Substance Abuse Counseling Program

The 12 Step Program and Addiction Recovery

Posted on by Mark Moran

The 12 step program is a mile stone process in recovery from alcohol and drugs.  It stems first from a voluntary intent to change and then the  process of completing that transformation.   This involves recovering a complete freedom from the substance and maintaining that freedom from it to change and even help others maintain that freedom from it.    It always realizes that addiction is ever present and diligence is required.  One cannot simply return to the former master and source of the addiction if one truly hopes to live a free life from it.  Hence the process helps one maintain the necessary support and coping strategies to build an independence from the substance albeit addiction is always lurking to reclaim the person.

 

The 12 step program is about first the personal choice to admit a problem exists. Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Counseling Program

 

The article, “The 12 Steps of Addiction Recovery” by Michelle Pugle reviews the 12 steps and its importance in changing so many lives.   Pugle  gives some emphasis on the qualities of each step starting with admitting one has a problem to the intermediate steps of building self to to maintaining and preserving self to serve others.  Serving others is the ultimate and last step and gives the person purpose beyond his or her own short fallings prior and encourages the person to help others find the same freedom.  She states,

“Alcoholics Anonymous or AA is the original recovery program that brought the world the 12 steps of recovery. The 12 steps have since been applied to other substances and types of addictions in recovery programs like Marijuana Anonymous, Al-Anon and Alateen for loved ones of alcoholics, Codependents Anonymous for people stuck in toxic relationships, Narcotics Anonymous (NA), and Workaholics Anonymous.”

“The 12 Steps of Addiction Recovery”. Michelle Pugle.  April 12th, 2022.  Verywellhealth.

To read the entire article, please click here

Commentary

Addiction is a chronic, relapsing brain disease that is characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use, despite harmful consequences. It is considered a brain disease because drugs change the brain—they change its structure and how it works. These changes alter the way the person behaves, thinks, and feels. People with addiction often have trouble quitting because of powerful cravings and other withdrawal symptoms. Most people with addiction need help to stop using; however, treatment can be effective.

12 Step Program

A 12 step program is a set of guiding principles outlining a course of action for recovery from addiction, compulsion, or other behavioral problems. In many cases, the 12 steps can be applied to a wide range of disorders, providing a framework for solving these issues.  .  The steps are designed to promote positive change in individuals struggling with addiction, and to support their continued sobriety. The 12 steps address issues such as powerlessness, denial, and isolation; they emphasize the importance of admitting one’s wrongs, making amends, and helping others who are still struggling.  The original twelve steps were published in the book Alcoholics Anonymous in 1939

The first step of the 12 steps is admitting that one has a problem. This step is important because it allows individuals to begin the process of recovery and start to take responsibility for their actions. It is also a crucial step in developing a support system and seeking professional help.

The second step of the twelve steps is to come to believe that a power greater than ourselves can restore us to sanity. This step requires us to have faith in something larger than ourselves, whether it be a higher power, the universe, or simply the belief that we are not alone. This step helps us to realize that we are not in control of everything and that there is something out there that can help us to overcome our addiction.

The third step of the twelve steps is to make a decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God as we understand Him. This is a critical step in the process because it requires us to surrender our ego and pride and admit that we are powerless over our addiction. Once we have made this decision, we can begin to work on Step four, which is taking a moral inventory of ourselves.

The fourth step in the twelve steps is to make a searching and fearless moral inventory of ourselves. This means that we need to take a look at our lives and examine our behaviors honestly and critically. This can be a difficult process, but it is essential in order to move forward on the journey of recovery.

The fifth step of the twelve steps is to admit to God, ourselves, and another human being the exact nature of our wrongs. This step is important because it allows us to take responsibility for our actions and begin the process of change. By admitting our wrongs, we are able to start making amends and begin the journey to recovery.

The sixth step of the twelve steps is to become entirely ready to have God remove all these defects of character. This step requires a rigorous and honest self-examination in order to identify our shortcomings. Once we have identified our defects, we must then humbly admit them to God, ourselves, and another human being. This step is essential in our journey towards recovery as it allows us to let go of our ego and begin the process of healing.

