This September marks the 25th annual celebration of National Recovery Month. The simplicity of this year’s theme—“Speak Up. Reach Out,” demonstrates the community’s continued effort to smash addiction’s stigma. “Hi, I’m an alcoholic. But I still have a family, and love to play, and laugh, and feel valued. I’m no different from you, really.” Statements … Read More
Alcohol and drugs consume us to the exclusion of all else. Friendships become strained and broken because of our errant behavior. Professionalism at work disappears. Family ties are sacrificed for our own immediate needs. We come to the point where we have alienated the very people that we love the most. Eventually we find ourselves … Read More
In early sobriety, I was asked by my sponsor to write a daily gratitude list. I recall answering in this fashion, “Gratitude? You’re kidding, right? What do I have to be grateful for? My life sucks and you want a gratitude list?!” My First Gratitude List That first list was short and sweet: “I am grateful … Read More
Many people are reluctant to admit they have a problem with drugs and alcohol, and that’s understandable. Addiction is a serious illness that renders the victim powerless over their substance use—something no one ever wants to deal with. But it’s important that you do deal with it, otherwise, addiction can cost you in more ways … Read More
I drank like an alcoholic for many years before I knew I had a problem. I drank at night, during the afternoon, during the day. I drank before advising sessions in college and at 8 a.m. Frequently, I drank to the point of blackout. I had a problem. But why didn’t I realize it? Psychologists … Read More
“Hi, my name is Katie and I’m an alcoholic and addict. Thank you for inviting me to share my experience, strength and hope. I’m a little nervous—a lot nervous, actually. This is a new experience for me. Here goes nothing… My beginnings I was raised in a fairly affluent family. My Dad was an alcoholic that … Read More
At Duffy’s, we’re committed to the long-term success of our guests. Every day, we watch people leave our campus transformed, inspired, and ready to live the changed life they learned how to live during treatment. But, we’ve all heard the stories of people leaving treatment only to relapse within just days or weeks of leaving … Read More
We asked one of our counselors some questions that loved ones of individuals in treatment will likely be interested in. I think you’ll find her answers helpful. Q: What can I expect from my loved one when he/she returns home from Duffy’s? Is there anything I can do for them? This is a huge subject. But … Read More
