# practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in


## Posts

- [A Closer Look at the Rat Park Experiment, Part 2](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/a-closer-look-at-the-rat-park-experiment-part-2-2/): A Closer Look at the Rat Park Experiment, Part 2 By Kenneth Anderson, MA Part 1 reviewed some of the historical background which led up to the rat park studies. Part 2 reviews the rat park studies themselves. Part 3 will take a look at where we have gone since. Bruce K. Alexander’s first rat park study was published in 1978. The subjects were 32 albino Wistar rats (18 males and 14 females). After weaning, 10 of the rats (six males and four females) were placed in solitary confinement in standard laboratory cages. Twenty-two of the rats (12 males and […]
- [Introducing Collaborative Addiction Care to the Client](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/introducing-collaborative-addiction-treatment-to-the-client/): Practical Recovery aims to offer ideal addiction treatment for any substance or activity addiction. We describe our approach as “collaborative addiction care.” Because each client is unique, and we are fully collaborative, no two treatment plans are alike. Hence we do not offer a “program.” Our treatment intensity can be as high as alcohol and drug rehab or our treatment-in-residence program and can range downward to brief outpatient services. The treatment-in-residence program is a combination of day-long intensive outpatient services and residence either in our six-bed sober living facility or an adjacent hotel. Our services work best for local clients, […]
- [Is Collaborative Addiction Treatment Effective?](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/is-collaborative-addiction-care-effective/): Unfortunately, Practical Recovery does not yet have any long-term follow-up data on our clients. The task of designing the data collection is daunting. No two clients do the same treatment! However, we are in the process of designing a basic data collection system. We expect it to reveal that our clients do about as well as clients in well-run studies. Our lack of data should not be surprising. We are a for-profit facility in a highly competitive market. We are also blazing a trail that few others seem to be following on (so far). Blazing this trail has kept us […]
- [Introduction to Collaborative Addiction Treatment](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/introduction-to-collaborative-addiction-treatment/): Why consider a collaborative addiction treatment relationship with someone who, by definition, is making very bad decisions?  Addicts and alcoholics keep using and drinking and are often irresponsible in other ways.  How could they meaningfully contribute to treatment decisions?  Don’t they need to be told what to do, and be made to do it long enough for changes to last? Not necessarily.  At Practical Recovery we suggest that 1) supporting recovery is about engaging motivations that are more fundamental than the motivations to use or drink and 2) we best engage these motivations when we collaborate with (rather than confront, […]
- [Leading Edge Psychotherapy: The Psychotherapy Team](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/leading-edge-psychotherapy-the-psychotherapy-team/): A psychotherapy team involves multiple therapists who meet successively with the same client for individual therapy. Leading edge psychotherapy teams have begun to emerge, in varying degrees, in a few state-of-the-art addiction treatment facilities. Their emergence may have occurred somewhat serendipitously but as Pasteur remarked “chance favors the prepared mind.” To my mind, the experience with the leading edge psychotherapy team format highlights the illusion of believing that a client exists as such and that the client’s problems or difficulties exist as such. By “as such” I am referring to the idea that the client and his or her difficulties […]
- [Treating Psychiatric and Addiction Comorbidity with a Cognitive-behavioral (non-12-step) Approach](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/treating-psychiatric-and-addiction-comorbidity-with-a-cognitive-behavioral-non-12-step-approach/): As more addiction treatment programs treat comorbidity it seems likely that client confusion about treatment approach will increase.  Comorbidity is here defined as having both a mental health disorder (such as anxiety or depression) as well as an addictive disorder.  Client confusion might arise because CBT (cognitive behavior therapy) has become the treatment of choice for many mental health disorders, but 12-step based treatment remains the most widely available treatment for addictive disorders.  Clients receiving CBT for their mental disorders can be confused when they compare the self-empowering strategies of CBT with the emphasis on powerlessness in a 12-step approach.  […]
- [In AA Social Support is More Important Than a Higher Power](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/in-aa-social-support-is-more-important-than-a-higher-power/): Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and other 12-step groups (e.g., Narcotics Anonymous, Cocaine Anonymous, Marijuana Anonymous, etc.) suggest that to recover from addiction you must accept that you are powerless to recover on your own.  Only with inspiration from a higher power, recognition of your character defects, and fellowship in the group, among other steps, will you be successful.  If this perspective makes sense to you, then 12-step groups may be just what you need.  But the higher power concept is not acceptable to many, and it probably isn’t the foundation of the limited success AA achieves. Let’s discuss how and why […]
- [Are Non-12-Step Recovery Approaches Effective?](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/are-non-12-step-recovery-approaches-effective/): There are many effective alternatives to the 12-step addiction recovery approach.  This article will describe the major treatments and support groups that one might choose if interested in and answer the question: are non-12-step recovery approaches effective?  These alternatives need to be widely known because individuals who might never attend an AA (Alcoholics Anonymous) meeting might attend treatment or a support group with a different approach.  What might not be possible for them in AA might be possible elsewhere.  It would benefit everyone if the alternative approaches were as widely known and as easily available as AA and other 12-step […]
- [Choices in Addiction Treatment and Recovery](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/should-people-who-need-addiction-recovery-have-choices/): Should individuals who need help have choices when it comes to treatment and recovery from addiction?   Imagine talking to your child or partner, who is obviously drinking or drugging too much. “Why don’t you get it?  It’s SO obvious!  You are becoming addicted!  Look at the damage you are causing, to yourself, to me, and to everyone who cares about you.  YOU NEED TO STOP!  I’m arranging to send you to treatment.” And imagine an angry response, perhaps something like “This is my life, I’ll live it the way I want…You just don’t respect my lifestyle…You are blowing this way […]
- [Debunking the Myth about AA](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/debunking-the-myth-about-aa/): The primary myth about AA is that “it is the only thing that works.” Of course, like other myths, there is some truth in this one. Many people assert that AA saved them or others they know well from alcohol problems. They may be correct. However, no one knows. From a scientific perspective, the effectiveness of AA is unknown. Furthermore, what is known to be effective alcohol treatment, from a scientific perspective, is not very similar to AA. Therefore, what should be said about AA is that “it might work—many people claim based on personal experience that it does—but other approaches […]
- [Self-empowering vs. Powerless Recovery](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/self-empowering-vs-powerless-recovery/): Debunking the myth about AA Should people who need addiction recovery have choices? Are non-12-step recovery approaches effective? Why choose a non-12-step recovery approach? In AA social support is more important than a higher power Treating psychiatric and addiction comorbidity with a cognitive-behavioral (non-12-step) approach  Leading edge psychotherapy: The psychotherapy team
- [Quality Time vs. Quantity Time](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/quality-time-vs-quantity-time/): Parents want to have “a great time” with their kids. Realistically, however, how many “Kodak moments” are likely to occur? Wonderful moments or encounters don’t happen daily, and maybe not even weekly. More importantly, these moments can’t be scheduled. They happen when they happen. There is a simple guideline for increasing the number of wonderful moments you have with your children: Spend more time with them. Aim to have “quantity time” and the “quality time” with your kids will follow. What ways of spending time together are there? First, there are the basics. Have meals together. Engage the children in […]
- [Parenting 101: 28 Tips for Being a Better Parent](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/tips-for-being-a-better-parent/): Even if you have been away from your children because of reasons related to your addiction, your kids are probably not far from your mind. In early recovery, it is important to focus on yourself long enough to build a solid foundation for change (however long that takes will vary from person to person). Once a stable foundation is established, it is time to think about your relationships, especially those with your children as well as some of our tips for being a better parent. Most parents strive to be the best parents they can be. Given the hectic nature […]
- [Self-Empowering Recovery Groups for Support](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/self-empowering-recovery-groups/): Although Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and other 12-step groups are far more widely known, there are other addiction support groups worth knowing about.  They are listed here in approximate order of size and influence.  All of the self-empowering recovery groups support abstinence, with Moderation Management supporting both abstinence and moderation with alcohol. SMART Recovery:  Self-Management And Recovery Training (SMART) is a global community of mutual-support groups. At meetings, participants help one another resolve problems with any addiction (to drugs or alcohol or to activities such as gambling or over-eating). Participants find and develop the power within themselves to change and lead […]
- [Biopsychosocial Model of Recovery Groups](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/biopsychosocial-model-of-recovery-groups/): Science has revealed that addiction is far more complex than we formerly thought. As a result, professionals and individuals in recovery have changed their language about addiction and recovery. Addiction is now described as a complex problem, and recovery is described as having biological, psychological, social, and spiritual aspects.  This “biopsychosocial” model of recovery groups model includes physiology and genetics; behavior, beliefs and emotions; family, community and culture; and values, morality, and ultimate beliefs. If we accept that addiction and recovery are bio-psycho-social-spiritual, which addiction support groups support this broad and complex approach? Which groups include all four aspects in […]
- [Balancing Individual and Community Needs in Addiction](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/balancing-individual-and-community-needs-in-addiction/): A well-functioning family, community or society needs to have a balance between self-interested behavior, and altruistic or service behavior. If every member of a group pays attention only to his or her own immediate needs, life becomes very difficult quickly. For instance, a hunter-gatherer group that could effectively cooperate to hunt large animals would have more food, and be safer, than a group that had each member attempting to hunt alone. Solitary hunters are simply not as effective as a well-coordinated team of hunters. You might also be interested in: When Substance Use Affects the Family It is assumed in most Western […]
