Find Recovery Editorial Team, Author at Find Recovery

HALT: Your Simple Tool for Preventing Relapse

For anyone in recovery, the fear of relapse is real and ever-present. Sobriety isn’t just about avoiding substances; it’s about learning to manage life’s normal ups and downs without turning to old coping mechanisms. That’s where HALT comes in.

HALT is a simple, powerful acronym that serves as a first line of defense against relapse. It’s an easy way to check in with yourself and identify common internal states that make you vulnerable to triggers and cravings. Originally rooted in 12-Step programs like Alcoholics Anonymous, HALT stands for: Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired.

When you feel restless, irritable, or discontent, the first step is always to HALT and ask yourself: Am I Hungry, Angry, Lonely, or Tired?

H is for Hungry

When your blood sugar drops, your mood and judgment plummet right along with it. Cravings for drugs or alcohol are often misread signals your brain sends when it needs immediate energy. A state of physical depletion can mimic the feeling of anxiety or stress, making your emotional reserves dangerously low.

Action: Don’t overthink it. Have a small, balanced snack that includes protein, fiber, or healthy fat (like nuts, cheese, or fruit). Keeping emergency snacks on hand is a critical, simple recovery tool.

A is for Angry

Anger—or any intense negative emotion like resentment, frustration, or fear—creates a powerful internal disturbance. If you don’t have healthy methods to process this energy, the urge to numb it with a substance becomes overwhelming. Anger often stems from unresolved conflicts, perceived injustices, or unmet expectations.

Action: Step back. Don’t act impulsively. Use an immediate coping skill: call your sponsor, write down the source of your anger, take a brisk walk, or practice box breathing to regulate your nervous system. Remember that anger is temporary; relapse is not.

L is for Lonely

Addiction thrives in isolation. When you feel cut off from others, unloved, or unable to connect, the voice telling you to seek escape grows louder. Loneliness isn’t always about being physically alone; it can be about feeling disconnected while in a crowd. Recovery is built on connection, community, and transparency.

Action: Reach out! This is the most crucial action. Immediately call someone in your support network, attend a meeting (in-person or online), or check in with your sponsor. Get into the middle of the herd—that’s where the safety is. FindRecovery.com has meeting lists for immediate access.

T is for Tired

Physical and mental exhaustion severely compromises your ability to make rational decisions and fight cravings. In recovery, fatigue is often a direct result of “doing too much” too soon, or simply not prioritizing restorative sleep. When you are tired, your emotional defenses are down, making you susceptible to the “easier, softer way” of using.

Action: Give yourself permission to rest. This might mean cancelling a non-essential commitment, taking a nap, or just sitting quietly for 15 minutes. Establishing a consistent, sober bedtime routine is one of the most powerful relapse prevention strategies you can build.

Making HALT a Habit

HALT isn’t a cure, but it is a powerful diagnostic tool. It forces you to pause and address an immediate physical or emotional need before that need spirals into a craving and potentially a relapse. Making HALT a habit creates a vital space between the feeling and the reaction. Keep the acronym posted where you will see it often—on your mirror, in your car, or as a phone screensaver—and practice it diligently, especially on your “good days.” Your sobriety depends on noticing the simple things before they become overwhelming.

How to Offer the Gift of Recovery to a Loved One

Addiction is a disease that affects not only the individual struggling but also everyone who loves them. When a loved one is caught in the cycle of substance abuse, the desire to help them—to give them the “gift of recovery”—is profound. This gift, however, is not a wrapped present; it’s a commitment to support, structure, and genuine love, often under challenging circumstances. While you cannot force recovery, you can certainly be the catalyst and the consistent support they need to begin and sustain their journey.

Education is the First Step: Understanding the Disease

The first step in offering this gift is to educate yourself about addiction. Understand that it is a complex chronic disease, not a moral failing. This knowledge will equip you with the patience and empathy required to navigate their resistance and denial. Read books, attend educational seminars, and consider joining a support group for families, such as Al-Anon or Nar-Anon. Your own emotional and mental well-being is foundational to helping them.

