tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2211012787973010032012-01-20T20:24:45.458-08:00Welcome fellow Adult Children of Alcoholics and Dysfunctional Families. Please feel free to post your comments.<br><br>Cnoreply@blogger.comBlogger1341100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-28750788061838856232012-01-17T13:28:00.000-08:002012-01-17T13:33:10.515-08:00

Members of Adult Children of Alcoholics and Dysfunctional Families 12 step groups often rely on a "higher power" for help. Sometimes people confuse this with with a requirement that they believe in God or follow some religious doctrine. This may be because the word "God" is sprinkled throughout the 12 Steps. "God" in this case, is an umbrella term representing a higher power that can be the

Cnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-36328403902132816912011-12-27T17:02:00.000-08:002011-12-27T17:03:05.983-08:00

Setting and keeping good boundaries can often be difficult for adult children of alcoholics and those from dysfunctional families. Below, Dr. Henry Cloud weighs in on how boundaries help keep us safe. Relationship Boundaries Why Are Boundaries Important? What's The Difference Between A Boundary And A Defense Mechanism? Check out the Orange County ACA website at: Orange County Adult

Cnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-10241660442740539762011-12-06T15:21:00.000-08:002011-12-27T09:58:22.137-08:00

The very cause of our problems is also the thing that often prevents us from confronting and eventually, overcoming them. This is because confronting our buried emotional past is a scary, painful thing. In fact, as children the act of denying our situation became critical to our very survival. The "amnesia" that protected us as children becomes a huge hindrance to us as adults. As a result we

Cnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-13418475181727229262011-11-15T16:21:00.000-08:002011-12-27T09:57:03.866-08:00

Why am I here? What is my purpose? If you find yourself asking these questions, it may be a clue that you are not yet on the right path. America’s #1 Success Coach, Jack Canfield, Co-author of the best-selling Chicken Soup for the Soul series offers to help people find greater success and happiness fulfill their life purpose. "Each person has a life purpose unique to them, and ideally they

Cnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-73122473846495152782011-10-25T16:06:00.000-07:002011-10-25T16:12:01.454-07:00

Some recent, bravely revealing "shares" from adult children of alcoholics/dysfunctional parents on Youtube. These people chose not to remain anonymous and post these videos for the world to see, in the hopes they can be of help to others. Thanos Katie Phillip Check out the Orange County ACA website at: Orange County Adult Children

Cnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-19068802885900805252011-10-11T17:03:00.000-07:002011-10-11T17:03:01.585-07:00

"We cannot change anything until we accept it. Condemnation does not liberate, it oppresses." ~Carl Jung Reprinted from: http://www.e-self-help.com/adult-children-in-alcoholics/ The process for letting go of a childhood where a person had one or more alcoholic parents varies from person to person. Some individuals bounce back with a resilience that seems to come from nowhere. Others require

Cnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-80115850640746046212011-09-20T16:33:00.000-07:002011-09-20T16:37:17.518-07:00

The "Adult Children Of Alcoholics" title can be a bit of a misnomer. It is a blanket term that includes those who suffered abuse or neglect even though their parents didn't drink. The cause of the trauma matters not. Everyone who suffered from dysfunctional parenting is welcomed into the fellowship of ACA with open arms. My fear is that some of these people may never make it to an ACA

Cnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-33440900922052310132011-08-09T14:54:00.000-07:002011-08-10T10:47:09.257-07:00

Stefan Molyneaux explains how the neurobiology of the brain is adversely affected by childhood abuse, adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and even having an insecure attachment to one's mother. There is a clear correlation and an actual biological cause and effect between early trauma and behavior later in life. The Amygdala (Fear Center) may be overreactive while the prefrontal cortex (

Cnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-83127167672313016362011-07-25T10:51:00.000-07:002011-07-26T09:12:56.232-07:00

The ACE Study is perhaps the largest scientific research study of its kind, analyzing the relationship between multiple categories of childhood trauma and health and behavioral outcomes later in life. Beginning in 1992, over 17,000 people participated in this comprehensive, ongoing collaboration between the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Kaiser Permanente. An Adverse Childhood

Cnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-26778210962935807342011-07-19T11:38:00.000-07:002011-07-19T11:38:46.897-07:00

Free Download: Native American Flute Lullabies Meditation relieves stress as does music. Here's a whole album of chilled out grooves to download for FREE and relax to. Features ethereal flutes, guitars and nature sounds. Click here for the free download: Native American Flute Lullabies Happy Listening! May only be available for a limited time. Check out the Orange County ACA website at:

Cnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-85552863095437759262011-07-12T12:14:00.000-07:002011-07-12T12:14:38.748-07:00

