Introducing Hope & Healing: A Liver Transplant Support Group 

Introducing Hope & Healing: A Liver Transplant Support Group 

Northstar Recovery Center is excited to announce the launch of a new support group designed for individuals who have undergone a liver transplant, are awaiting one, or are living with liver disease. Hope & Healing: Liver Transplant Support Group is a safe, welcoming space where people can connect, share experiences, and find support through the challenges of liver health.

Join Us for the Next Meeting

Meetings will be held on the 2nd and 4th Monday of every month from 6:00-7:30pm at our West Springfield location

If you are unable to make it in person, you may attend virtually via Zoom. Whether you’re navigating life after a liver transplant, awaiting one, or managing liver disease, you’ll find a community of individuals who truly understand the unique journey of living with these conditions.

 A New Community for Liver Disease Support

Each month, we’ll come together to discuss a variety of topics related to liver health, recovery, and the emotional aspects of the journey. These topics include:

  • Emotional Support: Share personal experiences, challenges, and victories related to liver disease and transplantation. It’s a place to talk openly about fears, hopes, and everything in between.
  • Practical Advice: Learn tips and strategies for managing medications, nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle changes after a transplant.
  • Medical Updates: Stay informed about the latest research, treatment options, and advancements in liver care.
  • Relationship Dynamics: Discover how liver disease affects relationships with family, friends, and employers—and how to navigate those changes.
  • Recovery and Rehabilitation: Get insights into the physical and emotional recovery process after transplant surgery, including helpful tips for a smoother transition.
  • Nutrition and Wellness: Access expert advice on healthy eating, meal planning, and managing medication side effects that impact nutrition and wellness.
  • Managing Fears and Anxiety: Learn coping mechanisms to handle anxiety, depression, and PTSD related to liver disease and the transplant experience.
  • Advocacy and Resources: Gain important information on patient rights, insurance coverage, and local resources available to support individuals with liver disease.

Who Should Attend?

This group is open to:

  • Individuals who have undergone a liver transplant
  • Those awaiting a liver transplant
  • Family members and caregivers of individuals with liver disease
  • Healthcare professionals looking to better support patients with liver disease

Our Goals for the Group

The Hope & Healing group aims to:

  • Create a supportive community where individuals affected by liver disease can connect and share their experiences.
  • Improve understanding and management of liver disease through shared knowledge.
  • Foster friendships and empowerment through education and advocacy.
  • Provide emotional support and practical tools for navigating life with liver disease or after a liver transplant.

Ready to Join Us?

We invite you to be part of this new community of support. Whether you attend in person or via Zoom, we are here to offer a safe, compassionate environment where everyone’s journey is respected and supported.

To RSVP or for more information, please contact Northstar Recovery Center or call (888) 927-4097. We look forward to seeing you there!

How to Navigate Going Back to Work After Addiction Treatment

How to Navigate Going Back to Work After Addiction Treatment

Taking time off work to focus on your recovery is a brave step, especially when facing feelings of shame, guilt, or embarrassment. It’s normal to feel self-conscious about stepping away from your job to attend an addiction treatment program, but remember that your health and well-being must come first. By choosing to seek help, you are choosing a life of freedom and possibility. Addiction is a disease, and treating it with the seriousness it deserves is one of the most courageous things you can do for yourself and your future.

That being said, going back to work after treatment for addiction or alcoholism is a monumental step in your journey to lasting recovery. If you’re nearing the end of your treatment, you might be feeling both excited and anxious about the idea of returning to work. Chances are you’ll experience a mix of emotions as you step back into the routine of work life, but with the right mindset, tools, and support, you can make this transition successfully. Here’s how to navigate this critical phase of your recovery.

Utilize Your Employer and Government Benefits

If you are employed, take advantage of your employer’s health benefits, including any employee assistance programs (EAPs) or short-term disability benefits, to ensure you have the resources you need to get the help you deserve. In many cases, your employer may offer confidential support and may even provide flexibility in taking the time you need to get well.

Additionally, many government programs are designed to assist individuals in recovery. If you’re unsure where to start, your treatment center’s case management team can be a great resource for connecting you with these benefits. Taking proactive steps to build a solid foundation for recovery is key to lasting change, and knowing you have financial support during this time can ease the burden and stress of stepping away from work.

While you’re in treatment, it’s essential to recognize which aspects of your job could act as triggers for relapse. Is the work environment stressful? Do you feel isolated? Are there certain coworkers or situations that could tempt you to return to old habits? Discussing these potential triggers with your treatment team can help you develop a plan for coping strategies.

