I recently finished re-reading 12 Stupid Things that Mess Up Recovery by Allen Berger, a recovery classic for people in early recovery. I almost forgot what a great book it was. Allen Berger condenses twelve common pitfalls that can mess up recovery and teaches us how to avoid them with the clarity and wisdom of a man with … Read More
Elizabeth Edwards is an award-winning singer, songwriter who sings about the emotional journey of addicts through recovery. We were able to pull Elizabeth away from her busy schedule and ask her a few questions about her recovery story. I think you’ll find her answers moving. Can you give us a basic outline of your recovery … Read More
If you’re familiar with the recovery process, you know that detox usually comes first. Most rehab centers include medical detox in their programs, but is it really necessary? Is it possible to safely detox from home? The answer depends on your loved one’s addiction and health history. Detox offers the safest and most comfortable way to clean out the … Read More
How do you select an alcohol & drug addiction treatment center? Selecting a treatment program that best suits the values, needs and personality of your loved one who is struggling with an alcohol or drug addiction can take hours of research and thoughtful consideration. First, it’s stressful because we’re talking about the quality of life … Read More
We are grateful for many things in our recovery, but one of the greatest blessings of all is living in a land of freedom. We can pursue our passions, start businesses, hold private meetings, voice our opinions, and pray to a God of our choosing. So many things we do in Twelve Step meetings are possible only because of … Read More
Robert Downey Jr. is in the news again for addiction. Except this time it’s about his 20-year-old son, Indio Falconer Downey. Police arrested Indio for cocaine possession on Sunday. I can’t speak for Indio or his family, but this event got me thinking about addiction, lies, media, and the family. The lies addiction makes you … Read More
Substance dependence and other addictions are influenced by many factors including genetics, environment and personal character, but the family plays a key role in shaping the development of children. Because children often take on the habits of their parents, family dynamics are very important. Healthy parenting is one of the most powerful factors in preventing … Read More
DUFFY’S IS PRIVILEGED TO HAVE HAD THE OPPORTUNITY TO PARTICIPATE IN THE THIRD ANNUAL “FORE THE KIDS” GOLF TOURNAMENT! We sent a foursome to drive at the beautiful greens of Eagle Vines Golf Course. We hit our first ball (and the very first ball of the tournament) in the water, but that meant it could … Read More
Addiction is hard—we all know that. But as a mother, going through an addiction means your baby girl or little boy goes through it with you. The documentary On Life’s Terms: Mothers in Recovery tells the gripping stories of five mothers battling addiction while trying to care for their children. Since its premiere in April, the film … Read More
Salon recently published a stellar article in defense of the spirituality of Alcoholics Anonymous. In several poignant paragraphs, this article reminds us of the purpose of the 12 steps, clarifies the third step in light of the third tradition. For people at meetings of Alcoholics Anonymous do not speak of drinking, they talk about living: about living … Read More
