The Dangers Of Alcoholic Ketoacidosis

Alcoholic ketoacidosis is a somewhat common condition among individuals recovering from alcohol abuse. The condition, which causes unpleasant symptoms such as nausea and vomiting, is most often seen among people who abruptly stop drinking. Although, for the most part, this is a passing cluster of symptoms, alcoholic ketoacidosis can pose great danger for certain individuals if not appropriately addressed. Let’s explore everything we know about this complication.

What Is Alcoholic Ketoacidosis?

Alcoholic ketoacidosis, alcoholic ketosis, alcoholic acidosis, or AKA, is a condition some people struggling with alcoholism experience, but non-alcoholics may also suffer it when binge drinking. AKA is rare in non-alcoholics, however.

It’s most common in alcoholics between 20 and 60 years old but can affect people of all ages, alcoholics or not. It causes nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, tachycardia, tachypnea, dehydration, and agitation.

It’s unclear how common it is, but one study on 1,500 alcoholic Japanese men determined that 34% suffered from it within 14 days of their last drink. Another study estimates that less than 10% of alcoholics will experience AKA.

What Causes Alcoholic Ketoacidosis?

AKA is most common in people struggling with alcoholism who also suffer from liver disease and stop drinking suddenly. Dehydrated people who haven’t eaten in 1-3 days are also vulnerable to AKA. The dehydration may be caused by vomiting from excessive drinking and lack of food.

Other alcohol withdrawal symptoms may also prevent you from eating, which may lead to malnourishment. As a result, your body may start producing ketones to preserve energy. Ketones are chemicals your body defaults to when you’re not getting enough nutrients from food.

Your body will eventually produce excess ketones if you haven’t eaten much due to excessive drinking. Excess ketones increase acidic levels in your body and can lead to severe metabolic acidosis, which may lead to potentially lethal conditions.

How Fast Can Alcoholic Ketoacidosis Develop?

The time it takes to appear after the last drinking binge varies depending on how malnourished you are, the amount of alcohol taken, and your overall health status. It can appear as soon as one day after the last drink.

Can Alcoholic Ketoacidosis Be Fatal?

If not treated in time, AKA can lead to potentially deadly complications related to an irregular heartbeat. Elevated beta-hydroxybutyric acid, alcohol withdrawal symptoms, and gastrointestinal bleeding associated with AKA may also lead to death.

Common Symptoms Of Alcoholic Ketoacidosis

One of the most significant issues with AKA is that its symptoms can overlap with other conditions, such as diabetic ketoacidosis, uremia, and even methanol poisoning. Symptoms can include:

Abdominal pain
Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
Low blood pressure
Rapid or irregular heartbeat
Rapid breathing and short breath
Severe dehydration
Altered mental state

In addition, AKA can lead to complications such as:

Gastrointestinal bleeding
Psychosis
Coma
Pancreatitis
Pneumonia
Encephalopathy

Treatment For Alcoholic Ketoacidosis

If you suffer from alcoholic ketoacidosis symptoms, you must go to an emergency room as soon as possible. Doctors and nurses will monitor vital signs like heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing patterns. They may also monitor electrolytes to re-establish healthy values.

The priority will be to prevent alcohol withdrawal, get you hydrated again via intravenous fluids, and provide nutritional support with thiamine, potassium, phosphorus, and magnesium. You may also receive intravenous benzodiazepines if you’re likely to suffer seizures from alcohol withdrawal.

If doctors determine that you need ongoing care, they may move you to the ICU. Complications may occur, but they happen in less than 20% of cases. Long-term recovery from AKA improves if you also recover from alcoholism after suffering from it.

The length of your stay depends on the severity of your case, how long it takes to get your body regulated again, and whether you suffer complications.

Find Treatment For Alcoholism

If you or someone you know is dealing with alcohol abuse, you must seek help. The most common treatments for alcoholism include:

Inpatient or residential treatment: Inpatient treatment involves staying at a rehab facility for several days, or even weeks or months, where care is available to you at all times. It provides a higher level of support and structure but also the highest investment of time by people struggling with addiction. If you are dedicated to getting sober and surrounded by professionals who want the best for you, inpatient treatment can change your life.
Outpatient treatment: This type of treatment is less time and energy-intensive than inpatient treatment and may be prescribed after a period of inpatient treatment. The premise for these programs, as well as the care provided and activities performed (like behavioral therapy), are similar to inpatient programs. However, you can spend the nights at home, study, and even work, attending sessions in the time available.
Partial hospitalization programs: Also less intensive than inpatient programs but slightly more intensive than outpatient programs. You still spend the night in the facility’s premises and engage in daily activities, but you can spend more time outside the premises during the evenings and weekends.

The treatment you receive depends on your specific needs and the severity of your case. Regardless of the exact program you go through, what’s important is that it will give you the tools you need to overcome addiction and avoid conditions such as alcoholic ketoacidosis.

What To Do If An Alcoholic Refuses Treatment

How do you help an alcoholic who doesn’t want help? That’s a challenge that many face when their loved ones succumb to alcoholism. It’s a challenging situation for everyone involved. Still, there are several things you can do to provide a positive environment that encourages seeking help.