By identifying triggers and preparing your toolkit of strategies to stay sober, you’ll be better equipped to handle difficult situations when you return to work. This could include deep-breathing exercises, mindfulness practices, attending a lunchtime recovery meeting, or identifying a coworker or supervisor to check in with when you’re feeling vulnerable..

Communicate Honestly and Gratefully with Your Employer

As you approach the end of treatment, it’s important to have an honest conversation with your employer about your return. Transparency, while maintaining appropriate boundaries, helps set the stage for rebuilding trust and ensuring that your employer understands your plans for reintegration. Your employer might be more understanding than you expect, especially if they have been supportive of your addiction treatment journey.

Honest communication might include explaining your treatment process, acknowledging that you’re still in the recovery phase, and discussing any accommodations you might need as you transition back into the workplace. This can help rebuild confidence and demonstrate that you’re committed to both your personal growth and your work.

If you’re fortunate enough to have a job waiting for you when you get out of treatment, be sure to express your gratitude. Returning to a supportive environment is a gift, and showing appreciation for the understanding your employer has shown will go a long way in reinforcing a positive, healthy relationship.

Build a Recovery Plan for Outside of Treatment

Recovery doesn’t stop when addiction treatment ends—it’s a lifelong job. If you want to stay sober, you need to keep nurturing your recovery outside of a clinical setting. This might include attending 90 meetings in 90 days, getting a sponsor, temporarily living in a sober home, taking volunteer positions at Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous meetings, and finding sobriety-focused podcasts, recovery apps and social media accounts.

Additionally, seeking ongoing support from a therapist or counselor, reading recovery literature, and building a sober support network are essential tools to help you stay on track. The relationships you form within the recovery community can provide the emotional and spiritual support necessary to maintain your sobriety long-term.

You might also consider enrolling in outpatient addiction treatment like PHP (Partial Hospitalization Program) or IOP (Intensive Outpatient Program). These day treatment programs, sometimes referred to as aftercare, provide additional help staying motivated and on track while addressing underlying causes of addiction like mental health.

Be Realistic About Your Limitations

It’s important to acknowledge that after an extended time away, you may feel overwhelmed as you re-enter the workforce. While you will want to perform well, it’s okay if your “best foot” is not 100% during the early days of your return. You may still be adjusting to a new routine or managing the physical and emotional effects of recovery. Be kind to yourself and set realistic goals as you ease back into your responsibilities.

Staying within your limitations and not overloading yourself is crucial to long-term success. Ask for help when needed, prioritize your sobriety, and remember that recovery is a gradual process—both in the workplace and in your personal life.

We’re Here to Help

Returning to work after treatment for addiction or alcoholism is a journey that requires careful planning, honest communication, and a solid commitment to your recovery. You have already shown tremendous courage by seeking help—now take the next step and apply that same courage as you re-enter your work life, knowing that you are capable of achieving balance, health, and happiness in all areas of your life.

Northstar Recovery Center’s outpatient day treatment programs offer aftercare to those transitioning out of detox or rehab, and immediate treatment for people whose substance abuse disorders don’t first need medical intervention. We provide access to a multitude of recovery modalities, including SMART, 12-Step, cognitive behavioral therapy, individual therapy, group therapy, family therapy, trauma therapy, and holistic practices like yoga and meditation.

Do you or someone you know need help getting sober? You can reach us 24/7 at (888) 927-4097 or contact us online to learn more.

A Focus on Health and Wellness in Day Treatment

A Focus on Health and Wellness in Day Treatment

The renowned Buddhist monk and spiritual teacher Thich Nhat Hanh famously said, “Fear keeps us focused on the past or worried about the future. If we can acknowledge our fear, we can realize that right now we are okay. Right now, today, we are still alive, and our bodies are working marvelously – our eyes can still see the beautiful sky,” and “our ears can still hear the voices of our loved ones.” This is emblematic of the importance of holistic health and wellness in recovery, especially when it comes to day treatment.

Better Understanding Addiction and Mental Illness

Millions of people struggle with issues of addiction and mental illness every year both in the U.S. and around the world. Yet, despite the prevalence of addiction and mental illness many people still stigmatize them.

For example, many people don’t realize that addiction is a “disease.” Many people mistake addiction as some type of moral failing or “choice.” This is simply untrue. Addiction has more in common with chronic diseases like cancer, heart disease, and diabetes than it does with a “choice.”

