Substance Abuse Counselor

People often come in to see their substance abuse counselor after the festive season suffering from the post Christmas blues. The holidays are over and now it is back to routine.

It can be time of risk for relapse if people see life as a chore, feel that they would be happier if life was an endless holiday. Sometimes there is disappointment too that the festive season has not fulfilled its promise. The holiday season has for one reason or another failed to provide satisfaction, not been the happy time that was expected.

A lot of our happiness and our depression is bound up with expectations – what we expect of other people, what we expect of ourself – what we expect of life. When life meets up to our expectations we are happy, when it does not, we are downcast and depressed. It can be hard to see that real contentment and happiness does not depend on external events but in having a sense of inner contentment, and peace.

When people spend their lives chasing the dragon of happiness, very often it eludes them. They live in hope and wait for the day when everything will be in place, just as they want it to be – and then they will be happy.

lf only this – or only that would happen – then we would be content. So many people think their troubles would be over, if only they won the lottery.

The substance abuse counselor can play an important role in helping people to find a state of contentment, find a middle way between extremes of bliss and despair, so that they can become more in control, feel more emotionally secure within themselves.

Many things in life can disappoint, throw us off our emotional balance. The more content we feel inside ourselves, the less we are cast down, make miserable by external events.

It is essential to finding contentment that expectations are realistic, and within our means. A substance abuse counselor can act as a mentor to help people adjust their expectations so that life no longer is a constant battleground between achievement and disappointment.

Often people hold onto ideals that mean that they live with a sense of failure. They might feel that they are not good enough – always striving to “do better”. Other people with a sense of entitlement and self importance might find that it is other people who constantly disappoint, and fail to meet their expectations. The more people tend to separate off from their real feelings about what they are doing, the more risk there is of boredom with life, feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness and depression.

Many people spend their lives trying to satisfy self imposed demands. There is a difference between genuine self improvement and an endless need to satisfy an inner critic that always seems to be of the opinion that we could be doing more, doing better than we are.

Substance abuse counselors can help people to find integration within themselves, happiness in the moment – doing things that we are happy to do, that are a source of pleasure, that provide their own reward.

Often we work as if a slave, living a life of drudgery, with feelings of emotional bondage and entrapment. So often we postpone our pleasure while we make a chore of everyday living, the achievement of happiness looking more like a mirage in the desert – always just beyond our grasp.

People who have chosen substance abuse as an alternative route to find happiness in their life, who realize with coming of yet another New Year that they have somehow got lost in their direction can get help with orientation, get help to make a new start by using substance abuse counseling as provided by comprehensive alcohol and drug addiction recovery centers.

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The benefits of using a comprehensive program for substance abuse recovery are that you will receive complete detoxification from your substance abuse, and learn new life skills that can enable you to get ahead in your life – fulfill your goals, your ambitions – with confidence and contentment.

Graduates of comprehensive programs are seen by others in the community to be valued and worthy citizens. Comprehensive substance abuse programs help you to regain self respect. Graduates also find that they can handle and resolve family issues and problems based on feelings of confidence, are able to speak their mind and make their needs known to others.

Communication is the key to better relationships and self esteem - and helps people to bring an end to feelings of depression and anxiety about conditions in their life.

Getting past the post Christmas blues is easier when you have hope of a better life ahead of you – comprehensive substance abuse counselors can help you to find the way to happiness, and a brand new future in the year 2012.

Of the many articles written under the banner - The Myth of Self Esteem -there does not appear to be a single one that actually argues in fact, that self esteem does not exist, that it is a myth.

The articles would appear to be trying to say something about self esteem – what it is, what it is not, but no author has yet accomplished any type of review that knocks self esteem on the head, condemning it as a myth.

Self esteem can be defined in very many ways. Possibly everyone who tries to define it will have their own unique way of expressing what the concept means to them. It is easy to play with words, miss the wood for the trees, and declare self esteem to be myth.