- [Do-It-Yourself (DIY) Moderate Drinking](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/do-it-yourself-moderate-drinking/): DIY Moderate Drinking Are you interested in moderating your drinking? Many individuals are! Here are two books which provide everything you need to know about DIY moderate drinking. Responsible Drinking: A Moderation Management Approach for Problem Drinkers This book, by Rotgers, F., Kern, M. & Hoeltzel, R. (CA: New Harbinger Publications, 2002) is the basic text of Moderation Management (MM), a support group which helps individuals moderate drinking, or abstain. The first two authors are addiction experts who also volunteer on MM’s Board of Directors. The final author was successful in the MM program. MM offers a summary of its program […]
- [Family and Addiction: Two Attitudes That Promote Recovery](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/family-and-addiction-two-attitudes-that-promote-recovery/): A. Tom Horvath, Ph.D., ABPP 1)  Stay focused on the desired outcome, not the process.  You may be hoping to find the “right” treatment for a loved one.  Rather than insisting that your loved one do this or that (some treatment program you think will be helpful), focus on what you want: no more (or at least fewer) addiction problems.  Don’t get so caught up in the process of treatment that you lose sight of the goal.  Let your loved one determine what might be helpful.  Any program the user chooses is better than one forced on him or her. Starting […]
- [Addiction as a Disease: Understanding the Disadvantages](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/the-disadvantages-of-understanding-addiction-as-a-disease/): In the news media, the typical expert describes addiction as a disease. Often these experts work at addiction treatment facilities. It would be easy to conclude that experts agree that addiction is hereditary, incurable, and lifelong. In the addiction field, this view is referred to as the “disease model.” There is significant disagreement about the disease model, but the scientists and professionals who view addiction in other ways do not receive the same media coverage. Why alternatives to the disease model (there are several) do not get more publicity is a story in itself. However, this article will focus on two reasons not to understand addiction […]
- [Preventing Relapse to Addictive Behavior: The Role of Lifestyle Balance](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/preventing-relapse-to-addictive-behavior-the-role-of-lifestyle-balance/): In addiction recovery, if your life is filled with non-pleasurable activities, you are more likely to relapse. The relapse will provide an intense, but only temporary, satisfaction. Let’s explore what preventing relapse and the role that lifestyle balance plays in everyday life. Perhaps the greatest risk for imbalance comes when we are too focused on what we “should” do and not enough on what we want to do. Of course, we need to do what we should do. But in balance! One comparison for this is someone who places too large a portion of income into retirement funds. Daily life becomes […]
- [Coping with Craving](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/coping-with-craving/): If you have had strong cravings, you may not need a description of one!  Like hunger (which is what we call craving for food), craving is a complete (cognitive, emotional, and physical) experience.  Your mind is distracted.  You feel tense and/or frustrated.  You get physically uncomfortable.  Craving motivates us to engage with whatever we are craving.  Craving is specific, although we may gain some relief by using a substitute.  If you are craving red wine, beer would be a (poor) substitute!  If you are just craving alcohol, beer or wine will do. You might also be interested in: Drug & […]
- [What Is the Best Alcohol Treatment?](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/what-is-the-best-alcohol-treatment/): There are three myths about alcohol treatment, according to some of the foremost researchers in the area, led by psychologist William R. Miller (Handbook of Alcoholism Treatment Approaches: Effective Alternatives, 3rd edition, edited by Hester & Miller, published in 2003 by Allyn & Bacon). The first myth, and possibly the worst, is that there is one and only one effective approach to addiction recovery. If you are seeking treatment and a facility tells you a version of this myth, it would be better to look elsewhere for help. Alcohol treatment research, and addiction treatment research generally, shows there is no single approach […]
- [Can You Trust Your Own Judgment in Addiction Recovery?](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/can-you-trust-your-own-judgment-in-addiction-recovery/): Addiction recovery requires accomplishing several tasks, including: Build and maintain motivation Connect with others Identify and develop alternative coping methods Reduce resentment about changing Identify, understand and cope with craving Build a new, balanced life Lead a life that is purposeful, meaningful, and happy Stay alert for problems and follow through all the way Making Continued Progress To accomplish these tasks, you will need to make MANY decisions along the way. However, your judgment about your addictive behavior(s) has not been good. How could you trust yourself after addiction to make decisions about recovery? You could put yourself in the hands of […]
- [Could an ‘Intervention’ Have Helped Michael Jackson?](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/could-an-intervention-have-helped-michael-jackson/): Within hours of Michael Jackson’s overdose, many asked, could an “intervention” have saved him, by persuading him to seek alcohol and drug rehab? Because it came out in the press that Jackson had actually experienced two interventions, the immediate answer to this question would appear to be that intervention was not helpful, at least to Jackson. But let us imagine what might have happened at these interventions, to understand more about intervention itself. What is an Addiction Intervention? The ‘Johnson Intervention’ is an organized confrontation in which the person with an addiction is misled into showing up somewhere (often by […]
- [Guiding Principles of Recovery](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/guiding-principles-of-recovery/): Working Definition of Recovery: Recovery from alcohol and drug problems is a process of change through which an individual achieves abstinence and improved health, wellness, and quality of life. Guiding Principles of Recovery: There are many pathways to recovery:  Individuals are unique, with specific needs, strengths, goals, health attitudes, behaviors, and expectations for recovery.  Pathways to recovery are highly personal, and generally involve a redefinition of identity in the face of crisis or a process of progressive change.  Furthermore, pathways are often social, grounded in cultural beliefs or traditions, and involve informal community resources, which provide support for sobriety.  The […]
- [The Roots of Drug Abuse](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/the-roots-of-drug-abuse/): Perception vs. Reality Generalities about people tend to be either trite or misleading.  To risk one anyway, I have acquired the impression that all the people I have worked with, in addiction treatment for severe and persistent drug use, regard the drug (or drugs) as their most dependable and effective source of soothing (calming, relaxing, good feeling, etc.). Let us call such individuals “drug abusers.”  I use the term “drug abuser” in quotes because I do not want to make a caricature of a real person.  In other words, for a “drug abuser,” other people are regarded and experienced as relatively useless […]
- [Can Drinking and Drugging Improve My Social Life?](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/can-drinking-and-drugging-improve-my-social-life/): Yes, but…let’s discuss how drugs and alcohol can actually have a beneficial effect on your social life (or at least appear to). In the second section let’s discuss why drug and alcohol use can still be a bad idea for you. How Drinking and Drugging Can Help Your Social Life One of the most frequent reasons people use drugs, and especially alcohol, is to improve their social ability, either in social groups or on dates: “I didn’t know how to enjoy myself with others unless I did this.  And I could go on a date more easily.” Related to this […]
- [How to Cope with Painful Feelings](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/how-to-cope-with-painful-feelings/): Why We Cope: No one complains about feeling happy! But we don’t want to have other, painful feelings. When these feelings arise, one way to respond to them is to drink or drug. One set of painful feelings can be broadly labeled fear or anxiety: ”Drugs and/or alcohol helped me cope with feelings like anxiety, tension, fear, stress, agitation, nervousness, vulnerability, intimidation, embarrassment, and panic.” Other painful feelings center around sadness and depression: ”They helped me cope with feelings like depression, sadness, hurt, discouragement, grief, feeling defeated, feeling deprived or feeling abandoned.” There are many other painful feelings as well: a) frustration, resentment, anger, annoyance, […]
- [What is Denial?](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/what-is-denial/): Denial is one aspect of resistance to change. In regards to addiction, it involves denying or minimizing the existence or seriousness of addiction problems. Unfortunately, within the field of traditional (12-step) addiction treatment, the belief is that “addiction is a disease and denial is its symptom.” From the traditional perspective, it is also believed that “alcoholics and addicts” exhibit denial as a rather permanent “character trait.” It requires strong and direct confrontation, and sometimes other extreme measures, to blast through denial. Based on this traditional perspective individuals with addictions are sometimes treated in cruel or disrespectful ways, which would never […]
- [Addiction as Mismanaged Desire](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/addiction-as-mismanaged-desire/): How Does Addiction Develop? Addiction develops when desire goes unchecked. Desire is a fundamental aspect of human life, and learning to manage desire is part of normal human development. Overcoming addiction is a special case of managing desire. Overcoming addiction is managing desire ‘writ large.’ You might also be interested in: Drugs Don’t Cause Addiction Satisfying Desires I leave out of this discussion some Eastern approaches to living, in which the goal of proper living is the elimination of desire. In Western tradition, life is about satisfying desire. Some desires have their own names: hunger, thirst, greed, lust. Otherwise, we speak of desiring (seeking, […]
- [The Relationship Between Addiction and Habit](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/the-relationship-between-addiction-and-habit/): What is Addiction? Let’s define addiction as repeated involvement with anything, despite excessive costs, because of craving.  That sounds similar to habit, which is also repeated involvement with something. What are the differences and similarities between addiction and habit? Let’s start with some examples of what appears to be an addiction. A college freshman ends up in the emergency room after his first binge but is not repeatedly involved with alcohol (although he may soon be). A medical patient on opiates for pain control does not crave the next injection for the “high,” but simply wants pain relief. A low stakes poker […]
- [Addiction Impaired Professionals](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/addiction-impaired-professionals/): How society should view addiction Ending recoveryism Let’s stop insisting addiction is a disease Will insurance cover addiction treatment if addiction is not a disease? AA’s dominance in the US is harmful Court-ordered 12-step attendance is illegal CRAFT: An alternative to addiction “intervention” Substance abuse evaluations in child custody cases Addiction and youth Teach teens drinking before it kills them Why do college students drink so much? Why does anyone? From adolescent substance experimentation to addiction Helping your troubled teen without making things worse Alcohol advertising targets youth Addiction impaired professionals On June 30, 2008, the state of California stopped its medical […]