7 Ways To Help An Alcoholic Who Refuses Help

If you’ve ever tried to help someone who is an alcoholic and they just won’t listen to what you have to say, then you might feel like giving up. Even those closest to the person suffering from alcoholism can’t get through. That said, you can still do things to help the alcoholic in your life. Below are seven approaches I’ve found beneficial when attempting to help a loved one who suffers from addiction.

1. Educate Yourself

When you speak with your struggling loved one, they should feel like you have some basis for what you’re saying. Your comments shouldn’t come off as ignorant or lacking in confidence.

The very first thing you should explore is the nature of addiction. Explore reliable sources explaining that addiction is not exactly a “choice,” as many believe. It’s a complex mental illness influenced by various factors like genes, exposure to alcoholism from a young age, social environment, and more.

Awareness of what alcoholism and addiction are in general will help you approach the conversation from a place of compassion and love.

2. Be Patient And Empathetic

As we mentioned above, love and empathy should be the primary emotions you transmit to a loved one who refuses to get help. Despite their denial, they are at least partially aware of how alcoholism affects their life and the life of their loved ones like you.

It’s important not to add to their feelings of shame, which may compound every time they relapse or can’t stay sober for long. To avoid making them feel further ashamed and embarrassed, try to make them feel heard and loved. You can try the following:

Intently listen when they speak – don’t interrupt them
Be curious about their feelings
Avoid judging them harshly for bad behavior
Imagine how they feel before giving your opinion
Talk about how their actions make you feel

3. Don’t Be Controlling

Alcoholism is not a rational act that people can be talked out of. If it were that easy, far fewer people would be recovering alcoholics. Instead, it’s a complex illness that drives people to consume something that clouds their judgment.

Unfortunately, the decision to seek treatment and make an effort to get better must come from your loved one.

Trying to manage and control their behavior will not yield positive results. What you can do is provide support and a positive environment where they can safely decide to get help.

4. Don’t Start Arguments Or Lectures

Similar to the last point: recovering alcoholics are not being logical. As a result, lecturing them on how their actions are wrong would likely make them feel isolated and ashamed, which is the last thing you want to encourage.

It may also be hard to balance “don’t lecture them” with “don’t enable them by not pointing out any negative behavior.” There’s a middle ground where you are not starting unneeded arguments but also holding them accountable for their behavior when needed.

5. Don’t Enable Their Alcoholism

Being supportive doesn’t mean you have to let them engage in negative behavior that only deepens their addiction – basically enabling them. These are the common signs you are enabling an alcoholic:

Ignoring or downplaying the seriousness of their addiction
Covering up their behavior
Taking over their responsibilities, which they neglect due to their alcoholism
Financing them when you know they’ll use them to buy alcohol

To stop enabling them, consider the following:

Set clear boundaries for appropriate and inappropriate behaviors
Be ready to support them when they take steps to recover
Don’t make excuses for their behaviors, cover up their behaviors, or take over for the responsibilities they neglect
Don’t shield them from the personal or legal consequences of their actions

6. Stage an Intervention

Perhaps the most powerful tool you have to help an alcoholic who refuses treatment is an intervention. Ideally, you should consider speaking with an addiction specialist or an interventionist to help you arrange the meeting.

During an intervention, close friends and family members come together to express their worries about someone’s substance abuse. During this meeting, the idea is to get the person to agree to seek some form of treatment, whether checking into rehab, attending AA meetings, or speaking with a therapist.

7. Consider Legal Actions

As a last resource, you can consider legal actions. Family members can sometimes seek legal action, particularly for under-aged individuals. Many parents can force minor children (under 18) to check into rehab. Some states also have laws that allow involuntary commitment after the age of 18. While forcing someone into rehab isn’t always effective, in some cases, it might be the push someone needs to get help.

Helping a Loved One Who Refuses Treatment

When a loved one refuses help for their alcoholism, it’ll always be challenging for everyone involved.

Only they can ultimately decide to get help, and it’s challenging to feel impotent on the sidelines. What we can do is create an environment that encourages seeking help by being empathetic but not going so far as to enable their behavior.

Over time, they may conclude that they need help. And when that moment comes, you’ll be there to support them.

12 Principles of Al-Anon

While both Alcoholics Anonymous and Al-Anon are based on the 12-step recovery model and share many other similarities, the 12 principles of Al-Anon are different from the 12 principles of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA).

Alcoholics Anonymous principles are designed to help individuals struggling with alcohol addiction find recovery and healing. These principles outline the steps that individuals can take to address their addiction, including admitting powerlessness over alcohol, seeking help and guidance from a higher power, and making amends to those they have harmed.

The 12 Principles of Al-Anon, on the other hand, are designed to help the loved ones of alcoholics find peace and healing in the face of their loved one’s addiction. They also provide a framework for addressing the negative patterns and behaviors that often arise in relationships with alcoholics, and offer guidance on how to find support and strength in the face of these challenges.

What are the 12 Principles of Al-Anon and what do they mean?

Al-Anon and AA technically have identical principles that serve as the foundation of each respective organization. However, the key difference between them is how they are applied and put into practice for Al-Anon members.

