It’s January 1st and it’s a new year. Many people have decided that today will be the day for a fresh start when it comes to addressing issues of addictive behaviors. As for me, it’s simply another day. I don’t mean to downplay the idea of New Year resolutions but I just think that any day we choose can be a new beginning.

Addiction has often been called a “family disease.”  I would expand this definition to include those who are friends as well due the fact that the affected person’s behavior usually has an impact on those around them, whether they are family or friends.  As a result, a pattern of co-dependent behavior can occur.  So what can significant others do to help the active addict?

People either getting dragged back into addiction because of the holiday spirit or not being able to say no to a drink at the office Christmas party or New Years celebration. Or maybe they’re depressed because of the situation they’re in and deal with it by getting back into drinking or drugging. While all these may be difficult to deal with, there are certainly ways to get through the holidays clean and sober.

When the disease of addiction goes untreated, the ends of this disease are jails, institutions and death. There is hope however when an intervention is possible. This video explores these topics.

When it comes to addiction recovery during the holiday season it is important to keep first things first. In other words, your recovery should be your number one priority.  For those who have been fortunate enough to put “a few 24 hours” together, it is vital that they do not forget the basic things that helped them to get to where they are today.

When I look back on my active addiction, the biggest barrier to changing to a lifestyle of recovery was me. Years of self-abuse led to a pattern of negative thinking that was hard to overcome. Much of this negative thinking was centered on distorted thinking patterns that had been formed as a result of experiences I had growing up.

There are many consequences to keep into mind when it comes to making the decision to stop using drugs and alcohol..  What I mean is that while abstaining from substances is a tremendously courageous thing to do, there are a number of considerations to keep in mind.

As we approach the Thanksgiving holiday here in the States I have to pause and take a few moments to share some of the things I have to be grateful for. There was a time in my life when this holiday was especially chaotic and downright insane. After entering recovery I have come to appreciate all that I have and how truly blessed I am.

Many addicts have burnt bridges in their lives. It is possible, in some cases, to make an amends for any harm done. It can often help the one asking for forgiveness more than the injured party.

If you’re a regular reader of my blog then you know that my posts center on addiction-based topics.  Whether it is relapse prevention, the War on Drugs, or 12-Step recovery, I try to convey a consistent message.  This week I’d like to continue by looking at addiction recovery through a different lens: wellness.  Wellness is typically defined as being comprised of the physical, spiritual, and emotional  aspects of one’s life (there are other definitions that also include social, vocational, and financial wellness as well).