One of the most difficult aspects of going through recovery is dealing with feelings of guilt and shame. Substance dependency can have a negative effect on self-esteem and relationships of all kinds. However stressful it may seem to conquer these emotions, it’s not impossible to accept the mistakes you’ve made while simultaneously mending bonds with …
Continue reading “Tips for Staying Positive Through Recovery”
Michael Herbert
Sometimes I use a butter knife as a screwdriver. I know that I am misusing this knife. I know that I should get a screwdriver, but either I’m lazy or just feel the knife will do the job just as well. That is the definition of misuse. With Butter Knife Misuse, nothing bad happens. No …
Continue reading “Substance Misuse or Substance Abuser”
Michael Herbert
Support. Asking for support from my family and friends is very hard for me, because I worry about what people think about me. Asking for support is an act of acceptance, and it forces me to admit that I need the help. It’s critical to my #recovery and has made my life so much more …
Continue reading “What Went Well In My Recovery (Part 3)”
Michael Herbert
Hi Michael…..I’m pleased to share how proud I feel when I see my son pursuing his career path, thinking clearly, concerned about his physical fitness, and once again being the thoughtful, caring, and loving person I knew him to be when he was a youngster. Because we came so close to what could have happened, …
Continue reading “What Went Well In My Recovery (Part 2)”
Michael Herbert
This past year has been extremely challenging with the added responsibilities that come with being a new father and husband. Over the course of the year, my reliance upon my higher power has grown stronger than ever before and I learned how important it was for me to maintain my spiritual condition. Maintaining my spiritual …
Continue reading “What Went Well In My Recovery (Part 1)”
Michael Herbert
My son began smoking pot in middle school when he was fourteen. His grades started declining and he became lethargic and had no interest in anything. He got caught smoking pot in the tenth grade and was expelled. His father and myself decided to send him to a prep school. His situation got worse as he …
Continue reading “From Crisis To Calm”
Michael Herbert
There is a lot of misunderstanding about addiction and how families can help. Stigma and denial play an important role in blocking the recovery process. “I still have a job”, “I’m too young”, and “I’m not that bad”. Somehow the idea of being a “functional addict or alcoholic” validates the continued use. Family members buy into these misconceptions. If the …
Continue reading “Keep It Simple Series Part 2: What Do Families Need to Understand About Recovery?”
Michael Herbert
