Visit our online store Shop for a cause
(609) 798-0859
Verify Insurance
Home
/
/
Page 15

Blog

(609) 798-0859
Verify Insurance

How to Self-Advocate in Recovery

The ability to self-advocate is essential. Recognizing and communicating your needs, preferences, and even strengths can be very valuable. As an adult, you are likely to face many situations where you may need to advocate for yourself or others. For those in recovery, self-advocacy becomes even more important.

What Is Self-Advocacy and Why Is It Important?

Before we dive in too deep, let’s define what self-advocacy means. Self-advocacy refers to the ability to speak up for yourself by asking for what you need and want. It involves expressing your thoughts and feelings, even when difficult.

If you are someone who has struggled with substance abuse, being able to identify and advocate for your needs in recovery is critical. There are many reasons for this. The more comfortable and effective you are when it comes to expressing your needs and asking for support, the more likely you are to avoid relapse. Typically, those who make an effort to advocate and ask for help can either avoid triggering situations or receive the support they need to stay on track.

In order to successfully convey this information, you must be able to recognize and identify your needs, wants, and feelings. The first step toward advocating for yourself is engaging in some self-reflection. This can include thinking about what is important to you, what you need to be successful, and who needs to know this information to best support you.

In addiction recovery, it is very important to have a strong support system. These are the people who can encourage you when you are feeling down. They can motivate you and help you stay focused on your goals. Your support system may include friends and family, coworkers, clinical professionals, or other community members.

At one point or another, you may need to advocate for yourself in a situation involving any of the above-mentioned parties. This is what often helps build and maintain your support network.

You want the people around you and close to you to be aware of your needs, wants, goals, etc. Without this knowledge, they cannot support you fully. Below are a few tips for self-advocating in recovery.

Identify Your Needs

As mentioned, step one when it comes to advocating for yourself is to first identify what your needs are. While this sounds simple, it can actually take some digging. You may need to spend some time alone diving deep. At Enlightened Recovery, clients are encouraged to practice mindfulness, which helps promote a connection with their inner selves. This relationship with oneself will allow individuals to recognize what they need to communicate and when.

Our program also includes individual therapy sessions which encourage self-discovery. There may be underlying challenges or co-occurring disorders contributing to your addiction. These contributing factors may require some accommodations or support as you exit treatment and enter recovery.

Therapists at Enlightened Recovery will also help you determine where your strengths and weaknesses lie. This is a very important component of self-advocacy. It is critical to be aware of your weaknesses, especially when it comes to those relating to triggers for substance use. Awareness of your strengths is beneficial, too, as this knowledge can help you build new relationships, secure employment, and find overall success in recovery.

Communicate Effectively

The next step in self-advocacy is verbally expressing your wants and needs to others. This can be a selective process, as not everyone needs to know everything. For example, you might need to disclose your history of substance abuse to a new partner, but it may not be something an acquaintance or coworker needs to be aware of. That is unless you feel compelled to share.

Communicating your needs clearly and directly can send a powerful message. For those who need to hear this information, it can allow them to better support and understand you. Self-advocacy is not always an easy process. You may have to advocate for yourself in situations with family or friends. Fear of rejection, causing conflict, or creating tension is normal. The truth is that expressing yourself and communicating what you need in order to stay on track in recovery is most important.

At Enlightened Recovery, we offer many group therapy and learning experiences that allow clients to develop and improve communication skills. Often, skills learned in individual therapy sessions are put into practice with peers during group activities. This provides an opportunity to fine-tune communication techniques and build confidence when it comes to communicating with others in recovery.

As you navigate your recovery journey, you will likely need to self-advocate more than once. In fact, you may need to advocate for yourself in some way each day. Finding comfort and feeling confident in your ability to express what you need to be successful in recovery is critical.

Self-advocating is an important part of life. We all find ourselves in situations that require us to express what we need or want. For those recovering from a substance use disorder, self-advocacy is critical. When it comes to avoiding relapse and staying on track, being able to identify your triggers, weaknesses, and even strengths can make all the difference. At Enlightened Recovery, we help clients learn to maintain self-awareness, which helps with identifying and understanding personal needs, wants, thoughts, and feelings. Our staff and therapists also work with clients to improve and strengthen communication skills so they are able to effectively convey this information. If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, call Enlightened Recovery at (833) 801-LIVE.

Learn more

How Do I Know if I Am an Alcoholic?

Sometimes, the line between drinking socially and abusing alcohol can be blurry. What defines alcohol abuse? Is your drinking more of a social thing or a coping mechanism? Are you an alcoholic? Often, the answer isn’t black and white. If you are questioning whether your drinking has become a problem, there are a few things to consider. A few questions you might ask yourself could include the following:

  • How much are you drinking?
  • At what frequency would you say you drink?
  • Is alcohol interfering with your responsibilities?
  • Are you taking risks or putting yourself or others in danger?
  • Do you experience withdrawal symptoms when you are not drinking?