Communicating with Love and Clarity: Laying the Foundation for Change

Next, you must communicate with love and clarity. Choose a calm, private moment to express your concern. Use “I” statements to describe how their behavior affects you, avoiding accusations and judgment. For example, say, “I am scared when you don’t call, and I worry about your health,” rather than, “You never care about us when you’re using.” Express your belief in their potential for change and clearly state that you want them to get help.

Researching and Removing Barriers: The Action Plan

This conversation should ideally lead to a well-researched action plan. The gift of recovery often involves removing logistical and financial barriers to treatment. Before you speak to them, identify potential treatment options: detoxification facilities, residential programs, outpatient services, and local support meetings (like AA or SMART Recovery). Having specific names, phone numbers, and funding options ready transforms a vague appeal into a concrete opportunity.

Establishing Healthy Boundaries and Accountability

Crucially, the gift of recovery also involves establishing healthy boundaries and accountability. This is often the hardest part, as it means ending enabling behaviors. Enabling can look like providing financial aid that funds their addiction, making excuses for their behavior, or constantly rescuing them from consequences. Instead, offer support that fosters recovery: “I will pay for your treatment, but I can no longer give you money directly,” or “I love you, but I cannot let you stay here if you are actively using.” These boundaries, though painful to enforce, hold your loved one accountable and allow them to experience the natural consequences that often motivate seeking help.

Offering Unwavering Support in the Long Run

Finally, understand that recovery is a marathon, not a sprint. The journey is marked by setbacks and triumphs. The enduring gift you offer is your unwavering, yet boundaries-informed, support. This means attending family support groups with them, being available to listen without judgment, and celebrating small victories. The process of recovery is ultimately theirs, but the framework of support, the removal of barriers, and the persistent love you offer is the most valuable gift you can give—the possibility of a new life.

What is the Mindfulness-Oriented Recovery Enhancement (MORE) method?

What if you could gain 20 years of insight and advice from a wildly successful person in less time than it takes to binge your favorite television series? This is precisely what Jen Groover, a successful motivational speaker, serial entrepreneur, and thought leader with over two decades of experience, set out to do when she created the M.O.R.E. method. This method is meant for anyone at any stage of life, but is especially relevant for those who find themselves on their recovery journey and can clearly envision the life they want for themselves but can’t seem to find the path to get there.

What is the M.O.R.E method?

The MORE method is a framework of thinking created by Jen Groover introduced in her eponymous first book, The MORE Method: The Simple Formula to Get More of Everything You Desire in Life, and is an acronym for Mindfulness, Optimizing, Responsibility, and Elevation. The concept was borne out of Groover’s desire to help others maximize their potential and get the most out of their lives, but doing so in a way that feels authentic and fulfilling to each person.

Groover likens her methodology to a toolbox — it’s not going to prevent someone from making mistakes, but will allow them to overcome them more quickly, in a more productive way, and reduce the likelihood to repeat any missteps.

“M” is for Mindfulness

It’s not just for the sake of a clever acronym that mindfulness is at the beginning of the MORE concept. Mindfulness is an integral aspect of getting the most out of one’s life because it lays the foundation for identifying not only what ways a person could change for the better, but that their goals actually align with their values and desires. Similar to the ethos of Alcoholics Anonymous, Groover encourages constant and ongoing mindfulness auditing — especially as it relates to one’s thoughts.

According to Groover, It’s not uncommon for someone to have the wrong goals. Often, people will have achievement-based goals (“I want to generate 10 more sales ”) that are rooted in productivity when the actual goal is actually something on an interpersonal level, like being a better listener or a stronger communicator.

Ask yourself: Are these thoughts keeping me stagnant?

“O” is for Optimization of Body and Brain

Groover recognizes the power of the body and brain connection and the interconnectedness between a healthy physical state and mental well-being. In short, prioritizing self-care can directly contribute to greater energy, cognitive ability, and creativity, which in turn positively affects productivity, communication, and strategic thinking. It’s a deceptively simple concept but one that primes an individual for always being in a position to think and act in a way that’s advantageous.

Ask yourself: What actions have a direct impact on how I feel? How can I increase the positive and decrease those negative feelings?

