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Recovery -
Basic Information about Recovery
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Written by Maryanne Leonard
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Wednesday, 12 August 2009 19:27 |
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 Chances are good that you or someone you know could benefit dramatically from actively seeking recovery.
What is recovery? It’s a term that refers to a process of seeking relief from the grips of a variety of human ailments and addictions.
Who Needs Recovery?
Among the millions who attend self help groups (such as the 12 step programs) are people who find themselves:
- Drinking alcohol too much
- Abusing drugs to escape reality
- Overeating and gaining too much weight
- Addicted to Sex, shopping, overwork, gambling
- Over controlling behavior
- Obsessions with other people
- Having relationship problems
- Going through a divorce
- Other unsatisfying compulsions
Less immediately obvious problems such as lying, isolating, avoiding responsibilities or driving oneself to over responsibility, wallowing in anger, fear, anxiety, shame, self pity. These as well as Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) or obsessive thinking can be lingering effects of surviving haunting traumatic events or anguishing experiences growing up in a dysfunctional family.
Many participants in twelve-step or other self-help recovery groups suffered from years of denial to protect themselves from uncomfortable reality, a natural temporary defense until they are able to make sense of their confusing afflictions and addictions, and join in the recovery process.
Recovery groups offer information about often baffling and overwhelming problems. They provide support as people share their stories in a safe and accepting environment. Understanding and encouragement are foundations from which you can face your situation and find the pathways to progress. Because of the bond created, many enjoy the pleasure of making life long friendships, finding renewal and help in a healing environment.
Next blog from this section, learn where you can start on the road to Recovery.
Maryanne Leonard has been associated with the Adult Children of Alcoholics (ACA) Recovery program for 10 years and has served on the Board of Trustees of ACA and as Ventura County’s Intergroup Coordinator for ACA for several years.
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Last Updated on Wednesday, 02 September 2009 00:07 |
