10% of Americans in recovery from addiction

An article from my home state.  Much of the work I do as a Problem Gambling Counselor is normalizing the client's behavior.  It's the primary reason I gently push my client's to at least "try" one group offered.  To hear other people "me too*" is huge for client's to hear in their recovery.  This article is about a small phone survey with a simple question “Did you used to have a problem with drugs or alcohol but no longer do?”  The wording of the question with "problem" may be too broad for some, but includes people who may not consider themselves (or meet diagnostic criteria) for addictions or abuse.

* "me too" is a great non-verbal way I like to communicate with clients in group.  This simple ASL sign "me too" signifies a kind of empathy that using words interrupts.  I teach client's this on day one, as it is a great way to say 'I have been there too,' without interrupting, sharing or 'one-upping' in group.

Now I've been happy lately

Thinking about the good things to come

And I believe it could be

Something good has begun

Celebrities in Recovery

I typically try to post articles that more "clinical," but with the publicity of Whitney Houston's death I thought it was important to think about those who are in recovery.  Also I would not use the term "beat addiction" with my client's as recovery is an ongoing issue that takes maintance.  The anology I use is weight loss, it takes diet and excerise to lose the weight as well as continuing to go to the gym and salads for lunch in order to mainatain it.  If you lost 50 lbs. then ate fast food everyday you would gain it all back.