“R” is for Responsive vs. Reactive Lifestyle

The “R” of the MORE method speaks to the importance of emotional intelligence. It’s a reminder that ultimately, each person has agency over their thoughts and actions and therefore, they can choose what they react and give power to. Groover advises that having greater control over one’s response to situations and people, the better the outcome they’re likely to have, and thus, put them closer towards achieving what they want in life.

Ask yourself: Can I give this situation a different perspective that would allow me to react more calmly?

“E” is for Excelling in all aspects of life

The idea of excelling at everything sounds intimidating, fortunately, that’s not what Groover is suggesting in the MORE method. Instead, she’s referring to a belief that a holistic approach to success is essential — that one can’t just achieve success in one aspect of life because of the connection between health, relationships, finances, and productivity — and making an intentional effort to keep all these key elements of existence in balance.

Can the MORE Method help someone in recovery?

In many ways, the MORE method has strong similarities to therapeutic approaches in addiction treatment, particularly cognitive behavioral therapy (CTB). Both share the ultimate goal of getting individuals to stop destructive behaviors and instead foster positive change.

When CBT is used in treating addiction, change is achieved through a combination of deep self-reflection and awareness. and learning how to control one’s thoughts, beliefs, mindset, and actions to achieve a desired outcome.

Jen Groover’s MORE method also strongly leans on self-reflection as the key to unlocking mastery over one’s thoughts, feelings and behavior. Like CBT, this framework is pragmatic and ongoing — a continuous effort to be better than yesterday, without demanding the need to be perfect.

Why Professional Detox is Non-Negotiable

The decision to seek recovery is the single most courageous step a person can take. Yet, the journey often begins with a terrifying hurdle: detoxification, the process of clearing substances from the body. While the image of “toughing it out” at home might seem appealing, the first 72 hours of detox, particularly for certain substances, are not merely uncomfortable—they can be life-threatening.

The Danger of Doing It Alone

The myth that withdrawal is just a bad flu is a dangerous one. For those dependent on alcohol or benzodiazepines (like Xanax or Valium), acute withdrawal can rapidly escalate into severe medical emergencies.

Alcohol Withdrawal: Symptoms can start mildly, but within 24 to 72 hours, they can progress to seizures and a condition called delirium tremens (DTs). DTs is a state of severe confusion, hallucinations, and tremors that leads to dangerous spikes in blood pressure and heart rate, with a fatality rate of up to 15% if left untreated.
Benzodiazepine Withdrawal: Similar to alcohol, “benzo” withdrawal carries a high risk of seizures. The long half-life of many of these drugs means the most dangerous symptoms can peak several days after the last dose, requiring extended professional monitoring.
Opioid Withdrawal: While typically not life-threatening, opioid withdrawal (heroin, fentanyl, pain pills) is intensely painful and debilitating. The associated dehydration and exhaustion can be severe, and the intense physical discomfort often leads to immediate relapse, defeating the initial goal of sobriety.

Medical Oversight is the Safety Net

Professional, medically supervised detox transforms a potentially fatal crisis into a safe, manageable process. The primary function of a high-quality detox center is not just comfort, but continuous medical vigilance.

During those critical first three days, medical staff monitor vital signs—heart rate, blood pressure, temperature—every few minutes. This immediate data allows them to respond to any sign of seizure activity or cardiac distress with emergency protocols and stabilizing medications.

The use of Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) is another non-negotiable component. Clinicians use specific, non-addictive medications to ease the most severe symptoms of withdrawal. For instance, medications can prevent seizures during alcohol withdrawal, and specific MAT options can drastically reduce opioid cravings and physical pain, making the process survivable and reducing the likelihood of immediate relapse.

Paving the Way for Long-Term Healing

Beyond physical safety, professional detox serves a crucial psychological function: stabilization.

It’s impossible to engage in therapy, plan for the future, or address underlying mental health issues while in the throes of agonizing withdrawal. By safely managing the physical distress, a medical detox facility provides a crucial “reset” button, bringing the patient to a baseline level of comfort and clarity necessary to transition into comprehensive residential or outpatient therapy.