Also, many people don’t realize that mental illness and addiction are “family diseases.” This is because these issues affect more than the individual who is struggling. As is often said in many 12-Step recovery meetings, “Addiction is like a tornado destroying everything in its path.” However, many people don’t see that tornado coming, which is why being able to spot the signs and symptoms of addiction and mental illness can be so vital.

The Signs and Symptoms of Addiction and/or Mental Illness

Now, because addiction and mental illness cover such a broad swath of the “disease” spectrum, it can be hard to come up with a definitive set of signs and symptoms. However, there are more universal signs and symptoms to look out for. The following are just a few of those signs and symptoms:

  • Having trouble sleeping, including sleeping too much and not sleeping enough (hypersomnia and insomnia)
  • Loss of appetite
  • Losing interest in how one looks or one’s personal hygiene
  • Feeling nervous or overly “stressed out”
  • Experiencing problems at home, work, and/or school
  • Losing interest in activities and hobbies once enjoyed
  • Isolating away from family and friends
  • Frequently feeling worthless, hopeless, and helpless
  • Worrying about “what the future may bring”
  • Using alcohol and/or substances as coping mechanisms
  • Excessive mood swings
  • Committing self-harm
  • Engaging in risky behaviors
  • Having suicidal ideations and/or attempting suicide

As one can see, these signs and symptoms are not to be minimized. Addiction and mental illness can be life-or-death disorders. This is why if any, many, or all of these symptoms are present, it is important to reach out for professional help as soon as possible. Doing so could mean the difference between short-term side effects and long-term consequences. It is also important to find the right type of treatment.

The Importance of Individualized and Comprehensive Care

Many people don’t realize that recovery and treatment is now a billion-dollar industry. Of course, this certainly has its positives, but it can also mean that people are getting less than optimal care.

Many recovery and treatment centers put their financial bottom line above their clients’ well-being. These are often the same recovery centers that only offer broad overarching “cookie-cutter” recovery plans that fail to focus on the individual.

Here at NorthStar Recovery Center, we know that these types of plans rarely work. These types of plans are rarely comprehensive either, which is also an essential component of strong recovery. A recovery plan must focus on every aspect of the “Self.” This includes the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects. This is emblematic of what holistic health and wellness has to offer to a treatment plan. These components also best ensure that one gets to the root/core causes of one’s addiction and mental health issues.

Getting to the Underlying Root/Core Causes of Addiction and Mental Illness

Many people don’t realize that their issues of addiction and/or mental illness stem from somewhere “deep within.” Regarding addiction, this is why many people say, “It is about the thinking much more than it is about the drinking.” These underlying issues must be addressed if one is truly going to experience optimal healing. Often, these underlying issues are related to trauma and post-traumatic stress syndrome (PTSD).

Trauma affects millions of people every year. According to the peer-reviewed journal Psychological Medicine, “General population studies have shown that a large proportion of people in developed countries have been exposed to at least one TE [traumatic exposure] in their lifetime (estimates from 28 to 90%), with the most common events being the unexpected death of a loved one, motor vehicle accidents and being mugged. Much more limited evidence for less developed countries suggests that fatalities due to injuries and accidents are more common in low- and middle-income countries than in high-income countries; for example, road injuries are the 10th leading cause of lost years of life in developed countries and the 8th leading cause in developing countries.”

Similar staggering statistics are present with PTSD. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and the National Center for PTSD, “About 6 out of every 100 people (or 6% of the U.S. population) will have PTSD at some point in their lives… About 5 out of every 100 adults (or 5%) in the U.S. has PTSD in any given year.” Also, “In 2020, about 13 million Americans had PTSD.” One of the best ways to handle these underlying issues of trauma and PTSD is to find a recovery program such as day treatment.

Better Understanding Day Treatment

Day treatment is an ideal way that millions of people have used to recover from issues of addiction and mental illness. Yet, many people minimize day treatment as being less effective than residential addiction and mental health care. This is a fallacy.

Day treatment has been shown to be just as effective as other formats of recovery. The benefits of day treatment however may make it more ideal for certain populations. These are individuals who still need to keep one foot in their everyday lives. For example, people who have occupational or familial responsibilities that they must attend to.

Some people feel that day treatment is less effective because it is less “intensive.” Again, this is false. Most day treatments require that one be engaged with their treatment eight hours a day, five days a week. Also, most day treatment programs require regular alcohol and drug testing, as well as attendance at 12-Step recovery meetings. Day treatment also uses the same means, methods, and modalities that residential treatment does. This includes holistic health and wellness techniques.

