Author: Find Recovery Editorial Team

The Find Recovery Editorial Team includes content experts that contribute to this online publication. Editors and recovery experts review our blogs carefully for accuracy and relevance. We refer to authority organizations such as SAMHSA and NIDA for the latest research, data, and news to provide our readers with the most up-to-date addiction and recovery-related content.

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.

  1. The common goals and welfare of the group come first.
  2. The higher power is the only authority, the chairperson and the leaders of the group do not govern.
  3. The only requirement for membership is the alcoholism of a family member or a friend.
  4. Each group is an individual entity except when it concerns Al-Anon as a whole or Alcoholics Anonymous.
  5. The group only has one purpose. This purpose is to help those who have family members or friends who are alcoholics.
  6. The family groups are not to use the Al-Anon name, unless it is in relation to the group or program.
  7. The groups are self supporting and do accept donations from outside the group.
  8. Al-Anon groups are not professional organizations. They only employ people under special circumstances.
  9. The groups should never be organized except when there is a need for a board they directly serve those in the group.
  10. The groups should have no opinion on outside factors such as politics or other affiliations.
  11. Public advertising is for attraction not promotion. This is an anonymous group and anonymity must be maintained.
  12. 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.”

I am in control affirmation.

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.”

I am strong affirmation.

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”

I am deserving affirmation.

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.”

I am worthy affirmation.

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.”

I am grateful affirmation.

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. 

College Student’s Guide to 12-Step Recovery

College is the modern rite of passage for young adults, representing new beginnings, finding your identity, meeting new people, and taking on new experiences. So many things come to mind when we think of college, like college parties. 

The party scene is so prevalent among students that we have begun normalizing the “sink or swim” and “drink until you pass out” mottos. Unfortunately, this way of thinking is almost just as dangerous as alcohol itself. 

When You Don’t Think You Have A Problem

Alcohol can undoubtedly inhibit our judgment and decision-making skills. According to a recent study, 60% of college students admit to binge drinking in the last seven days. Binge drinking is the consumption of an excessive amount of alcohol in a short period. 

Creating dangerous habits with alcohol can lead to a decline in your academics, put you in hazardous situations, and risk your health overall. 

However, we don’t see our drinking behavior as a problem if everyone is doing the same thing. In a sense, we have normalized and even enabled the drinking culture in college. Perhaps you are starting to recognize your habits with alcohol as detrimental, but not as an addiction. Programs like AA are incredibly effective in making a lifestyle change. 

Losing The Stigma

A dark shadow seemingly follows when you hear “AA.” The shadow of the doubt might be saying not me; I’m not an alcoholic. Or, what will others think when they hear that I’m attending AA meetings? Many students lack familiarity and direct experience with this readily accessible and potentially lifesaving resource. 

In a journal posted by the National Library of Medicine, a group of students took an experiential approach to an AA meeting and how it relates to college students. Their results were telling. Upon attending a meeting, they were surprised by “how welcomed they felt, even as they identified themselves as students” and “moved by how open AA members were about sharing their own experiences.” 

The authenticity of the meetings is what makes the program so effective. Its raw and organic emotions allow members to connect and guide one another on their journey. 

Bookmark These Helpful Tools: 

What Are The 12 Steps?

The 12 steps to recovery, developed in 1935 by Bill Wilson and Dr. Bob, are the core of the Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) program. They are guiding principles designed to help members reach the end goal of sobriety. It also teaches members who previously battled addiction to sustain a healthy and fulfilled life. These steps have proven to make the program effective as it hones in on mental, spiritual, and physical goals. 

Taking The Next Step

The 12-step recovery program is not limited to one sector or one demographic of society, and the hospitality the students felt in the study is universal across all AA meetings. If the stigma of the meetings is holding you back, trust that a community of 2 million members across 180 nations is waiting to meet you. 

Changing your lifestyle can be challenging, especially when most of the college population is complacent in the drinking culture. Or, like many, they fail to recognize they have a drinking problem. Find AA meetings near me. 

Invite A Friend

College can be difficult, especially if you’re away from your family and close friends. However, it’s also an excellent opportunity to meet new people and make lifelong friendships. 

Inviting a friend to an AA meeting might give you that extra support in your journey to recovery. This support friend can also serve as an accountability partner. Find people who want to change with you because birds of a feather flock together for a reason. 

Not Ready For Face-to-Face?

There are other options if you’re ready to take the next step but still hesitant to meet face-to-face. First, consider joining a virtual AA meeting. A virtual meeting will allow you to learn more about the 12-step program as you work yourself up to meeting in person. Learn more about online intergroup of Alcoholics Anonymous here. 