According to GettingThemSober.com: 46% of American households have alcoholism. Wow, almost HALF by their count. 75-80% of helping professionals in the U.S. under the age of 55 are adult children of alcoholics and 60% of physicians (who are U.S.-born) under the age of 55 are first-born children of alcoholics. 83% of nurses are adult children of alcoholics. This is a staggeringly high

Cnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-85057588800462225782011-06-21T13:59:00.000-07:002011-07-12T12:15:05.794-07:00

Dr. Janet Woititz was one of the founders of the ACA movement. She wrote many popular books on adult children of alcoholics and was a tireless proponent for recovery. The following are sample archival videos of a presentation she gave on ACA behavior, low self esteem and how to build it up: #3 Check out the Orange County ACA website at: Orange County Adult Children

Cnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-81960999543119388772011-06-07T11:16:00.000-07:002011-06-07T11:27:29.155-07:00

"I Feel Like I Did Something Wrong." According to Therapist Donna M. Torbico, the issue for most Adult Children Of Alcoholics is "that we feel guilty about things that are not actually bad - like having needs, or emotions!" The way to free ourselves is to: 1. Identify the toxic rules that were internalized as kids. Rules we still live by. Example: You may feel bad for "making people angry",

Cnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-88297454017954627222011-05-17T14:48:00.000-07:002011-05-17T14:55:23.113-07:00

Adult Children Of Alcoholics often have stress and may have a hard time dealing with it. Here is a natural supplement that can help. L-theanine is an amino acid found in green tea and other natural substances. According to Dr. John Gray, Ph.D, "Japanese monks consumed special, L-theanine rich tea in order to enhance their experience of meditation." L-theanine is known to help calm anxiety or

Cnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-52778829819648066722011-04-26T17:02:00.000-07:002011-04-26T17:03:27.950-07:00

In 1997, The ACE Study (Adverse Childhood Experiences) revealed that unresolved childhood trauma can lead to higher incidence of chronic diseases including depression, heart disease, pulmonary disease, substance abuse, suicide attempts, impairment of health and social well being and even early death. New research corroborates that the trauma adult children of alcoholics experienced can have a

Cnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-32635792128150904092011-04-12T13:57:00.000-07:002011-04-14T11:49:43.379-07:00

Many adult children of alcoholics/ dysfunctional families learned to deny and block painful feelings as a means of survival. But those feelings don't just go away. They continue to affect us as adults and influence our behavior, health, success and ability to be happy. Symptoms may include depression, anger, addictions and pain. "America's leading growth expert", John Bradshaw, explains how

Cnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-5454134532154571172011-03-22T11:15:00.000-07:002011-03-22T11:16:21.400-07:00

Relaxing can sometimes be a challenge for ACAs. Adult children of alcoholics have a higher incidence of anxiety, eating disorders, over-achieving and other forms of compulsive behavior. They may be more susceptible to chronic diseases including depression and heart disease. Listening to music has been found to increase serotonin levels and reduce heart rates. According to the American Society

Cnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-64450802090245921702011-03-15T09:54:00.000-07:002011-03-15T09:55:10.820-07:00

Busy? Stressed? Frantically trying to catch up? Adult children of alcoholics tend to take on too much responsibility, overwork and put lots of pressure on themselves. Pressure like that can seriously affect your blood pressure, hormone levels, mood and mental health. You may need to relax. See if you can pass this simple test: Click here: Relaxation Test Can you make it to the two minute

Cnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-39714146009182586722011-02-15T10:29:00.000-08:002011-02-17T14:54:32.314-08:00

Breaking the cycle: Children of alcoholics: MyFoxBOSTON.com In honor of National Children of Alcoholics Week, "Together We Heal" is being offered as a free e-book download! This insightful book follows several ACOAs through their group therapy sessions with author Szifra Birke. You may benefit from their breakthroughs and growth and find connections to your own life. From the book: "The

Cnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-62480198299170145242011-02-08T17:26:00.000-08:002011-02-08T17:26:52.470-08:00

Struggling To Keep Everyone Happy I heard it said the other day, "'no' is a complete sentence". The point being that you do not have to explain or make others understand why you can't or don't want to do something. Often, codependency dictates that we make it alright and try to soothe disappointed feelings when we cannot live up to others' expectations. In fact, "emotional vampires" may use

Cnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-41667170527096065322011-01-11T15:47:00.000-08:002011-01-11T15:49:35.263-08:00

The Karpman Drama Triangle is being played out on reality tv shows, in movie and tv programs and in everyday lives. Sometimes this triangle appears inverted with the Victim at the bottom but the dynamics remain the same. The result of getting stuck in this triangle either as a Victim, Rescuer or Persecutor is avoiding feeling and revealing your true feelings. The way out of the triangle is to

Cnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-83645064681310165552010-12-14T09:47:00.000-08:002010-12-14T09:49:01.485-08:00

"I hurt myself today To see if I still feel I focus on the pain The only thing that's real The needle tears a hole The old familiar sting Try to kill it all away But I remember, everything"- Trent Reznor Artcle adapted from: http://www.articlesbase.com/addictions-articles/beyond-sobriety-3416049.html by D. Lynn Blanchard A person who has a drug, alcohol, food addiction, anger addiction

Cnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-65646726687473493492010-11-23T13:58:00.000-08:002010-11-23T13:59:53.194-08:00

From http://hubpages.com/hub/What-if-Glenn-Beck-is-right "The fact is we have some 15 million people in this country being treated for alcoholism at any given time. We have some 5 million being treated for drug addiction. We have by most accounts probably double those numbers of people that are addicts that are not seeking treatment yet for various reasons. Do the math! That is some 50 million

Cnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-3333289638032414762010-11-09T09:31:00.000-08:002010-11-10T11:25:27.262-08:00

The following video is a humorous illustration of the Judgmental Parent/Wounded Child dynamic. This now famous Geico commercial features a vulnerable client trying to express his inner pain to an unsympathetic therapist. Many adult children of alcoholics find themselves locked into one or both sides of this equation at different times. They even hold both perspectives internally at the same

Cnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-58659425051804406552010-10-18T13:05:00.000-07:002010-10-18T13:08:16.467-07:00

Interesting history and definitions of the "Inner Child" as a healing concept. "The Twelve-step program recovery movement considers healing the inner child to be one of the essential stages in recovery from addiction, abuse, trauma, or post-traumatic stress disorder." More here: Inner Child Enterprises: About the Inner Child Check out the Orange County ACA website at: Orange County Adult

Cnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-72839492514641797582010-10-05T10:02:00.000-07:002010-10-05T10:06:27.847-07:00

Self hate is something many ACAs struggle with. After being victimized by others when we were young, we often carry our own persecution forward. If you believed you were ACTUALLY bad, THAT gave you your only sense of control in an otherwise out of control, painful upbringing. Believing the LIE that you are bad allows you to distance yourself from the pain and live with the illusion that you

Cnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-3442157623233557582010-09-14T14:08:00.000-07:002011-08-11T09:10:42.938-07:00

At Adult Children Of Alcoholics meetings and in ACA books we learn that we need to become out own loving parents. The ACA Solution states: "We learn to reparent ourselves with gentleness, humor, love and respect." and "You will take responsibility for your own life and supply your own parenting." But beyond these lofty goals there is not a lot of explanation of the mechanics of how this

Cnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-78208382537659558702010-09-12T12:13:00.000-07:002010-09-12T12:23:11.609-07:00

Manipulative and Coercive Psychology: Rules of Order in Crazy-Making Families by Rodger ...: "Initially trained more than 30 years ago to be a cult deprogrammer, I have been struck again and again since being trained in family therapy..." Eye opening post about dysfunctional family dynamics, their symptoms and affects: Role Reversal, Phony Communication, Boundary Jumping and Victimization

Cnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-77207711596730835332010-08-24T12:17:00.000-07:002010-08-24T13:47:10.690-07:00

Click Here For The Free Meditation Download- First Step (guided Meditation)- Gary Guthrie Whether you are seeking "through prayer and meditation to improve your conscious contact with God" or just need to relax, this guided meditation is currently available as a free download from Amazon.com. It is called "First Step" but for Adult Children Of Alcoholics it helps work Step 11. A soothing

Cnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-87547847906306728802010-08-10T14:57:00.000-07:002010-08-10T15:03:02.851-07:00

According to a recent US News & World Report, having an alcoholic parent, especially a mother, is more difficult for girls. A Yale University study found female adult children of alcoholic mothers at higher risk of developing psychiatric illness later in life than their male counterparts. Study author Peter T. Morgan, an associate professor of psychiatry at Yale, said, "The key, new finding of

Cnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-74571463970987778922010-07-20T15:13:00.000-07:002010-07-20T15:15:01.508-07:00

Have you ever experienced intense feelings yet could not identify their source? Many Adult Children of Alcoholics have trouble knowing not only what they feel but WHY they feel certain emotions. The answer may lie in your past. A current situation that triggers a powerful reaction most likely is tied to an old feeling. This feeling may have become almost like an instinct. It has become

Cnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-38530899809265813762010-07-06T11:13:00.000-07:002010-07-06T11:14:04.729-07:00

This is Roy's story as told by Roy himself. It's the story of one man's experience as an ACOA growing up in a dysfunctional family. It's as inspiring as it is courageous. Roy shares his difficulties and pain without judging or blaming. Just matter of fact sharing in the hopes that it may help other Adult Children Of Alcoholics. I don't know if Roy will ever read this but I want to thank him

Cnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-63174591953897816932010-06-15T12:35:00.000-07:002010-06-15T12:55:49.443-07:00

From http://newlife.com/10-myths-about-children-of-alcoholics/ 1. You should forget the past and only focus on today. One of the survival tools learned by children of alcoholics is denial. You need to honestly examine the past to gain insight into the present. Recovery involves looking at today and yesterday. 2. Change must be immediate. For most, the process of healing is gradual. Believing

Cnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-957958042363761672010-06-01T14:14:00.000-07:002010-06-01T14:33:30.511-07:00

Music has been used as therapy for seizures, high blood pressure, ADD, mental illness, depression, stress and insomnia. Since many of these symptoms are common in adult children of alcoholics, I was excited to find a source of relaxing music that anyone can access for free (see below). Musicologist Julius Portnoy found that music can change metabolic rates, increase or decrease blood pressure,

Cnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-80760983054332828632010-05-11T15:06:00.000-07:002010-05-12T14:01:19.032-07:00

Adult Children Of Alcoholics are likely to fall prey to depression at one time or another. Newly uncovered evidence indicates that people with depression do NOT have low levels of serotonin! And the most effective treatment for depression costs nothing but the drug companies will not tell you about it. In the video below, Dr. Mercola interviews Pulitzer Prize nominee Robert Whitaker. Whitaker is

Cnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-31631508871884784312010-04-27T12:38:00.000-07:002010-04-27T12:43:48.130-07:00

Adult children of alcoholics often have difficulty realizing and expressing their emotions. The following test was designed as a measuring stick for progress in this area. From: http://recoveryissexy.com/emotional-communication/ -Test Your Emotional Communication Intelligence- Answer “usually,” “occasionally” or “rarely” to the following questions: I ____________ sustain eye contact when

Cnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-46336460904182222822010-04-13T18:16:00.000-07:002010-04-13T18:22:34.029-07:00

The last in a series of 12 Step videos. Few sources of online video explain the 12 Steps in depth for Adult Children of Alcoholics and others seeking help. Although these are just one man's opinion, may you find knowledge in them. Step 10- Step 11- Step 12- Check out the Orange County ACA website at: Orange County Adult Children

Cnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-39804365397871932402010-03-23T12:23:00.000-07:002010-03-23T12:35:33.533-07:00

Narcissism- 1. inordinate fascination with oneself; excessive self-love; vanity. 2. being a normal condition at the infantile level of personality development. From Psychology Today.com- Marisa Mauro, Psy.D. reviews the book, The Narcissistic Family: Diagnosis and Treatment by Stephanie Donaldson-Pressman and Robert M. Pressman. "In narcissistic families, this basic goal becomes skewed and

Cnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-73902225952837658422010-03-02T11:24:00.000-08:002010-03-02T11:25:33.980-08:00

Steps 7, 8 & 9 in a continuing series of 12 Step videos. Originally created for AA, these also apply to adult children of alcoholics in need of recovery. Video: Step 7 Of The 12 Steps: Humbly asked God to remove our shortcomings Video: Step 8 Of The 12 Steps: Made a list of all persons we had harmed and became willing to make amends to them all Video: Step 9 Of The 12 Steps: Made

Cnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-89990048221310838742010-02-16T12:28:00.000-08:002010-02-16T12:36:37.668-08:00

The subject of Sponsorship in ACA/ ACOA has long been debated. Many feel Sponsorship would quickly lead to a repetition of the pattern of codependency- with the Sponsor at risk of taking on other's problems while ignoring their own. The propensity of adult children of alcoholics to quickly fall into this trap is one reason some believe Sponsorship can be a potential obstacle to personal

Cnoreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-28092454696355673972010-01-26T08:59:00.000-08:002010-01-26T09:00:35.735-08:00

The response to the first series of Twelve Step videos (Steps 1, 2 & 3) has been wonderful. Keep in mind these are just one personal interpretation of The 12 Steps. Although these are from an AA perspective, the same principals apply to adult children of alcoholics and those from otherwise dysfunctional families. May you continue to find value in them! Step 4- Made a searching and fearless

Cnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-20055982274643557072010-01-12T10:32:00.000-08:002010-01-12T10:33:51.218-08:00

Twelve Step Videos- One man's interpretation of The 12 Steps. An Informative and articulate explanation of the principles of recovery. Step 1: We Admitted We Were Powerless Step 2: Came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity. Step 3: Made a decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God as we understood God. Check out the Orange

Cnoreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-79272426690080793912009-12-22T08:52:00.000-08:002009-12-22T08:53:17.056-08:00