For example, the principle of admitting powerlessness over the alcoholic’s behavior helps loved ones recognize that they cannot control or change the alcoholic’s actions and that their attempts to do so have likely only caused more pain and turmoil. By surrendering control and seeking support from a higher power or community, loved ones can begin to find peace and healing in their own lives and let go of the guilt or anger they may feel toward themselves or their loved ones.

We admitted we were powerless over alcohol—that our lives had become unmanageable.

Acknowledging that loved ones cannot control or change the alcoholic’s behavior and that attempts to do so have only caused chaos and distress in their lives.

Came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity.

In recognition that ultimately, the individual with the drinking problem is responsible for their actions (as well as changing them), friends and family members of this person relinquish both control and the idea that they as an individual can “fix” the alcoholic in their life.

Made a decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God as we understood Him.

The first and second principles mentally prepare us to surrender control. The third principle puts it into action and encourages Al-Anon members to trust a higher power to guide their loved one’s sobriety, as well as manage their own emotions.

Made a searching and fearless moral inventory of ourselves.

Loved ones must take an honest look at their own behavior and attitudes, and acknowledge any negative patterns that may be contributing to the alcoholic’s behavior. By being willing to change and grow, loved ones can create positive change in their own lives and in their relationships with the alcoholic.

Admitted to God, to ourselves, and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs.

A loved one in Al-Anon may be an enabler racked with guilt, or perhaps in their frustration over the situation, take out their anger on an innocent family member. There are countless circumstances where even the loved ones of alcoholics may find themselves with wrongs they need to right. Confessing and owning up to those mistakes establishes accountability from others and will lead to changes in behavior.

Were entirely ready to have God remove all these defects of character.

Similar to that of the alcoholic in AA, the loved one in Al-Anon must be willing to let go of negative or harmful patterns and behaviors. Since they already admitted to a lack of control over the situation, they must then turn to a higher power to have them removed.

Humbly asked Him to remove our shortcomings.

This means recognizing that we cannot change or heal ourselves. Whatever this “higher power” is to the individual, this step is when we look to it with an earnest intention to be a better person.

Made a list of all persons we had harmed, and became willing to make amends to them all.

The principle of making amends to those we have harmed helps loved ones repair relationships and address any harm they may have caused to others. By taking responsibility for their actions and seeking to make things right, loved ones can find healing and reconciliation in their relationships.

Made direct amends to such people wherever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others.

This means taking action to make amends and repair relationships while also considering the well-being of others.

Continued to take personal inventory and when we were wrong promptly admitted it.

Being a supportive partner isn’t something that just happens overnight. Just as a person in recovery will have setbacks, so too can the supporting family members or friends. Ongoing self-reflection and willingness to correct those mistakes will maintain an atmosphere of forgiveness and encouragement.

Sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God as we understood Him, praying only for knowledge of His will for us and the power to carry that out.

The 11th principle highlights the importance of having the right mindset as you near the end of the program. Seeking a deeper connection with a higher power (and maintaining that desire for a deeper connection) will keep one mindful of their ultimate goal.

Having had a spiritual awakening as the result of these steps, we tried to carry this message to others, and to practice these principles in all our affairs.

Once a person has gone through all 12 principles of Al-Anon, the idea is to share the experience with other family and friends of those with Alcoholics and apply the principles of Al-Anon to all areas of our lives.

These principles focus on helping loved ones recognize their own powerlessness over their alcoholic’s behavior, seek support and guidance from a higher power, and take steps to change and grow in their own lives. Learn more and find an Al-Anon meeting near you today.

How Hugging Can Help You Heal

Hugging is a simple act, yet one of the most powerful gestures of love.

No one can deny the power of physical touch; it is a powerful way to connect with others. A comforting pat on the back, a loving embrace, the hand of a dear friend taking in yours when you’re scared. Touch conveys a range of emotions and provides support in times of need.

One type of touch that has compelling benefits is the hug. A hug is an expression of love, affection, and gratitude, and it has been shown to have various health benefits.

How Hugs Help Us Heal

As a natural human interaction, hugging is deeply ingrained into our instincts. We often long to share hugs with a loved one.

We may all understand its emotional power, but hugging has numerous benefits that extend beyond what we feel during one. Hugging can improve both physical and psychological well-being.

Hugging is gratifying and great for overall health. Here are some reasons why everyone should hug more often:

Physical benefits of hugging:

Lowers blood pressure
Reduces stress and anxiety
Boosts the immune system
Promotes feelings of happiness and well-being

Emotional benefits of hugging:

Provides comfort and support
Promotes feelings of love and belonging
Improves communication and connection
Enhances trust and intimacy

6 Ways Hugging Improves Mental Health And Helps You Heal

Hugs have a wide array of benefits. Due to the increased popularity of mental health awareness, we have seen more articles about how hugging can help improve mental health. Let’s talk about how hugs help heal and improve mental health.

1. Embracing a romantic partner reduces stress in women

A recent study found that women who hugged their romantic partners before being stressed showed a reduced cortisol response. Participants from a control group did not hug anyone before a controlled stress test and showed a greater cortisol response.

