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The Benefits Of Group Therapy During Addiction Recovery

October 16, 2021 | Michael E. Wolf, PhD

If you need treatment for alcohol use disorder or another form of addiction, consider the benefits of group therapy, one of several treatment approaches used in the treatment of substance use disorders. Addiction is a progressive disease that affects every part of a person’s life.1 Addiction treatment program therapies are designed to address different aspects…

Ask AA: Should I Get a Pet While in a Recovery Program?

October 13, 2021 | Karen Eisenbraun

When you’re in a recovery program for drug or alcohol addiction, you may find yourself wondering if it’s a good idea to get a pet. Pets can offer numerous benefits, but they also involve a certain level of responsibility that you may not be ready for, depending on where you are in the recovery process….

AA vs NA: The Similarities and Differences

October 12, 2021 | Mona Bapat, PhD, HSPP

When it comes to Narcotics Anonymous and Alcoholics Anonymous, there are more similarities than differences, however, there are small variations to consider.

Can I Attend AA and Another 12-Step Program at the Same Time?

October 11, 2021 | Autumn Jerumbo

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is a 12-step program for people who desire to live a life of sobriety. The 12 Steps are a path to surrender, clarity, connection, accountability, and integrity.1 You can choose from multiple types of Alcoholics Anonymous meetings, and you can attend more than one type of 12 step program at a time….

4 Strategies for Overcoming Shame Around Alcohol Misuse

September 17, 2021 | Jordana White

Alcohol is one of the most misused substances in the United States.1 Many people experience shame, guilt, or regret about their alcohol use or their behavior associated with it, like arguments with family and friends or uninhibited actions.1 Overcoming shame can be a barrier to seeking alcohol addiction treatment or progressing in recovery. In this…

Taking an “Opposite Action” to Prevent Relapse

September 4, 2021 | Ruben Bermea, LPC

When intense emotions lead to strong urges, taking an opposite action can help you make choices that preserve your sobriety.1 Addiction and substance use disorders can cause urges to use alcohol or drugs, even after you have completed a recovery program.2, 3 The concept of the opposite action is a form of emotional regulation that…

Is Relapse a Decision?

August 31, 2021 | Caitlin Boyd

People with alcohol addiction often relapse, especially during their early recovery.1 Relapse doesn’t mean that treatment has failed, and it’s not a sign of personal weakness. It is possible, with help, to make positive decisions that support long-term recovery and make avoiding relapse less difficult in the future. In this article: How Does Alcohol Addiction…

The Importance of Step Work in AA

August 27, 2021 | Caitlin Boyd

The Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) program includes more than 2 million members in about 180 nations worldwide.1 Many AA members use working the 12 Steps to adjust their thought patterns and manage the urge to use alcohol, helping them create a social and cognitive framework that supports staying sober. Working the 12 Steps can be one…

Can Nonalcoholic Drinks Help Me Stay Sober?

August 2, 2021 | Susanne Reed, PhD

If you are recovering from an alcohol use disorder (AUD) or thinking about reducing the amount of alcohol you use, you may consider drinking nonalcoholic drinks. Some individuals consider nonalcoholic drinks similar to smoking cessation tools that still contain nicotine, while others see nonalcoholic drinks as compromising their sobriety. In this article: What Does It…

Depression: Before, During, and After Alcohol Use

July 24, 2021 | Sarah Morris

Depression and alcohol addiction often co-occur.1 The mental health condition of major depression can occur before, during, or after alcohol use, as depression can lead to alcohol use, which may, in turn, increase the risk for depression. In this article: What Is the Prevalence of Co-Occurring Depression and Alcohol Addiction? Why Do People Drink Alcohol…

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