A Focus on Health and Wellness in Day Treatment

The reality is that treatment can be challenging. However, overcoming those challenges is part of the process, and is how one finds success in long-term recovery. As Thich Nhat Hanh famously said, “Hope is important because it can make the present moment less difficult to bear. If we believe that tomorrow will be better, we can bear a hardship today.” Hope is a big part of a health and wellness practice.

So, what does health and wellness in recovery look like? Essentially it looks like anything that works to help one find a sense of serenity and balance. Yes, this can be found with other types of treatments, but they tend to be a focal point of holistic health and wellness modalities. This is especially true when it comes to yoga therapy.

Health and Wellness: Yoga Therapy

Yoga is an ideal and accessible form of treatment for addiction and mental illness. The iconic yogi and spiritual leader B.K.S. Iyengar famously said, “As animals, we walk the earth. As bearers of divine essence, we are among the stars. As human beings, we are caught in the middle, seeking to reconcile the paradox of how to make our way upon earth while striving for something more permanent and more profound.” Yoga helps us with this essential “reconciliation.”

Yoga therapy also offers many other benefits. According to the Journal of Neurosciences in Rural Practice, “Yoga, which is a form of mind-body practice, draws its roots to India and it has been proven to reduce perceived stress, anxiety, [and] improve physical and mental health.” Also, “Yoga in the management of drug dependence has been an intriguing area of interest since the last decade. Yoga is being considered as a holistic intervention inducing dopamine homeostasis leading to long-term benefits in the management of addictive behaviors termed as ‘Reward Deficiency Syndrome.’” Another critical component of yoga is often meditation.

Health and Wellness: Mindfulness Meditation

B.K.S. Iyengar said, “Spirituality is not some external goal that one must seek, but a part of the divine core of each of us, which we must reveal.” Meditation has been practiced for thousands of years. Originally it was solely a religious or spiritual practice but it has since moved into many other areas. This includes the realm of recovery.

The benefits of mindfulness meditation are vast and carried. According to the International Quarterly Journal of Research in Ayurveda (AYU). “Research has confirmed a myriad of health benefits associated with the practice of meditation. These include stress reduction, decreased anxiety, decreased depression, reduction in pain (both physical and psychological), improved memory, and increased efficiency. Physiological benefits include reduced blood pressure, heart rate, lactate, cortisol, and epinephrine; decreased metabolism, breathing pattern, oxygen utilization, and carbon dioxide elimination; and increased melatonin, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S), skin resistance, and relative blood flow to the brain.”

Meditation can also help to reduce relapses, which remains a serious issue. According to the peer-reviewed journal Substance Abuse: Official Publication of the Association for Medical Education and Research in Substance Abuse, ”Substance use disorders (SUDs) have been described as ‘chronic relapsing conditions,’ with rates of relapse exceeding 60% and being relatively consistent across substances of abuse. A range of treatments have been developed to target relapse…. However, in spite of the best ‘standard of care’ therapy, relapse rates continue to be high, highlighting the need for the development of new treatment modalities to better assist individuals in their recovery.”

Health and Wellness: Massage and Acupuncture

There are also many other types of health and wellness techniques that can help with addiction and mental illness recovery. This includes modalities like acupuncture, reiki, aromatherapy, and massage therapy.

Massage can be particularly helpful for individuals who also struggle with co-occurring chronic pain, especially Swedish massage. According to the International Journal of Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork, “Swedish massage incorporates moderate pressure touching and has minimal risk of adverse events, making it appropriate for protocol standardization and comparisons across studies. Using a standardized Swedish massage protocol, clinical research in healthy adults found a cumulative positive biologic effect which varied with massage frequency. While the precise biologic mechanism through which massage [affects] pain is unclear, consistent support exists for the beneficial effects for treating chronic pain, especially chronic low-back pain.”

Health and Wellness: Other Means, Methods, and Modalities

Of course, holistic health and wellness should also be utilized in tandem with more “traditional” types of therapy. This includes psychotherapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT).

It also includes experiential therapies like nature immersion therapy and art therapy. The key is to find the right combination of therapies that work for the individual. However, it is also important to be willing to make changes based on what is and isn’t working. This is also why having as many modalities available as possible is so important.

Healing With Psychotherapy

Psychotherapies like CBT and DBT can be particularly effective because they get to the underlying issues that were previously mentioned. Ultimately, these therapies work to help an individual start to address the negative way in which one views oneself and the world around them.

Once these negative thoughts are addressed, one can begin to address the associated emotions and change the associated behaviors that are what ultimately cause the most negative consequences. Evidence-based psychotherapies also work well with holistic healing methods and experiential therapies.