This was a small study with only 76 participants, and the male participants did not experience similar stress-reducing effects during the test. It did show that women benefit very much from short-term hugs before stressful social situations like medical examinations or stressful job interviews.

2. It helps you bond and express non-verbal emotions

Regarding communication and connection, hugging can be a way to express feelings nonverbally and connect with others on a deeper level. It can also enhance trust and intimacy in relationships, as it requires vulnerability and willingness to embrace someone physically.

3. Hugs release “feel good” hormones

In line with prior points, hugs release oxytocin, dopamine, and serotonin. These are neurotransmitters that make you feel happy and relaxed and can even reduce pain and lower levels of depression. Think about the same feeling you get after an intense workout.

4. Hugs lower cortisol levels

Cortisol is a stress hormone. It increases sugars in the bloodstream and activates tissue repair. It peaks in the morning and diminishes throughout the day. However, certain foods and situations such as stress can trigger cortisol levels and cause cortisol spikes.

Hugs reduce cortisol and help you calm down during stressful situations. As we mentioned earlier, it’s been confirmed for women, but it probably wouldn’t hurt to try as a man.

5. Hugs and long hugs may help prevent certain illnesses

A study found that feeling like you have a strong social support system and hugging are associated with reduced chances of catching certain illnesses. In particular, it may help reduce upper respiratory diseases and improve outcomes when you catch one.

During the study, participants provided information about their support system, how often they receive hugs, and how often they experienced daily interpersonal conflict. Participants with a better-perceived support system were less likely to get sick. Those with better support systems who did get sick had less severe symptoms than those with less perceived support.

Another study found that those who experience warm, loving physical contact with their partners may have better heart health than those who do not. The participants who held hands for 10 minutes and shared a 20-second hug with their partners experienced a more significant reduction in heart rate and blood pressure. Participants who sat in silence for 10 minutes and 20 seconds reduced their heart rate and blood pressure to a lesser degree.

6. Hugs can help reduce fears in people with low self-esteem

A study found that reassuring physical touch can help reduce anxiety about mortality in people with lower self-esteem. For the investigation, the experimenter handed questionnaires to a university campus.

When handing out questionnaires, they would sometimes touch participants on their shoulder blades for one second. Participants with lower reported self-esteem who were touched described feeling less fearful about their mortality than those who didn’t receive the touch.

Can Hugs Help You Heal?

Hugs are fundamental to showing love for those around us and have many health benefits. If you are recovering from some addiction, incorporating physical touch with loved ones may significantly contribute to your mental health.

All addiction issues have a significant mental health component, so anything you can do to improve will directly contribute to your recovery.

The Meaning Behind Al-Anon

No, Al-Anon is not an abbreviation for the widely known organization, Alcoholics Anonymous, nor are they one and the same. Al-Anon is a distinct organization that boasts a worldwide presence just like its similarly-named predecessor. Unlike AA, Al-Anon provides support and guidance to family, friends, and loved ones who have been affected by someone else’s alcoholism. However, the fascinating history of Al-Anon is closely intertwined with Alcoholics Anonymous’s own.

Who started Al-Anon?

The organization was founded by a woman named Lois Wilson. Ring a bell? It should. Lois was the wife of Bill Wilson, the co-founder of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA).

Lois Wilson had struggled for many years with the impact of her husband’s alcoholism. Although there was a growing community for individuals like her husband, who struggled with their drinking, she found that there was a lack of support and resources available for the people who lived with and loved someone with a drinking disorder.

Lois quickly recognized the need for a program that could provide guidance and support for friends and family members. The organization was formally established in 1951 when Lois received a list of 87 of what was then referred to as ‘family groups’, from around the world. She then sent a questionnaire to these groups with the intention of unifying them.

It was through this questionnaire that the current name, Al-Anon Family Groups, was chosen. (This parent organization also includes Alateen, which is a group created to support teenagers who have been affected by someone else’s drinking.)

There are many similarities between Al-Anon and Alcoholics Anonymous, from the guiding principles and literature to the meeting structure and organizational operations. With the permission of Alcoholics Anonymous, Al-Anon adopted AA’s Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions.

What are the Al-Anon 12 principles?

The principles of Al-Anon are based on the 12 Steps of AA and are virtually identical to the original. These are designed to provide guidance and support for individuals who are affected by someone else’s alcoholism. They encourage participants to work towards acceptance, healing, and personal growth.

One of the key principles of Al-Anon is the idea of detachment. This involves letting go of the need to control someone else’s behavior and focusing on one’s own recovery and well-being. Al-Anon teaches participants to recognize the impact of someone else’s alcoholism on their own lives and to take steps to protect themselves and focus on their own well-being.

Another important principle of Al-Anon is the idea of anonymity. Like Alcoholics Anonymous, keeping the identity of participants confidential within the group is a high priority. Living and loving a person with a drinking problem can conjure all sorts of emotions, many of which may lead to feelings of guilt and distress for the loved one experiencing them. Anonymity ensures a safe and supportive environment where individuals can share their experiences without fear of judgment or stigma.

