The place where Juan Blea writes about all that is good and strong and beautiful!

Tag reflective journaling

Opioid use disorders are the result of genetic + social programming

Why are we so stupid and blind?  Why is there such a tendency to pretend as though our biological and social programming don’t determine so much of how we turn out? Genetics and upbringing combine to form our “identity” so… Continue Reading →

What is Addiction?

Really, addiction is a multi-layered disease per the American Society of Addiction Medicine’s definition, “Addiction is a primary, chronic disease of brain reward, motivation, memory and related circuitry. Dysfunction in these circuits leads to characteristic biological, psychological, social and spiritual… Continue Reading →

4 things I’ve learned from blogging

It has now been almost 6 years since I’ve started my blog, jblea1016.com. While I can’t say that blogging success has allowed me to retire, I can say that it has grown and continues to grow. I am quite grateful… Continue Reading →

“Rock Bottom” is a misconception that has to change…here’s how

The idea that someone has to hit rock bottom before he or she will make a change is a misconception and leads to many people washing their hands of those who struggle with substance abuse challenges.  To begin, according to… Continue Reading →

Being present is the key to recovery

Several months ago, I read an interview with an acclaimed opera singer/actress named Joyce DiDonato where she said, “I need to be in the moment, I need to be present, I need to be listening. And if I’m doing those things, then… Continue Reading →

Labels may not be healthy, including “addict” or “alcoholic”

I consider myself a good writer and teacher.  At the heart of both is the hope and the belief that I can share information in such a way that can ignite the good, strong, and beautiful in those whom I… Continue Reading →

What is “mental health”?

It may sound kind of strange, but I’ve never bought into the idea that mental health is an “either/or” proposition. I don’t think it’s realistic to suggest that mental health is a goal; to do so would assume that someone… Continue Reading →

Judgment is a distorting reflection

It’s not easy to talk about unhealthy behaviors.  Sometimes, though, difficult conversations are necessary in order to find health within a situation.  But, before those conversations occur, I believe we should be sure of what we see. Take a tree… Continue Reading →

Lies are Symptoms of Addiction

One of the biggest and most pervasive myths associated with Addiction is that “deception is the disease.” I’ve heard that statement in so many different contexts that I fear it has now become common knowledge. The thing is, however, is… Continue Reading →

At home or work, leadership is leadership

It’s important to me that people develop enough confidence in their own capability that they can meet any challenge in their lives.  Part of what I’ve longed recognized is that people will accept one set of standards for their “professional”… Continue Reading →

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