The "Dope" on Dopamine

Our brain releases dopamine whenever we find something pleasurable. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter responsible for pleasure, motivation, and cognitive processes, such as learning. When we sleep, eat, and have sex dopamine is released in various parts of our brain and … Continue Reading

Don't Lose Hope

The early days of recovery are difficult and uncomfortable. Both your mind and body are undergoing a significant life altering transformation. You will feel lost. You will be scared. You will want to give up. But don’t lose hope. You’re … Continue Reading

Addiction Is A Family Disease- So Is Recovery

It only takes ones person to use for the whole family to suffer. Addiction is a family disease, and so is recovery. People in recovery need the support of family members. It can be an awkward time for both. Feelings … Continue Reading

Change your Environment

There is a famous quote that says, ‘if you’re old, don’t try to change yourself, change your environment.’ I have a sister who has had the same problems for 20 years. Addiction, pain, & bad choices. At 47, she finally … Continue Reading

Get Out Of Your Own Way

Recovery is about getting your mind and body back to a healthy balanced state. Don’t sabotage your own recovery with a bad attitude. Zig Ziglar once said “A bad attitude is like a flat tire. You can’t go anywhere until … Continue Reading

2016 The Year Of The 'No'

This year is the year of the monkey in the Chinese calendar. Let’s make 2016 the year of ‘no’ in America. We’ve tried the way of yes yes yes for decades now. It hasn’t worked! Over the last thirty years … Continue Reading

Recovery Success – Small Efforts Equal Big Results

The key to achieving lifelong success in recovery is not some grandiose act. Your life spun out of control because you repeated the same mistakes over and over again. Small habits duplicated day in and day out caused you to … Continue Reading

Your Past Called – Don't Answer

Recovery is about replacing old negative behaviors with new positive ones. It takes discipline, hard work, and focus. It also takes a break up with your past. Don’t be ashamed of your past, it helped create the amazing person you … Continue Reading

Avoid Secrets, Avoid Lies, Avoid Relapse

Most of us built our addictions based on lies and secrets. We hid the truth from friends and loved ones hoping to spare them and ourselves any more pain. But what really happens is you begin obsessing about that secret … Continue Reading

Get Better Not Bitter

Its time to let things go this holiday season and move on with your life. We all have the same 24 hours each day. Don’t be mad at people who have worked harder, sacrificed more, embraced opportunities, or stumbled less. … Continue Reading