Quantity

The amount of alcohol you consume at one time is a huge factor. Social or casual drinking usually consists of having a couple of drinks after work or on the weekends. It could involve drinking for an occasion or at a special event. The key here is that you aren’t drinking to get drunk. You are aware of your limits and know when to stop.

If drinking is, in fact, a problem, you may drink large quantities at a time. This could lead to sickness or blacking out. You may be unaware of your limit, or you may have no concern for the amount you drink or the consequences.

Frequency

How often you drink is also essential to consider. Some people who drink casually may have a beverage or two every day. More commonly, however, social drinkers tend to only partake on the weekends or during certain activities or events. The quantity you drink and at what frequency is especially relevant.

For example, there is a big difference between having a glass of wine with dinner each night and finishing a few bottles. If you find that you are drinking in excess regularly and find it difficult to stop or limit yourself, it may be time to seek help.

Interfering With Life

If alcohol begins to take such a priority that it interferes with other aspects of your life, this is a sign that you may have a problem. When people are struggling with alcohol addiction, it can be common for their performance and functioning at work and home to begin to slack.

You may notice that you struggle with short-term memory or focus. Staying on task can be difficult when you are battling addiction, especially if you are experiencing withdrawal symptoms. Family members may notice a difference in your behavior or level of interest. It can be hard to balance your typical responsibilities when you have developed an addiction.

Risk-Taking

Do you sometimes drink heavily and choose to get behind the wheel? This can be a sign of a problem. If you find yourself consuming large amounts of alcohol and driving while intoxicated, you are taking a considerable risk. Not only are you putting yourself in danger, but others too.

Those struggling with an addiction to alcohol are also more likely to black out or behave in ways that may be out of character. Blacking out results in memory loss and a lack of awareness and allows an opportunity for assault or other forms of harm.

Withdrawal

Withdrawal occurs when you drink heavily for long periods of time. Your body and your central nervous system adapt and respond to the presence of alcohol in your system. This disrupts normal functioning and sends your body into overdrive in order to keep your brain and organs functioning. Once your body becomes accustomed to running this way, it continues to do so even on days you do not drink. This is what causes the unpleasant symptoms.

If you find that you are experiencing some of the symptoms listed above, it likely means you are drinking large quantities at a high frequency. Seeking treatment can help you detox and rid your body of all of the toxins. Your brain and body can then learn how to function again without alcohol. A few symptoms of alcohol withdrawal can include:

  • Sweating
  • Tremors
  • Insomnia
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Anxiety

Seeking Treatment

Enlightened Recovery offers a variety of treatment methods for drug and alcohol addiction. Our holistic approach promotes healing the body, mind, and spirit. This allows clients to achieve overall wellness and develop strategies for maintaining it throughout recovery.

Our program begins with detox, which allows your body to cleanse itself of all substances and start fresh. Following detox, you will begin participating in various groups, activities, and therapeutic experiences. A few of our treatment strategies include:

Determining whether or not you have a drinking problem can be challenging. If you can relate to any of the issues mentioned above, it may be time to seek help.

Admitting that you have an addiction to alcohol can be difficult. What you considered social or casual drinking may have gotten a little out of control over the years. Some turn to alcohol in response to trauma, loss, or conflict. Regardless of what led to your addiction, Enlightened Recovery is here and ready to help. We conduct a thorough assessment at intake to help identify any underlying conditions and determine what could have contributed to your alcohol abuse. Treating the whole person is our goal. Our staff and therapists can help you develop healthy routines and habits that will enhance your recovery. If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, call Enlightened Recovery today at (833) 801-LIVE.

Learn more

How to Listen to Your Body to Promote Wellness

What does it mean to listen to your body? When you do so, what are you actually listening for? Listening to your body refers to honoring the connection between your mental and physical self. This connection allows you to maintain awareness of how your body feels. Awareness enlightens you about what your body needs.

Why is this important? Listening to your body is one of the best methods to maintain overall wellness. Your body sends messages and provides little clues that can indicate what it needs. For instance, when you notice a rumble in your stomach, you can assume that you are probably hungry. While this is a simple, more obvious example, it is one most people can relate to.

Your body also indicates when it is tired, tense, thirsty, and anxious. To help maintain balance, it is up to you to understand your body’s signals and act upon them. Below are a few examples of how your body communicates different needs.

Signs of Anxiety

Anxiety is something that many of us face. For some, it may be brief and circumstantial. It may linger for weeks, months, or even years for others. Anxiety affects people differently, and some are more impacted than others. It is important to note that anxiety can commonly co-occur with addiction. Sometimes it causes substance abuse, and other times it is a side effect of it.

