RECOMMENDATION TO CLIENTS IN RECOVERY

The individual in recovery would be wise to avoid the usual friends he has become accustomed hanging around at least until some considerable time has passed, as even well-meaning friends can destroy his resolve with poorly thought out advice. Eventually he will be able to attend parties, weddings and other functions without any concerns of having a relapse.

An Addictive Personality Disorder is a disease just like any other disease and few persons outside of those who are personally affected truly understand it; so until your urge for drinking alcohol or having that one smoke has disappeared it would be best if you keep away from people and places with alcohol  or second hand smoke. Try living one day at a time  and if that is too much then live from moment to moment. This will make it less stressful even when sometimes you feel like giving in as you now have the option of saying "not now" instead of "not today".

Ever heard the saying " cleanliness is next to Godliness"? Why not get a makeover ? Start by being well-groomed even though your clothing may not be new or expensive. Begin by paying close attention to your bath, your  bodily odors, your use of obscene or profane words. Consider the effect  on others before you speak so that you do not become a nuisance or unnecessarily offensive. 

As I mentioned in an earlier blog, be sure to continue with your daily exercise routine as a healthy body goes hand in hand with a healthy mind. Who knows, you may even win a gold medal!

By now you will perhaps be agreeing that some of your actions have been selfish and self-centered, but do not for  a moment think that your friends are any different, as their only concern  is to feed their addiction. Their concern is not for your problems and they will probably be making bets on how long you will keep up this new way of life you're trying to live.

It is said of the addicted persons that  their "very lives and thinking were centered in the use of drugs in one form or another, the getting and using and finding ways and means to get more". If you are still having problems with urges remember the benefits to 'juicing fruits and vegetables". Keep reviewing my blog as I have tried to put information you have heard in my group sessions in written form.

P.S. If you are under 65 years old and retired without achieving the number of N.I.S. Contributions then remember you can pay voluntary contributions to the NIB to meet the required  750. Just this morning I had to counsel a resident whose 713 contributions were insufficient to guarantee him a full pension,but because he was not aware of this facility he has not received his pension. He is not yet 65. http://www.nibtt.net/benefits_09/ben_retirement.html

Good luck, and God bless.