The seventh step of the twelve steps is to humbly ask God, as you understand God, to remove your shortcomings. This is a critical step in the process because it requires individuals to take responsibility for their own actions and to seek help from a higher power in order to improve themselves. This step also helps individuals to develop a sense of humility and to realize that they are not perfect.

The eighth step of the twelve steps is to make a list of all the people you have harmed and become willing to make amends to them all. This is an important step in the process of recovery as it allows individuals to take responsibility for their past actions and begin to make things right with those they have hurt. By taking this step, individuals can start to repair relationships that may have been damaged by their addiction.

The ninth step of the twelve steps is to make amends with those we have harmed. This includes anyone we have harmed in any way, including emotionally, mentally, or physically. We must also try to make amends with those we have harmed even if they do not want us to or if they are deceased. This step helps us to take responsibility for our actions and to try to make things right with the people we have harmed.

The tenth step of the twelve steps is to continue to take personal inventory, and when we are wrong, promptly admit it. This step is important because it helps us to keep our egos in check and maintain our humility. By continuing to monitor our thoughts and actions, we can catch ourselves when we start to slip into old patterns of thinking and behaving. And by admitting our mistakes, we can learn from them and avoid repeating them in the future.

The eleventh step in the twelve-step program is to seek through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God as we understand Him, praying only for knowledge of His will for us and the power to carry that out.

The final step in the 12 steps is to carry the message of recovery to others who are still suffering. This is done by sharing one’s own experience, strength, and hope with others, and by serving as a role model of sobriety. In doing so, recovering addicts help to break the cycle of addiction and provide support and encouragement to those who are still struggling.

Conclusion

It is true that the program is very much theistic but those without religion can lay claim to a moral code that exists above them as a source of anchoring oneself to something more than oneself.  The general concepts of admitting problems, acting on problems, taking accountability, apologizing to others, maintaining oneself and helping others are all critically important steps for anyone facing addiction.

Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Counseling Certification and see if it meets your academic and professional goals.  The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification in Substance Abuse Counseling.  Many individuals who work in the 12 step program may also find the certification as a benefit to help lead groups or help others through addiction.  It can enhance resumes for this type of particular work with others facing addiction.

Additional Resources

“Drug treatment and 12-step program participation: The additive effects of integrated recovery activities”. RobertFiorentine Ph.D and Maureen  PHillhouse Ph.D. Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment Volume 18, Issue 1, January 2000, Pages 65-74.  Access here

“Spirituality and recovery in 12-step programs: An empirical model”. MarcGalanter M.D. Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment Volume 33, Issue 3, October 2007, Pages 265-272.  Access here

“Alcoholics Anonymous and other 12‐step programs for alcohol use disorder”. John F Kelly Keith Humphreys Marica Ferri.  March 11th, 2020.  Cochrane Library. Access here

“The 12 Steps”. AA.  Access here

Substance Abuse Counseling Training Article on Marijuana Abuse

Posted on by Mark Moran

Marijuana may seem like an innocent drug but like any drug it can lead to addiction.  While many states legalize it, like alcohol, this lower tier drug if misused can can cause problems for individuals who are unable to utilize it recreationally.  Furthermore states that have not legalized it can still prosecute and jobs can still deny employment who fail drug tests due to it.

Like any substance, Marijuana can be abused. Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Counseling Training

 

The article, “Marijuana Abuse and Addiction: Know the Signs” by Jaime Herndon looks at Marijuana abuse and how to help those who have issues with it.  She states,

“While many people use marijuana (it’s the third most commonly used addictive drug, after tobacco and alcohol) most won’t become addicted. About 1 in 10 people who use marijuana will become addicted; when they start using before the age of 18, the number increases to 1 in 6.2  Research suggests that about 30% of people who use marijuana might have marijuana use disorder, the severity of which can vary.3  Cannabis use disorder is widely defined as problematic use of cannabis that results in significant distress or impairment with at least two issues within a 12-month period, like the substance use results in not being able to meet work, social, or familial obligations, or the substance use continues even after it’s affected or caused interpersonal issues.”

While cannabis is not as likely as other drugs to cause addiction, it still can happen and like many things, it can disrupt life is misused.  One needs to ask why one needs to utilize any substance, beer, wine or marijuana to escape life.   To read the entire article, please click here

Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Counseling Training and see if it meets your academic and professional goals.  The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification in Substance Abuse.