People might use words like  “contentment”, “confidence” and “feeling positive” to convey to others the “feeling” of what self esteem means to them. These are all aspects of what it means to have self esteem – to have feelings of positive regard when thinking about that person that we think of as being “me”.

When it comes to the issue of substance abuse – it is not possible to have, at the same time, a desire to administer a potentially toxic substance to yourself, and to also have positive self esteem. It is similarly not consistent with having positive regard for yourself, that you would deliberately prevent yourself from taking in the nurture and support that you need, from your environment. People who engage with, in a negative or positive way, activities that are self harming, are to some extent lacking in self esteem.

People confuse having a sense of entitlement with narcissistic desire – when having a sense of entitlement means only that each one of us has the right, to live our life in peace, given that we are, at the same time, paying due respect to that entitlement in other people.

Each one of us knows when we have good self esteem, we don’t feel in need of anything more from anyone else, to support our mood of optimism, nor do we feel depleted by negativity in our environment. We are in equilibrium – not needy for any particular thing, not needing to assert ourselves, or to make demands of others.

Having good self esteem does not imply that we think we are perfect – however, we are accepting of ourselves as we are in the moment.

People with problems of substance abuse take themselves to a substance abuse counselor, for advice and help. Some people might say to their counselor that they feel a lack of self esteem – that they want some help with that.

Probably the reason why some authors think that self esteem is a myth, is that you can’t order it in by mail, can’t sprinkle it out of a bottle, apply it like a lotion, and immediately “feel better”.

When people use various methods and techniques for the specific purpose of creating self esteem, such methods are virtually doomed to fail.

Methods and courses that enhance self esteem in fact consist of projects, that taken together by the student start to become more than the sum of the parts. This known as synergy

Improved health means improved alertness, and an ability to see better solutions to old problems. Better digestion and nutrition means less nervous strain and irritability – more capacity relax that in turn promotes increased health.

Also we need to learn how to deal with and neutralize the pressures that society and families often bring to bear on people. People with anxiety, depression, who are into substance abuse feel drained of energy and suffer low self esteem because they haven’t got the experience, the skill to effectively stand up for themselves, in many social situations.

Self esteem is not about winning but about being comfortable with yourself regardless of social outcomes. Having a good sense of self esteem means that you don’t ever need to cause harm to others, or to yourself in futile attempts to gain self respect in inappropriate ways.

Having self esteem is a feeling of empowerment and potential, a place of equilibrium, from which genuine choices can be made, without obsession, compulsion or greed.

Self esteem is no myth – it is the cornerstone of a contented, healthy productive life – and living a healthy, productive life is the best thing ever to help maintain a strong sense of self esteem.

We are all born with a healthy dose of self love, or infantile narcissism – it can take a battering during our formative years, leading to substance abuse.

Regaining self esteem using comprehensive programs is like regaining the optimism and trust of a child, with the maturity and wisdom of an adult.

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Graduates of comprehensive programs for substance abuse recovery

regain their self esteem,

have a new willingness to venture out – and take their place in the world.

There is widespread interest in and support for new methods of delivery for cognitive behavioral therapy. In substance abuse counseling use is now being made of modern computer technology. The use of computers in the therapy is said to significantly reduce the incidence of substance abuse in regular users, to reduce the incidence of relapse.

As psychologist Kathleen M Carroll PhD of Yale University says – if this were a medication – it would be big news. It is perhaps true that developments in medication technology do tend to hog the limelight – despite being less than efficacious to bring about that freedom from drug use, that unfettered sense of self esteem and well being that substance abusers ultimately crave.

While we remain attached to models of substance abuse recovery that are dependent upon continued drug administration, it would appear to put substance abusing clients somewhat behind the eight ball in terms of their personal freedom of choice, and for complete substance abuse recovery.