While anxiety occurs in the mind, the body also displays some symptoms. One common indicator of anxiety is tight muscles in the neck and back. When you are anxious, you tend to hold tension in these areas. Increased heart rate can also accompany anxiety. This is a natural reaction to feeling nervous, worried, or unsettled.

Anxiety can also affect your breathing. Have you ever paid attention to your breathing? When you really make an effort to relax, you might notice that your breathing slows down and becomes very steady. The opposite is true when you are experiencing anxiety. You tend to breathe heavier and at a faster or more irregular pace.

Signs of Hunger

We have all felt that stomach rumble previously referenced. Aside from that, though, our bodies have other ways of letting us know that it isn’t getting the nutrients it needs. If this is the case, you might experience a dull headache that seems to worsen with time. This could indicate your body needs nutrition.

Another way your body may communicate being undernourished is dizziness or feeling lightheaded. When your body lacks nutrients, your blood sugar levels can be affected. If your blood sugar drops too much, it can leave you feeling a bit faint.

Lastly, when your body needs nourishment, you will likely experience low energy levels. Have you heard the phrase “food is fuel”? It’s true! Your body needs food in order to function. Without proper nutrition and water intake, your body cannot work as it should.

Signs of Exhaustion

Sleep deprivation is something we can all relate to. Regardless of the reason, you have likely been a little low on hours of sleep at one time or another. Sleep is essential for our bodies to function properly. It allows our bodies to heal, recharge, and store energy for the day ahead. Addiction can take a significant toll on sleep, making it very important for those in recovery to listen when the body needs rest.

Learn more about how substance use affects sleep here. 

When you are overtired, your muscles may feel weak. In extreme situations, they may even ache or feel sore. This is because sleep allows our muscles time to recover and heal. Without it, they have no opportunity to do so.

A lack of sleep can also lead to impaired decision-making as well as a lack of focus. Your brain, just like your muscles, relies on sleep to recharge and recover. You may find yourself struggling to think clearly or devote attention to a specific task if you haven’t slept well.

Checking In With Yourself

In addiction recovery, your body has a lot of healing to do. Drugs and alcohol affect your body, mind, and spirit. As a result, each of these areas needs healing. To address the wellness of each of these areas, it is essential to establish a strong connection with them. This allows you to check in with yourself regularly and work to improve in any way necessary.

At Enlightened Recovery, many of our activities encourage the connection of the mind, body, and spirit. We understand the importance of this connection as it relates to healing. By learning to listen to your body through this connection, you can give your body what it needs to experience long-lasting recovery from addiction.

Having the ability to listen to your body is a skill. Like any other skill, you can practice tuning in and paying attention to what your body is telling you in order to get better at it. Through activities like meditation, you can improve your ability to connect the mind and body. It is important to take good care of your health as you recover from addiction. Listening to what your body needs to heal is key. At Enlightened Recovery, we help clients establish a strong connection within themselves through activities that encourage mindfulness. If you or someone you care about is struggling with substance abuse, we would love to help. To get started, call Enlightened Recovery at (833) 801-LIVE.

Learn more

What Is Codependency and Am I Impacted by It?

Codependency refers to being reliant on someone else for your own happiness and sense of well-being. In a codependent relationship, one individual requires the support of the codependent person. Over time, both individuals will normalize their lack of independence and rely on one another in unhealthy ways. You can see how this could create some conflict. It can even destroy the relationship by leading to resentment or unhealthy boundaries.

In terms of addiction, codependency usually refers to a loved one becoming consumingly concerned with supporting and caring for another. For the person struggling with an addiction to substances such as benzos, opioids, or alcohol, this can encourage substance use. This can lead to enabling and create more of a problem for both people.

In a codependent relationship, there is an imbalance. One person is putting in a lot of effort while the other is not. Often, this level of giving and not receiving leads to neglect of the codependent person’s personal needs. This can result in poor mental health, financial struggles, and resentment toward the other person.

Signs of Codependency

There are some telltale signs of codependency that could indicate a problem. Sometimes, it can be hard to detect codependency in the thick of things. If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, you may not discover it until treatment is underway and you both begin to recover. Getting help can help restore balance to the relationship and allow time and space for healing.

It is important to know that codependent relationships stretch far beyond solely romantic relationships or partnerships. Still, it is important to be aware of the common signs that could indicate that your relationship with a loved one may be codependent.

Weak Boundaries

One of the signs of codependency is weak boundaries. Setting boundaries in relationships is essential. When it comes to addiction, boundaries are often crossed or disregarded. For the codependent person, boundaries are not important. They are so concerned with caring for the other person that they lose sight of what is important to them.