- [Alcohol Advertising Targets Youth](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/alcohol-advertising-targets-youth/): Self-regulation in the alcohol advertising industry is producing ads reminiscent of “Joe Camel” which targets impressionable youth, according to Australian addiction scientists who call for stricter regulation of the ads (Fielder, Donovan, & Ouschan, 2009). In the U.S., where alcohol advertising is also subject to self-regulation by the industry, more than 4,600 young people under the age of 21 died as a result of alcohol use each year. Past studies show that people who start drinking as adolescents have a higher risk of lifelong problematic drinking, ultimately perhaps necessitating a stay in alcohol rehab. Alcohol Advertising Targets Youth Other studies […]
- [Helping Your Troubled Teen Without Making Things Worse](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/addiction-treatment-for-teens/): Recent revelations of scams and manipulations on Wall Street have opened our eyes as to just how greedy and dishonest some individuals can be. It should be no surprise that there are individuals who prey on the desperation of parents whose teens have become involved in alcohol and other drugs, gangs, crime, and violence. Considering the many forms of trouble that seem to attract teens, and our seemingly limitless willingness to sacrifice for our kids, parents of troubled teens are appallingly at risk for exploitation. This sad truth is grippingly revealed in Maia Szalavitz’s appropriately titled Help at Any Cost: […]
- [From Adolescent Drug Experimentation to Addiction](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/from-adolescent-substance-experimentation-to-addiction/): Although adolescence has always been a time of great transition, many older adults today may have trouble appreciating just how different adolescence has become. High school students today have extensive substance use experiences. For instance, based on federal studies, about 75% have tried alcohol (with 50% drinking regularly), 38% have tried marijuana, 20% have tried cocaine, 50% have had sexual intercourse and 50% have tried cigarettes (with 20% smoking regularly).  These numbers show us that most adolescents today face a range of choices that their parents may not have realized even existed. Despite the large numbers of adolescents who are exposed […]
- [Why Do College Students Drink So Much? Why Does Anyone?](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/why-do-college-students-drink-so-much/): Some college students drink to excess. Such drinking is obvious to anyone who visits a college town on nights that “specials” are offered at the bars, and on other nights also. Why? Just a result of college culture? A self-fulfilling prophesy of the party crowd when they leave home? A youthful perception of invincibility? Perhaps. But how about a more mundane and controllable factor: the price of the alcohol? In her column, “Tara Parker-Pope on Health” (Sept. 2, 2009), Parker-Pope reports that alcohol researchers from the University of Florida and San Diego State University studied how drink specials influenced the alcohol consumption of […]
- [Teach Teens About Alcohol Before it Kills Them](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/teach-teens-about-alcohol-before-it-kills-them/): A. Tom Horvath, Ph.D., ABPP Alcohol prohibition in the US lasted from 1919 to 1933. Prohibition continues for those under age 21. Prohibition was repealed because it was violated so often.  Given how much people like to drink, prohibition as a public policy was not realistic. In this article, I suggest that we are seeing similar violations of drinking laws by young people and that it is time to modify the prohibition on their drinking and to teach teens about alcohol. The actions I suggest are already in place in many families. Drinking actually seems to be decreasing among young […]
- [Addiction and Youth](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/addiction-and-youth/): Addiction, Recovery and Society How society should view addiction Ending recoveryism Let’s stop insisting addiction is a disease Will insurance cover addiction treatment if addiction is not a disease? AA’s dominance in the US is harmful Court-ordered 12-step attendance is illegal CRAFT: An alternative to addiction “intervention” Substance abuse evaluations in child custody cases Addiction and youth Teach teens drinking before it kills them Why do college students drink so much? Why does anyone? From adolescent substance experimentation to addiction Helping your troubled teen without making things worse Alcohol advertising targets youth Addiction impaired professionals On June 30, 2008, the state […]
- [Substance Abuse Evaluations in Child Custody Cases](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/substance-abuse-evaluations-in-child-custody-cases/): A. Tom Horvath, Ph.D., ABPP I make a number of assumptions when conducting a substance abuse evaluations as part of a litigation process: The individual’s use is usually not less than the individual reports, but it might often be more (or much more). Inaccurate accusations of substance abuse are common because there is usually little negative consequence for inaccurate accusations. The parties to the litigation, and those connected with them, may provide biased and inaccurate information. Therefore outside corroboration of their reports is essential for determining the extent and consequences of substance use. Getting Outside Corroboration: As a practical matter, […]
- [CRAFT: An Alternative to Addiction “Intervention”](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/craft-an-alternative-to-addiction-intervention/): By: Tom Brown, Ph.D. CRAFT (Community Reinforcement and Family Training) is a non-confrontational approach to getting a loved one to enter addiction treatment. It is an approach designed for the concerned other (spouse, family member, friend), who is seeking assistance in getting their loved one help. CRAFT can also help the person you are concerned about reduce their substance use, even without their direct cooperation. CRAFT is successful in getting people into treatment by a three to one margin over traditional intervention strategies. CRAFT is motivational rather than confrontational. Concerned Significant Others (CSO) learn how to motivate loved ones to […]
- [Will Insurance Cover Addiction if it's Not a Disease?](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/will-insurance-cover-addiction-treatment-if-addiction-is-not-a-disease/): Will insurance cover addiction if it’s not a disease? Some highly vocal addiction recovery advocacy groups claim that addictions, or at least some addictions, are diseases. These groups argue that insurance coverage for addiction treatment is crucial for recovery, and that insurers will not pay for treatment if addiction is not understood as a disease. Therefore, they say, we need to keep insisting that addiction is a disease, and keep insisting that our insurers cover addiction treatment. Defining Diseases and Conditions However, insurers already pay for many conditions that are not diseases. For instance, broken bones, pregnancies, and the repair of congenital […]
- [Let’s Stop Insisting Addiction is a Disease](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/lets-stop-insisting-addiction-is-a-disease/): The disease perspective discourages many people from seeking help and implies that addiction is a disease. Suppose you have had a “few too many,” and you have done so a few too many times in recent weeks or months. You might also be interested in: Addiction is Learning, Not Disease Most people, under these circumstances, will realize that a problem could be emerging. The idea that someone has to “hit bottom” before thinking about their addictive behavior is ridiculous! 1) So You Decide to Cut Back (Why Entirely Give up a Good Thing?) But if you aren’t successful, you might […]
- [Ending Recoveryism](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/ending-recoveryism/): Racism, dogmatism, and sexism are the judgments that one race, set of beliefs, or sex are superior. I am introducing the term “recoveryism,” defined as the judgment that one approach to recovery is superior. Recoveryism often gets even more extreme: there is only ONE approach to recovery. Any other “approach” is just pseudo-recovery. Individuals who try these pseudo-recoveries will not recover until they finally seek the one true way. A Recent Example of Recoveryism One clear-cut example of recoveryism can be found in James Frey’s book, A Million Little Pieces.  Although aspects of Frey’s book have come under intense criticism, I suspect the recoveryism […]
- [Why Do Some Avoid 12-Step Groups During Addiction Recovery?](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/why-do-some-avoid-non-12-step-addiction-recovery/): Research shows that substance use disorder (SUD) patients who attend 12-step mutual help groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous experience reduced healthcare costs and better outcomes. However, many individuals with SUD never attend 12-step meetings, while others who attend initially do not follow through. The reasons for non-attendance and dropout of 12-step meetings have not been thoroughly studied. Kelly, Kahler, and Humphreys asked, “Why do individuals stop attending 12-step groups (and why do others refuse to attend meetings in the first place)?” (2009). These researchers suggest that the questions are important because 12-step groups are almost universally recommended as a component […]
- [Herbal Remedies and Acupuncture for Addiction Recovery](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/herbal-remedies-and-acupuncture-for-addiction-recovery/): Traditional Chinese medicine revolves around herbal remedies and acupuncture for addiction recovery. Might these ancient therapies be successfully used in modern addiction treatment? Chinese and American researchers studied the existing evidence and concluded that, although more testing is need, some traditional remedies can compliment modern medicine for promoting addiction recovery (Lu et. al., 2009). What We Know The research team examined texts and computerized literature concerning treatment and neurobiology of herbal medicines as well as acupuncture for drug abuse and dependence. They found that acupuncture showed evidence for clinical efficacy in opiate withdrawal, but it showed poor efficacy for alcohol and […]
- [Heroin Addiction Treatment in Prison](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/heroin-addiction-treatment-in-prison/): The United States has the world’s highest incarceration rate. Approximately 10 million individuals are sent to prison each year, and more than half of them have a history of substance abuse. Further, more than 200,000 have a history of heroin addiction. A recent study suggests that the prison system could improve addiction treatment offered to inmates. Nunn et. al. found that opiate replacement therapy (ORT) with methadone or buprenorphine (Suboxone) is frequently neglected in prison, even though it has been proven to be an effective addiction treatment for opiate dependence that can reduce drug-related disease and rates of recidivism (2009).   What does the […]
- [Resolving The Core of Drug Abuse](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/resolving-the-core-of-drug-abuse/): Resolving the core of drug abuse David Jacobs, Ph.D. When I see a “drug abuser” in addiction treatment my primary concern is to help the individual understand how the past remains in the present and to consider how that past and present might be changed, with the goal of ending the costs that arise when drugs are used to solve emotional problems. I put “drug abuser” in quotes to avoid making a caricature of a real person. Treatment needs to be founded on the observation that everyone does their best given their background.  But it avails the “drug abuser” naught to focus […]
- [Detoxification From Addictive Substances](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/detoxification-from-addictive-substances/): Detoxification from addictive substances A. Tom Horvath, Ph.D., ABPP Detoxification (“detox”), or withdrawal, is the period of time it takes your body to adjust to being without a substance which it is used to having regularly.  During this time period, a previous bodily “homeostasis” is restored, one based on not using the substance or substances.  This restored homeostasis is similar to the one you had before you started using the substances regularly. You might also be interested in: Medication-Assisted Treatment What is Homeostasis? Homeostasis refers to the body’s maintenance, by an ongoing balancing act, of a stable internal condition.  If […]