What are the Al-Anon 12 Traditions?

In addition to the 12 Steps of Al-Anon, the organization also follows a set of guiding principles known as the Al-Anon Traditions. These Traditions outline the principles that guide the organization and provide a framework for the way in which Al-Anon groups operate.

The common goals and welfare of the group come first.
The higher power is the only authority, the chairperson and the leaders of the group do not govern.
The only requirement for membership is the alcoholism of a family member or a friend.
Each group is an individual entity except when it concerns Al-Anon as a whole or Alcoholics Anonymous.
The group only has one purpose. This purpose is to help those who have family members or friends who are alcoholics.
The family groups are not to use the Al-Anon name, unless it is in relation to the group or program.
The groups are self supporting and do accept donations from outside the group.
Al-Anon groups are not professional organizations. They only employ people under special circumstances.
The groups should never be organized except when there is a need for a board they directly serve those in the group.
The groups should have no opinion on outside factors such as politics or other affiliations.
Public advertising is for attraction not promotion. This is an anonymous group and anonymity must be maintained.
Principles should be placed above personalities.

The main goal of Al-Anon is to provide a supportive environment for individuals to share their experiences and to receive guidance and support from others who are also affected by someone else’s alcoholism. Al-Anon meetings are typically held in a group format, and they may include the sharing of personal stories, discussion of Al-Anon literature, and group discussions.

If you are interested in attending a local Al-Anon meeting, find one near you today. They are open to all and anyone can pop in at any time.

Before Taking The First Step

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is a worldwide organization whose foundational principle of the Twelve Steps has become synonymous with addiction recovery. However, those alone are not the sole reason for the organization’s widespread success. AA meetings are a key component of its approach to recovery, providing a safe and supportive environment where people experiencing alcoholism can find encouragement and guidance. Curious about joining? Here’s what you should know before taking the first step of attending a meeting:

How long is an AA meeting?

Alcoholics Anonymous meeting structures can vary depending on the specific group and the activities planned for that particular meeting. Despite this, all AA meetings typically last around one hour. Group leaders are aware that people have busy schedules and lives and do their best to be respectful of others’ time.

What happens in AA meetings?

During an AA meeting, participants will typically follow a structured format that includes the following components:

Opening remarks: The meeting leader or facilitator will typically begin the meeting by welcoming everyone and introducing any new members or visitors.

Sharing of personal stories: Participants are usually encouraged to share their experiences with alcohol addiction and recovery. This can include talking about the challenges and struggles they have faced, as well as any progress or successes they have achieved.

Reading and discussion of AA literature: This may include reading from the organization’s “Big Book” or other AA literature, and discussing the principles and teachings contained within.

Group discussion: This may include group members discussing specific topics related to recovery, or simply sharing their thoughts and experiences.

Closing remarks: The meeting leader or facilitator will typically conclude the meeting by thanking everyone for their participation and reminding them of any upcoming events or meetings.

Can I just turn up to an AA meeting?

Yes, anyone is welcome to attend Alcoholics Anonymous meetings regardless of their specific substance use history, the stage of their addiction treatment journey, or whether they’ve gone to an AA meeting before. Per AA’s core philosophy, these meetings are open to anyone who is seeking support and guidance in their journey toward recovery from alcohol addiction.

It is important to note that AA meetings are not a substitute for professional treatment. If you are struggling with alcohol addiction and are seeking treatment, it is important to speak with a healthcare professional or a substance abuse treatment provider. They can help you to determine the most appropriate course of treatment for your specific needs and circumstances.

If you are interested in attending an AA meeting, you can find a meeting near you by visiting the AA website or by searching online for AA meetings in your local area. Many AA groups also have information about their meetings listed in local newspapers or community bulletins. You can also ask your healthcare provider or a substance abuse treatment provider for information about AA meetings in your area.

What AA meetings are not

One of the key components of AA meetings is the sharing of personal stories. Participants are encouraged to share their experiences with alcohol addiction and recovery and to discuss the challenges and struggles they have faced along the way. This helps to create a sense of connection and support among the group members and allows them to draw strength and encouragement from one another.

It is important to note that AA meetings are not therapy sessions and they are not intended to be a substitute for professional treatment. Rather, they provide a supportive and structured setting for people to share their experiences with others who are also working to overcome their addiction.

What is the true success rate of AA?

The success rate of Alcoholics Anonymous is difficult to quantify. AA is a voluntary (and anonymous) program where individuals may come and go as they please. There’s no commitment required at any instance, so gathering any sort of data or metrics about AA participants can be challenging at best.

However, many people who have participated in AA have reported that the support and guidance they received from the organization and its members have been invaluable in their journey toward recovery. Regardless, it is always recommended that individuals seeking recovery from alcohol addiction seek out a combination of professional treatment and support from AA and other peer support groups.

Overall, AA meetings provide a supportive and structured environment for individuals working to overcome their alcohol addiction. Through the sharing of personal stories, discussion of literature, and other activities, this organization helps to provide guidance and support for those in recovery and can be an important part of the journey toward lasting recovery. Find a local AA group near you today.

