Blessings in Sobriety Part One

“That he has no attitude of holier than thou, nothing whatever except the sincere desire to be helpful; that there are no fees to pay, no axes to grind, no people to please, no lectures to be endure- these are the condition we have found most effective. After such as approach many take up their beds and walk again… we feel that elimination of our drinking is but a beginning. A much more important demonstration of our principles lies before us in our respective homes, occupations, and affairs. If we keep on the route we are going there is little doubt that much good will result.” – pg 18-19 There Is a Solution from the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous.

Through research we might stumble upon an affordable rehab, or read drug rehab blogs and realize that we too have just as good of a chance as others to recover. For most alcoholics we are so broken and lost that even the hope that we might be able to recover in itself is a blessing. Some of us come in and don’t know where to go for drug addiction detox, but once we find a place and get sober we realize we are much more blessed than we thought. We gain a group of friends and a support group. Loneliness fades and is replaced with love and happiness. Some of us go on to have families, go back to school, get our dream job, or our dream life even, but more importantly than any of that is the new set of thoughts, feelings, and actions we have available to us. We are no longer victims or full of self-pity. We come to learn how to love ourselves and others, as well as how to be comfortable in our own skin. Before we know it our lives and ourselves become much bigger than those people who came in just hoping to be able to survive long enough to get sober.

Blessings in Sobriety

“That he has no attitude of holier than thou, nothing whatever except the sincere desire to be helpful; that there are no fees to pay, no axes to grind, no people to please, no lectures to be endure- these are the condition we have found most effective. After such as approach many take up their beds and walk again… we feel that elimination of our drinking is but a beginning. A much more important demonstration of our principles lies before us in our respective homes, occupations, and affairs. If we keep on the route we are going there is little doubt that much good will result.” – pg 18-19 There is a Solution from the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous.

Through research we might stumble upon an affordable rehab, or read drug rehab blogs and realize that we too have just as good of a chance as others to recover. For most alcoholics we are so broken and lost that even the hope that we might be able to recover in itself is a blessing. Some of us come in and don’t know where to go for drug addiction detox, but once we find a place and get sober we realize we are much more blessed than we thought. We gain a group of friends and a support group. Loneliness fades and is replaced with love and happiness. Some of us go on to have families, go back to school, get our dream job, or our dream life even, but more importantly than any of that is the new set of thoughts, feelings, and actions we have available to us. We are no longer victims or full of self-pity. We come to learn how to love ourselves and others, as well as how to be comfortable in our own skin. Before we know it our lives and ourselves become much bigger than those people who came in just hoping to be able to survive long enough to get sober.

Learning About Alcoholism and Struggles in Sobriety at Rehab Programs in California

“These men were not drinking to escape; they were drinking to overcome a craving beyond their mental control. There are many situations which arise out of the phenomenon of craving which cause men to make the supreme sacrifice rather than continue to fight.” – pg xxx of the Doctors Opinion from the big book of Alcoholics Anonymous.

While it is nothing compared to what we endured while we were drinking and using we can still experience struggles after seeking alcohol addiction help and getting sober. Some of these are life struggles but many times in the beginning of our recovery our main struggle is staying sober. It might seem impossible to stay sober but through taking contrary action like reading drug rehab blogs or looking into rehab programs in California we find we do not have to go through it alone. We are not here to suffer. It is often said in AA meetings that pain is inevitable but suffering is optional. This is so true. As alcoholics we have a tendency to turn struggles into suffering especially when we aren’t given the tools. We have an inability to cope with life on life’s terms and things don’t look the way we want them too. We have a hard time with reality, and staying in the moment. We are constantly either seeking elevated moods or wallowing in morbid reflection. Alcoholics are either desperately trying to kill themselves or desperately trying to survive. Not just physically but mentally also. Through the recovery process we become right sized. Our problems become right sized. We learn to be happy with what we have and ok or even grateful for what we don’t have.

Fear and Sobriety (Part 2)

Many of us experience fear around many different things. It can either be healthy or unhealthy. Healthy fear is when it’s used as a defense mechanism occurring in response to a specific stimulus such as pain or the threat of danger. There are also common fears such as fear of death, the unknown, and fears in cultures. Alcoholics can also add fear of failure and fear of success to this list. Unhealthy fear is when it is not based in reality and keeps you from living life. For us alcoholics especially in the grips of our disease we can find the fear paralyzing. Not knowing what is going to happen, or fear of not being able to get sober often times stops us from getting alcohol addiction help. When we overcome those fears and decide to get sober we are faced with new fears such as can I do this on my own? Is there an affordable rehab I can go to? or would a 30 day rehab and drug addiction detox program be best for me? Once we make that choice then the life fears along with reality start to set in. How do we live life? Will we ever be happy again? What do I do with myself? Who am I? Etc. The great fact for us is that through getting sober and working the steps we find a higher power of our own understanding and while there is fear from time to time it’s never paralyzing like it was when we were using because we have faith and are taken care of.