- [Residential Addiction Treatment: Possibly Helpful, Probably Not Essential](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/residential-addiction-treatment-possibly-helpful-probably-not-essential/): Residential addiction treatment: Possibly helpful, probably not essential A. Tom Horvath, Ph.D., ABPP The reason almost all health insurance companies have stopped paying for residential addiction treatment is that the effectiveness of residential treatment and outpatient treatment has been compared many times, with no advantage being found for residential treatment.  The July 1986, issue of the American Psychologist contains the definitive article (by Miller & Hester) on this subject.  Their article “reviews findings from 26 controlled studies, which have consistently shown no overall advantage for residential over nonresidential settings.”   You might question whether a 1986 article would still be relevant this many years later.  […]
- [Levels of Care in Addiction Treatment](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/levels-of-care-in-addiction-treatment/): A. Tom Horvath, Ph.D., ABPP There are many places you might receive assistance for overcoming addiction.  These places are generally referred to as “levels of care.”  By understanding the levels available you can choose the level most suitable for you.  We start with the least complicated and expensive level and work up.  We leave out detoxification (withdrawal), which occurs across several levels depending on how severe it is.  A comprehensive list of US addiction treatment facilities, across all levels of care, is provided by the federal government: http://findtreatment.samhsa.gov/ Natural Recovery There is no professional or organized care involved at these levels of […]
- [Do Women Need Specialized Alcohol or Addiction Treatment?](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/do-women-need-specialized-alcohol-or-addiction-treatment/): A. Tom Horvath, Ph.D., ABPP There are several significant differences between men and women concerning alcohol problems.  For instance, the same amount of alcohol (adjusted for weight) will have a bigger effect on a woman (because her stomach does not detoxify alcohol as effectively as a man’s stomach does), women may experience more medical complications (and these complications may be difficult to diagnose and therefore ignored longer), alcohol problems appear to develop (progress) faster in women, the effects of alcohol problems may be greater and more complex for women who have substantial responsibilities both at work and with their families, and […]
- [How Do I Choose: Individual or Group Sessions for Addiction Treatment?](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/how-do-i-choose-the-right-treatment-center-individual-or-group-sessions/): How do I choose: Individual or group sessions for addiction treatment?  A. Tom Horvath, Ph.D., ABPP Are you searching for the “right” treatment center for you or a loved one?  This article is written to suggest that pre-established “programs” (individual or group sessions for addiction treatment) of treatment are not the best approach.  Rather, there are as many roads to recovery as there are individuals.  Treatment centers need to support you on your own path to recovery, not push you into a generalized recovery path that may be slightly helpful to many people, but not exactly helpful to anyone. Things to […]
- [What are The Advantages of Group Sessions for Addiction Recovery?](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/what-are-the-advantages-of-group-sessions-for-addiction-recovery/): What are the advantages of group sessions for addiction recovery?  A. Tom Horvath, Ph.D. There is no single correct or best way to recover from addiction.  No element of the recovery process must be completed by all individuals.  Although group sessions are often described as essential to recovery, they are not.  In fact, most people who recover do not attend groups of any kind!  However, these non-group-attending individuals are often ignored by treatment professionals, who are sometimes so focused on how they approach recovery that they fail to recognize other approaches. Nevertheless, group sessions can be valuable.  This article will describe […]
- [Let The Buyer Beware About Addiction Treatment](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/let-the-buyer-beware-about-addiction-treatment/): Let the buyer beware about addiction treatment A. Tom Horvath, Ph.D., ABPP The Latin phrase caveat emptor (“let the buyer beware”) suggests that sellers may not inform buyers of everything buyers might want to know about the purchase they are considering.  Caveat emptor certainly applies when considering services from the highly competitive addiction treatment industry.  This multi-billion dollar industry divides into two primary parts: government-funded treatment (about 75% of treatment) and private pay treatment.  Private insurance may pay a portion of private treatment, but typically only a small portion.  Government-funded treatment centers do not compete so much for clients as for contracts.  If you attend one […]
- [Understanding Synaptic Plasticity in Addiction Treatment](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/understanding-synaptic-plasticity-in-addiction-treatment/): Habitual drug users may find it beneficial to seek addiction treatment sooner rather than later because the long term effects of drugs can lead to long-term depression (LTD). LTD affects memory formation and learning and continued drug use over time will lead to a loss of control where drug users lose many defenses against drug-seeking behavior.   Understanding Synaptic Plasticity Why is it that some regular users of drugs or alcohol develop addictions while others don’t? The beginning of addiction appears to be related to a loss of synaptic plasticity in the brain, according to research carried out by a team of […]
- [Addiction Treatment and Prevention in Middle School](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/school-level-substance-use-and-addiction-treatment-and-prevention-in-middle-school/): Antismoking campaigns and prevention programs in middle schools may be beneficial in teaching adolescents about the harms of smoking and drinking. Students who have been smoking and drinking in middle school may continue to smoke and drink throughout high school and even be at a higher risk for alcohol abuse in their lifetime. Thus, using evidence-based approaches to inform adolescents about addiction treatment and prevention in middle school may help reduce the number of students who try drinking and smoking. Parenting style is another key indicator of drinking and smoking by adolescents where subprime parenting may lead to an increased risk of […]
- [The Effect of MDMA (Ecstasy) on Cognitive Performance in Drug Recovery](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/the-effect-of-mdma-ecstasy-on-cognitive-performance-in-drug-recovery/): According to previous research, MDMA (3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine), popularly known as Ecstasy, may negatively affect cognition among heavy users. Golding et. al. set out to investigate whether light users and ex-users of MDMA in drug recovery also exhibit deficits in cognitive performance (2007).   The History of MDMA MDMA has an interesting history. It was first synthesized by a Merck chemist in 1912 and largely forgotten for the next 60 years. MDMA appeared as a street drug in the 1970s after its analogue MDA (3,4-Methylenedioxyamphetamine), known as “the love drug” or “the hug drug” in the 1960s, was criminalized. Andrew Shulgin, a […]
- [External Rewards Promote Initial, Not Longer Term Drug Recovery](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/external-rewards-promote-initial-but-not-longer-term-drug-recovery/): External rewards in drug recovery was not as effective as learning solid coping skills. Researchers at the University of Connecticut Health Center found that, for regular (dependent) users of marijuana, long-term abstinence was more likely to occur for patients who actively used recovery coping skills. Abstaining patients developed more confidence in the effectiveness of the coping skills and their ability to use these skills. Rewarding abstinence by paying the patients (an approach called “contingency management”) was successful in the early days and weeks of drug recovery. However, unless the patients also developed new insights and actively changed recovery-related behaviors (including […]
- [Drug Treatment & Drug Rehab for Individuals with Disabilities](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/drug-treatment-and-drug-rehab-for-individuals-with-disabilities/): Research shows that substance abuse is a significant problem for individuals with physical, mental, or psychological disabilities. In fact, as a whole, individuals with disabilities use alcohol and other drugs as much or more than the general population, and they are at greater risk for problems associated with substance abuse (Moore, 1991). However, little research has examined substance abuse, drug treatment, and drug rehab for individuals with disabilities. When treating a primary disability, healthcare practitioners may fail to recognize secondary substance abuse. Substance abuse disorders often reduce the already-scant resources of a disabled individual. For example, many disabled people have […]
- [Melancholia and Stimulant Drug Recovery](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/melancholia-and-stimulant-drug-recovery/): Major depressive disorder (MDD), or clinical depression, is characterized by low mood, low self-esteem, and loss of interest or pleasure. The DSM-IV recognizes five subtypes of MDD. Could different subtypes of MDD affect drug recovery for different substances? If so, drug rehab would need to consider these subtypes when treatment plans are formulated regarding melancholia and drug recovery.   The Five Types of Major Depressive Disorder To begin, let’s review the subtypes of MDD. The five subtypes are as follows: Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) typically occurs during the autumn or winter months and resolves in the spring. The diagnosis of […]
- [How Personality Disorders Might Affect Drug Rehab & Addiction Recovery](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/how-personality-disorders-might-affect-drug-rehab-and-addiction-recovery/): Cluster B personality disorders (e.g., borderline personality disorder) and substance use disorders (SUD) are both marked by impulsivity and poor behavioral control. Previous studies (e.g., Taylor, 2005) have found evidence that symptoms of cluster B personality disorder and SUD are significantly and positively correlated. Because of accumulating evidence which suggests that personality disorders are prevalent in opioid dependent populations, along with evidence linking cluster B personality disorder characteristics and SUD severity, Murray et. al. hypothesized that opioid dependent patients with cluster B personality characteristics would have elevated methadone dose prescriptions (2008). Such a finding would have immediate implications for the […]
- [Modafinil with CBT May Improve Drug Rehab for Gay Men with HIV](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/modafinil-with-cbt-may-improve-drug-rehab-for-gay-men-with-hiv/): Methamphetamine use has been linked to increased risk of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) among gay men. Methamphetamine is a highly addictive stimulant that may lower inhibitions, increase sexual arousal, and lead to risky sexual behavior such as unprotected sex. Further, methamphetamine may be injected, and needle-sharing is also a risk factor for HIV.  These two epidemics have spread concurrently among gay men. There is a need for specialized approaches for addiction treatment and drug rehab for gay men with HIV, if such approaches could be developed.   Research Regarding Modafinil in Addition to CBT Researchers from the New York State […]
- [Drug Rehab May Soon Include Pharmacogenetics](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/drug-rehab-may-soon-include-pharmacogenetics/): Pharmacogenetics looks at genetic variation to predict individual differences in response to medications. Individuals may metabolize the same medication in different ways, and their genotype may indicate some of these differences in drug metabolism. Proponents of pharmacogenetics hope that this relatively new field of study will lead to increased efficacy and safety for a wide array of drugs, including those used for addiction treatment. The addiction medicine aspects of drug rehab may be substantially improved if pharmacogenetics lives up to its promise. Haile, Kosten, and Kosten researched how genetic variation might affect responses to cocaine, amphetamine, and methamphetamine and how […]