10 Ways to Encourage a Recovering Addict

Addiction is a chronic condition, and just like other chronic conditions are managed with a comprehensive and sympathetic approach, addiction should be too. Rather than looking at it as a moral shortcoming, it should be considered a mental illness that is addressed holistically. While doctors and counselors play their parts during treatments, family and friends can also contribute greatly to the process of recovery. If you are wondering how to encourage someone who is fighting alcohol or substance dependence, here are some common yet crucial tips.

1. Be patient

No matter how much we want our loved one to recover quickly, it is going to take its due course. The process of recovery is difficult not only for the addict but also for their family members. However, as their support system, you need to practice patience and perseverance so that their recovery process can at least remain smooth. Be mindful that conflicts and arguments with or around an addict can be counterproductive to their progress.

2. Don’t advise; just listen

Addiction and the treatment of addiction come with heavy negative feelings like hopelessness, sadness, and alienation. Therefore, it is important to be attentive to your loved one by staying with them and listening to them. It is important to note that giving advice to someone with as intense a personal struggle as addiction may not be a wise idea. You should reassure them by acknowledging their feelings. They may feel less alienated and alone while experiencing alienation.

3. Create a comfortable environment

Addiction puts a person more at risk of feeling dejected and regressing back to drugs or alcohol. Therefore, creating a comfortable environment where they are able to share their concerns without getting judged is crucial. Providing a trigger-free environment may help the recovery process. It will almost certainly allow the patient to go through the procedure without incident. For instance, if a person is addicted to Xanax, do not keep Xanax at home.

4. Supporting Healthy Patterns

Involving a person in healthy practices like baking, cleaning, and meditation can be really helpful. Other enjoyable activities that do not involve drugs or alcohol can also help them return to a normal life. It is also a nice way to interact with the family, from which they withdraw when addiction takes over.

5. Be careful with what you say

Know that addiction is a mental disease. It is not a person’s weakness that holds them back from recovery. Therefore, saying that they are “not trying hard enough” or “are being selfish” is not only counterproductive but also harmful. Would you say this to someone who has diabetes? No. Think along the same lines as you would with any other chronic disease. Use your words to encourage them by being patient with them and assuring them of your support.

6. Recovery is a process, not the outcome

Addiction recovery is a simple process. It is essential to remember that it can be a constant, lifelong process. There is a lot that goes into the journey of addiction recovery. Sometimes, a treatment may not work, which may cause relapse. Some drugs, like heroin, can cause long-term withdrawal symptoms that can hinder the recovery process time and again. If your loved one is suffering from this issue, be prepared to give them endless support.

7. Be there for yourself

A person can become reckless towards themselves while caring for a loved one who is undergoing addiction treatment. Remember that you can lend support without sabotaging yourself. It is important for you and for your loved one. Your health is just as important as your loved one’s. In fact, they have doctors to look for, and you have you. So, be sure to be there for yourself.

8. Help them find group counseling

Certain support groups or outpatient treatment centers offer counseling sessions to individuals who are suffering from addiction. You may urge them to register for support groups like AA meetings. There are other forms of therapy too, but joining a group can make them feel understood and more determined to achieve recovery. This can be a great source of encouragement for a person in recovery.

9. Stay informed about addiction

Addiction is greatly stigmatized as a moral shortcoming. To change the mindset, it is imperative to stay educated about addiction and the problems that it brings. Remember that there is no “cure” for addiction. Instead, as mentioned above, it is a long process with many hindrances. Don’t believe that your loved one has been “cured” when they receive the all-clear from a rehab. Be vigilant and know the signs of relapse because, unfortunately, many people have a relapse within the first year of recovery.

10. Let them take charge

Though you may want to protect your loved one, remember that help can be offered only to an extent. Eventually, they will need to take charge of their lives. It is healthy to let them be comfortable with the fact that they struggle with addiction. Accepting is the first form of taking responsibility.

What is the Philosophy Behind the 12 Steps of Recovery?

The 12 Steps are designed to help people who struggle with addiction by promoting spiritual and character growth. This will help them better understand themselves and the world around them, providing a framework for a sober, productive life. The 12 Steps were created for Alcoholics Anonymous but have been the direct inspiration of many other addiction recovery frameworks, like Narcotics Anonymous.

While Steps are not a cure for addiction, they can be essential to recovery. For many people, working through the steps is an ongoing process that helps them stay on track and maintain their sobriety.

What is the Philosophy Behind the 12 Steps of Recovery?

The philosophy behind the twelve-step program is that rather than targeting the immediate problem of dependence on a particular substance, it aims to reshape the individual into a more positive version of themselves.

The core basis of it has allowed the 12-Steps program to remain an effective tool over the years, despite criticism within the medical field. Its philosophy focuses on strengthening each individual to be better prepared against future temptations and reducing their risk of relapse.

Although the 12 Steps are often attributed to Bill Wilson, the initial steps or principles are said to be influenced by the founders’ experience with The Oxford Group. This Christian organization helped improve members by teaching a formula for spiritual growth.

