Tag Mental Health
Talking with someone struggling with an addiction can be frustrating. Not for the reasons that you might think, but because they’re so mired in self-hate and shame that almost every thought he or she utters is a projection of those… Continue Reading →
One day, recently, while leading a writing workshop within an inpatient treatment facility, I heard myself say, “change isn’t easy, but taking the first step towards what you want to become will set you on your way.” I was speaking… Continue Reading →
The sad reality is that, when it comes to behavioral change, no one can save anyone else. There isn’t a big genie riding a cumulus who’s going to wave their magic wand and make life better for anyone. Yet, 12-step… Continue Reading →
I’ve spent hours watching spiders spin webs, wait, and then blast anything that lands in those webs with a shot of venom. Maybe I need some hobbies, but spider watching is among the most beautiful sights in nature to me. … Continue Reading →
One of the frustrating things about working with substance abuse are repeating scenarios. One such recurring theme is that of family roles and how the addict within a family tends to fill the scapegoat role. Often, families come to need… Continue Reading →
Today’s the first official day of my venture into the “Book in a Month” system. According to the program, I should write a one sentence summary and fill out what’s called a Story Idea Map, as well as, write the… Continue Reading →
I’ve begun writing a new book that I am entitling, The Teacher. This book is a transformation story in which the protagonist “finds” his truth amidst great struggle and grief. Now, I haven’t gotten very far, but to aid me… Continue Reading →
Dear Enabler, Look, I know your intentions are good. I KNOW that you think all of your “helping” is leading someone back to you from the abyss in which they swim. I get that your rescuing comes from the absolute… Continue Reading →
When people ask me questions about the addict in their life, the only thing I hear is, “How can I make my Addict behave in ways I can understand?” And the response to that question is: Seek to understand your… Continue Reading →
As a writer, I collect metaphors. As a substance abuse counselor, I use the metaphors I collect to help illustrate different topics. One of those illustrated metaphors is featured here: I saw this and stuck in a web right outside… Continue Reading →