How To Join an AA Meeting

  1. Deciding to seek help is the first and more important step. 
  2. Find AA meetings near me.
  3. No need to call, make an appointment, or pay anything. Just show up! 
  4. Find a community that fits you! You’re more susceptible to change in a positive and healthy environment. Feel free to try different meetings out to ensure the most impactful experience.

Rising Alcohol-Free Spirits

When you fail to plan, you plan to fail. Keep your college bar stocked with alcohol-free spirits that imitate the flavor without the lingering hangover. Here is a list of the top brands that are leading the way in alcohol-free spirits. 

The Road To Recovery

College can be daunting enough with keeping up with grades, attending lectures, and managing your newfound freedom. Use that freedom to choose today to better yourself. You may not think you’re addicted to alcohol, but you agree that it has negatively impacted your life. 

Join The Sans Bar National Tour, an alcohol-free pop-up 

How often have you missed a class because you’re too hungover to attend? Or do you embarrass yourself in front of others because you drank too much? Or you said something you shouldn’t have because of liquid courage. Nonetheless, there are tangible steps and tools to lead college students into a healthy relationship with alcohol. You can still experience all that college has to offer even while being on the road to recovery. 

Related Articles

Related Videos

Resources:

Strobbe S, Thompson SM, Zucker RA. Teaching college students about Alcoholics    Anonymous: an experiential approach. J Addict Nurs. 2013 Jan-Mar;24(1):51-7. doi: 10.1097/JAN.0b013e31828768e4. PMID: 24622530.

Alcohol & Its Troubling Effects on Youth

Alcohol is the number one drug of choice among America’s youth–and it’s killing them. In small children, it’s a potent poison that can result in seizures, coma, and even death. In teenagers, it can impair cognitive development, prevent them from developing the necessary skills to succeed in today’s society, and also make them more inclined to engage in risky, dangerous behavior. Underage drinking is a serious public health issue that has become a nationwide concern. 

Underage Drinking Statistics

Children under the age of 18 who drink alcohol are putting their physical health, psychological health, social skills, emotional well-being–and ultimately their futures–at stake. The earlier they are introduced to alcohol, the greater the risks and consequences are likely to be down the line. 

According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), 39.7% of youths between 12 and 20 years old have had at least one drink in their lives; 20% of this group also reported drinking alcohol within the past month. 

To make matters worse is how young underage people drink. They are more prone to binge drinking behavior (this is how 90% of 12 to 20-year-olds consume alcohol) which amplifies the risks of dangerous consequences like alcohol poisoning, overdosing, and death. In an NIAAA survey that surveyed children on their drinking behavior:

  • 4.2 million reported binge drinking in the past month
  • 825,000 binge drank five or more times in the past month

Alcohol causes thousands of deaths in young people ages 21 and under each year. In 2019 there were:

  • 1,092 from motor vehicle crashes
  • 1,000 from homicides
  • 208 from alcohol overdose, falls, burns, and drowning
  • 596 from suicides

Alcohol Effects on Youths

414,000 children aged 12-17 had an alcohol use disorder. However, the adverse effects of alcohol on youths begin well before they get to the stage of developing an addiction. 

Impaired Brain Development

The brain isn’t fully developed until we reach the age of 25. Young children who consume alcohol earlier than this may experience neuro and cognitive development delays in the brain. This translates into impaired memory, problem-solving skills, and impulse control. Naturally, this will negatively affect academic performance and put them in a poor position for the future. 

An examination comparing the brain activity of drinking versus non-drinking children demonstrated how underage drinking puts youths at a clear disadvantage. The results showed that the brains of children who participated in heavy alcohol consumption were more activated and working harder, though their end performance was the same as their peers. Other studies have shown that underage drinkers have high rates of absenteeism and lower grades.

Mental Health Problems

People who drink alcohol face higher risks of developing mental health problems (someone with an AUD is 3.6 times more likely to develop a mood disorder than someone who isn’t).  The teenage years are a tumultuous and emotionally charged period on their own. Adding alcohol to the mix can exacerbate feelings of anxiety, depression, and stress, and quickly result in a feedback loop that leads to greater alcohol consumption, and so on.

Injury & Death

Accidental injury is the leading cause of death for children in America. Alcohol consumption amplifies this risk for young children by lowering inhibitions and impulse control, while also interfering with cognition and coordination. 

The situation is even stickier for teenagers, who naturally have a greater inclination for thrill-seeking at their age but don’t yet have a developed enough prefrontal cortex to properly weigh potential consequences.  

Unsafe Sex

Underage drinkers are more likely to be sexually active at a younger age and to engage in risky behavior such as unprotected sex. This can result in an increased risk of sexually transmitted diseases and unwanted pregnancies.  

