Chemically Dependent People and the Four D’s

Chances are that if you’re reading this, you are not the person with a chemical addiction.  You are probably reading it because someone you know, love and care about may have one.  So, this article is intended to arm you with some knowledge to understand the disease better.

The first “D” is already mentioned.  Addiction is a Disease.  Many people think it is a choice and therefore can be turned off or on like a spigot.  Be assured this is not the case.  Perhaps the person had a choice at one time, but now, that choice has developed into a disease.

The second “D” is that of Denial.  A large part of the disease includes a self-deceptive mechanism that allows the addicted person to continue destructive behavior because “there is no problem.”  The addict believes this and continues onward.  Or, perhaps the denial shows up in the form of blaming others or events for their use of the drug of choice.  Regardless, denial continues until the users can no longer avoid the consequences of their actions.  Maybe they were fired, or lost their family or lost their home.

However, even these life-altering events don’t necessarily make the addict seek help.  Oftentimes, they go to the third “D,” Detour.

Detour is a behavior pattern by the addict that manifests by changing people and surroundings in an attempt to change the disease.  That is, they may change what they drink or change the drug they use.  They may change when they are using or where.  They may even attempt to go to AA or NA meetings to appear to be sincere about recovery.  Over time, though, the user and the people around him/her realize no progress is being made, so the addict goes to the next step.

The fourth “D” is Delay, which is a tactic to put off any attempt at abstinence or to postpone steps to regain healthy living patterns.  Examples:  “I’ll go to a marriage counselor, but I’m not going to a drug counselor.” Or, “I’ll go to the rehab near home (where my user-friends can visit), but I won’t go to the one 100 miles away (where I’ll be forced to face my habits with my fellow addicts and the counselors).”

The addict may even acknowledge he/she needs help…but not yet!

People with chemical dependencies are sick.  They will continue to be sick until these internal and self-deceptive practices cease.  Getting help through counseling can begin the healing process, so it’s of prime importance to begin counseling as soon as possible.   Tracy Crain can help you, your addicted loved one, and your family.  Reach out to her now.

Filed Under: Addiction Tagged With: , ,

5 Ways to Stay Sober While You Are Partying

Holiday celebrations oftentimes include indulging in treats and special recipes that only come around once a year.  They often also include activities with alcoholic beverages and/or access to drugs.  If you’re in recovery, how can you stay sober when the opportunity to fall off the wagon presents itself everywhere you turn?

Here are 5 ways to maintain sobriety in tempting times.  (These also work for non-holiday periods.)

  1. Don’t Feel Sorry for Yourself:  Avoid questioning and brooding about why you have a problem while others don’t.  It doesn’t matter why; it matters that it’s true.  Instead of looking at what you’re not able to do, focus on what you can do by pursuing positive personal goals (reading, going to school, practicing your faith).
  2. Help Others:  Inquire at your AA/NA gatherings about opportunities to do something special for your fellow-recovering men and women.  Perhaps organize a special celebration or give yourself as a “gift” as a sponsor to someone else.  Volunteer at a food kitchen to serve the holiday meal.  Visit the ill in the hospital or nursing home.  Knowing you make a difference in another’s life in a good way is a wonderful kind of high.
  3. Plan Your Own Party:  Organize a gathering of friends and/or family who are clean, and host them at your place or take them out on the town.  If finances don’t allow that, then invite one or two sober friends to enjoy a cup of coffee with you.
  4. Choose Wisely:  Avoid going to functions where you know alcohol/drugs will be available.  You’re already so far into your recovery.  Don’t tempt yourself unnecessarily.  You know there will be enough temptation out there without willingly walking into it.  If you MUST go, take a non-using companion with you.
  5. Be prepared:  Take the list of recovery support phone numbers with you so you can call someone immediately if you get a weak moment.

The motto of One Day at a Time is true, and eventually, one of those days will be a holiday.  Temptation can increase at these times if you let it, but you can keep yourself in hand if you recognize it and proactively plan something else ahead of time.  And as always, there are support people you can rely on for help.  Contact Tracy Crain.

Filed Under: Addiction Tagged With: ,