Healing With Experiential Therapy

Many people don’t realize the benefits that nature can have on one’s health and well-being. According to the U.S. National Park Service, “5 minutes walking in nature improves mood, self-esteem, and relaxation. Frequent exposure to nature reduces anxiety and depression while promoting a sense of wellbeing and fulfillment.” Also, “Physical activity in a green space can reduce stress and lower cortisol levels by 15%.”

Nature immersion therapy also offers many other benefits. According to the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, “Besides improvements to physical and psychological well-being, exposure to natural environments has been shown to bring about positive impacts on cognitive functioning… While cognitive restoration and physiological well-being are the prominent and renowned benefits of nature exposure, there is one important construct that is often overlooked in environmental psychology research studies – that is, the human-nature relationship; also known as connectedness to nature (CN).” This “CN” also offers many benefits when holistic healing methods are utilized outside.

A Focus on Long-Term Success at NorthStar Recovery Center

Thich Nhat Hanh also famously said, “People sacrifice the present for the future. But life is available only in the present. That is why we should walk in such a way that every step can bring us to the here and the now.” The “here and now” is what recovery is all about.

Here at NorthStar Recovery Center, we believe in long-term success over short-term “fixes.” That is why all of our recovery plans are individualized and comprehensive with a focus on the future. We also take health and wellness seriously.

Recovery is about the journey, never the destination. There is no better place to start that journey than at NorthStar Recovery Center. Recovery is out there. It’s time to go out and get it.

The benefits of holistic healing while in day treatment can be exceptional for health and wellness. This ultimately means focusing on all aspects of recovery: the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual. However, it is important to remember that these holistic modalities should always be used alongside evidence-based treatments such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). If you feel like you or a loved one is struggling with issues of addiction, mental illness, or co-occurring disorders, we can help get you on the right road to long-term recovery right away. You don’t have to go through this process alone. For more information about health and wellness in day treatment, please reach out to NorthStar Recovery Center today at (888) 311-0911.

Applying Martin Luther King Jr.’s Lessons to Recovery from Alcoholism and Addiction.

Applying Martin Luther King Jr.’s Lessons to Recovery from Alcoholism and Addiction.

Martin Luther King Jr.’s life and teachings continue to inspire countless individuals striving for personal growth and societal change. While his work primarily focused on civil rights and equality, the principles he embodied can also guide those recovering from alcoholism and addiction. Recovery is a journey of transformation, requiring resilience, courage, and a deep commitment to change—qualities that Dr. King exemplified throughout his life. 

With the nation celebrating Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day next week, here is how some of his lessons can empower individuals on the path to recovery.

1. The Power of Nonviolence: Cultivating Inner Peace

At the heart of Dr. King’s philosophy was nonviolence—a commitment to resolving conflicts without harm. In recovery, this principle can be applied inwardly. Addiction often stems from self-destructive behaviors and unresolved inner turmoil. By embracing nonviolence toward oneself, individuals can begin to heal with compassion rather than self-criticism.

Practical steps:

  • Practice self-forgiveness and acknowledge that recovery is a process, not a moment of perfection.
  • Cultivate mindfulness to create space between emotions and actions, breaking the cycle of reactive behavior.

2. Faith in Change: Believing in Transformation

Dr. King often spoke of the “fierce urgency of now” and the belief that meaningful change is always possible. Recovery requires this same faith—the conviction that no matter how deep the struggle, transformation is within reach.

Practical steps:

  • Visualize a sober and fulfilling future, keeping this image in focus during difficult moments.
  • Surround yourself with supportive individuals who reinforce the belief that change is attainable.

3. Community and Collective Strength

Dr. King’s achievements were rooted in collective action. He understood that lasting change could only be achieved through community effort. Similarly, recovery is rarely a solitary journey. Programs like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and other support groups highlight the importance of shared experiences and mutual accountability.

Practical steps:

  • Attend group meetings regularly to build a network of support.
  • Share your story to inspire and uplift others, just as they inspire and uplift you.

4. The Courage to Confront Challenges

Dr. King faced immense adversity, yet he stood steadfast in his mission. Recovery requires this same courage—to confront uncomfortable truths, resist temptations, and persevere through setbacks. It’s about facing the world with determination and refusing to let fear dictate actions.

Practical steps:

  • Identify the fears or challenges holding you back and address them one at a time.
  • Celebrate small victories as evidence of your ability to overcome obstacles.