Unhealthy Caretaking

Often, a codependent person takes on the role of taking care of the other. This may eventually cause them to neglect their own needs. Rather than prioritizing their own health and well-being, a codependent person may prioritize the health and well-being of their partner who is struggling with an addiction. This might involve paying their partner’s bills or loaning them money. It could also include offering a place to live or providing transportation.

Many consider themselves caretakers by nature. Having a gift or passion for caring for others is very different than codependency. Caring for others while also caring for yourself can be healthy and rewarding. However, taking on the caretaker role while ignoring your own self-care and mental health is harmful.

Low Self-Esteem or Self-Worth

In a codependent relationship, the person struggling with codependency often experiences low self-esteem or self-worth. This is because they gauge their worth by the success, happiness, and well-being, of the other person. Taking on this responsibility can be a huge burden and is often a losing battle.

If your loved one is struggling with addiction, chances are they will not be successful or well until they seek treatment and begin their recovery journey. Working to control the situation and worrying about their well-being amidst their addiction can be exhausting and defeating.

This leads to low self-esteem and discouragement that carries over into all areas of life for the codependent. They may see their performance at work start to falter. Other relationships may begin to fail or become tense and uncomfortable. Their ability to communicate and make decisions can also be affected.

Identifying and Healing From Codependency

Enlightened Recovery helps clients and their families heal after addiction and learn to grow together in recovery. Parents, spouses, or other loved ones often become so concerned with controlling and managing the situation that they become codependent without realizing it.

Our family programs help loved ones identify codependency and work to become stronger in order to improve wellness and serve as a healthy support system. We understand the impact addiction can have on the family and recognize the need family members have for healing as well.

Codependency affects many people who are impacted by addiction. It not only brings the person experiencing codependency down but also enables the destructive behavior fueling the addiction. This prolongs the problem and leads to more potential for problems such as increased use, overdose, and more.

Identifying codependency is critical. If you discover that you have any of the signs noted above, it may be time to seek help. Our staff at Enlightened Recovery can help you and your family determine the best course of action to ensure success and healing.

Don’t let codependency keep your loved one from getting the help they need. Enabling their addiction is causing more harm and is not addressing the real problem. Encourage treatment instead.

No one wants to admit that codependency is affecting their relationships and life. It can be embarrassing or shameful for some. The truth is that it can be pretty common in the realm of addiction. Loved ones can become so consumed with caring for and worrying about their spouse or family member that they develop codependency without realizing it. It is important to recognize that codependent actions often lead to enabling the behavior of a person struggling with addiction. This only prolongs their substance use and keeps them from seeking treatment. At Enlightened Recovery, we offer a variety of groups through our family program that can help identify and address codependency. This will allow for healing and growth and can instill strategies for setting healthy boundaries and mending broken relationships. If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, we would love to help. Call Enlightened Recovery today at (833) 801-LIVE.

Learn more

How to Set Healthy Boundaries in Recovery

Learning to establish boundaries is a skill that can improve your quality of life. Boundary setting could involve avoiding or limiting your exposure to certain people, places, or even activities.

Setting boundaries in recovery from substance use disorder (SUD) is critical to your success. You may need to set boundaries to avoid places that are triggering for your sobriety. A boundary may be necessary to create healthy relationships. It isn’t always easy to set boundaries, especially when it comes to adjusting your lifestyle after addiction to drugs or alcohol.

When it comes down to it, setting boundaries for yourself in recovery can help you avoid relapse and determine your level of success. Setting boundaries is only half of the battle, though. You must also follow through with them.

Boundaries in Recovery

What are boundaries in recovery? Boundaries set in recovery can help you protect yourself from people, places, or things that could jeopardize your sobriety. During treatment, you will likely reflect on the things that led to and contributed to your substance use. Perhaps you grew up with a parent who had an addiction to alcohol. Maybe a family member abused opioids, which exposed you to these substances. A boundary could even be set to help limit your interactions with people who may cause you stress or tension.

People, Places, and Things

You may also set boundaries around certain places or activities. You might choose to avoid places where you used to obtain or abuse substances. Returning to an environment that holds memories of substance use can be highly triggering and lead to cravings.

Social events can also bring temptation. Setting boundaries when it comes to attending parties or gatherings can be very helpful. A few tips for boundary setting when it comes to attending parties or family gathers can include:

  • Making a plan to leave early
  • Bringing your own non-alcoholic beverages
  • Arriving early before things get too rowdy
  • Consider bringing a sober or supportive friend along with you

Follow Through

Setting boundaries is the first step. Step two is actually following through with the boundaries you have set. When it comes to setting boundaries with other people, it can sometimes be difficult to stick to the plan. For example, boundary setting can often involve close family members or loved ones. These tend to be the people we care about most and, thus, have the most significant effect on us.