I really get a lot out of seeing the "Laundry List" in an alternative interpretation. A different wording adds a new perspective and fresh understanding. This author has embellished and added a bit to the standard list of characteristics. Nice to see that long held dogmas, much like ourselves, can evolve, change and improve. The following was excerpted from "A Primer on Adult Children of

Cnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-4628610631685518252009-12-01T13:47:00.000-08:002009-12-01T13:53:39.032-08:00

As an ACA I am prone to ignoring my needs and denying feelings. But deep down, I NEED to FEEL positive, encouraged and hopeful. I recently found some Youtube messages to help nurture and feed my inner child. The first video is a spoken word affirmation and the 3 following videos are non verbal text only. Thanks to those who took the time to create and uploaded them. Check out the

Cnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-46389937991032040482009-11-17T11:27:00.000-08:002009-11-17T11:29:55.377-08:00

Adult Children of Alcoholics and those from dysfunctional families often struggle with forgiving the wrongs of the past. I've heard it said that "Forgiveness means giving up all hope of having a better past." To me this means that although wrongs were done, I no longer seek revenge or hold anger about them. I am free to live without the bondage of past injustices. This frees me to forgive

Cnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-4925187126134516072009-11-03T08:59:00.000-08:002009-11-03T09:06:03.482-08:00

"The first step toward acceptance is denial." What? Had to reread this a couple of times before it made sense. I had always relegated denial to a negative, useless place where people hid from the truth. I thought insulating with denial was a backwards move. It was my enemy. The rest of this quote helped me understand: "The first step toward moving through denial is accepting that we may be

Cnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-90851737028931433392009-10-13T09:49:00.000-07:002009-10-13T10:00:35.924-07:00

Jim Carrey on Eckhart Tolle: Eckhart Tolle first gained attention as a spiritual teacher with his 1997 book, "The Power of Now". In 2008, Oprah Winfrey chose his follow-up work, "A New Earth", for her book club. Her 10-week online seminar with Tolle has since been downloaded 27 million times. Listen to a fascinating interview with Eckhart Tolle- Adult children of alcoholics can be prone

Cnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-31485217159403797662009-09-29T10:27:00.000-07:002009-09-29T10:29:54.590-07:00

Many adult children of alcoholics have heard "The Promises" of ACA recovery. If you haven't or if it's been a while, someone was kind enough to post a creative video of them on Youtube as seen below. The ACA Promises Check out the Orange County ACA website at: Orange County Adult Children

Cnoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-16495040717952574492009-09-09T08:20:00.000-07:002009-09-09T08:22:10.292-07:00

Some Q&A with addiction expert, Dr. Drew Pinsky: Dr. Drew on celebrity addiction: Recovery Radio: Check out "Recovery Advocates" Sunday night 10pm till midnight. Host Peter Tilden with Dr. David A. Kipper & Stuart Birnbaum on AM radio KABC 790. Listen on your computer here: "Recovery Advocates" Check out the Orange County ACA website at: Orange County Adult Children

Cnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-91909420740310007092009-08-25T09:28:00.000-07:002009-08-25T12:44:08.977-07:00

Is some part of you hidden, locked away in a "safe" place and never to be released? In Dr. John Townsend's book, "Hiding From Love", he describes the hiding patterns that, as children, protected us. Patterns that now imprison us as adults, keeping us from finding the healing we need and enjoying the intimacy we deserve. Townsend explains that, when people are damaged by overwhelming

Cnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-78119839310519835712009-08-12T11:27:00.000-07:002009-08-13T16:23:59.604-07:00

We hear and see it all the time in ACA/ACOA meetings and literature: "The first step is coming out of isolation". This sentiment is now being echoed by those studying overcoming adversity and increasing "resilience".A recent article from psychologytoday.com suggests that regardless of your past or your genetic ability to handle stress, anyone can cultivate resilience. Psychiatrist Steven Wolin,

Cnoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-55518552680253746182009-07-20T15:34:00.000-07:002009-07-24T10:24:05.928-07:00

Dr. Tian Dayton On Emotional SobrietyAccording to Dr. Dayton, emotions are processed by the limbic brain system- our “emotional brain”. Our cortex- "thinking brain", tends to shut down when we get scared but our emotional or limbic brain keeps operating. The emotional "animal" brain takes over. In this moment we can lose our ability think clearly, to reflect on and make sense out of what we're

Cnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-86376652007259863232009-07-07T14:02:00.000-07:002009-07-07T14:03:45.461-07:00

Raised by an abusive father who demanded perfection, Michael Jackson grew up to become one the world's most popular dysfunctional people. His story and tragic death, allegedly brought on by drug abuse, illustrates how untreated personal issues can grow from hidden pain to eventually become an "unmanageable" life and a shortened life span.Michael's pathology became visible when he began engaging

Cnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-54237429318212808832009-06-22T10:28:00.000-07:002009-06-22T10:37:22.433-07:00

Loving Kindness Meditation (3 Min.): Many people know that the 11th Step encourages us to "improve our conscious contact" with our higher power. With today's hectic schedules, hours and days can quickly rush by before we realize we have been neglecting ourselves and haven't taken the time to meditate. Here is a "mindfulness" website that may help. It offers free, guided meditations you can

Cnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-50206287678547057642009-06-09T16:40:00.000-07:002009-06-09T16:47:23.287-07:00

Serotonin and dopamine are the "feel good" substances secreted by your brain. Even though you only have about 10 milligrams of serotonin, it is involved in many body processes including appetite, sleep, mood, memory, learning, endocrine regulation, smooth muscle contractions, migraine headaches, etc. Serotonin is boosted by certain foods and activities. It has been noted that addicts in recovery

Cnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-64480867431130811992009-05-26T10:31:00.000-07:002009-08-28T08:17:27.543-07:00

Disclaimer: Display of these videos is in no way an endorsement of their contents: I recently came across Penn & Teller's attempt to dubunk the 12 Step process. Yes, THAT Penn & Teller- the team of two contrasting magicians (the little guy who is silent and the big guy who won't shut up.) These "12-Stepping" videos are part of their "Bullsh*t!" Showtime series and have surfaced on Youtube

Cnoreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-40946385135076944762009-05-12T11:49:00.000-07:002009-05-12T12:05:15.597-07:00

Overcoming Codependence:Dysfunctional Families and the Shame Cycle:Healthy Boundaries:Other interesting posts from around the web:ACOA Bloghttp://community.livejournal.com/acoa/456243.htmlOn Crosstalkhttp://www.cyberrecovery.net/forums/showthread.php?t=22337Adult Children of Alcoholics:http://www.alison-andrews.com/adult-children-of-alcoholics.htmlWhat Is A Dysfunctional Family? part 3http://

Cnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-13707877110459160322009-04-19T21:23:00.000-07:002009-04-19T21:37:13.101-07:00

Some medical experts believe "addiction is a brain disease" that should be treated with more than just rehab, therapy, 12 Step programs and meetings. According to a new CNN special, "Addiction: Life On The Edge", new, cutting edge prescription medicines are essential to defeat addiction and aid recovery. Walter Kent credits an anti-addiction pill as critical to control his alcohol cravings, Kent

Cnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-15028077960223192612009-04-07T08:08:00.000-07:002009-04-07T08:35:16.003-07:00

A new book challenges the theory that depression is genetically based and proposes childhood trauma as a leading factor.Almost 40 percent of the U.S. population suffers from some form of depression or mental illness yet the causes of mental illness remain largely a mystery. The prevailing theory sees the cause as a trans-generational genetic defect of brain chemistry, which is best treated with

Cnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-22866548544807140172009-03-24T11:25:00.000-07:002009-03-31T08:04:13.925-07:00

Those who grew up in chaotic, dysfunctional environments often have issues with control. Below is a video clip and a recent blog post on controlling behavior."We get the control back by realizing we are out of control."[Your browser does not support frames or is currently configured not to display frames. Please contact tech support if you are unable to configure your browser for frames.]If video

Cnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-19402357284024936552009-03-17T11:43:00.000-07:002009-03-17T11:45:46.862-07:00

HeathyPlace.com offers a collection of self help videos and articles for Depression, Bipolar, Anxiety, ADHD, Addictions and more:http://healthyplace.com/mental-health-videos/Here is a video on how to use "tapping" to help depression:Check out the Orange County ACA website at: Orange County Adult Children

Cnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-43752030051492343312009-02-24T11:07:00.000-08:002009-02-24T11:47:47.061-08:00

According to http://www.abandonment.net/:Abandoholism is similar to the other ‘oholisms, but instead of being addicted to a substance, you’re addicted to the emotional drama of heartbreak. You pursue hard-to-get partners to keep the romantic intensity going, and to keep your body’s love-chemicals and stress hormones flowing. You are addicted to the high stakes drama of an emotional challenge and

Cnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-4751354259330662552009-02-10T12:55:00.000-08:002009-02-10T13:09:08.649-08:00

An article in PSYCHOLOGY TODAY on Adult Children of Alcoholics states, "Parents inflict so much pain on their families, they teach their children to suppress their emotions just to survive."- Stephanie Brown, founder of the Alcohol Clinic at Stanford Medical Center."Since the children are inculcated to deny the reality around them, they develop a resistance to talking about urgent, important, or

Cnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-63990004410273230342009-01-27T16:33:00.000-08:002009-01-27T16:48:42.680-08:00