- [Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction in Drug Rehab](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/mindfulness-based-stress-reduction-in-drug-rehab/): Inpatient or residential drug rehab programs can be stressful for residents on several different levels. Residents may experience stress as a symptom of withdrawal. Some treatment sessions will likely activate emotions and trigger stress. For many patients, pre-existing stress played a major role in the development of their addiction. An effective approach to stress management would be expected to help many patients in their addiction recovery and increase retention in residential treatment facilities. Mindfulness-based stress reduction is a relatively new approach to stress management in the drug rehab environment. Marcus et. al. compared mindfulness-based stress reduction to treatment as usual […]
- [Mental Health Among Drug Court Participants in Drug Treatment](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/mental-health-among-drug-court-participants-in-drug-treatment/): Although drug courts successfully reduce rates of recidivism for participants, research indicates that there is a need to develop mental health screenings to detect co-occurring mental health issues during associated drug treatment.   What is a Drug Court? Drug courts are specialized court dockets that bring together judiciary, prosecution, defense, probation, law enforcement, mental health, social service, and drug treatment communities to provide drug treatment for non-violent drug offenders. Through judicial supervision, drug testing, sanctions, and drug treatment (typically lasting a year), drug courts aim to provide rehabilitation as an alternative to incarceration. The first drug court was formed in […]
- [Pregnancy and Motivation for Drug Treatment](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/pregnancy-and-motivation-for-drug-treatment/): Using drugs during pregnancy creates multiple risks for the mother as well as the baby. Drug use during pregnancy may lead to miscarriage or severe developmental abnormalities for the child. Yet little research has examined the motivation for drug treatment among pregnant women. Researchers at Johns Hopkins University hypothesized that pregnant drug-using women would be more likely than non-pregnant drug-using women to have higher motivation for addiction treatment (Mitchell, Severtson & Latimer, 2008). The researchers analyzed data collected from 149 drug-using women between 2000 and 2007; 49 of the drug-using women were pregnant and 100 were non-pregnant. The study found that […]
- [Antisocial Personality Disorder in Drug Treatment for Cannabis & Cocaine](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/antisocial-personality-disorder-in-drug-treatment-for-cannabis-and-cocaine/): Many studies present evidence that antisocial personality disorder (ASPD) is highly associated with substance use disorders (SUD). The DSM-IV defines ASPD as “a pervasive pattern of disregard for, and violation of, the rights of others that begins in childhood or early adolescence and continues into adulthood.” Characteristics of individuals with ASPD may include persistent lying, superficial charm, lack of remorse, impulsivity, poor behavioral controls, and disregard for social norms and rules. Mariani et. al. examined the rates of different antisocial syndromes among cocaine-dependent and cannabis-dependent individuals seeking drug treatment (2008). Conduct Disorder A true diagnosis of ASPD must include the […]
- [Will an Anti-cocaine Vaccine Improve Drug Treatment?](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/will-an-anti-cocaine-vaccine-improve-drug-treatment/): A clinical trial supported by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) marks the first successful, placebo-controlled demonstration of a vaccine against illicit drug addiction. The anti-cocaine vaccine causes the immune system to produces antibodies that attach to cocaine molecules, preventing them from entering the brain. Thus, the vaccine blocks the drug’s effect.   The Premise of The Anti-cocaine Vaccine Study The study followed 115 patients who received either the anti-cocaine vaccine or a placebo. Participants in both groups received 5 vaccinations over 12 weeks and were followed for an additional 12 weeks. All participants participated in drug treatment which […]
- [Increasing Treatment Readiness for Drug Treatment](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/increasing-treatment-readiness-for-drug-treatment/): Addiction treatment readiness has been shown to predict enrollment and success in drug treatment programs. Researchers at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health asked, “Does taking steps to control one’s drug use predict entry into treatment?” The researchers set out to examine the association between treatment readiness (defined as engaging in activities to control one’s drug use) and enrolling in a drug treatment program. They examined data collected in 585 face-to-face interviews between 2004 and 2007. They concluded that taking steps to control drug use was associated with entering treatment at follow-up interviews. Steps to control drug use might […]
- [What is Contingency Management in Drug Treatment?](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/what-is-contingency-management-in-drug-treatment/): In scientific research, potentially fuzzy concepts are “operationalized” to make them measurable. For example, the fuzzy concept of “length” must be defined in terms of the measurement operations used to obtain length (contingency management in drug treatment).   Meanings of Contingency Management in Drug Treatment The term “contingency management” may have different meanings, depending on how this approach to drug treatment is operationalized in a particular study. This article aims to help the reader understand what subjects in a contingency management drug treatment program might experience. The reader may then have a better sense of whether contingency management would be […]
- [Adolescent Alcohol Use: The Effects on Our Youth's Brains](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/adolescent-alcohol-use-the-effects-on-our-youths-brains/): Adolescent alcohol use and alcohol use disorders among adolescents constitute serious problems. By grade 12, nearly 60 percent of adolescents have been drunk, and studies suggest that approximately 6 percent of adolescents have an alcohol use disorder. In adulthood, males typically drink more frequently than females. However, during adolescence, females drink at rates equivalent to those of males. Among adults, alcohol-dependent women seem to be more susceptible to brain damage due to alcohol use. Animal studies suggest that the adolescent brain is more susceptible to brain damage due to alcohol use. Thus, alcohol use may affect male and female adolescent […]
- [Exploring Personality Disorders And Alcohol Use](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/exploring-personality-disorders-in-alcohol-recovery/): In Spain, alcohol dependence affects up to 10 percent of the population and a major public health problem. Previous studies have suggested that personality disorders affect from 2.8 and 11 percent of the population, and studies of personality disorders among alcoholics suggest that the prevalence of personality disorders ranges from 24 to 78 percent among alcohol-dependent individuals. There have been discrepancies in studies of personality disorders among alcohol-dependent individuals, but the literature nevertheless suggests that personality disorders are more prevalent in this group than in the general population. Thus, the possibility of personality disorders should be explored in alcohol treatment […]
- [Depression and Obesity Among Young Women in Alcohol Recovery](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/depression-and-obesity-among-young-women-in-alcohol-recovery/): A recent study suggests that depression, obesity, and alcohol use disorder are interrelated conditions among young adult women but not among men. A better understanding of the relationship between these interrelated conditions would help young women in alcohol recovery. A team of Washington University researchers collected data from young adults at the ages of 24, 27, and 30 (McCarty et. al., 2009). Nearly half of the 776 participants met the criteria for depression, obesity, or alcohol use disorder at each time point.   Alcohol Use Disorder Stats From The Study The study found that women with an alcohol use disorder […]
- [Smoking May Interfere With Alcohol Recovery](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/smoking-may-interfere-with-alcohol-recovery/): Cigarette smoking is common among individuals with alcohol use disorder (AUD), and research suggests that smoking may interfere with alcohol recovery. Mon et. al. found that smoking slows the healing of brain damage during alcohol recovery (2009). Several studies have shown that AUD can damage the brain. AUD brain damage, commonly visible in the frontal cortex and parietal cortex, is at least partially reversible with sustained abstinence from drinking. What Can an MRI Reveal About Smoking and Alcohol Recovery? Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can show the extent of brain-damaging by illustrating blood flow. Cerebral perfusion is a measure of the […]
- [Aripiprazole (Abilify) in Alcohol Treatment & Recovery](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/aripiprazole-abilify-in-alcohol-treatment-recovery/): Aripiprazole (Abilify) has been approved by the FDA for the treatment of schizophrenia and acute manic and mixed episodes of bipolar disorder and as an adjunct for the treatment of major depressive disorder. Although other FDA-approved atypical antipsychotics (clozapine, risperidone, olanzapine, quetiapine, and ziprasidone) antagonize the D2 dopamine receptor, aripiprazole acts as a dopamine receptor partial agonist. Might a dopamine receptor partial agonist have a useful role in alcohol recovery? Antagonist vs. Agonist An agonist binds to a specific receptor and triggers a response that often mimics the response of another drug or naturally occurring substance. For example, methadone is […]
- [Alcohol Recovery and Domestic Violence](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/alcohol-recovery-and-domestic-violence/): Among men who seek alcohol recovery, there are high rates of co-occurring alcohol dependence and intimate partner violence (IPV). IPV may include physical abuse, sexual abuse, threats, and emotional abuse directed toward current and former spouses and dating partners. A sensible approach for alcohol treatment for these men would need to include interventions that address both drinking and violence. Older Studies Show Drinking Increases Physical Abuse Previous studies show that drinking increases physical abuse. In 2003, for example, Fals-Stewart (2003) conducted a study of 137 men which found that men who drink alcohol and have a predisposition for IPV are […]
- [DWI, Depression & Motivation to Achieve Alcohol Recovery](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/dwi-depression-and-motivation-to-achieve-alcohol-recovery/): Because alcohol use disorders are common among driving-while-intoxicated (DWI) offenders, a DWI arrest may serve as an opportunity for psychological screening and subsequent alcohol treatment. Holt et. al. examined the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) as a tool for predicting intervention outcomes in first-time DWI offenders. The BDI is a multiple-choice self survey consisting of 21 questions. It is the most widely used questionnaire for measuring the severity of depression. Survey questions are related to affective depressive symptoms such as pessimism, guilt, self-dislike, suicidal thoughts, and feelings of worthlessness, as well as physical symptoms such as anhedonia (loss of pleasure), crying, […]