How To Maintain Your Sobriety

When it comes to recovery, achieving sobriety is often said to be the easy part; staying sober is the real challenge. Though the withdrawal and rehabilitation process is often difficult for many addicts, the lessons learned within our treatment facility will do little if not implemented daily following your release. In this entry, we will discuss how to maintain your sobriety following your rehab treatment completion.

1 – One simple rule: Don’t use. If you do not ingest, snort, smoke, etc. you will not become inebriated. While this rule may seem simple and self-explanatory in regard to relapse prevention, it is often one of the hardest rules to follow. As such, there will be no “for old time’s sake”, or “just a taste”. If you don’t pick up your addiction, the cycle will remain stagnant.

2 – Find yourself some positive support outside of the Above It All substance abuse rehabilitation facility. Though our counselors will always be available to help you through the hard times, it’s important to immerse yourself within an environment that caters to your drive and determination to remain sober. Select hobbies and activities that boost confidence and increase your self-esteem. The more active you are, the better you’ll feel. The better you feel, the more likely you’ll be able to maintain your sobriety.

3 – Set some goals. From alcohol drug detox to program completion, you’ll have plenty of time to reflect on past experiences and the mistakes that have been made. Use these ask a guide to better yourself following rehab. A plan of action will keep you focused, determined and driven to succeed. By choosing your goals ahead of time, you’ll have less opportunity to question your sobriety and decisions moving forward.

4 – Keep an eye our for triggers. Different times of the year can be more stressful and difficult than others. When these dates approach, be sure to place yourself in a supportive environment with people who are sympathetic to your sobriety. Hit up AA meetings and avoid putting yourself in situations or around individuals that may trigger negative emotions. Stay positive and remain strong. This too shall pass.

5 – Go easy on yourself. Recovery is never an easy process. If you fall down, take the opportunity to learn from your mistake and get back on track. Never give up on your goals and fight the good fight. Your recovery may not be as graceful as you might have thought, but as long as you stay in the game, the rewards remain the same.

 

Sober Activities List

Once a patient has completed our substance abuse rehabilitation program, they may initially struggle to find sober activities that feed their interest. For many addicts, drug and alcohol use has become such a vital part of their social life that it can be hard to locate fun and excitement that does not involve using. In an effort to illuminate some social, engaging and sober activities, we’ve compiled a sober activities list to get you started.

Games

Whether for a weekend or weeknight, games are a great activity to keep you engaged and entertained. Card games, board games and role-playing games can involve friends, fun and laughs with a low cost and high level of engagement. Consider setting up a weekly game night, inviting your friends and  sharing a few sodas and snacks.

The Great Outdoors

As found with our own treatment center activities, the great outdoors can play a positive role in the recovery process. Biking, camping, hiking, swimming and even jogging are wonderful ways to stay fit, have fun and remain sober. Hop online and search of day hikes in your local area. Not only is it a great way to spend your time, but a positive environment to make new friends.

Dancing

Most areas have at least one studio where people can dance socially or sign up for lessons. Learn some new moves and make a point to attend to the social events. These gatherings are another great way to build relationships and network in a positive and sober manner.

The Big Screen!

Movies have always been the perfect escape from the day-to-day routine. If you’re not feeling social or just need some down time, a trip to the theater or movie night at home can be the perfect way to spend your time.

School

Even if you’re not seeking a degree, taking a class at your local community college is a great way to learn a new skill. Take a peek at available courses and choose something that interests you. Cooking, music, and psychology are all wonderful areas to lose yourself.

Final Note

Though it may take some time to locate an activity that suits your interests, the important part is that you try. Maybe you’re not the best dancer, or chef, or guitarist… it doesn’t matter. Find something that makes you happy and give it a go. When it comes to sober fun, the sky is the limit.

Tips for Sober Living in CA For Valentine’s Day!

California alcohol rehabilitation centers know that Valentine’s Day can be a hard time to not indulge in  wine with your honey,  and that it can be lonely  for those without a special someone. So here are some ideas that can help in finding (and planning!) a sober holiday that is also fun.