Substance Abuse Counseling Program Article on Drug Addiction

Posted on by Mark Moran

Drug addiction is a horrible disease that individuals endure.  Those addicted go through many symptoms and withdraws when dealing with drugs.  These symptoms can be physical, mental and emotional.  Substance Abuse Counselors and licensed counselors can help individuals face addiction and learn how to cope with the issues that surround it.

 

Addiction causes mental, emotional and physical havoc on the person. Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Counseling Program

 

The article, “What Is Drug Addiction?” by Laura Dowart looks closer at the physical and mental symptoms surrounding addiction.  She states,

“The American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) defines drug addiction as “a treatable, chronic medical disease involving complex interactions among brain circuits, genetics, the environment, and an individual’s life experiences.” People with drug addictions continue to use drugs compulsively despite the harmful consequences. Drug addiction can lead to serious health consequences and even death. However, it’s preventable and treatable.”

To read the entire article, please click here

 

Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Counseling Program

The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification in Substance Abuse Counseling.

Substance Abuse Counseling Program Article on Addiction and Mental Illness

Posted on by Mark Moran

Addiction is not a choice, it is a illness.  Individuals who are addicted suffer from the mental illness of addiction that also negatively affects their body through cravings and withdraws.  It is because of this, individuals need special treatment to overcome substance abuse and addiction.

Addiction is a mental illness. Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Counseling Program and see if it meets your needs

 

The article, “Yes, Addiction Is a Mental Illness” from PYSCHCENTRAL looks at how addiction is a mental illness.  The article states,

“Mental illness and substance use disorder (SUD) often occur together. It’s unclear which issue happens first, but each can contribute to the other. Genetics and early exposure to trauma are two factors that can increase your chance of developing SUD. Your genes may account for 40% to 60%Trusted Source of your vulnerability to addiction. So if you have SUD, it’s not because you’re not strong enough to change things. Instead, your brain works differently than the brain of someone who isn’t living with addiction.”

To review the entire article, please click here

Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Counseling Program and see if it meets your academic and professional goal.  The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification as a Substance Abuse Counselor

 

Work and Addiction Problems

Posted on by Mark Moran

Employees with addiction can be a big issue.  Simply giving up on them may not be the answer though and finding them help to increase their productivity and unlock their potential can be rewarding not only to the company but also to oneself.

Those with addiction issues are late for work, miss it altogether, or may even have emotional issues while at the office or with other employees on the ground.  While too much disruption is obvious grounds for termination, many employees have value.  Some have been part of a business for years and their skills at their position are hard to replace.  In such cases, addiction help is important.  Employers can help good employees find the help they need.  In addition, employees who see their work value reducing because of addiction issues, need to rectify their issue and find better ways to cope with stress and other issues to avoid losing a good position and pay.

Helping employees with addiction is critical to success. Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Counseling Program

 

The article, “A guide to helping employees with addiction” from SHP takes an in-depth look on how to help troubled employees through a variety of ways.  The article lists a variety of signs that addiction may exist within an employee and what to look out for in the behavior of an employee.  The article also looks at ways one can help the employee find the necessary help and action to rectify the situation.  Policies for on employee must be universal for all.  In addition, the article looks at ways as an organization, addiction prevention can be applied for individuals. In regards to identifying signs of addiction,  the article states,

“Being able to identify the signs and symptoms of addiction will enable the implementation of your companies safety policy to mitigate the impact on other employees and your organisation whilst being able to offer support and assistance to the person suffering from addiction:”

“A guide to helping employees with addiction”. SHP.

To read the entire article, please click here

Commentary

The presence of addiction in an employee may manifest itself through various behavioural and physiological symptoms. These can include, but are not limited to, a decrease in productivity, impaired decision-making capabilities, increased absenteeism, physical health issues such as poor nutrition and weight loss, withdrawal from social activities and emotional responses such as irritability and mood swings.