- [Observation Anxiety Influences Alcohol Recovery](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/observation-anxiety-influences-alcohol-recovery/): Do you feel anxious when you’re in the spotlight or under scrutiny? According to a recent study from researchers at Yale University and Florida State University, social anxiety – and fear of scrutiny, specifically – appears to serve as a risk factor for alcohol use disorders (Buckner & Schmidt, 2009). Future research into how observation anxiety can lead to excessive alcohol use will likely provide useful guidance for alcohol recovery. For now, it appears that individuals with both observation anxiety and excessive alcohol use will likely need to learn to manage their observation anxiety in order to achieve a stable […]
- [Liver Disease is Caused by Binge Drinking OR Daily Drinking: Alcohol Recovery Requires both Low Consumption & Non-Drinking Days](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/liver-disease-is-caused-by-binge-drinking-or-daily-drinking-alcohol-recovery-requires-both-low-consumption-and-non-drinking-days/): Binge Drinking, Daily Drinking and Liver Disease   If you are aiming to establish an alcohol recovery by moderating alcohol as opposed to abstaining from alcohol, you may be tempted to believe that as long as you do not binge drink you will not experience any major negative health consequences.  Although binge drinking is clearly risky, the study reported on in this article found that daily drinking that was heavy (but not at binge levels) also can lead to liver disease.  There are other risks to consider also.  Although some studies suggest that moderate consumption of alcohol may offer cardiovascular […]
- [Cannabis Use May Reinstate Alcohol-Seeking Behavior in Recovery](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/cannabis-use-may-reinstate-alcohol-seeking-behavior-in-recovery/): What are the effects of cannabis on alcohol recovery? Many alcohol dependent individuals relapse after a period of abstinence in alcohol recovery. Researchers have used the reinstatement paradigm as an animal model of relapse. Animals are exposed to certain stimuli to test whether they reinstate previously extinguished responses, such as alcohol-seeking behavior. Lab rats, for example, will drink beer to the point of having withdrawal symptoms upon termination. Recent studies have found that synthetic cannabinoids (but not delta-9-THC, the main psychoactive constituent in marijuana) can reinstate previously extinguished drug-seeking behavior in lab rats (for cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine). Since cannabis […]
- [Olfactory Impairments in Alcohol Dependence and Alcohol Recovery](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/olfactory-impairments-in-alcohol-dependence-and-alcohol-recovery/): What is the relationship between alcohol and sense of smell? Olfactory impairment is one of the many potential side effects of alcohol dependency. In a non 12 step approach to recovery, individuals have the opportunity to completely abstain from alcohol and possibly decrease any potential olfactory impairments. Olfaction — the sense of smell — not only allows individuals to stop and smell the roses but also saves lives. Olfaction, for instance, might alert one to an unsafe food product or smoke from a fire. Unfortunately, an individual in alcohol recovery might not be awakened by the odor of smoke. Several previous studies […]
- [Predictors of response to naltrexone in alcohol rehab](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/predictors-of-response-to-naltrexone-in-alcohol-rehab/): Naltrexone is commonly prescribed in alcohol rehab. It is an opioid receptor antagonist that blocks opioid receptors and thus blocks the feeling of pleasure derived from alcohol consumption. Several double-blind clinical trials have shown that naltrexone is more effective than placebo in treatment for alcohol dependence. However, naltrexone may not work well for everyone. Its effectiveness varies among individuals. This has led some researchers to speculate that perhaps not all alcohol dependent individuals derive pleasure from an increase in endogenous opioids after alcohol consumption; perhaps there is a subtype of alcohol dependent individuals which may derive more benefit from naltrexone […]
- [Alcohol rehab may improve gastrointestinal problems](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/alcohol-rehab-may-improve-gastrointestinal-problems/): Nausea, abdominal discomfort, and other gastrointestinal symptoms are commonly reported by individuals after drinking alcoholic beverages. The alcohol itself may cause gastrointestinal problems by affecting the gastric emptying process. Researchers at the University Hospital of Heidelberg at Mannheim in Germany conduced a systematic study of the effects of ethanol, alcoholic beverages, and the non-alcohol components of alcoholic beverages on the gastric emptying of solid meals in the human body, and the results suggest that alcohol rehab may improve gastrointestinal problems (Franke et. al., 2005). The researchers recruited 16 fasting, healthy, male participants who received once weekly 300 ml of pure […]
- [Criteria for alcohol dependence diagnosis in alcohol rehab](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/criteria-for-alcohol-dependence-diagnosis-in-alcohol-rehab/): The DSM-IV defines alcohol dependence as “a maladaptive pattern of alcohol use, leading to clinically significant impairment or distress, as manifested by three (or more) of the following, occurring at any time in the same 12-month period: (1) Tolerance, as defined by either of the following: (a) a need for markedly increased amounts of alcohol to achieve Intoxication or desired effect (b) markedly diminished effect with continued use of the same amount of alcohol (2) Withdrawal, as manifested by either of the following: (a) the characteristic withdrawal syndrome for alcohol (b) alcohol (or a closely related drug such as valium) […]
- [Alcohol rehab may decrease risk of head injury](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/alcohol-rehab-may-decrease-risk-of-head-injury/): Binge drinking, or excessive alcohol consumption, is a major cause of accidents and trauma. Previous research shows that among individuals with head trauma specifically, alcohol has been a major cause of morbidity and mortality. One previous study found that the consumption of five or more drinks on one occasion increases the risk of sustaining an injury by an odds ratio of 3.4. A team of researchers from Finland interviewed trauma patients to investigate any relationships between different patterns of alcohol consumption to different types of trauma (Savola, Niemela & Hillbom, 2005). The results suggest that alcohol rehab for alcohol dependent […]
- [Autobiographical memory problems in alcohol rehab](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/autobiographical-memory-problems-in-alcohol-rehab/): Evidence based addiction treatment can be used to help individuals in alcohol rehab to achieve sobriety. In a non 12 step approach to recovery, individualized treatments plans can be created to meet the needs of a specific person. An example of evidence based addiction treatment includes cognitive behavioral therapy in which this article describes in further detail. Depressed individuals and other clinical populations exhibit difficulty in recalling specific autobiographical memories, according to previous studies. (A “specific” memory refers to those about a single event lasting less than a day.) Typically this difficulty in recalling specific autobiographical memories is associated with […]
- [Facing childhood trauma in alcohol rehab](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/facing-childhood-trauma-in-alcohol-rehab/): Addressing unresolved childhood issues can be an integral aspect to successful addiction recovery and through a non 12 step approach, a focus on underlying issues can be maintained. Facing Childhood Trauma Previous research has found a relationship between posttraumatic stress disorder and addiction disorders. Trauma usually occurs in a life-threatening situation or when an individual experiences a significant loss. Unless the trauma is resolved, it may lead to posttraumatic stress disorder and/or alcohol and drug misuse. Some authors have suggested that the conflicts underlying trauma — parental rejection, overprotection, or imposing too much responsibility — contribute to alcoholism. Previous research […]
- [Cognitive impairment after multiple alcohol rehab detoxifications](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/cognitive-impairment-after-multiple-alcohol-rehab-detoxifications/): Complete abstinence from all drugs and alcohol is promoted in a non 12 step approach to alcohol recovery. This article provides information regarding the importance of complete abstinence during alcohol rehab, and the possible benefits associated with greater lengths of alcohol recovery. Animal studies show that repeated alcohol withdrawals are correlated with impaired cognitive and learning abilities. The cessation of chronic alcohol consumption during withdrawal may lead to increased excitotoxicity in the brain, which can affect frontal lobe function. Researchers from the University of Heidelberg in Mannheim, Germany examined the effect of multiple alcohol rehab detoxifications on cognitive performance and […]
- [High-dose baclofen for alcohol treatment](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/high-dose-baclofen-for-alcohol-treatment/): Oliver Ameisen, an associate professor of medicine and cardiologist at Weill Medical College of Cornell University, reported in Alcohol and Alcoholism that he successfully used high-dose baclofen for alcohol treatment and achieved complete and prolonged suppression of symptoms of his own alcohol dependence (2005). You may also be interested in: Ameisen had been diagnosed with alcohol dependence and comorbid anxiety disorder. He reports that his anxiety disorder preceded his addiction to alcohol. He had tried other medications for alcohol dependence with no success. Ameisen decided to try baclofen, a gamma-amino butyric acid receptor agonist that is used to control spasticity. […]
- [Alcohol treatment for at-risk elderly adults](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/alcohol-treatment-for-at-risk-elderly-adults/): Many individuals continue to drink excessively in adulthood and into late adulthood. Excessive drinking alone is a significant problem among elderly adults. Moreover, this age group often faces additional risks from alcohol consumption because of comorbidities (such as gout or hepatitis) and/or use of certain medications (such as sedatives or antidepressants). Thus, the impact of increased alcohol-related risk for elderly adults should not be dismissed, and the need for intervention should be explored among at-risk elderly individuals. Indeed, researchers at UCLA’s David Geffen School of Medicine found that more than one-third of elderly individuals who consume alcohol are at-risk drinkers […]
- [How does one develop a willingness to change in alcohol treatment?](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/how-does-one-develop-a-willingness-to-change-in-alcohol-treatment/): Previous research shows that different individuals have different motivations for seeking drug and alcohol treatment. In one study, for example, “weighing the pros and cons of drinking and drug use” and “warnings from spouse” were the most frequently cited reasons for seeking treatment. A great deal of attention has been devoted to the stages of change once an individual is in treatment, but comparatively little attention has been given to the processes that lead to treatment-seeking or willingness to change in alcohol treatment. Researchers at Goteborg University in Germany set out to examine answers to the following questions: “How do […]
- [Does watching MTV increase likelihood of alcohol treatment for adolescents?](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/does-watching-mtv-increase-likelihood-of-alcohol-treatment-for-adolescentshttpwww-practicalrecovery-comreadingsalcohol-treatmentdoes-watching-mtv-increase-liklihood-of-alcohol-treatment-for-ad/): Music television is popular among teens in Belgium as well as adolescents in the U.S. A great deal of recent research has examined how the portrayal of alcohol use on television impacts adolescent alcohol use. Previous research shows that adolescent alcohol use is associated with higher rates of television viewing in general. Music television often glamorizes alcohol use and contains more alcohol advertisements. Might MTV predict alcohol consumption and the need for alcohol treatment for adolescents? A team of researchers from Belgium examined whether television viewing and music video viewing specifically could predict alcohol consumption among adolescents (Ven den Bulck […]