The Oxford Group created these steps to help people overcome what they saw as destructive patterns of behavior and live more productive lives through a series of spiritual exercises that centered around confession, restitution, guidance, and fellowship with other members of their group who had also confessed similar issues in their lives.

Even though it’s not technically a religion, many people who practice 12-step recovery feel it can be spiritual at times. For those who struggle with this, the 12-Steps call to tap into a spiritual or Higher Power belief system. Whatever fuels you to do better tomorrow.

The Therapeutic Goals of the 12 Step Program

The 12 step program is a spiritual, not religious, program. In fact, the only requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking. No fees are associated with this self-help group, and people can attend meetings as often or as infrequently as they like.

The 12 step program isn’t just about recovery from addiction but also about maintaining sobriety in general.

The steps are meant to help you build healthy relationships with others. At the same time, you work on rebuilding your own life and identity away from alcohol or drugs that may have been part of your problem behaviors before entering treatment programs.

How the 12 Steps Work in Alcoholics Anonymous

The 12 Steps aren’t meant to be followed blindly; each step is intended to be applied and understood individually before moving on to the next one. As you work through each step, you’ll begin recognizing your own attitudes and behaviors while reflecting on how they positively and negatively affect your life. This can help you figure out which changes need to be made for you to stay sober.

The philosophy behind the 12 steps will help you understand why they work so well – and how they can help you achieve lasting sobriety even if you don’t believe in God or any traditional deity (or aren’t sure what you believe).

It’s about recognizing how spirituality influences your journey toward sobriety and can improve it as well by giving purpose, direction, meaning, and hope to your life once again – a life free from alcohol addiction.

The 12 Steps Have Led To Many Successful Recovery Stories

In a world where people are constantly seeking new ways to improve their lives, it is good to know that there is something that has stood the test of time. The 12 Step Program has been around for over 75 years and has helped millions of people recover from addiction.

You should always focus on the recovery methods that work best for you.

While the Steps are not a complete solution on their own, they can be an excellent supplement to behavioral therapy and medication-assisted treatment. In fact, some studies suggest participation in peer support groups can help with treatment engagement, relapse prevention, and treatment completion.

If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, consider attending an AA meeting near you. That could be the first step in your road to recovery. Additionally, peer support groups work best when paired with behavioral therapy at a rehab facility, so consider speaking with an addiction specialist about your best options.

Recovery Affirmations For The New Year

Words have power, and positive affirmations are a way to use them to your benefit. Positive affirmations are statements we repeat to ourselves to encourage and motivate. They can be particularly helpful for people in recovery from drug addiction as they can reinforce a positive mindset while also deprogramming negative thoughts and behaviors. Here are 5 positive affirmations for addiction recovery that are perfect for starting the new year:

1. “I am in control of my recovery and my life.”

In addiction recovery, the concept of ‘control’ can be a conflicting one. Anyone who has experienced addiction knows what it feels like to be powerless in the face of a craving; Alcohol Anonymous’ ubiquitous Twelve Steps are all about relinquishing control (and admitting that you might not have had any to begin with).

Because of this, it’s common for people in recovery to leave treatment with a feeling of a loss of agency. In turn, this can make an individual more susceptible to feeling helpless in moments of hardship and put them at a greater risk of relapse.

It’s important to recognize that while addicted, you might not have had full control over your thoughts and actions in the past, but the new, sober you certainly does. This means taking ownership of your mistakes and setbacks but also taking pride in all the positive actions taken.

2. “I am strong and capable of overcoming challenges.”

Recovery is no picnic and there are going to be a fair share of hurdles your way. As you enter the new year, have confidence in your ability to face any and all challenges that come your way.

Remember, overcoming challenges on your sober journey isn’t something you have to do on your own. You likely have the support of your friends and family, the comradery of your peer support group, and healthy new coping mechanisms from therapy. Know that you have all the resources you need to get through recovery rough patches.

3. “I am deserving of a fulfilling and satisfying life”

The persisting stigma around addiction can make it feel like there’s a wall between you and other people and that you don’t belong in the spaces you aspire to be. Whether those spaces are high education, a career you enjoy, or becoming a parent, addiction doesn’t make you ineligible for those major life milestones.

Recognize that you are only human and that making mistakes is an inevitable part of the human experience. Nothing you have done in the past warrants that you deprive yourself of a second chance and a new life that you can be proud of.

4. “I am worthy of love, respect, and happiness.”

Addiction can often bring about feelings of guilt. This might leave you thinking that you don’t deserve forgiveness from friends, family, and peers, or deserve it when good things happen to you. Such thinking can lead to self-sabotaging behavior that isn’t just counterproductive, it can be harmful and put you on a path toward relapse.

In addition to having your fundamental needs met (shelter, warmth, food), you are equally deserving to feel accepted and comfortable in your community.

5. “I am grateful for the progress I have made in my recovery.”

Gratitude is the act of being thankful. It means taking notice of both big and little things that we might otherwise overlook and take for granted. This positive emotion is linked to greater happiness, health, relationships, and overall well-being.

Considering how bumpy the road to recovery can sometimes be, being able to appreciate the ups is really important to maintaining motivation to stay sober. Think about it. If all you think about are the missteps, backtracks, or failures, you’re going to get discouraged pretty quickly. Maintaining an attitude of gratitude will go a long way towards staying sober.