For Couples:

Looking for something fun to do with your special someone?  Why not take the day off and plan a romantic picnic in the park, or a boat ride for 2?  Planning time in the sunshine is a beautiful way to have fun and be less conventional about your love.  Take an Active role in your life together and get out to do something. If you can’t afford the time off, or are not in the mood for outdoor time, spend some time indoors cuddling and getting to know each other better.

For Singles:

It’s not a bad thing to be single, make Valentine’s day a day to get to know yourself better, to treat yourself kindly. Make it a spa day, a get out and enjoy yourself because you are you day, or even a lazy day. Be kind to yourself. Or if you want more human contact, plan an outing with your single friends to enjoy yourselves and love being who you all are as independent people who love each other in the bonds of friendship. Maybe spend some time with family; they are a great support for addicts. Valentine’s Day is for all types of love, not just romantic.

If these suggestions aren’t quite your cup of tea, just remember that there is love for you in this world so don’t tempt yourself with situations that aren’t healthy for you. As many addiction counselors will say there are 3 important things to improve mood and your way of life: sunshine, exercise, and nature. So get out there and treat yourself right on Valentine’s Day.

 

Finding Affordable Rehab and Getting Sober

When one first starts to think about getting sober it can often be a scary and confusing time. Many questions might come up such as where can I go for help? Where should I go for help? What would be the best or most affordable rehab? What is the process? And am I going to be able to stay sober?

A couple of good suggestions for finding the answers you are looking for are to search for drug rehab blogs or FAQs about rehab and recovery in Los Angeles.

The last thing someone wants or needs when getting sober is to feel alone or uninformed. Obtaining as much information through research as possible is not only a great way to provide support, find support, and find a place/way to recover that works for you but also a great way to get informed and potentially inform your loved ones of the recovery process .There are many ways to find the answers you or your loved ones are searching for. Familial support, and support from peers plays such an important role in the quality of sobriety and the life that results from it.

While the recovery process is a very personalized and an individualized thing it doesn’t need to be done alone .nor should it be.

The disease of alcoholism doesn’t just affect one person but several people from loved ones to co workers. Therefore the gifts of recovery should not just be bestowed upon the recovering alcoholic/addict but the people that play a big role in their lives as well. May you and your family find the quality of sobriety, life, and relationships you are looking for as you start this amazing journey!

Early Sobriety and Emotional Nature

When we are newly sober, we will doubtless encounter a barrage of feelings that, in some cases, seem wholly unfamiliar and in others, remind us of why we drank and used to begin with. Sometimes they are things we have been consciously avoiding other times, they are things we didn’t even know were there. Throughout our sobriety, and especially in the beginning, we are confronted with and explore a wide range of emotions and experiences.

For most alcoholics and addicts this is a very confusing time. 30 day rehab programs provide an excellent beginning and path into recovery.  The professional staff of rehab programs in California are trained in many facets of addiction treatment including the best ways to guide you through the unfamiliar territory of navigating emotions and situations without drugs and alcohol.

While we were drinking and using, we became so accustomed to reaching out to drugs and alcohol as our first coping mechanism that, once we are without them, attempting to control our emotional nature seems all but impossible. We are, at times, ebullient and at other times morose and often have little idea as to what has set us in one direction or the other. By working with professional counselors, attending 12 step meetings and working the 12 steps, we are able to come to a clearer picture of what our feelings are, why we are having them and how to address them in a healthy way, honoring our feelings, our selves and those around us.

The Start of Recovery is the Decision

“But the moment I made up my mind to go through with the process, I had the curious feeling that my alcoholic condition was relieved, as in fact it proved to be. Quite as important was the discovery that spiritual principles would solve all my problems.” The Big Book, Alcoholics Anonymous, Page 42

Ask nearly any alcoholic or addict you have ever met and there is one thing upon which most of them will agree: the beginning, the making a decision to give up drugs and alcohol and begin the road to recovery through the twelve steps of Alcoholics Anonymous was one of the most difficult parts of recovery. You have to say Yes to the life you want and the process before you can begin to recover.

Though it seems frightening and a life without drugs and alcohol may, at first, seem like no life at all, the rewards are far greater than most alcoholics and addicts even dream when they embark upon their journey.

For those caught in the perpetually downward spiral of drugs and alcohol, feeding addiction and chasing escape – a solution that begins with merely a decision seems impossible. We are here to assure you that not only is it possible, but it is the only way. The decision to recover is yours and so is the life you want and deserve. There are drug and alcohol rehabs that are staffed with fully trained professionals who understand where you have been, what you are going through and what it will take for you to move forward. But they cannot make the decision for you. That, you have to do on your own.