5. The Importance of Purpose

Dr. King’s life was driven by a clear sense of purpose. For those in recovery, discovering or rediscovering a sense of purpose can provide motivation and direction. Purpose anchors individuals, giving them a reason to stay committed to sobriety.

Practical steps:

  • Explore activities, passions, or relationships that bring you joy and fulfillment.
  • Set meaningful goals that align with your values and aspirations.

6. Love and Forgiveness

Dr. King preached the transformative power of love and forgiveness—not only toward others but also toward oneself. Recovery often involves grappling with guilt, shame, or resentment. Embracing forgiveness can pave the way for true healing.

Practical steps:

  • Write a letter of forgiveness to yourself or others, even if it’s never sent.
  • Practice acts of kindness as a way to cultivate love and positivity in your life.

7. Hope and Perseverance

Dr. King’s famous “I Have a Dream” speech encapsulated the essence of hope—a belief in a better future despite the present struggles. Recovery demands perseverance and the ability to hold onto hope, even during the darkest times.

Practical steps:

  • Keep a journal of gratitude and progress to remind yourself of how far you’ve come.
  • Repeat affirmations that reinforce your commitment to recovery and a brighter future.

Begin Your Recovery Journey Today

Martin Luther King Jr.’s teachings offer a profound blueprint for overcoming challenges, embracing transformation, and building a meaningful life. By applying his principles to the recovery journey, individuals can find strength, hope, and a deeper sense of purpose. 

As Dr. King himself said, “Faith is taking the first step even when you don’t see the whole staircase.” In recovery, every step forward is a victory, and every small act of self-care is a powerful declaration of freedom.Don’t wait to take the first step toward your new life. Contact us today to get your recovery journey started – (888) 927-4097.

Utilizing the Twelve Steps in Day Treatment

Utilizing the Twelve Steps in Day Treatment

Many people balk at recovery because they are unsure of the “steps” that they need to take to get well. This is where the Twelve Steps of recovery can come in and literally be life-saving. Regardless of which path one takes, the key is to find what works and stick to it. Recovery is a way of life, and it is one that should not be missed.

Better Understanding Addiction

Millions of people struggle with addiction every year. Many people don’t realize just how prevalent addiction is in both the U.S. and around the world. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), “In 2022, 48.7 million people aged 12 or older (or 17.3%) had a substance use disorder (SUD) in the past year, including 29.5 million who had an alcohol use disorder (AUD), 27.2 million who had a drug use disorder (DUD), and 8.0 million people who had both an AUD and a DUD.”

Also, many people don’t realize that addiction is a “disease.” Many people are under the misconception that addiction is some type of moral failing or “choice.” This is a fallacy. Addiction has more in common with chronic diseases like cancer, heart disease, and diabetes than it does with a “choice.”

It is also important to remember that addiction is also a “family disease.” This is because addiction does not just affect the individual struggling but also affects almost everyone it comes into contact with. It is often said in 12-Step recovery that addiction is like a tornado that destroys everything and everyone in its path. This is especially true with addiction and co-occurring issues of mental health.

Better Understanding Co-Occurring Disorders

Co-occurring disorders are much more prevalent than many people may think. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), “7.7 million adults have co-occurring mental and substance use disorders… Of the 20.3 million adults with substance use disorders, 37.9% also had mental illnesses. Among the 42.1 million adults with mental illness, 18.2% also had substance use disorders.”

Many people who struggle with co-occurring disorders also go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed because either the addiction or the mental illness overshadows the other. This is why going to a professional that deals with both addiction and mental illness can be so critical. It is also extremely helpful for individuals to be able to spot the signs and symptoms of addiction and mental illness on their own. This ability can mean the difference between life and death.

The Signs and Symptoms of Addiction

Now, it is important to understand that the signs and symptoms of addiction and mental illness are going to vary somewhat based on the situation and the individual. However, there are some more universal signs that can be looked out for. The following are just a few of those signs and symptoms:

  • Feeling anxious, nervous, or overly “stressed out”
  • Having feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness, and helplessness (depression)
  • Not being able to stop drinking or using once started
  • Using multiple substances at the same time
  • Losing interest in activities and hobbies once enjoyed
  • Isolating away from family and close friends
  • Struggling with sleep cycles, including sleeping too much and not sleeping enough (hypersomnia and insomnia)
  • Loss of appetite
  • No longer caring about appearance or personal hygiene
  • Engaging in risky behaviors
  • Exhibiting excessive mood swings
  • Committing self-harm or harming others
  • Having suicidal ideations

Unfortunately, people often minimize the signs and symptoms of addiction and mental illness. However, as one can see, these symptoms can be extremely serious. This is why reaching out for professional help as soon as signs appear is so critical. Doing so could mean the difference between short-term side effects and long-term consequences. Again, as previously mentioned, it can be life and death. The Twelve Steps can help with this.