For those confronting the intense challenges of acute withdrawal, seeking a facility that provides medically supervised detox is the safest and most effective first choice. This critical foundational work—the cornerstone of successful long-term recovery—is precisely why programs offered at Hillside Retreat Detox Center prioritize the seamless integration of medical safety and compassionate care, ensuring patients are stable and ready for their next step.

The first 72 hours are a test of endurance, but they are a test you shouldn’t face alone. Choosing professional detox is choosing safety, medical integrity, and the best possible start to a sustainable life in recovery.

A New Dawn for Methadone Treatment

Methadone, one of the most effective medications for Opioid Use Disorder (OUD), has long been shackled by restrictive federal regulations. For decades, the system required near-daily, in-person dosing at certified Opioid Treatment Programs (OTPs), a practice many patients referred to as “liquid handcuffs.” In 2024, however, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) unveiled the first major overhaul of these rules in over 20 years, cementing pandemic-era flexibilities and introducing new patient-centered policies. The impact is overwhelmingly positive, signaling a new era of trust and accessibility in OUD treatment.

Restoring Dignity Through Take-Home Doses

The cornerstone of the regulatory update is the permanent expansion of take-home methadone doses. Previously, a patient might have needed two years of continuous abstinence and program adherence to qualify for a month’s worth of take-home medication.

The new rule dramatically shortens this timeline, allowing OTP practitioners to use clinical judgment to provide up to 28 days of take-home doses after just one month of treatment.

This change is revolutionary because:

It Boosts Retention: Research conducted during the temporary pandemic flexibilities demonstrated that increased take-home access did not increase the risk of methadone-related overdoses or diversion. Instead, it improved retention rates by reducing the logistical burden of daily clinic visits.
It Fosters Autonomy: Patients are now better able to hold down jobs, pursue education, and care for their families, integrating their recovery seamlessly into a stable, productive life. It shifts the focus from surveillance to shared decision-making and patient empowerment.

Eliminating Harmful and Non-Evidence-Based Barriers

The updated regulations systematically remove antiquated requirements that often created unnecessary hurdles for individuals seeking help.

No More 1-Year History: The requirement that a patient must have a documented one-year history of opioid addiction before starting treatment has been eliminated. This allows for immediate treatment induction, recognizing the urgency of the overdose crisis and the need to engage patients as soon as possible.
Decoupling Medication from Counseling: The new rule ensures that access to the life-saving medication is not contingent upon a patient’s participation in counseling. While counseling and behavioral therapies are vital components of comprehensive care, denying medication based on a patient’s refusal of these services is an unnecessary barrier to MOUD.
Expanded Initial Dose: OTPs now have the flexibility to provide a higher initial dose of methadone (up to 50mg in many cases) to help stabilize patients more quickly, particularly those with high tolerances due to fentanyl exposure.

Broadening the Treatment Ecosystem

The changes also strategically address the critical shortages in the addiction treatment workforce and geographic access.

Telehealth Access: OTPs can now permanently utilize telehealth (audio-visual platforms) to conduct initial screenings for methadone induction, drastically improving access for patients in rural or medically underserved areas.
Workforce Expansion: The definition of eligible practitioners has been expanded, allowing Nurse Practitioners (NPs) and Physician Assistants (PAs) to order the dispensing of methadone within an OTP (contingent on state laws). This crucial expansion taps into a wider pool of qualified medical professionals, increasing capacity across the country.

By centering clinical judgment, patient autonomy, and evidence-based practice, the 2024 methadone regulation updates are already proving to be a powerful step forward in the ongoing fight against the opioid epidemic.

What Happens After Rehab?

Life after rehab can be both an exciting and challenging time for individuals in recovery. Completing a drug addiction program is a significant milestone in the addiction recovery journey, but it is just the beginning of a new chapter. Understanding what to expect when recovering after rehab will better prepare you to navigate this transition while maintaining sobriety and building a fulfilling life.

