings of euphoria; a sensation not unlike that enjoyed throughout the addiction. This “high” slowly consumes the individual, until the relationship becomes more an obsession than mutual bond.Substitution

Emptiness

Many addiction specialists describe an intense emptiness felt by recovering addicts. A new relationship, regardless of its length, will often serve in filling this void. Though this method may sound fine and dandy, experts agree that this emptiness should be filled through constructive activity and engagements, such as a new hobby or passion that caters to the individual, rather than a sense of love or infatuation.

Distraction

Let’s face it… we can all recall an instance in our past where a relationship has taken over our lives. Whether the circumstances involve a new love or unexpected breakup, the situation tends to consume us for days, weeks, or even months.

New relationships require a fair amount of effort and time – the same things required to ensure a successful recovery. By placing energy in an area that demands the same type of attention as your recovery, you are essentially hindering your ability to fight.

Unfinished

Moving forward with life following an addiction often requires addicts to assess and address the cause of the addiction. Engaging in a new found relationship effectively places a halt on this process. Not only will you be distracted, but presenting an unfinished version of yourself. An incomplete picture, if you will.  These situations can often lead to guilt, lying and other types of behaviors that drove the initial addiction.

Thoughts

Recovery is a period to focus on you. Just you. Though it may sound tempting to throw yourself into the arms of an attractive opposite, the truth is that you will be doing more harm than good. Not only will your recovery suffer… but your relationship may as well. If your budding love is truly meant to be, there’s no harm in setting it free for the time being. A true love will understand and support your decision.

Need Help? Call us now!

If you or someone you know is having trouble coping with addiction recovery, our rehab center in Los Angeles, CA is the place to call. Contact us today, and let us help you back on track towards the healthy, happy life you deserve.

Alcoholism, Addiction, and the Double Life

“What usually happens? The show doesn’t come off very well. He begins to think life doesn’t treat him right. He decides to exert himself more. He becomes, on the next occasion, still more demanding or gracious; as the case may be still the play does not suit him. Admitting he may be somewhat at fault, he is sure that other people are more to blame he becomes angry, indignant, self-pitying. What is his basic trouble? Is he not really a self-seeker even when trying to be kind? Is he not a victim of the delusion that he can wrest satisfaction and happiness out of this world if he only manages well?

Is it not evident to all the rest of the players that these are the things he wants? And do not his actions make each of them wish to retaliate, snatching all they can get out of the show? Is he not even in his best moments, a producer of confusion rather than harmony? Our self-centered-ego-centric, as people like to call it nowadays. – pg. 61 How It Works, from the big book of Alcoholics Anonymous

Often times even after receiving alcohol addiction help and getting sober the alcoholic likes to enjoy a double life like an actor in a play and gets upset when things go awry. Little do we know that our lack of success in this area has little to do with how we manage things but instead is a result of trying to take our will back, and enjoy “stirring things up” without wanting to deal with the consequences. We are often oblivious to this reality and are under the delusion that if only everyone else played along everything would be okay. When we enter into a drug addiction detox, AA, or 30 day rehab program we learn how to become a team player, and live an altruistic lifestyle. At this point we can finally see that it’s not all about us but rather about the fact that we are all bonded through this disease that has stripped everything from us and in turn share a common solution. Recovery is much bigger than us and our desires. It is a freedom from the bondage of self and our only role in this play is to be of service and help others recover from alcoholism.

Sobriety and Working With Others

“Practical experience shows that nothing will so much insure immunity from drinking as much as intensive work with other alcoholics. It works when other activities fail. This is our twelfth suggestion: carry this message to other alcoholics! You can help when no one else can. You can secure their confidence when others fail. Remember they are very ill…perhaps you are not acquainted with any drinkers who want to recover. You can easily find some by asking a few doctors, ministers, priests or hospitals, they will be only too glad to assist you .Don’t start out as an evangelist or reformer. Unfortunately a lot of prejudice exists. You will be handicapped if you arouse it. Ministers and doctors are competent and you can learn much from them, if you wish, but it happens that because of your own drinking experience you can be uniquely useful to other alcoholics. So cooperate, never criticize. To be helpful is our only aim.”-pg. 89 Working With Others from the big book of Alcoholics Anonymous.

As alcoholics we have the amazing opportunity to be of service to other alcoholics that are seeking out alcohol addiction help. Since we have been through the same struggles and came out the other side we are more able then most people to be of maximum service. It is important that we don’t preach but rather lead by example. Weather we are being of service at a drug addiction detox, meeting, 30 day rehab program, hospitals, institutions, or one on one our best bet when it comes to reaching a fellow alcoholic is by listening and sharing your experience, strength and hope. This way of life is based on attraction rather than promotion. We need not sell sobriety to others. If someone wants to get sober nothing we say can stop them from trying or make them want it more. Our only responsibility is to be there when someone reaches out for help and needs us to show them the way.