- [Motivational interviewing in alcohol treatment for underage college drinkers](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/motivational-interviewing-in-alcohol-treatment-for-underage-college-drinkers/): Motivational interviewing is a method of alcohol treatment which has the goal of establishing intrinsic motivation to change within the client through examining discrepancies between goals and behavior, and ambivalence about these discrepancies. For example, an individual may know that he or she has drinking problems but may tend to ignore the extent to which these problems are interfering with a desirable life. Motivational interviewing helps the client to see the problem in a new light and to overcome ambivalence about change. Read on to learn more about the impact of motivational interviewing on underage college drinkers. You may also […]
- [Use of Alcohol for Pain Management](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/alcohol-use-as-non-prescribed-pain-management/): The use of alcohol for pain management can easily become problematic and addictive, resulting in the need for alcohol treatment. Riley and King examined the use of alcohol for pain management among adults with tooth pain, jaw joint or face pain, and arthritis in a South Florida community (2009). The researchers examined race, sex, and age to determine their associations with alcohol use for pain management. After conducting structured telephone interviews, the researchers found that non-Hispanic whites and males were the most likely to use alcohol to cope with pain. Additionally, alcohol use for pain was highest among younger adults. […]
- [Alcohol treatment for rural female DUI offenders](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/alcohol-treatment-for-rural-female-dui-offenders/): Overall rates of driving under the influence (DUI) arrests have steadily decreased over the past two decades, but this decrease has not occurred uniformly for all groups of DUI offenders. The proportion of female DUI offenders, for instance, has significantly increased. Further, DUI arrest rates remain higher in rural areas. See also: Why You Should Get a Substance Abuse Assessment for a DUI Case A Center on Drug and Alcohol Research study examined indicators of problem severity for female DUI offenders across graduated levels of rurality and found that the problem severity of DUI offenders is greater in rural areas […]
- [Kudzu vine extract for alcohol treatment](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/kudzu-vine-extract-may-prove-useful-in-alcohol-treatment/): Daidzin, a compound found in the kudzu vine, interferes with the metabolization of alcohol and produces effects similar to those of the anti-drinking drug Antabuse. Dr. Ting-Kai Li of Duke University and Dr. Ivan Diamond of the University of California in San Francisco believe that they have discovered a synthetic version of daidzin that reduces alcohol cravings by preventing alcohol from increasing dopamine levels in the brain. Daidzin and synthetic daidzin (known as CVT-1-216) may prove useful in alcohol treatment. You may also be interested in: Herbal Remedies and Acupuncture for Addiction Recovery Harvard researchers first discovered the anti-drinking effects […]
- [Alcohol treatment and comorbid social anxiety disorder treatment](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/alcohol-treatment-and-comorbid-social-anxiety-disorder-treatment/): Social anxiety disorder (SAD) and alcohol use disorders (AUD) tend to co-occur at high rates. The National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions (Grant et al., 2005) found that 48 percent of participants with a lifetime diagnosis of SAD also met criteria for a lifetime diagnosis of AUD. In instances of alcohol use and comorbid social anxiety disorder, the two disorders may lead to greater impairment than either condition alone. For example, research suggests that patients seeking alcohol treatment who have a lifetime diagnosis of SAD are more likely to have major depressive episodes, severe alcohol dependence, less peer […]
- [Hospital-based and health-based interventions for alcohol treatment](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/hospital-based-and-health-based-interventions-for-alcohol-treatment/): Individualized interventions for alcohol treatment plans enable people in alcohol recovery to focus on their physical health as it relates to their alcohol consumption. Individuals who practice unhealthy drinking habits often end up as patients in hospitals – for drinking-related accidents and health problems, among other reasons. This time in the hospital may serve as an eye-opener or “teachable moment” for convincing patients to decrease unhealthy drinking behavior. However, studies of brief hospital-based interventions have shown that such interventions are not always successful. A team of researchers based at the VA Puget Sound Health Care System hypothesized that hospital-based interventions […]
- [Impact of marijuana use on alcohol treatment for young adults?](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/how-does-marijuana-use-affect-outcome-of-alcohol-treatment-for-young-adultshttpwww-practicalrecovery-comreadingsalcohol-treatmenthow-does-marijuana-use-affect-outcome-of-alcohol-treatment-for/): Individualized treatment plans can help young adults see how marijuana use impacts the outcome of their alcohol treatment. Rates of alcohol and marijuana use are highest among young adults, and high rates of marijuana and alcohol use are seen in young adult patients admitted to emergency departments. Hospital admission provides an opportunity for alcohol treatment through brief motivational interventions, and previous research suggests that such interventions demonstrate positive outcomes. Researchers at the Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies at Brown University examined how reported marijuana use affected response to brief motivational interviewing for alcohol treatment among young adults treated in […]
- [Alcohol treatment intervention for home detoxification programs](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/alcohol-treatment-intervention-for-home-detoxification-programs/): When pursuing alcohol treatment, individuals have different options for detoxification, including a home detoxification program or inpatient rehab. However, once detox is completed, implementing a self-empowering approach to recovery will enable individuals to learn to coping mechanisms to deal with cravings. You might also be interested in: Detoxification from Addictive Substances Some alcohol dependent individuals elect for home-based detoxification. Some individuals are more comfortable at home, and inpatient alcohol rehab may be expensive. Evidence suggests that, with family support, home detoxification may be safe and effective. However, many individuals are still exposed to alcohol-related cues in the home. Researchers in […]

## Pages

- [SMART Recovery](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/resources/smart-recovery/)
- [Sex, Drugs, Gambling & Chocolate](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/resources/sex-drugs-gambling-chocolate/)
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- [Services Overview](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/outpatient/services-overview/)
- [Academic Addiction Articles](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/blogs/academic-addiction-articles/): Social Constructionism and the Roots of Addiction creativesquadz2@gmail.comJanuary 19, 2018 Updated November 9, 2021 Addiction is a Social Construct by Thaddeus Camlin, Psy.D. The perpetually changing understanding of addiction provides… Read More The Opiate Epidemic: Solving the Crisis creativesquadz2@gmail.comAugust 25, 2017 How to Solve the Opioid Crisis by Thaddeus Camlin, Psy.D. In an age when Americans agree on few things, an… Read More The War on Drugs: History and Implications creativesquadz2@gmail.comMay 5, 2017 The War on Drugs: History and Implications by Thaddeus Camlin, Psy.D. The Politics of Consciousness Few political issues today are… Read More State of the Addiction Treatment […]
- [Addiction and Mental Health](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/blogs/addiction-and-mental-health/): Social Constructionism and the Roots of Addiction creativesquadz2@gmail.comJanuary 19, 2018 Updated November 9, 2021 Addiction is a Social Construct by Thaddeus Camlin, Psy.D. The perpetually changing understanding of addiction provides… Read More The Opiate Epidemic: Solving the Crisis creativesquadz2@gmail.comAugust 25, 2017 How to Solve the Opioid Crisis by Thaddeus Camlin, Psy.D. In an age when Americans agree on few things, an… Read More The War on Drugs: History and Implications creativesquadz2@gmail.comMay 5, 2017 The War on Drugs: History and Implications by Thaddeus Camlin, Psy.D. The Politics of Consciousness Few political issues today are… Read More State of the Addiction Treatment […]
- [Alternative Approaches to Recovery](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/blogs/alternative-approaches-to-recovery/): The Streets Are No Place for Addicts creativesquadz2@gmail.comFebruary 16, 2018 The Streets Are No Place For Addicts by Thaddeus Camlin, Psy.D. Treating trauma with trauma isn’t helpful, it’s abusive. Turning… Read More The Future of Addiction Treatment creativesquadz2@gmail.comSeptember 8, 2017 Alternatives to Abstinence Will Be Mainstream by Thaddeus Camlin, Psy.D. Step aside ‘abstinence-only,’ your monopoly on addiction treatment is finally… Read More The Opiate Epidemic: Solving the Crisis creativesquadz2@gmail.comAugust 25, 2017 How to Solve the Opioid Crisis by Thaddeus Camlin, Psy.D. In an age when Americans agree on few things, an… Read More Mushroom Therapy for Addiction Treatment creativesquadz2@gmail.comMay 26, […]
- [Change Your Thinking](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/blogs/change-your-thinking/): Changing Addictive Behavior in a Culture of Convenience creativesquadz2@gmail.comFebruary 2, 2018 Changing Addictive Behavior in a Culture of Convenience By Thaddeus Camlin, Psy.D. The process of changing addictive behavior is anything… Read More How to Quit Drinking Through Self-Guided Change creativesquadz2@gmail.comJanuary 26, 2018 How to Quit Drinking? Self-Guided Change by Thaddeus Camlin, Psy.D. For those who wonder how to quit drinking problematically, it… Read More A Mirror for The Language of Addiction creativesquadz2@gmail.comOctober 13, 2017 Language of Addiction: Using Treatment Jargon to Describe Treatment By Thaddeus Camlin, Psy.D. The insulting, dehumanizing rhetoric of the addiction… Read More The Goal of […]
- [Coping with Cravings](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/blogs/coping-with-cravings/): Changing Habits: Learning to Cope with the Urges creativesquadz2@gmail.comJanuary 2, 2017 Adapted from Pages 32 and 34 of the SMART Recovery Handbook, 3rd Edition This post has been updated from the… Read More How “Triggers” Steal Your Freedom in Recovery creativesquadz2@gmail.comSeptember 16, 2016 by Thaddeus Camlin, Psy.D. Much is being said about changing the nomenclature in the treatment of problematic substance use.  The… Read More 9 Reasons Not to Drink or Use During the Holiday Season creativesquadz2@gmail.comDecember 18, 2015 Need some extra reasons not to drink or use this holiday season? We’ve got you covered with these 9 benefits… Read […]
- [Events](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/blogs/events/): Staying Friends with Using Buddies creativesquadz2@gmail.comMarch 23, 2015 In early recovery, many people face a choice: whether to continue friendships with people who may still be using or… Read More Valley of the RUN 5k/10k creativesquadz2@gmail.comJuly 18, 2014 This is your chance to run with Dr. Tom Horvath! Join us as we support efforts to raise awareness of… Read More Anonymous People Screening creativesquadz2@gmail.comJuly 18, 2014 Screening of Anonymous People, August 31, 2014 at Carlsbad Library. Read More International Bipolar Foundation Event creativesquadz2@gmail.comMarch 19, 2014 Finding Bipolar Expertise When You Need It Author: Tom Horvath, PhD, ABPP Last week I […]