The Biggest Differences Transitioning from Rehab to Daily Life

The transition from a structured rehab environment to everyday life can be overwhelming. Many individuals may feel a mix of emotions, including hope, anxiety, and uncertainty, as they rejoin society after recovering from rehab. This period is a critical time for establishing a solid foundation for recovery that requires balancing the requirements of daily living while practicing relapse prevention strategies and staying the course on their addiction recovery journey.

Changes in routine

Drug rehabs are highly structured both in environment and the actions available, especially inpatient treatment programs. Addiction treatment centers do this intentionally. By minimizing the need for decision-making, it relieves individuals of unnecessary cognitive loads and allows them to focus on healing. As such, one of the most jarring changes of life after rehab is the lack of externally imposed structure.

It’s also potentially one of the most dangerous pitfalls for someone in recovery. Freedom brings with it a need for discipline and responsibility, and the opportunity of choice also carries the possibility of making bad ones. One of the most beneficial things someone can do after rehab is to create new daily routines that support their sobriety. This may include setting regular sleep schedules, engaging in healthy activities, and avoiding triggers associated with past substance use.

Changes in support network

In treatment, there’s a built-in support network of staff, therapists, doctors, and fellow patients. Outside of those walls however, it’s not a given that those same pillars of support will exist. For one, patients may not live near their treatment facility so there’s a physical barrier to maintaining that network. Then, there’s the matter of time. Real life comes at you fast and having to go out of your way to access a support network is a luxury of time that many do not have.

The transition of losing the safety net support network from rehab doesn’t have to be a shock. Make an effort to reconnect with family and friends, setting expectations (and boundaries, if need be) on how your loved ones can best support you. Support can also be found elsewhere through an intentionally created community. Engaging in support groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA), can provide a sense of community and shared experiences.

Exposure to triggers

One of the biggest changes of life after rehab is facing your triggers — the situations, emotions, or environments that may lead to cravings or relapse. Ideally, treatment includes psychological care as well and has patients work with a mental health professional to understand the cause behind their addiction as well as identifying ways to work past it. A big part of that work is centered around understanding personal triggers and developing ways to overcome them.

Leaving rehab means putting all the practice and prep work into action, but talking about triggers in a secure and controlled environment is quite different from experiencing it first hand in the messy reality of “real life.” Continuing to work with a therapist outside of rehab can be very helpful in dealing with triggers successfully. On your own, practicing mindfulness and staying committed to using the tools provided in treatment are key to long-term success after rehab.

Get continued support with an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)

An intensive outpatient program (IOP) can be a valuable resource for individuals transitioning from rehab to everyday life. IOPs offer structured support while allowing individuals to maintain their daily responsibilities, such as work or school.

They offer flexible scheduling, allowing individuals to attend therapy sessions while managing other commitments; a means to continue therapy in a supportive environment; and continued focus on teaching relapse prevention strategies and coping skills to equip individuals with the tools they need to navigate challenges in their recovery journey.

Recovery is a lifelong process, and with the right tools and support, it can lead to a fulfilling and sober life. Embracing this new chapter with hope and determination can lead to a brighter future, free from the constraints of addiction.

Behind the 2025 National Recovery Month Theme: “Recovery is REAL”

Every September, the United States observes National Recovery Month, a time to celebrate the gains made by those in recovery and to promote new treatment and recovery practices. Since its inception in 1989, Recovery Month has served as a powerful reminder that with the right help and support, recovery is possible. The theme for National Recovery Month 2025, “Recovery is REAL (Restoring Every Aspect of Life),” goes beyond simply acknowledging sobriety; it emphasizes the holistic nature of healing. This theme is a message of hope, underscoring that recovery is not just about abstaining from a substance, but about building a full, meaningful, and healthy life.

The Four Pillars of REAL Recovery

The “Recovery is REAL” theme is built upon four core pillars: health, home, community, and purpose. These pillars represent a comprehensive framework for what a truly restored life looks like. Health goes beyond physical well-being to include mental and emotional health. Addiction is a chronic disease that impacts the brain and body, and true recovery involves treating both. This means addressing co-occurring mental health conditions like anxiety or depression, as well as fostering physical wellness through proper nutrition and exercise.