Others may have trouble understanding the boundaries set. They may feel hurt or feel as if you are shutting them out. Involving family members and close friends in your treatment journey through a family program can help establish understanding and acceptance of the changes that need to occur.

Put Boundaries in Writing

One of the ways to ensure you remain aware of the boundaries you have set is to put them in writing. Often, writing things down can help you remember things. This can also help hold you accountable. If you have a journal, consider writing down your thoughts and experiences as you follow through with the boundaries you have set. This can allow for processing and help you recognize when you need to make adjustments.

Discuss Boundaries With Others

When you set boundaries in recovery, letting others know about them can be beneficial. Of course, if a boundary involves someone else, you will likely need to discuss it with them. In addition, it can be helpful to talk through your boundaries with your sponsor or therapist. They can offer feedback, provide suggestions, and help hold you accountable.

Stay True to Yourself and Reflect

When navigating life in recovery, you will have ups and downs and some doubts along the way. As you get more confident in your sobriety, it can be tempting to slack a bit when it comes to the boundaries you set fresh out of treatment. It is essential to reflect on the reasons you set the boundaries in the first place. Spend time thinking about why you felt it was necessary and what could go wrong.

When thinking about the reasons behind the boundaries you have set, remember where your priorities lie. You may feel pressured to break a boundary you have set to attend a certain party or to appease a loved one. In these moments, it is important to trust yourself and remain confident in your choice to set the boundary in question.

The upcoming holiday seasons are sure to bring plenty of family gatherings, parties, and celebrations. By setting firm, attainable boundaries, you can enjoy this time while still honoring your sobriety.

Setting boundaries is a very important part of the treatment and recovery process. It is crucial to make the necessary changes to relationships, habits, and lifestyle in order to support your decision to get clean. At Enlightened Recovery, we help clients discover who and what may have contributed to their addiction and help them form healthy boundaries moving forward. We assess any trauma or co-occurring disorders that could have played a role in the addiction as well. Through our programs, clients learn more about themselves and how to cope with challenges they may face in recovery in healthy ways. Part of coping and continuing to heal in recovery involves setting and keeping necessary boundaries. If you or someone you love is battling drug or alcohol addiction, we would love to hear from you. To begin your recovery journey, call Enlightened Recovery at (833) 801-LIVE.

Learn more

Why Do I Need Accountability in Recovery?

Accountability refers to taking responsibility and having others around to make sure you hold up your end of the deal. Being held accountable means that you have a standard to uphold and expectations to meet. In treatment and recovery, being held accountable helps you stay on track with your sobriety.

We can all use a little accountability in life. You can be held accountable by your supervisors or coworkers on the job. Your spouse or family members at home might hold you accountable for parenting or financial responsibilities. Feeling a sense of responsibility is important. It gives you purpose and direction. Accountability keeps you focused on your goals and can help you avoid distractions.

Fostering Accountability

When it comes to establishing accountability, it is important to be sure you involve people who understand and support your goals. For accountability in recovery, you need to be surrounded by people who empathize with your situation and can either relate to or fully understand your addiction.

You also need to be open and honest. Be upfront about your struggles and your successes. Speaking candidly about these things, especially your challenges, can be tough. In order for others to hold you responsible and set realistic expectations, they need to know where you stand.

Part of accountability is receiving criticism or feedback. You are bound to make mistakes. When mistakes happen, those who hold you accountable will likely confront you about them and try to offer guidance and support. It is important to remain open to suggestions and make efforts to avoid making the same mistakes again.

Here are a few simple tips for accountability:

  • Choose the right people to connect with
  • Be honest about your goals and barriers
  • Be open to receiving feedback from your loved ones
  • Make changes when needed

Accountability in Treatment

In treatment, there are many opportunities for accountability. Accountability in treatment helps you establish and stick to goals that support your sobriety and progress. As you make the transition into recovery and get involved in programs such as 12-Step groups, you are likely to interact with many people who can help hold you accountable.

Individual Therapy Holds You Accountable for Your Goals

In treatment, you are likely to receive a combination of group and individual therapy. During your individual therapy sessions, you are encouraged to address and work through barriers to your recovery. This might include divulging information and discovering things about yourself that may be new. You may have past trauma or harmful thought patterns that have been influencing your addiction.

Through individual sessions, your therapist can help you develop goals and strategies for working through some of these challenges. They will help you set goals and hold you accountable when it comes to working toward them. You will check in with your therapist regularly while in treatment. Knowing this, you are more likely to remain focused on your sobriety and healing.

Group Therapy Supports Accountability Through Encouragement

Group therapy can also be a space for establishing accountability. Groups with peers who are also new to recovery can establish a sense of community and belonging. As bonds form, you are likely to check in with others and express concern for their success and progress. In return, others in your therapy groups will do the same for you. This creates responsibility and sets expectations.