Better Understanding 12-Step Recovery

Roughly 89 years ago, two individuals struggling with addiction got together and determined that the only way they were going to get sober and stay sober was by doing two things. One thing was to work with others struggling with addiction. Two was to accept a “Higher Power” (of their own understanding) greater than themselves.

These two individuals were Bill Wilson and Robert Holbrook Smith, the two co-founders of Alcoholics Anonymous (A.A.) and 12-Step recovery. Eventually, they would also write the Twelve Steps of recovery and publish its primary text (commonly referred to as the Big Book). The Twelve Steps have gone on to help millions of people beyond those struggling with alcohol use disorder (AUD). These steps are also used in such programs as Narcotics Anonymous (N.A.), Cocaine Anonymous (C.A.), Gamblers Anonymous (G.A.), and Alanon (a program for families affected by addiction).

What Exactly Are the Twelve Steps?

The Twelve Steps are a set of twelve principles that can be utilized to get sober and stay sober. They work as a system that builds upon one another until all of the steps are completed.

However, after the steps are completed, there is no “graduation.” The steps are then continually used to have a safe and healthy long-term recovery. This is important because many people don’t realize just how prevalent relapse currently is in the U.S.

Relapse affects millions of people every year. According to the peer-reviewed Current Psychiatry Reports, “It has long been known that addictive disorders are chronic and relapsing in nature. Recent estimates from clinical treatment studies suggest that more than two-thirds of individuals relapse within weeks to months of initiating treatment. For 1-year outcomes across alcohol, nicotine, weight, and illicit drug abuse, studies show that more than 85% of individuals relapse and return to drug use within 1 year of treatment.” To avoid a relapse by utilizing the Twelve Steps, one must first take that first step and admit that there is a problem.

The Twelve Steps: Admitting There Is a Problem

Now, the First Step of 12-Step recovery states, “We admitted we were powerless over alcohol — that our lives had become unmanageable.” This act of “admitting” is critical for recovery. It is the only way that one is going to accept the help that they need.

Now, that does not mean that one might not admit this reality right away. This is why it can be so important for the family to intervene and help get them the treatment that they need. Also, this means setting boundaries which can help them make the choice to get the help they need, such as going to day treatment. In day treatment, one can then find the “acceptance” that they need for recovery.

The Twelve Steps: Acceptance

Next, the Second Step of 12-Step recovery states, “Came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity.” In order to truly take this step, one must accept that they have a problem.

Once this acceptance occurs, an individual can then begin to believe that there is something out there that is ready and willing to help them recover. Now, this may be a Higher Power such as God or a religious figure, or it might be something like nature or even other people who have been successful in recovery.

It should be noted that many people avoid the Twelve Steps because they struggle with the “God” concept. However, it is important to remember that a Higher Power is about spirituality and not necessarily religion (unless that is the path that one wishes to take). Once one gets over this issue with a Higher Power, they most likely have taken on the willingness that is needed to continue with the Twelve Steps and successful recovery.

The Twelve Steps: Willingness

There is perhaps no bigger sign of willingness than when one is willing to complete the Ninth Step. The Ninth Step states, “Made direct amends to such people wherever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others.”

Now, the Ninth Step is all about humility and being able to admit one’s wrongs to others. However, it is not merely about saying sorry. It is also about making “living amends” by showing loved ones that a new life in sobriety is all about making the right choices and helping others. This is especially true when it comes to helping others with their recovery.

The Twelve Steps: Working With Others

Working with others is an essential component of a strong long-term recovery. Working with others is so crucial that it even has a chapter named after it in the Big Book.

The chapter “Working With Others” states, “Practical experience shows that nothing will so much ensure immunity from drinking [and using] as intensive work with other [people in recovery]. It works when other activities fail… You can help when no one else can.” Many of these connections and friendships are made in recovery environments like day treatment.

The Twelve Steps and Day Treatment

Day treatment is an ideal environment for recovery. This is especially true for individuals who are able to keep one foot in their everyday lives as they also focus on their recovery.

However, many people minimize day treatment because they feel it may not be as effective as residential addiction care. This is simply untrue. Day treatment can be just as intensive, requiring eight-hour days, five days a week. This type of treatment also keeps people accountable by having regular alcohol and drug testing. Day treatment also uses all of the same means, methods, and modalities that are used in other types of treatment programs.