The pillar of home highlights the importance of having a safe and stable living environment. A secure and supportive home is a fundamental building block for a successful recovery journey. It provides a sanctuary from negative influences and a space for personal growth. The community pillar emphasizes that recovery is not a solitary journey. It thrives in supportive networks, including family, friends, and recovery groups. Building social connections and a sense of belonging can replace the isolation and loneliness often associated with addiction, creating a strong foundation for long-term success.

Finally, the pillar of purpose speaks to the importance of finding meaning and direction in life. This could be through a job, a passion, volunteering, or simply by contributing to one’s family and community. A sense of purpose provides motivation, self-worth, and a reason to stay committed to a life in recovery.

The CDC’s Focus on Youth and the Call to Action

While the overall theme applies to everyone, the CDC is placing a special focus on youth with substance use disorders or who are in recovery. They are highlighting how real conversations can make a real difference in helping young people get the help they need. This focus is a call to action for parents, educators, and communities to engage in open, non-judgmental dialogue about mental health and substance use. It’s about providing a safe space for young people to express their struggles and learn that they don’t have to face them alone. The CDC’s resources and toolkits are designed to spark these vital conversations and equip people with the tools to provide effective support.

Recovery is a reality for millions, and this year’s theme aims to make that message heard loud and clear. By celebrating those who have reclaimed their lives and by promoting comprehensive, evidence-based practices, we can reduce the stigma surrounding addiction and show that recovery is not only possible but is a path to a truly restored life.

The Benefits of Online Support Groups

For decades, the image of group therapy has often been tied to physical spaces—the circle of chairs in a clinic, the hushed confidentiality of a community center. While the power of in-person connection remains undeniable, a new frontier has emerged in addiction treatment and recovery: online support groups and virtual peer communities. This digital evolution is not merely a convenient alternative; it’s a reimagining of group therapy, offering a unique set of benefits that are expanding access, fostering connection, and empowering individuals on their recovery journeys.

Breaking Down Barriers to Treatment

One of the most significant advantages of online support groups is their accessibility. Geographical limitations vanish, allowing individuals in rural areas or those with mobility issues to participate. Time constraints also become less of a barrier, with many groups offering sessions at various times, catering to different schedules and time zones. This democratization of support means more people can connect with others who understand their struggles, regardless of their location or personal circumstances.

Furthermore, virtual peer communities can foster a powerful sense of anonymity and reduced stigma. For some, the fear of being seen entering a traditional support group can be a significant deterrent. The online environment can provide a layer of privacy, allowing individuals to share more openly and honestly without the perceived judgment of their local community. This sense of safety is crucial for building trust and fostering vulnerability, which are essential components of effective group therapy.

A Tailored and Flexible Approach

The flexibility and variety offered by online platforms are also noteworthy. Individuals can often choose from a wide range of groups focused on specific substances, co-occurring disorders, or recovery approaches. This allows for a more tailored and personalized support experience, connecting individuals with peers who share similar challenges and goals. Moreover, many online platforms offer asynchronous communication channels, such as forums and chat rooms, allowing for continuous support and connection beyond scheduled group sessions.

The sense of community fostered within these virtual spaces can be incredibly powerful. Individuals can find understanding, validation, and encouragement from peers who have firsthand experience with addiction and recovery. This shared experience can create a bond that transcends physical distance, offering a vital network of support that helps individuals feel less alone in their struggles. The ability to connect with others who are further along in their recovery can also provide hope and inspiration.

The Future of Connection

However, it’s important to acknowledge potential challenges. Ensuring privacy and security, moderating online interactions effectively, and addressing technological barriers for some individuals are crucial considerations. Additionally, while virtual connection is valuable, it’s not a complete replacement for in-person interaction for everyone. A blended approach, incorporating both online and in-person support, may be the most beneficial for many.

In conclusion, online support groups and virtual peer communities are not just a technological trend; they represent a significant evolution in addiction treatment and recovery. By offering increased accessibility, reduced stigma, greater flexibility, and powerful peer connections, they are reimagining the landscape of group therapy and providing invaluable support to individuals on their path to lasting recovery. As technology continues to advance, these virtual spaces will undoubtedly play an increasingly vital role in helping individuals find connection, hope, and healing.