How to use positive affirmations for recovery

Positive affirmations might seem cheesy at first, but repeating these positive phrases will help you eventually internalize them. You are what you tell yourself and this can help end those nasty negative thoughts.

It can be helpful to write these New Year’s quotes for recovery down. Keep them somewhere highly visible such as sticky notes on your bathroom mirror or as the background of your mobile phone. Repeat these affirmations to yourself regularly, in the morning when you wake up and before you go to bed, but especially when you are feeling low or overwhelmed.

Repeat these phrases in earnest and you could see amazing results. If you’re having a hard time picturing the new sober you, attend a local AA meeting to find living examples of people who were once in your same situation and have since come out on the other side.

7 Tips To Be An Effective AA Sponsor

Sponsorships are an important part of the Alcoholics Anonymous recovery method. Sponsors are essentially people with personal experience in the AA method who can guide less experienced recovering alcoholics.

AA sponsors are not certified behavioral therapists and do not provide diagnostics, treatment, or medication. They provide ‌gentle guidance on the path to sobriety, offering a compassionate, more experienced perspective on the struggles recovering alcoholics face.

In this article, we’ll describe what AA sponsors are, who’s qualified to be a sponsor, and a few tips to be a better sponsor.

Tips To Be An Effective AA Sponsor

You have been chosen to be an AA sponsor as part of your journey to stay sober. These are some tips and advice to help you have a more successful experience as an AA sponsor.

1. Stay Sober

This is obvious, but one of the core responsibilities of an AA sponsor is to lead by example. How? By staying sober and faithful to the AA teachings. If you relapse while acting as a sponsor, you should let your sponsee(s) know and focus on recovering your sobriety before continuing to fulfill your sponsorship role.

2. You’ve Been Sponsored

You’ve worked the Steps in the past with your sponsor who has given you the expertise to help guide others by offering your experience, advice, and hope. Ideally, you can merge the teachings of your sponsor with your personal experience to help your new sponsee(s) through their journey to sobriety.

3. Be Humble

Humility is understanding your strengths and weaknesses and being honest with your sponsee. You don’t have an inflated idea of yourself, but at the same time, you know how to provide your experience productively. As a sponsor, you should also encourage your sponsee(s) to humble themselves.

4. Be Compassionate

People recovering from alcoholism are at a vulnerable time in their lives when feelings of shame and uncertainty are common. As a sponsor, you should be compassionate with their struggle but also learn to be firm in certain areas.

It’s a moderate stance you’ll need to learn over time: not being so soft that you enable them, but also not being so firm that you come off as uncaring. Remember, you were once in their footsteps.

5. Be A Good Listener

Be willing to listen to your sponsee actively. Be patient when they have trouble expressing their feelings. Learn to be comfortable when they don’t have the words to express their thoughts, validate their emotions, and ask compassionate, clarifying questions.

6. Know Your 12-Steps by Heart

Sobriety is a life-long search that doesn’t end. Your knowledge of the 12 steps must be solid, and you should be capable of applying what you know to stay sober long-term. This consistent experience will be invaluable to your sponsee(s).

7. Be Willing To Take Your Sponsee(s) Out Of Their Comfort Zone

Be willing to help your sponsee(s) acquire new knowledge by going slightly away from their comfort zone. It’ll help them gain new perspectives and explore new ways to stay sober. You can encourage them to attend different AA meetings or read new AA literature to gain a deeper understanding of their recovery process.

What’s An AA Sponsor?

According to AA’s “The Big Book,” an AA sponsor is a person with an alcohol use disorder who “has made some progress in the recovery program and shares that experience with another alcoholic attempting to attain or maintain sobriety through AA.”

Sponsors are essentially more experienced recovering alcoholics who share what they’ve learned with less experienced recovering alcoholics. Their importance lies in acting like role models, providing motivation and encouragement, and being a source of information for less experienced recovering alcoholics.

Who’s Qualified To Be An AA Sponsor?

There are a few requirements potential sponsors should fulfill before being eligible to help others heal:

They’ve Been Sober For A Year. Preferably for more, but if they’ve been sober for at least 12 months, they are dedicated to recovering from alcoholism and improving their lives. Someone who has just become sober doesn’t have enough experience to guide someone in the same position.
They’re The Same Gender As The Sponsee. This isn’t a requirement, but it’s encouraged. Since most people are heterosexual, being sponsored by someone of your same gender will minimize the possibility of any side developing romantic feelings or infatuations.
They Have Less Than Two Or Three Sponsees. If someone is already sponsoring three or more recovering alcoholics, it’s probably better to look for another sponsor with more time to dedicate to their sponsee.

AA Sponsors Are Important For Recovery

A good, compassionate, humble sponsor can be an excellent guide for people just taking their first steps into sobriety. Their work is essential. That’s why they should be experienced and patient with recovering alcoholics. Their guidance and compassion can contribute to their health for the rest of their lives. If you’re considering becoming a sponsor soon, keep these tips in mind to help your sponsees succeed.