Criminal Behavior

One of the most common causes of arrests of Americans under the age of 21 is ‘Minor In Possession’ However, that’s not the only reason why youths who drink are clashing with law enforcement. The lack of impulse control paired with thrill-seeking behavior means underage drinkers are more likely to engage in other illegal behaviors like driving under the influence. 

Lack of Social Skills

Many of the social skills children develop are related to their brain development as they age. Alcohol gets in the way of that and can inhibit a child’s ability to process situations and choose an optimal response. Additionally, alcohol can increase antisocial behavior such as aggression or isolation. 

Kids shouldn’t drink alcohol–not just because underage drinking is against the law (a misdemeanor that could result in jail time), but because youth alcohol consumption can have disastrous long-term consequences. If you have a young person in your life who you suspect is abusing alcohol, get help as soon as possible.

Sources:

https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/brochures-and-fact-sheets/alcohol-facts-and-statistics

The Connection Between Addiction & Homelessness

Drug abuse and addiction are pervasive issues that affect homeless populations at consistently higher rates than the general public. While it’s true that many people who are homeless struggle with substance abuse, the relationship between addiction and homelessness is not as cut and dry as most might think. 

Drug Addiction and Homelessness: Which Causes Which?

Homelessness is defined as an “individual or family who lacks a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence”. Neither the pathway to homelessness nor the one to addiction is a straight line, it’s cyclical and with numerous potential entry points. 

Addiction and homelessness have a pattern of dysfunction similar to that of co-occurring disorders (also known as dual diagnosis) where drug addiction and mental illness feed and worsen each other. Also like dual diagnosis, either can cause the other–here’s how: 

How Addiction Can Cause Homelessness

It’s most common for substance abuse to be the cause of homelessness, rather than the other way around. According to a 2008 survey of U.S. city mayors, drug use was the number one cause of homelessness in their cities. In another survey, two-thirds of individuals experiencing homelessness at the time self-reported that substance abuse was the main reason that led to being homeless.

Drug use can damage a person’s relationships with their friends and family. The lack of this support system can leave a person extremely vulnerable to the domino effect aftermath of drug use leading to job loss, which is then followed by financial instability and inevitably leads to a lack of shelter. And because getting out of homelessness is a lot more difficult than just finding employment, once a person has reached this point, it can be incredibly challenging to overcome.

How Homelessness Can Cause Addiction

Drug addictions often come about because a person uses drugs as a coping mechanism for dealing with stressful situations. Homelessness is an incredibly stressful situation (so much so that it’s been directly linked to higher rates of having a severe mental illness and lower levels of recovery). 

Regrettably, with no other support systems to turn to, many of the people experiencing homelessness will turn to drugs for relief from their problems. Drug abuse can make a person unemployable as well as ineligible for governmental assistance, leaving them socially stranded and without a lifeline. 

For those who fall through social safety nets, their new reality is one where drug abuse is rampant and sometimes a social expectation within the homeless community. Many who find themselves in this situation have little to no motivation to stop using drugs. Homelessness can be considered a chronic condition in its own right. Even if addiction didn’t land a person on the streets, drugs are all too effective at keeping them there. 

Other Potential Causes

When it comes to determining whether addiction caused homelessness or vice versa, it’s not a simple ‘either or’ situation. There are also numerous other conditions that could’ve been the primary factor in one or the other, or might have been an underlying factor in both.

Mental illness can play a major role as it can directly lead to an increased risk of homelessness and substance abuse. It’s estimated that over one-third of people experiencing homelessness have a mental illness. Of those, 25% have a serious mental illness.

There’s a significant overlap in the factors that can lead to both addiction and homelessness. 

Homelessness and Addiction Statistics

A common misconception about people experiencing homelessness is that all of them are drug users or addicts. Aside from being dehumanizing and insensitive, it’s simply not true. 

  • There are an estimated 552,830 homeless people in the United States — approximately  0.2% of the population. 
  • Over half had either a mental disorder or a co-occurring mental illness and substance abuse disorders
  • Homeless adults age 65 or older have a higher prevalence of unmet needs for substance use and mental disorder treatment compared with younger homeless adults
  • People experiencing homelessness are at higher risk of overdose from illicit drug use
  • 68% of men and 76% of women who are homeless and in substance use treatment reported experiencing a trauma-related event
  • 38% of homeless people were dependent on alcohol and 26% abused other drugs compared to 15% of the general U.S. population

Getting Help for Homeless Individuals Struggling With Addiction

Government and private aid is often very limited and sometimes fails to reach the individuals who need their services the most. Peer-based support groups offer an always-free alternative for addressing substance abuse issues. Find the  AA group or NA group closest to you today. 

Sources:

https://www.nationalhomeless.org/factsheets/addiction.pdf

https://store.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/SAMHSA_Digital_Download/PEP20-06-04-003.pdf