Closed vs. Open Al-Anon meeting

Al-Anon meetings offer a supportive environment for all individuals who are affected by someone else’s problem drinking. These gatherings provide a space for sharing experiences, gaining insights, and fostering a community of mutual support while balancing the need for privacy. Al-Anon is able to manage both by occasionally alternating the way they conduct meetings, with some of them being open to everyone and others with attendance limited to members.

If you’re considering attending an Al-Anon meeting, keep reading to learn the differences between closed and open Al-Anon meetings so that you can make an informed decision about which meeting type best suits your needs, ultimately enhancing your healing journey.

Closed vs Open Al-Anon Meetings

There are three key differences between open and closed Al-Anon meetings: attendance eligibility, purpose, and atmosphere. However, in 2019, the Al-Anon Board of Trustees established a new label convention for their meetings to minimize potential confusion by new attendees, better aligned with their organizational tenant that all are welcome. Open meetings are now referred to as “Families, Friends, and Observers Welcome,” and closed meetings are “Families and Friends Only.”

Consider the following when choosing the right type of Al-Anon meeting for you:

Privacy concerns. Are confidentiality and a secure environment your top priorities? Would sharing involve divulging sensitive or personal information?
Diversity of perspectives. If you’re looking for a broad range of viewpoints and educational insights as opposed to deep personal experiences.
Your stage of recovery.

Aside from these small differences, the rules of Al-Anon are the same. The organization has provided suggestions and best practices guidelines for those who are interested in participating.

Closed meetings

Closed Al-Anon meetings, or those that are “Families and Friends Only,” are intended for individuals who identify as family members or friends of problem drinkers and have been directly affected.

In a closed meeting, you can expect a close-knit community with topics of discussion focused on personal experiences and shared challenges among affected individuals. These are often more intimate settings that encourage participants to discuss personal issues more candidly, facilitating deeper connections and more meaningful insights.

Besides the comfort of knowing that everyone else in the room has been directly affected by a loved one’s drinking disorder, member-only meetings increase the likelihood of meeting regulars being in attendance. This is conducive to creating a deep sense of trust and empathy, which can be incredibly beneficial for those seeking support and feeling vulnerable in doing so.

How is Al-Anon membership determined?

In an organization that prioritizes anonymity and allows participants to come and go as they please, the idea of membership might seem antithetical to its principles. Officially, the rule for determining who is an Al-Anon member is modeled after Tradition 3 of Alcoholics Anonymous: the only requirement for membership is the desire to stop drinking. In the Al-Anon version, the only requirement is that there is a problem of alcoholism in a relative or friend.

However, if it would be your first time attending an Al-Anon meeting that is designated as closed, it’s advised to contact the individual group to get permission ahead of time.

Open meetings

Open Al-Anon meetings, “Families, Friends, and Observers Welcome,” are available to anyone interested in learning more about the effects of alcohol addiction on families and friends, whether or not they have been directly affected. ing those who may not have a direct personal connection to someone with a drinking problem. This inclusivity makes open meetings an excellent option for those who want to gain a broader understanding of alcoholism’s impact.

At an open meeting, you will find a diverse group of attendees, ranging from those directly affected by alcoholism to professionals, students, and others simply seeking knowledge. The presence of varied perspectives can enrich discussions and provide new insights into managing relationships with problem drinkers. Open meetings often serve as an educational resource, helping to raise awareness and foster understanding in the wider community.

Confidentiality is still a key priority, however, the presence of non-affected individuals often influences what and how much attendees share. As such, discussions in open Al-Anon meetings tend to be broader discussions, often educational, and meant to appeal to a wider audience.

Despite the broader audience, open Al-Anon meetings still have a supportive and respectful atmosphere. For those new to the organization, open meetings can serve as a gentle introduction to the fellowship before committing to more intimate settings.

Finding Your Recovery Path with Al-Anon

Navigating the path of recovery in Al-Anon is a deeply personal journey. Understanding the differences between closed and open meetings can help you make informed choices that align with your needs and aspirations. Both meeting types offer unique benefits, each contributing to a holistic recovery process. Find an Al-Anon meeting near you, today.