The Twelve Steps and Other Means, Methods, and Modalities

Now, the fact of the matter is that the treatment industry is now worth billions of dollars. Of course, this is good because there are more treatment centers available. Unfortunately, this also means that there are many bad actors who are more concerned with their bottom line than their client’s well-being. These are also the type of treatment centers that only offer overarching “one-note” recovery plans.

This is not the case at NorthStar Recovery Center. At NorthStar Recovery, we believe in the multi-angled approach that utilizes all areas of recovery. This includes modalities in the realm of experiential therapy like nature immersion therapy and art therapy, holistic healing methods like yoga therapy and mindfulness meditation, and psychotherapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT).

Healing With Psychotherapy

Psychotherapies like CBT and DBT are ideal for recovery because they get to the underlying issues that often cause addiction and mental illness. Many people don’t realize that addiction is more about the thoughts behind taking the drink or the drug than it is about the drink or the drug themselves.

CBT and DBT can be so effective because they help to make an individual an “active participant” in their recovery. According to the peer-reviewed journal Cognitive Therapy and Research, “Consistent with the medical model of psychiatry, the overall goal of treatment is symptom reduction, improvement in functioning, and remission of the disorder. In order to achieve this goal, the patient becomes an active participant in a collaborative problem-solving process to test and challenge the validity of maladaptive cognitions and to modify maladaptive behavioral patterns… Although these strategies greatly emphasize cognitive factors, physiological, emotional, and behavioral components are also recognized for the role that they play in the maintenance of the disorder.”

Healing With Experiential Therapy

Many types of experiential therapy can help to bolster one’s experience with the Twelve Steps. This includes the way that nature immersion therapy helps individuals connect with their Higher Power.

Of course, nature immersion therapy also offers many other types of benefits. According to the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, “Besides improvements to physical and psychological well-being, exposure to natural environments has been shown to bring about positive impacts on cognitive functioning.” Also, “While cognitive restoration and physiological well-being are the prominent and renowned benefits of nature exposure, there is one important construct that is often overlooked in environmental psychology research studies – that is, the human-nature relationship; also known as connectedness to nature (CN).” This ”CN” can also be found with holistic healing methods like yoga therapy and mindfulness meditation.

Healing With Holistic Healing Methods

The iconic yogi and spiritual leader B.K.S. Iyengar once said, “Yoga is like music: the rhythm of the body, the melody of the mind, and the harmony of the soul create the symphony of life.” Yoga has been practiced for thousands of years. Originally yoga was just used as a religious or spiritual practice, but it has since moved into the realm of recovery.

Yoga can help one find the serenity needed to practice the Twelve Steps. It also offers many other benefits. According to the International Journal of Yoga (IJOY), “Therapeutic yoga is defined as the application of yoga postures and practice to the treatment of health conditions. Yoga therapy involves instruction in yogic practices and teachings to prevent reduce or alleviate structural, physiological, emotional, and spiritual pain, suffering or limitations. Yogic practices enhance muscular strength and body flexibility, promote and improve respiratory and cardiovascular function, promote recovery from and treatment of addiction, reduce stress, anxiety, depression, and chronic pain, improve sleep patterns, and enhance overall well-being and quality of life.” It also offers a great space for meditation.

A Focus on Long-Term Success With NorthStar Recovery Center

Here at NorthStar Recovery Center, we believe in long-term success over short-term “fixes.” This is why all of our recovery plans are individualized and comprehensive with a focus on the future. They also offer a great opportunity to incorporate the Twelve Steps.

In many 12-Step recovery meetings, they say what is known as the “Responsibility Statement.” It goes, “I am responsible. When anyone, anywhere, reaches out for help, I want the hand of [recovery] always to be there. And for that I am responsible” This is also a cornerstone of what we believe at NorthStar Recovery Center. Yes, we are responsible, and we wouldn’t have it any other way.

Many people don’t realize the benefits that the Twelve Steps can have for someone recovering in day treatment. Also, these steps are most effective when used with other types of treatment modalities. Additionally, working with others can be a critical component of a successful recovery. If you feel like you or a loved one is struggling with issues of addiction, mental illness, or co-occurring disorders, we can help get you on the positive path toward long-term recovery right away. You don’t have to go through this process alone. For more information about utilizing the Twelve Steps for long-term success, please reach out to NorthStar Recovery Center today at (888) 311-0911.