Many groups involve sharing experiences and talking through successes and obstacles. Allowing others to be aware of your goals and struggles helps them support you. Group members will know what questions to ask as a way to check in. They will know how best to encourage you and lift you up when you need a little motivation.

Accountability in Recovery

Accountability in recovery should be a continuum of the accountability you established during treatment. After completing your treatment program at Enlightened Recovery, you are encouraged to continue attending 12-Step meetings. This allows you to keep building bonds with other like-minded people and further develop your support network.

As you resume some of your daily life routines, it is critical to stay connected. Attending meetings and continuing to receive therapy can be very helpful. Finding a sponsor to work with in recovery is also very beneficial. Your sponsor will be someone who is also in recovery. They will have a few more sobriety under their belt and will be able to guide and encourage you throughout your journey. A sponsor is often an excellent accountability partner. Having walked in your shoes, they can offer insight and feedback when you need it most.

At Enlightened Recovery, we work hard to create opportunities for fellowship and learning alongside others in treatment and recovery. We understand the benefit of community and the power of learning and healing in groups.

Allowing others to support you throughout your journey is crucial. Working together to heal and improve creates accountability and a feeling of belonging that we all desire.

Having accountability is critical when it comes to success in treatment and recovery. Having others in your corner who can hold you responsible and offer support is very beneficial. You can find accountability through individual therapy, group meetings and activities, sponsorship, and more. At Enlightened Recovery, we try to create a sense of community to establish an overall supportive environment. Allowing clients to support and encourage each other through group learning and healing has been proven to be very beneficial. If you or someone you care about is struggling with an addiction to drugs or alcohol, we would love to hear from you. Our programs can help you or your loved one heal and overcome the challenges they face as a result of substance abuse. To get started on your journey to recovery, call Enlightened Recovery today at (833) 801-LIVE.

Learn more

What Is Empathy and How Does It Help in Recovery?

When you hear the word empathy, what do you think of? Do you think about being able to relate to someone else? Maybe you think of understanding or sensitivity. Perhaps you think about a lack of judgment. Empathy encompasses all of these things. It refers to the ability to relate to and comprehend how others may be feeling as a result of a situation or circumstance.

If you are struggling with addiction, giving and receiving empathy as you enter treatment and recovery is important. Empathy can sometimes be difficult. Often, situations, actions, and thoughts can be hard to understand from the outside. This is often the case when it comes to addiction.

It can be difficult for your loved ones to understand how you might be feeling if they have not experienced addiction themselves. In turn, it can be difficult for you to imagine how your loved ones might feel toward your substance abuse. Perspective-taking in this scenario is particularly difficult, as substance abuse alters how you think, behave, and feel.

Having empathy for others is a critical part of your recovery. In order to mend relationships with others and form new connections, it is essential to be empathetic to the way others may process and respond to your addiction and recovery.

Receiving empathy is equally important. Family members and loved ones are encouraged to join family programs and utilize other resources to learn more about addiction and engage in the healing process. Below are a few tips for giving and receiving empathy.

Listen to Others to Understand Their Perspective

Listening is perhaps one of the most crucial components when it comes to empathy. Having the ability to listen allows for better understanding and processing of information. As you begin the treatment process, it will be important for you to listen to the experiences of others in your therapy groups to understand their perspective. This applies to peers who are also going through treatment and to family members and loved ones who are supporting you.

As you begin the process of rebuilding relationships, you will need to have tough conversations with loved ones. It will be important for you to listen and try your best to understand how your addiction has affected them. Providing empathy to those you love can help repair and damage and allow you to move forward.

Avoid Judgement

As you enter treatment, the fear of judgment may be overwhelming. You might be afraid of what your family members and friends will think. Maybe they know about your addiction, or perhaps they don’t. Either way, seeking treatment delivers the message that you had a problem worthy of seeking help.

With the stigma associated with addiction, it can be easy to pass judgment. Empathy involves giving support and understanding without judgment. As difficult as this may be, it is important to promote healing for everyone involved.

Be Honest

Being honest about your experiences, feelings, actions, and thoughts can be challenging. This is especially the case if you have done or said things you regret as a result of substance abuse.

With addiction often comes a lot of mistrust and deceit. This is particularly the case with those we care about the most. In order to establish new norms in your relationships moving forward, honesty must be prioritized. Honest conversations are much more likely to evoke empathy. Being honest with your loved ones, and encouraging them to share their honest feelings with you, can help reduce tension and create understanding.

Give Respect

Part of giving and receiving empathy is maintaining respect. Conversations in recovery can be hard. You may hear things you don’t want to hear. You might say things to others that may be difficult for them to hear.