Signs of Self-Medicating

The line between letting off steam after a rough day and indulging in an unhealthy coping mechanism can be a fine one. If someone you know regularly uses alcohol, prescription or recreational drugs to deal with difficult emotions, they may be engaging in a harmful behavior as self-medicating. It may seem harmless at first, especially if they’re using legal drugs or other substances that are considered socially acceptable. However, this behavior can quickly escalate into dependency or addiction. Being able to recognize the signs of self-medicating can lead to early detection of drug addiction and potentially, saving someone’s life.

What is self-medication?

Self-medicating is a behavior in which individuals use substances like drugs or alcohol to cope with emotional, mental, or physical distress. This behavior is often driven by a desire to escape discomfort or avoid confronting underlying issues. It’s common among individuals who struggle with communication or who lack a support network where they feel safe enough to express their feelings. This also goes hand-in-hand with some of the most common causes of addiction and relapse, making self-medication a strong predictor of addiction risk.

Why is self-medicating so dangerous?

Long-term self-medicating can result in serious health problems like liver damage and heart disease. However, substance abuse, even in small or sporadic uses, can still pose an immediate danger due to the nature of being drunk or high (delayed reaction speed, impaired decision making, loss of coordination and motor skill).

Further, those who self-medicate are often using drugs and alcohol with some regularity since they lack the support or communication skills to deal with their emotions in a healthier manner. It’s highly common for individuals with mental illness to engage in self-medicating behaviors, especially if their condition is undiagnosed or going untreated, which can amplify the challenges of regulating their emotions and dealing with them in a productive manner.

Relying on substances to deal with one’s feelings fails to address the underlying issue. Repeatedly avoiding the sources of difficult feelings can mean the sources of those issues go unaddressed, which can quickly cause things to become worse. This, in turn, the likelihood leading to further self-medicating, and thus, resulting in a highly destructive cycle that can quickly devolve into drug addiction.

10 Signs of self-medicating

Attempting to identify if a friend or family member is self-medicating can be challenging, as the most common signs overlap with the signs of drug addiction. Here are a few of the more subtle signs of self-medication behavior to look for:

Seeking drugs or alcohol shortly after experiencing a conflict
Being under the influence in inappropriate times or settlings
Claiming to only feel “normal” or good while under the influence
A sudden change in priorities — especially if these new priorities lead to the neglect of standing responsibilities (e.g. work, family) or hobbies.
Self-isolation from friends and family / relationship strain
Secretive behavior
A preference for solitary drinking or drug use
Increased or unexpectedly high drug or alcohol tolerance from what you know their tolerance to be
Sudden financial problems
Decline in their health (fatigue, sudden weight changes, or frequent illnesses)

On their own, the above signs might not seem particularly alarming. However, if you notice someone exhibiting two or more of these behaviors (especially if you’re aware that they are experiencing emotional difficulties or hardships), it could be a sign that they’re on a slippery slope of self-medicating to suppress negative emotions.

Start your recovery journey today

Recognizing the signs of self-medicating is the first step toward recovery. Developing a recovery plan that addresses both the physical and emotional aspects of substance use is essential. Key components of a include:

Seeking professional health. Consulting a healthcare provider or addiction specialist can help you develop a personalized treatment plan to address both the substance abuse and larger behavioral issues that have resulted in problematic self-medication. Many treatment facilities enlist behavioral therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to help individuals identify triggers and develop healthier coping strategies.

Making lifestyle changes. Healthy habits such as regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and stress management techniques can ease mental illness symptoms, which can play a large role in disrupting the self-medicating cycle. However, incorporating these healthy habits has benefits on mental health overall which can improve mood stability and emotional resilience.

Build a support network. Surrounding yourself with supportive friends and family members is a crucial aspect of disrupting the self-medicating cycle. Knowing that there are people you can turn to in times of adversity can ease the stress of a situation and help a person feel better equipped to face the source of stress. If you’re not sure where to start, consider joining a support group such as Narcotics Anonymous (NA). Find a local NA group near you and start recovery now.