Carroll and her associates have now developed CBT4CBT – computer based technology for cognitive behavioral therapy. Essentially computerized programs have been developed to ensure that substance abusing clients receive authentic CBT therapies via the medium of a computer.

Use is made of entertaining and interactive graphics, games, assignments, film clips. Each of seven modules focuses upon a particular skill such as avoiding risky situations, dealing with cravings, and negotiating tough decisions.

In a 2008 study with 77 patients, 53% of group that was treated as usual had relapsed, used drugs when next tested in the survey, compared with only 34% of those patients treated with CTB4CTB as well as traditional CTB therapy.

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In another application, in early 2011, there has been a pilot study to test whether using a smartphone can help recovering alcoholics. The application is called Addiction-Chess or A-CHESS.

Like CBT4CBT, A-CHESS is  intended to be used in conjunction with traditional CBT therapy,

A-CHESS would provide constant access to support from a counselor, provide other supportive functions similar to those of the CTB4CTB system, plus has a panic button that will perform the function of a “rescue remedy” by playing into whatever an alcoholic might need to hear, in the moment of temptation, to keep him off the drink.

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Drug courts are interested in the A-CHESS smartphone application for drug offenders, and it might also have implications for people who suffer from chronic disease.

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These new “extensions” to the arsenal of traditional substance abuse “treatments” that are already available for substance abusing clients, at first appear to be impressive.

The question is whether they actually provide anything new, and beneficial to the client.

It is commendable to have a place of contact to which patients can “reach out in times of risk”, however if the intention of the treatment is addiction free recovery – both of these externalized “support systems” are an impediment to that.

Someone who is using maintenance drugs, who does “homework” using his CTB4CTB program, with further support on his smartphone, might end up reliant upon these initiatives, rather than becoming independent of ongoing assistance.

It is often considered that good boundaries make for good counseling. It is easy to take on the role of “earth mother” when dealing with people who have dependency issues.

Substance abuse counselors who strive to try and save their clients from harm, collude with their dependency needs perhaps with an unconscious intention to be “needed” by the patient.

Maintenance drugs support a similar role, as do these applications – the patients are said to “love them”.

After a while the novel becomes familiar and perhaps loses both its entertainment and impact value. It seems that the intention is more about keeping the patient “happy” and under control, than allowing the patient to develop the internalized values and strengths that permit true independence, upon which ultimately complete addiction recovery depends.

Ideally, substance abuse counseling methods need to provide the tools  - leaving a clear boundary between the counselor and the client when the client is out there on their own. It is very much a confusion of boundaries, and does not allow the client the space and opportunity to begin to be his own person.

Much of the mental distress, anxiety and overload that people face today have their essential roots in boundary violations and intrusions, that ideally should be minimized rather than encouraged. Patients will have an uphill battle learning to trust and rely on themselves if support is too forthcoming.

Comprehensive alcohol and drug addiction recovery models provide in depth solutions to deep seated emotional and cognitive issues that substance abusers have – no quick fixes, or rescue remedies – comprehensive treatment programs maintain clear boundaries, give adequate support – people leave the programs ready and able to stand on their own two feet.

Drug addiction recovery is a serious matter. People who involve themselves in it  – need to get it right – so that addiction recovery happens.

With comprehensive recovery there are no lingering triggers, or sudden cravings – because the process of addiction recovery has been thorough, complete and effective.

The fundamental change in a person that means complete freedom from future relapse, and all dependency issues comes with being provided with adequate tools, and emotional support.

Students on comprehensive programs are no longer a substance or process abuser. They use the program to become completely addiction free. Graduates are completely independent of their tutor – the comprehensive substance abuse counselor, free of the need for drug support with no need of electronic devices.

The Canadian Center on Substance Abuse (CCSA) sets out a series of key questions to ask your substance abuse counselor about the treatment that he is able to provide to you, for substance abuse and addiction recovery.

