What is “Recovery?”
By Tom Horvath, PhD A recent scientific paper analyzed the responses from nearly 10K individuals who identify themselves as “in recovery” from substance problems. In recent years the addiction recovery field has been considering how to define “recovery.” Five major organizations have offered definitions or attempts at definitions. However, there is not much data on […]
Mindful Breathing for Reduced Stress
By Tom Horvath, PhD, ABPP One of the simplest but most powerful ways to reduce stress is to focus on breathing. Although books have been written on this subject, the following ideas may be a sufficient guide for you. Because we breathe continuously, you will have lots of opportunity to practice! Less is More Perhaps […]
Improving Our Language About Addictive Problems, Part 2
By Tom Horvath, PhD In Part 1 I recommended that the term “addictive problems” replace several similar terms. In Part 2 I recommend that the term “recovery” be replaced with several better alternatives, depending on context. To summarize Part 1, there is a continuum of addictive problems (abstinence, moderation, misuse, mild substance use disorder, moderate […]
The Best College Recovery Programs for Students in Every State
A collegiate recovery program can mean all the difference to a young person in recovery. Having a program like this available on campus means they do not have to choose between recovery and a higher education. It provides students with an avenue to stay committed to recovery, while focusing on school, and having a community […]
Changing Habits: Learning to Cope with the Urges
Adapted from Pages 32 and 34 of the SMART Recovery Handbook, 3rd Edition This post has been updated from the original version that first ran in 2015. With so many people on day two of their 2018 New Year’s resolutions, it seems appropriate to offer some basic strategies for coping with urges that tempt us […]
A Recipe for Success in Addiction Recovery
by Thaddeus Camlin, Psy.D. One Person’s Recipe for Success in Addiction Recovery Arguably the most meaningful aspect of working in a helping profession is receiving updates of success. With permission from the individual and after removing identifying information, this week’s article shares one person’s recipe for continued success in changing a problematic pattern of substance […]
Linda Lewis: “I Swore it Would Not Happen to Me.”
Linda Lewis shares her story. by Linda Lewis, Recovery Maintenance Counselor for Practical Recovery I’ve been preparing for my role as an addiction counselor all my life. From the time I was born, I was surrounded by people with addiction problems… life and death problems. Our family has a white sheep, one, my aunt Lois. […]
On being a SEN Master, Part 1
Dr. Horvath looks at healthy habits in recovery and describes what it means to be a SEN Master in part 1 of this 2-part series.
Defend Your Recovery and Mental Health During Seasonal Changes
Shorter days, less sunlight and less time spent outdoors can cause a bit of a negative shift in our mood. Here are 6 tips to help you cope.
Staying Positive After a Slip
Have you recently relapsed? While it can be challenging, it is often beneficial to stay positive after having a slip. Here are 4 tips for doing just that.