- [Healthy habits in recovery](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/blogs/healthy-habits-in-recovery/): Self-Care in Recovery: H.A.L.T. at the Crossroads creativesquadz2@gmail.comJanuary 20, 2017 Self-Care in Recovery H.A.L.T. At The Crossroads by Thaddeus Camlin, Psy.D. I recently received a request from a reader to… Read More Rebuilding Your Life After Addiction, Pt. 2 creativesquadz2@gmail.comJuly 1, 2016 Rebuilding Your Life after Recovery, Pt. 2: Time Management Last week, we covered work ethic in terms of rebuilding your… Read More Forgiving Yourself in Recovery from Addiction creativesquadz2@gmail.comApril 8, 2016 Forgiving yourself in recovery is essential. Learning to forgive yourself is essential as you begin to do more self-healing in… Read More Self-Confidence vs. Self-Esteem creativesquadz2@gmail.comMarch 25, […]
- [Healthy Recipes](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/blogs/healthy-recipes/): Mocktail Recipes for Summer Parties creativesquadz2@gmail.comJuly 1, 2015 Deciding not to drink at the summer parties this year? We totally support you. That’s why we’ve scoured the Internet… Read More Mouthwatering Pesto Salmon creativesquadz2@gmail.comAugust 29, 2014 More Herbs, Less Salt A healthy diet is extremely important, not just for recovery, but for overall physical and mental… Read More From the Kitchen, with Love creativesquadz2@gmail.comJuly 10, 2014 At Practical Recovery, we believe healthy nutrition is part of a healthy foundation. Chef Sarah discusses the benefits of providing… Read More Lasagna Bolognese with Kale and Spinach creativesquadz2@gmail.comMay 28, 2014 Our lovely chef, […]
- [Holidays](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/blogs/holidays/): Persistence in Life and Recovery creativesquadz2@gmail.comJanuary 12, 2018 Persistence in Life and Recovery So we are now about two weeks into the New Year. That’s long enough that… Read More Staying Sober During the Summer Holidays creativesquadz2@gmail.comJune 30, 2017 Staying Sober During the Summer Holidays Celebrating Interdependence Day by Thaddeus Camlin, Psy.D. On the brink of independence day it… Read More Instant Gratification: This Thanksgiving Don’t Have the P.I.G. creativesquadz2@gmail.comNovember 23, 2016 by Thaddeus Camlin, Psy.D. Thansgiving and the Problem of Instant Gratification Somehow Thanksgiving, our holiday of gratitude, has morphed into… Read More New Year’s Resolutions – The Successful […]
- [Lifestyle Balance](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/blogs/lifestyle-balance/): Preventing Relapse: The Role of Lifestyle Balance creativesquadz2@gmail.comApril 22, 2016 In addiction recovery, if your life is filled with non-pleasurable activities, you are more likely to relapse. The relapse will provide… Read More On being a SEN Master, Part 1 creativesquadz2@gmail.comJanuary 22, 2016 Dr. Horvath looks at healthy habits in recovery and describes what it means to be a SEN Master in part… Read More Defend Your Recovery and Mental Health During Seasonal Changes creativesquadz2@gmail.comOctober 9, 2015 Shorter days, less sunlight and less time spent outdoors can cause a bit of a negative shift in our mood…. Read More 8 Tips […]
- [Mindfulness](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/blogs/mindfulness/): Benefits of Yoga creativesquadz2@gmail.comJuly 17, 2015 In our fast-paced society, it can be easy to get caught up in running around and forgetting to de-stress. Self-care,… Read More Building Trust in Recovery creativesquadz2@gmail.comMarch 24, 2015 While it can be daunting to think about repairing your important relationships, here are 5 ways to help you manage… Read More Staying Friends with Using Buddies creativesquadz2@gmail.comMarch 23, 2015 In early recovery, many people face a choice: whether to continue friendships with people who may still be using or… Read More 7 Books About Addiction and Recovery You Need to Read! creativesquadz2@gmail.comMarch 12, 2015 […]
- [Miscellaneous](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/blogs/miscellaneous/): Naloxone Guide: Everything You Need to Know creativesquadz2@gmail.comOctober 30, 2018 by Cheri Harkleroad Naloxone Guide: Everything You Need to Know This naloxone guide offers all the essential information about naloxone… Read More Internet Addiction in an Attention Economy creativesquadz2@gmail.comFebruary 9, 2018 Internet Addiction in an Attention Economy We Can Use Technology to Practice Moderation by Thaddeus Camlin, Psy.D. Nothing makes media… Read More Witnessing Brilliance: Justice Department Cannabis Crackdown creativesquadz2@gmail.comJanuary 5, 2018 Federal Crackdown on Cannabis 2018 by Thaddeus Camlin, Psy.D. On January 4th 2018, Attorney General Jefferson Beauregard Sessions issued a… Read More Hollywood Scandals Remind Us of Addiction’s […]
- [Parenting](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/blogs/parenting/): CRAFT Training with Bob Meyers, Ph.D. creativesquadz2@gmail.comJanuary 20, 2016 Practical Recovery presents: CRAFT training led by Dr. Bob Meyers! 2/29/16-3/2/16 in San Diego. Click here to register! CRAFT (Community… Read More Talking to Your Kids About Marijuana creativesquadz2@gmail.comJanuary 13, 2016 Originally posted March 5, 2014 There’s no denying the US is trending toward leniency of marijuana laws. An important question… Read More How to Help a Loved One Who Drinks Too Much creativesquadz2@gmail.comNovember 17, 2015 By Tom Horvath, Ph.D., ABPP Does your loved one drink too much during the holidays? Or at any time for… Read More Parents Drinking More […]
- [Psychedelic-Assisted Treatment](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/blogs/psychedelic-assisted-treatment/): No posts found!
- [Recovery](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/blogs/recovery/): How to Quit Drinking Through Self-Guided Change creativesquadz2@gmail.comJanuary 26, 2018 How to Quit Drinking? Self-Guided Change by Thaddeus Camlin, Psy.D. For those who wonder how to quit drinking problematically, it… Read More Persistence in Life and Recovery creativesquadz2@gmail.comJanuary 12, 2018 Persistence in Life and Recovery So we are now about two weeks into the New Year. That’s long enough that… Read More The Goal of Addiction Treatment Completely Misses the Mark creativesquadz2@gmail.comOctober 6, 2017 The Entire Aim of Addiction Treatment is Off by Thaddeus Camlin, Psy.D. The goal of nearly the entire field of… Read More Addiction and Society: Snowflakes […]
- [Recovery Maintenance](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/blogs/recovery-maintenance/): How to Quit Drinking Through Self-Guided Change creativesquadz2@gmail.comJanuary 26, 2018 How to Quit Drinking? Self-Guided Change by Thaddeus Camlin, Psy.D. For those who wonder how to quit drinking problematically, it… Read More A Recipe for Success in Addiction Recovery creativesquadz2@gmail.comNovember 16, 2016 by Thaddeus Camlin, Psy.D. One Person’s Recipe for Success in Addiction Recovery Arguably the most meaningful aspect of working in… Read More Linda Lewis: “I Swore it Would Not Happen to Me.” creativesquadz2@gmail.comSeptember 2, 2016 Linda Lewis shares her story. by Linda Lewis, Recovery Maintenance Counselor for Practical Recovery I’ve been preparing for my role… Read More On […]
- [Recreational Activities](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/blogs/recreational-activities/): 14 Addiction and Recovery Movies to Add to Your Queue Right Now! creativesquadz2@gmail.comMarch 16, 2016 Revised and expanded from original Jan. 23, 2015 post on Addiction and Recovery Movies In early recovery, many people feel… Read More Party-Time: Enjoying the Holiday Party Season… Sober creativesquadz2@gmail.comJuly 1, 2015 With a little planning and strategy, the summer party season can be an enjoyable and successfully sober experience! Read More Tackling Boredom creativesquadz2@gmail.comNovember 26, 2014 3 Great tips for tackling boredom, useful info during the holidays, when we tend to have a bit of extra… Read More 3 Trusty Tips for Finding New […]
- [Relationships](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/blogs/relationships/): Rebound Relationships in Recovery creativesquadz2@gmail.comFebruary 3, 2017 by Thaddeus Camlin, Psy.D. If (as the current paradigm shift in recovery suggests) the opposite of addiction is connection not… Read More Dealing With Difficult People creativesquadz2@gmail.comSeptember 9, 2016 by Thaddeus Camlin, Psy.D. We all deal with people who bug us every day. Sometimes the people who annoy us… Read More 7 Ways Unhealthy Relationships and Substance Abuse are Related creativesquadz2@gmail.comFebruary 8, 2016 #NowIsTheTime to end domestic violence and related substance abuse. Jessica Yaffa, president of The San Diego Domestic Violence Council, and… Read More How to Help a Loved One Who Drinks […]
- [Videos](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/blogs/videos/): Drunk Driver Streams Live Video of Herself Driving Drunk on Periscope creativesquadz2@gmail.comOctober 13, 2015 "I'm Drunk." 23-year-old drunk driver, Whitney Beal, live streams video of herself on Periscope before being pulled over and charged… Read More Recovery Stories: Dave’s Non 12 Step Journey creativesquadz2@gmail.comOctober 1, 2015 Meet Dave and hear his inspiring story about his non 12 step recovery journey. David is the voice of many… Read More SDSU Greek Outreach: Sex, Alcohol, Fun, Abuse creativesquadz2@gmail.comFebruary 17, 2015 Our very own Jessica Yaffa and Dr. Horvath presented at an event sponsored by SDSU's Greek community. They covered tough… Read More […]
- [Blogs](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/blogs/): Blog Practical Recovery Blog Our addiction blog is provided to support sober living and information on the latest in drug and alcohol recovery.  Subscribe to our addiction blog and stay in touch with those who care. Free Psychoeducation Group creativesquadz2@gmail.comOctober 10, 2025 Practical Recovery’s Free Psychoeducation Group Every Wednesday at 9AM by Zoom, Practical Recovery offers a free one-hour psychoeducation group to… Read More What’s a Good Life? creativesquadz2@gmail.comSeptember 26, 2025 By Tom Horvath, PhD For many of us a good life is a happy or a meaningful one (or some… Read More A Screening of The Shuffle Film creativesquadz2@gmail.comSeptember […]
- [Contact](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/contact/): First Time Callers 800-977-6110 We answer the phone, and respond to calls, Mon-fri (during normal business hours). Your call will be returned as promptly as posible (Please allow 1-2 days). You may also contact us by email Established clients, families and professionals call the facility directly. Outpatient Rehab 858-546-1100 Email Us : info@practicalrecovery.com San Diego SMART Recovery Schedule Practical Recovery Psychology Group has a convenient San Diego outpatient rehab location to serve you La Jolla 8950 Villa La Jolla Drive, Suite A220 La Jolla, California 92037-1708 Fax: (858) 455-0141 (Please note: the sign outside our door reads “PRPG.” This allows […]
- [Blog](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/blog/)
- [About Us](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/about-us/): About Us Our Philosophy Practical Recovery uses a self-empowering and truly personalized approach to addiction treatment and recovery. Self-empowering means that the power to change lies within you, not outside you (in another person, a group or a Higher Power). Many of our clients believe in a Higher Power, but take a “God helps those who help themselves” approach to change and to life in general. Truly personalized means that we completely adjust our services to focus on what works for you. Client treatment plans are often radically different from one another. If you want to discover how personalized our […]
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- [Outpatient](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/outpatient/): Outpatient
- [Alternative to Inpatient](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/alternative-to-inpatient/)
- [Home](https://practicalrecovery.giriinternational.in/): Guiding you to a better self, Your comeback story starts now Get in Touch Welcome to Practical Recovery Practical Recovery is a drug and alcohol rehabilitation center in beautiful La Jolla, California, in San Diego County. The center takes an alternative approach to substance use disorder (SUD) treatment and mental health. They offer a non 12 step treatment approach through the outpatient addiction treatment program and an alternative to inpatient treatment called the individualized Intensive outpatient (IIOP) program. Know more Addictions We Treat Inpatient Drug Rehab & Alcohol Treatment Practical Recovery used to offer residential treatment for problematic addictive behavior. […]


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