Helping an Employee with Addiction

In order to assist an employee who is suffering from addiction, it is imperative to employ a holistic approach which includes both educational and therapeutic components. This could include providing resources for the individual that offers psychoeducation about addiction, as well as offering referrals for addiction counseling or support groups. Additionally, workplace accommodations such as flexible scheduling or modified duties may be employed in order to ensure an environment conducive to recovery.

In addition,  it is important to begin by engaging in a comprehensive assessment with the individual to identify the nature and scope of their addiction. This can be achieved through a holistic approach which includes psychological testing, interviews, as well as gathering feedback from family members or other individuals close to the employee.

Organizational Prevention

Addiction prevention in the work force is a critical factor in maintaining productivity, employee morale, and ultimately the profitability of an organization. It involves implementing strategies such as education, awareness campaigns, and access to professional resources for employees who may be at risk for or already exhibiting signs of addiction. By engaging in this type of intervention, employers can help create a safe and healthy work environment that reduces the risk of substance misuse and the associated consequences.

Companies can offer a variety of addiction prevention seminars or education for employees. Addiction prevention policies are also important to set guidelines and expectations

 

The implementation of addiction prevention seminars for companies is an effective means to address the public health crisis of substance abuse in the workplace. These seminars are designed to educate employees on the risks and consequences of substance abuse, as well as provide guidance on how to identify and address potential problems among coworkers.  Such seminars typically involve interactive activities, informative lectures, and educational materials delivered by qualified professionals in order to provide participants with an immersive learning experience regarding the risks of addictive substances and effective strategies for managing their use. Furthermore, these seminars can serve as a platform to create a culture of support and understanding while promoting positive mental health practices.

Universal substance abuse policies for companies refer to a set of regulations that apply to all members of the organization and are designed to prevent and reduce the misuse of substances, such as drugs and alcohol. These policies typically involve screenings, education programs, sanctions for violations, and referral services for employees in need of assistance. Furthermore, these policies also encompass measures to prevent potential risks associated with substance use at work, including reduced productivity, physical hazards from impairment, and liability related to employee health and safety.

Conclusion

In conclusion, substance abuse in the workforce is a major problem that affects employers and employees at every level. The damage to productivity, workplace safety, physical and mental health, and employee morale cannot be overstated. It is essential to implement effective policies that identify and address substance abuse in the workplace. Employers must understand the signs of substance abuse and have an appropriate response plan in order to protect their organization from legal liability and financial losses.

Substance Abuse Counselors can help companies face addiction issues through presentations and other policy guidelines.  Employees can find help individually with the aid of Substance Abuse Counselors to help better cope with work stress.  Some Addiction Counselors may be tied to a particular organization, or may be already licensed professional counselors.  Regardless, many individuals need group or individual counseling to gain control of an issue.

Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Counseling Certification and see if it meets your academic and professional goals.  The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification

Additional Resources

“Substance abuse, dependence and the workplace: A literature overview”. Breggie Smook; Marie Ubbink; Elma Ryke; Herman Strydom. Social work (Stellenbosch.  Online) vol.50 n.1 Stellenbosch  2014. SciElo.  Access here

“Employed men and women substance abusers: Job troubles and treatment outcomes”. Valerie Slaymaker, PhD., etc. al. Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment Volume 31, Issue 4, December 2006, Pages 347-354. ScienceDirect.  Access here

“Substance abuse among nurses—Defining the issue”. Debra Dunn, RN. AORN Journal Volume 82, Issue 4, October 2005, Pages 572-575, 577-582, 585-588, 592-596. ScienceDirect.  Access here

“Organizational consequences of staff turnover in outpatient substance abuse treatment programs”. Danica Knight, PhD. etc, al. Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment Volume 42, Issue 2, March 2012, Pages 143-150.  ScienceDirect.  Access here

Substance Abuse Counseling Training Program Article on Causes of Addiction

Posted on by Mark Moran

Did you ever wonder why one person can drink and even binge drink during their college years and never emerge addicted , while another person may become addicted to alcohol his or her whole life?  It is a multi faceted issue that does not have just one answer but multiple issues that can come together and form the scary picture of addiction.

