In 2016 I posted a brief note about philosophy (stoicism in particular) and recovery with a link to an article from 99U. At that time the “modern Stoic” movement was already well underway. The interest in the Stoic philosophers has continued to grow unabated. Books like The Daily Stoic, by Continue Reading
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STAY SOBER AT CHRISTMAS
If you are new to recovery, the question of how to stay sober at Christmas can seem overwhelming. We all need help and support to at any time of the year. In the “party season” life can provide enough connection for the most committed extrovert and more than plenty for Continue Reading
CONSEQUENCES OF THE CREATIVE CURSE
A great many creatives fear recovery from addiction might mean an end to their artistic achievements. Alcoholism and addiction have been see by many as the creative curse. That said alcoholic writers probably write (or wrote) just as well sober as drunk, and as South African playwright Continue Reading
CAN A “MIRACLE PILL” CURE ALCOHOLISM?
The “miracle pill”, baclofen has been on our radar for some time. Originally designed and widely used to treat muscle spasms it has been hailed by some as the cure for alcoholism. Like other harm reduction medications it has both supporters and detractors, but this new study from the Nederland Continue Reading
SOCIAL PRESSURES – WHAT’S YOUR POISON?
“Alcohol is a big element of our social interactions (in the UK at least) so not drinking, or stopping drinking, is normally met with criticism or mockery, which we want to avoid, even at a subconscious level. It can be extremely powerful, this social influence. If you’re allergic to alcohol, you’ve likely Continue Reading
ADDICTION TREATMENT AND RECOVERY PATHWAYS
When it comes to addiction the never-ending debate about “disease model” or brain disease, moral failing or trauma reaction causes a lot of confusion. The continued disagreements around the “causes”of addiction and the efficacy of addiction treatment, 12 Step programs, faith based solutions, medication and therapy models just add to Continue Reading
ONLINE AND ON THE MOVE – RECOVERY IS MOBILE
The ongoing accessibility offered by smart phone apps is enhancing all kinds of activities and experience, and an addiction recovery app can ensure you are not left out of this technological tsunami of opportunities. Of course accessing web sites on the move is convenient and helpful, but dedicated apps are Continue Reading
Second Chances
The final day of #RAAW16 in the US sees a final and appropriate hashtag, #SecondChances . At some point in Recovery most of us can reflect on the second chances we are given and sharing those stories can often inspire others embarking on their own Recovery journey. I have been Continue Reading
The Power of Story
“By sharing our stories, it seems, we invite each other into our worlds. This enhances our interconnectedness, shared awareness, and possibilities for fruitful interaction.” Stories have power. The telling of the personal story has long been a cornerstone of connectedness, one of humanities most basic needs is connection to others. Continue Reading
What Does Recovery Look Like?
In the spirit of FAVOR’s #RAAW16 (that is Recovery Advocacy Awareness Week), we are giving their theme for Monday 2nd May a moment of consideration. #ThisIsWhatRecoveryLooksLike is the nominated hash tag. A cursory search on Google throws out hundreds of individual stories of what Recovery means to people through their Continue Reading