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When you want to use a comprehensive substance abuse counselor for assistance with substance abuse recovery, you will find that substance abuse counselors who are accredited to the international Narconon group meet all of the CCSA criteria for professional and effective intervention and substance abuse treatment and recovery.

In answer to all key questions - Narconon substance abuse counseling goes the extra mile. You can optimize your chances of complete substance abuse and addiction recovery when you make Narconon your comprehensive treatment provider for complete substance abuse recovery.

At Narconon everyone intending to use the substance abuse program receives a comprehensive, standardized assessment, including individual examination by a medical doctor to determine and assess any special considerations that need to be addressed before people begin the Narconon program. Narconon programs at all times prioritize the health, safety and welfare of students on the program.

At Narconon when it comes to detox – you begin to see the difference between a natural, comprehensive substance abuse program and what is available from traditional mainstream providers.

Narconon uses a no drugs approach at all stages of the program – natural methods of pain relief are available during detox, complete with natural supplements of vitamins and minerals that promote immediate and effective healing. Your counselor is available 24/7 when using Narconon detox – to monitor and address any issues as they arise.

Narconon uses the Hubbard method for complete detoxification of the human body from any toxins and drug residues that are present in the system. Using the world renowned sauna treatment over a period of weeks – all toxic substances are safely and completely removed from body tissues. Sauna detox is the effective way to completely overcome physical drug dependence and continued cravings.

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Narconon recommends a residential setting if at all possible for recovering substance abusers as this optimizes recovery outcomes. Each person on a Narconon residential program is able to immerse themselves completely into an environment that provides complete and holistic support – taking from the program precisely what they need in order to recover from their substance abuse.

Narconon students receive support and structure – however rather than being “stabilized” it would be more correct to say – energized and empowered towards the goal of substance abuse recovery.

Narconon International recognizes that when it comes to fundamental human values and needs – all people are the same – no matter what their politics, religion or creed. Narconon programs transcend the issues that plague dealing with diversity and treat every student as a unique and valued individual with respect for their cultural identity.

Narconon sees the primary objective of substance abuse recovery as being to achieve for each student – complete substance abuse recovery. Graduates are empowered to use the skills that they acquire by using the program to go out with confidence and self esteem to make their way in the world.

In a holistic sense the Narconon program addresses at a very fundamental level all of the issues that a person might face both during and after their recovery. Physical, mental, emotional and social issues faced by the client are comprehensively addressed and resolved by using the Narconon program.

Narconon programs include family counseling and support so as to meet the goal of re-empowering the family structure within modern communities.

When it comes to teaching skills and techniques for self improvement – Narconon substance abuse counseling excels – Narconon new life coursework is at the core of its success. More than coping and dealing with ongoing issues related to substance abuse, graduates of the Narconon program have put drug use firmly behind them.

Narconon graduates no longer have issues about cravings and “triggers” for drug use, they are fully prepared to go back to their communities and their families as confident, productive and happy people – ready to make a new start.

True freedom from issues of the past are achieved when people use the thorough approach provided by the Narconon course of comprehensive training routines.

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All Narconon students are continuously and professionally assessed until it is determined that they have recovered completely from their substance abuse and addiction.  Each part of the program is worked on until the student achieves success.

Narconon in the strictest sense does not provide follow up or after care treatment – graduates simply don’t need it. However if any part of the program has not been fully worked through this may show up later as a difficulty or lack of resilience in the client.

Narconon graduates should not have any ongoing difficulties with substance abuse, but if they have problems they can return at any time and for as long as is needed to work on their particular issues – however Narconon is pleased to say – most students “get it” the first time, and achieve complete substance abuse and addiction recovery.

As we approach yet another New Year – and look forward to a new future – if you are into substance abuse it is a good time to consider your options. Substance abuse can be overcome – effectively and completely by using a Narconon program.

People with substance abuse problems and issues are encouraged to contact Narconon – to start a substance abuse program that will enable them  to make the year 2012 the year in which they put behind them their substance abuse – and started a new life.