Many factors can lead one to addiction. Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Counseling Training Program and see if it matches your professional and academic requirements

 

The article, “Why do some people become addicted to drugs while others do not?”  by Pam Rush takes a closer look at the biological, personal, and environmental issues that can lead to addiction. She states,

“No single factor can predict whether a person will become addicted to drugs. A combination of genetic, environmental, and developmental factors influences risk for addiction. The more risk factors a person has, the greater the chance that taking drugs can lead to addiction. Environmental, genetic, and developmental factors may include:”

To read the entire article, please click here

Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Counseling Training Program to see if it meets your academic and professional goals.  The program is online and open to qualified professionals seeking certification in Substance Abuse and Addiction counseling.

 

Substance Abuse Counseling Program Article on Teen Recovery from Opioids

Posted on by Mark Moran

Opioids are a rising problem within the United States.  Lower income families see their teens receive less help and the recovery they need to overcome the pill epidemic.  Many teens become addicted at a younger age and continue down the dangerous path of addiction to these types of drugs.

 

Teen substance abuse and lack of recovery programs that help are a big issue especially with opioids. Please also review our Substance Abuse Counseling Program

 

The article, “After opioid overdose, poor teens rarely get addiction treatment” by Lisa Rapaport looks at the struggles for teens from these families.  She states,

“Less than one third of teens and young adults who overdose on opioids receive addiction treatment afterward, and the few who do get help receive counseling instead of medication to combat substance misuse, a U.S. study suggests”

To read the entire article, please click here

Substance Abuse continues to be an issue. It may be an issue as old as time, but it can be curbed and it is important that teens receive the help they need to avoid addictions.  Recovery and help play key roles into keeping teens from becoming addicted or fatally over dosing.

Please also review our Substance Abuse Counseling Program and see if it meets your academic and professional goals.  The program is online and independent study and is open to qualified professionals seeking this certification through online education.

 

 

Substance Abuse Counseling Certification Article on Role of Faith in Recovery

Posted on by Mark Moran

Substance Abuse Recovery is more than just mental toughness and hard work but for many, faith plays a key role in recovering.  Faith can help one overcome many obstacles and give someone a constant to hold onto.

Faith can play a key role in substance abuse recovery. Please also review our Substance Abuse Counseling Certification program to see if it meets your needs

The article, “Faith: an overlooked tool in substance abuse prevention and recovery” by Brian Grim discusses the role of faith in a tool in overcoming substance abuse.  He states,

“One of the most effective tools to prevent and/or recover from addiction is often overlooked—faith. And when it comes to prevention, particularly among youth, faith is a driving force, according to a new report I co-authored with my daughter, Melissa, which was published in the Journal of Religion and Health.”

To read the entire article, please click here

Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Counseling Certification program and see if it meets your academic and professional goals.

Substance Abuse Counseling Program Article on Opioid War

Posted on by Mark Moran

Startling article on the reality of the tough battles that addiction counselors face against in the Opioid struggle our country is facing.   Victories are rare and scarce in this war on drugs and this article illustrates the numerous issues surrounding it.

The war on opioid abuse is at an all time high. Please also review our Substance Abuse Counseling Program
The war on opioid abuse is at an all time high. Please also review our Substance Abuse Counseling Program

The article,  “On front line of opioids battle, resources are scarce and victories are few” by Jeff Mordock takes a closer look at the numerous struggles faced.  The article states,

“More than 70,000 people died of drug overdoses last year, a 10 percent increase from 2016. Almost 48,000 of the deaths were from opioids, according to 2017 statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The death rate is surpassing the HIV/AIDS epidemic of the 1980s.”

To read the entire article, please click here

Please also review our Substance Abuse Counseling Program and see if it matches your academic and professional needs.

Substance Abuse Counseling Program Article on Alternatives to Pain Meds

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

Alternative pain management compared to pain killers is an important thing to avoid possible addiction.

The article, Virtual Reality: The Alternative To Marijuana And Opioids For Pain Management, by Reenita Das states,

“Those who have tried on a virtual reality headset can tell you that the experience is lifelike, almost real. If the projection is of you standing atop a tall building’s edge, you will be afraid of falling – the experience is real enough to fool your brain! Gaming is a natural application of the technology, but what is the application in healthcare and what can it do enhance the patient experience?”

To read the entire article, please click here

Please also review our Substance Abuse Counseling Program