It is important to remain respectful in these situations. Let the other person speak, and do your best to listen and understand. Receive feedback willingly, and deliver information in a way that is direct but considerate.

Following the tips mentioned above can help you offer and receive empathy in treatment and recovery. Empathy is such an important element when it comes to healing from addiction and embarking on the journey of recovery. At Enlightened Recovery, we offer family groups, therapy, and other activities to promote empathy among our clients and their loved ones.

We make efforts to involve loved ones in the treatment experience so they can gain a better understanding of the process and what their family member is going through. This helps establish a supportive and empathetic foundation that will carry into recovery.

Being able to give and receive empathy is important in many situations. If you are struggling with substance abuse, empathy is critical for your recovery. Having empathy for your loved ones as they navigate trying to process and heal from the impacts of your addiction is crucial. Receiving empathy from your loved ones is equally important, as a good support network in recovery is imperative. Empathy can take work, and it is not always easy. A few tips for giving and receiving empathy include listening, avoiding judgment, being honest, and giving respect. At Enlightened Recovery, we try to instill and encourage these elements through our various programs and therapy groups. If you or someone you love is struggling with drug or alcohol addiction, we would love to help you heal and begin your journey to recovery. To learn more, call Enlightened Recovery today at (833) 801-LIVE.

Learn more

How Cooking Can Build Confidence

Can you cook? By the time people reach adulthood, most have developed the ability to prepare simple meals at the very least. Many people enjoy cooking; some may even consider it a hobby. Cooking involves some creativity, which allows it to serve a therapeutic purpose.

There is something about a home-cooked meal that tends to taste better. It can bring a sense of nostalgia and comfort in many cases. It can be gratifying to prepare a meal for others to enjoy. Getting to show off your skills and abilities in the kitchen can create a sense of pride.

The ability to cook and prepare meals from scratch encourages healthy eating and can boost confidence. Eating healthy and building confidence can come in handy if you are struggling with or recovering from addiction.

Cooking Fosters Skill Development

Cooking requires skills. It requires understanding measurements and using the proper utensils. It involves operating kitchen appliances correctly and knowing what appliances to use for different recipes. Cooking also requires awareness and adequate management of time, especially if you are preparing more than one dish at a time. For example, if you are preparing dishes for a major holiday or event such as Thanksgiving dinner, you are likely to multitask quite a bit.

Cooking also requires a little bit of flexibility and, sometimes, a little creativity. Let’s say you are following a recipe and realize you are missing one ingredient. Do you stop where you are and run out to the store? This is not ideal if you have already begun prepping, mixing, and preheating. You may need to get creative with an ingredient swap. Luckily, there are plenty of tips you can find online to help.

Because cooking requires so many skills, it builds confidence as you learn and improve. You may start by preparing something simple. Plenty of quick and easy recipes only require a few ingredients. Next, you may try something a little more challenging. Maybe you even try to prepare a few different things at once.

What begins as an obligatory activity as part of your treatment program could evolve into a hobby or even a passion. Many discover that they love cooking or baking soon after giving it a try.

Cooking Enhances Wellness

Now that we have discussed cooking skills, let’s switch gears and focus on what you should aim to cook with. At Enlightened Recovery, we focus on preparing and consuming whole, organic foods. Many come fresh from our farm. We know that organic, nutrient-dense foods help heal our bodies in ways that processed foods cannot.

For this reason, our wellness groups focus on teaching you how to create meals using healthy and organic ingredients. As discussed above, the skills that cooking helps develop build confidence and can prepare you for taking care of yourself after treatment.

Cooking and eating healthy, nutritious meals makes you feel better. When you feel better, you perform better. This can apply to your performance at work, at home, or even your activities while in treatment. You are more confident when you feel good and can present your best self.

Cooking Builds Group Learning Skills

At Enlightened Recovery, we offer our wellness and nutrition activities in groups. We believe there is great benefit in learning among peers. This creates an opportunity for shared experiences and accountability. It can also be very motivating to have others share in your success and growth in cooking and wellness.

Setting new goals for yourself with each class and allowing others to be aware of your goals and progress can be very beneficial. You can be encouraged by peers to try new things and challenge yourself when it comes to cooking, and you can do the same for others.

The Value of Confidence in Recovery

Having confidence impacts your recovery in a variety of ways. First, confidence helps prevent relapse. The more confident you are, the less likely you are to give in to cravings. Additionally, confidence helps you stay motivated to remain engaged through 12-Step meeting attendance, sponsor communication, and other aspects of your recovery.

It is wild to think that learning to cook healthy and nutritious meals can impact your recovery in such a big way. However, it really can. Taking good care of yourself in treatment and recovery is crucial. Eating well is an essential component, and so is self-confidence.

Cooking is a fun way to improve your health and develop skills that can transfer into new jobs or hobbies in recovery. Learning to cook with fresh and organic ingredients can help you heal from the inside out and build the confidence you need to be successful in recovery.

Learning to cook can be very empowering and help you build confidence in treatment and recovery. Even if you have been cooking for yourself for years, you might benefit from learning new techniques or trying new ingredients. The skills required to cook are skills that can be useful in other areas of life as well. At Enlightened Recovery, we offer nutrition and wellness groups that teach clients how to prepare and enjoy meals made from fresh, organic ingredients. After cleansing your body of all the toxins, you need to consume foods rich in vitamins and nutrients to begin to heal. If you or someone you care about is struggling with addiction to drugs or alcohol, we would love to speak to you about our programs. To begin your journey to healing and recovery, call Enlightened Recovery today at (833) 801-LIVE.

Learn more

How Do I Explain Employment Gaps Due to Addiction Treatment?

For many, a job is more than just a means of making money; it can be part of their overall identity and why they get up each day. Because employment is so important, it can serve as a barrier to seeking treatment. The thought of losing a job or having a gap in one’s employment history due to treatment for addiction to drugs or alcohol can be troubling.

The truth is, you may be questioned if there are gaps in employment on your resume. In today’s society, hundreds, even thousands of people are often applying for just one job. The thought of this can be very discouraging for anyone looking for work.

Since the job market is so competitive these days, it is essential to be prepared to explain any gaps in employment you may have due to seeking addiction treatment.

Build New Skills

If you make the decision to seek treatment and potentially step away from work, it is important to take full advantage of the opportunities provided. Focus on the new skills you are developing and make every effort to learn when you can. Many of the groups and therapeutic activities that are offered by treatment facilities provide chances to learn new things.

For example, you might pick up a new hobby during horticulture therapy that could eventually lead to an employment opportunity. You might gain new or improved interpersonal skills as a result of a therapy group that will serve you well in your next interview.

Prepare for Future Job Interviews

Preparing is one of the best ways to ensure an interview goes as planned. If you have gaps in your employment history, you need to come prepared to discuss them. While they may not even come up, it is a good idea to have something to say if you are questioned.

Coming prepared for an interview also involves doing a little research. Look into the mission of the company. Research the size and recent growth patterns. Think about what skills you can offer to enhance the organization. Also, be ready to ask a few questions of your own based on your research. The better the conversation goes, the less likely they are to harp on anything from your past.

Be Honest

When discussing reasons for your gaps in employment with a potential supervisor or interviewer, be honest. Often, employers will understand and support your decision to step away from work to seek treatment.

It can be intimidating to have a conversation like this when you are unsure of the outcome. When you are new in recovery, you want to find a workplace that is supportive. Surrounding yourself with people who will encourage you and lift you up. is critical If you find that the discussion does not go as planned after being honest about your past, it may not be the right fit.

Focus on Healing

Seeking treatment for addiction can be a little scary. Walking away from a job or a career to seek help is not always easy, even when you know it is the right thing to do. The truth is, you are not functioning your best at work, or at home, while you are struggling with addiction.

It is time to put yourself first and focus on healing. You will develop new skills, improve your focus, boost your energy levels, and increase your overall wellness by choosing to seek treatment. A gap in employment due to your addiction is a hurdle you can overcome. Focus on the good. Imagine what you will bring to your next job as a result of your sobriety.

Career Building Programs in Recovery

There are several ways to make this transition into the workforce easier. One way is to continue participating in something worthy of noting on your resume while in treatment. Enlightened Recovery offers several different programs through our Enlightened Farm. These programs are designed to help clients develop new skills, build confidence, and give back to the community in a productive and meaningful way.

Enlightened Farm allows those in inpatient treatment, partial care, and sober living – as well as community members – to get involved. The Growing Gratitude Program provides an opportunity to give back through community service. This promotes skill-building and general farm knowledge, which can be added to a resume and used again.

The Solid Roots Employment Program offers job opportunities and stable income for those in sober living and who are new to recovery. This can serve as an excellent stepping stone between treatment and embarking on a new career path.

Having to explain a lapse in employment can be uncomfortable. Going into treatment knowing you are going to have a gap to explain to future employers can sometimes serve as a deterrent for seeking help. Don’t let this keep you from getting help. There is plenty you can do while in treatment for addiction to make sure you are gaining experience, building skills, and preparing for life and success afterward. At Enlightened Recovery, we provide several different opportunities through the Enlightened Farm to help clients develop new transferrable skills, gain work experience, and earn an income in recovery. Our therapy and wellness groups also promote skill development and provide chances to practice and improve various soft skills. If you or someone you love is struggling with an addiction to drugs or alcohol, we would love to hear from you. To begin healing, call Enlightened Recovery today at (833) 801-LIVE.

Learn more