These video solutions from Dr. John Townsend and Dr. Henry Cloud address dealing with addicts, anger and the benefits of joining a healthy group for recovery.How do I decide what is helpful and what is enabling regarding addicts?[Your browser does not support frames or is currently configured not to display frames. Please contact tech support if you are unable to configure your browser for frames

Cnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-50401311337623773642009-01-13T12:46:00.000-08:002009-01-13T13:08:11.475-08:00

"We became addicted to excitement in all our affairs, preferring constant upset to workable relationships".The Operational Statement Of The Problem explains the mechanics of addiction to conflict:This addiction to excitement can be seen as an internal addiction to conflict. A continuously repeating cycle of alarm and collapse or "fight, flight and exhaustion".Children learn that they can pull

Cnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-88811707076813501082009-01-06T09:16:00.000-08:002009-01-06T09:23:25.154-08:00

Life can sometimes be difficult. For those from dysfunctional families, there can be added disadvantages. As ACA/ACOAs, there are four interrelated axioms that conspire against us when it comes to being successful in life. You may have overlooked how they work together to cause you distress and an inability to get what you want.1. How Are Your Neurons?The offspring of those with addictive

Cnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-31300869532195641292008-12-23T10:12:00.000-08:002008-12-23T10:17:21.602-08:00

When the hurts received from others reaches a point where people actually react to them, an amazingly curious thing happens: they reveal what/who is most loved, prized or precious to them:it will be the thing/person they turn against and take it out on.As a child it might manifest as tearing legs, arms and head off most fav doll, or trashing a prize airplane model, or maiming or hurting a beloved

Cnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-84231101716834183362008-12-08T08:46:00.000-08:002008-12-08T08:51:33.751-08:00

There is something of value to be found even in the worst of things. Consider the oyster. When a grain of sand penetrates an oyster's shell, it irritates the oyster, making it uncomfortable. The oyster relieves the pain by coating the sand with a soothing liquid. When this liquid hardens, a pearl is formed. The very process that healed the oyster creates a precious jewel for others to cherish and

Cnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-14711804159132709082008-11-24T13:30:00.000-08:002008-11-25T14:45:20.797-08:00

Speakers From The 22nd Annual ACA Convention Fullerton, Ca., November 7-9, 2008Recovery experts speak in front of live audiences.Click on a link and a new audio window will open:-Dr. Lucia C. "Reparenting Our Selves:Renegotiating with the InnerCritical Parent"-Don C."Completing the Circle in the Cycle of Violence"-Lesley R. "ACA in the Workplace"-Mary Cook -Dr. Lucia C. "Getting Off the Teeter

Cnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-7693267700477310112008-11-18T08:41:00.000-08:002008-11-18T10:24:44.720-08:00

From http://www.dawncoveabbey.org/healing-dysfunction/10-commands-dysfunction.htmlTen Commandments of Dysfunctional FamiliesThe First Commandment: Thou shalt reinterpret reality to preserve the perfect fantasy.Sample Situation: This commandment is designed to hide family secrets. If you saw dad stagger and fall down the basement steps because he was drunk, you can't tell the truth. Instead,

Cnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-39328163500457154802008-11-04T11:33:00.000-08:002008-11-04T11:38:50.834-08:00

Many of us are familiar with the "ACA Characteristics" or "Laundry List" of ACA behaviors.Here is a more in depth description of behaviors resulting from being brought up in a "dysfunctional family". A dysfunctional family is a family system based on "denial" or "shame-based rules" in which there is always an avoidance of confrontation and inability to resolve conflict. Codependent

Cnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-73949534407808840962008-10-21T08:32:00.000-07:002008-10-21T08:51:26.590-07:00

If you've ever dealt with dysfunction and insanity, these humorous video clips may hit home for you:Have you ever felt like this kid? I have.Albert Einstein defined insanity as "doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results." Here's a perfect example of this kind of dysfunction...How NOT to handle intimacy-Check out the Orange County ACA website at: Orange County Adult

Cnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-49671627067176658692008-10-20T18:57:00.000-07:002008-10-20T18:59:47.710-07:00

Comedian and talk show host Craig Ferguson speaks about his own sobriety and personal responsibility.Check out the Orange County ACA website at: Orange County Adult Children

Cnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-33557016476795123082008-10-14T14:26:00.000-07:002008-10-14T14:32:32.231-07:00

But "I'm not the addict!" you protest. Perhaps there is someone close to you whose addictive, abusive behavior has caused you trauma. This type of behavior can replicate itself in victims who then begin to mimic or echo the same actions.According to "The Threads Of Addiction" by James Krehbiel at www.theimproper.com/Template_Article.aspx?IssueId=6&ArticleId=2451, family members may adopt

Cnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-44121293402922385412008-09-23T14:39:00.000-07:002008-09-23T14:42:06.219-07:00

Three videos for ACAs:Do You Expect Perfection?[Your browser does not support frames or is currently configured not to display frames. Please contact tech support if you are unable to configure your browser for frames.]What Is The Best Way To Deal With Fear Of Conflict?[Your browser does not support frames or is currently configured not to display frames. Please contact tech support if you are

Cnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-27212600708498039392008-09-09T10:05:00.000-07:002008-09-09T10:11:04.525-07:00

The Link Between Early Childhood Trauma and Future AddictionMany studies have shown, the roots of addiction and substance abuse often reach much deeper than most people assume, with traumatic early childhood abuse and family dysfunction laying the foundation for more troubling behavior later in life.Vincent J. Felitti, MD, head of preventive medicine at Kaiser Permanente in San Diego, has

Cnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-31519973190865596192008-09-02T12:08:00.000-07:002008-09-02T12:10:16.351-07:00

This is simple but not easy...JUST FOR TODAYJUST FOR TODAY I will try to live through this day only and not tackle my whole life’s problems at once. I can do something for twelve hours that would appall me if I felt that I had to keep it up for a lifetime.JUST FOR TODAY I will be happy. This assumes to be true what Abraham Lincoln said, “that most folks are as happy as they make up their minds to

Cnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-67134387900587147782008-08-12T09:58:00.000-07:002008-08-12T10:05:25.822-07:00

Wayne Dyer on resentment, responsibility and love:Check out the Orange County ACA website at: Orange County Adult Children

Cnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-33203330150971129942008-08-11T16:37:00.000-07:002008-08-11T16:47:06.310-07:00

Do you focus on your flaws and failures, rather than your positive attributes and accomplishments? Low self-esteem can result in a distorted self-image that can feed depression.Most people feel bad about themselves from time to time. Temporary feelings of low self-esteem may be triggered by being treated poorly by someone else recently or in the past, or by a person's own judgments of him or

Cnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-67944859499890116842008-07-27T20:31:00.000-07:002008-07-27T20:43:35.229-07:00

Dr. Henry Cloud speaks about giving up control and associated steps for recovery.[Your browser does not support frames or is currently configured not to display frames. Please contact tech support if you are unable to configure your browser for frames.]Check out the Orange County ACA website at: Orange County Adult Children

Cnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-29666510208877407332008-07-09T11:23:00.000-07:002008-07-09T11:25:57.462-07:00

Here is an audio podcast of one word principles behind the 12 Steps. It is just 6 minutes long. Click here: 12 Step Audio Podcast and a new window should open. Or paste this into your browser: http://www.addictionrecoverybasics.com/Principles%2012%20steps.mp3The podcast is narrated by Bill Urell, owner and editor of addictionrecoverybasics.com. He has an MA in Addiction Counseling and is a CAAP (

Cnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-49115375928381880622008-07-01T08:14:00.000-07:002008-07-01T08:28:18.626-07:00

* Faith instead of despair.* Courage instead of fear.* Hope instead of desperation.* Peace of mind instead of confusion.* Real friendships instead of loneliness.* Self-respect instead of self-contempt.* Self-confidence instead of helplessness.* A clean conscious instead of a sense of guilt.* The respect of others instead of their pity and contempt.* A clean pattern of living instead of a hopeless

Cnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-33834689542925783982008-06-24T16:25:00.000-07:002008-06-24T16:36:18.743-07:00

Adapted from: http://www.newlifespiritrecovery.com/Codependency_Attributes.htmlLack of Identity A codependent person usually has a very difficult time embracing their true identity. Normally, a role was emphasized in the family of origin that left them believing what they did was more important then who they are. When behaviors are emphasized more then core identity and worth, with a lack of

Cnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-20001160027344886502008-06-08T22:38:00.000-07:002008-06-08T23:06:31.932-07:00

[Your browser does not support frames or is currently configured not to display frames. Please contact tech support if you are unable to configure your browser for frames.]Thanks to http://www.healthyplace.com/Communities/Relationships/serendipity/topics/topic016.htmlAn important phase of my recovery program has been learning to love myself. Loving myself means I have given up the futile and

Cnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-33964385248152387932008-05-14T10:39:00.000-07:002008-05-14T11:02:35.680-07:00

Thanks to Kristy for sharing this:It is a reminder that if I can step out of my own ego- my need to control, give advice, care take and be more concerned with others rather than myself, I may be able to actually offer great help to another who is in need. All I have to do is listen and "be there" for them. Let them share their pain with me and appreciate that they feel I am a safe person to be

Cnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-21119602205518347822008-05-06T14:41:00.000-07:002008-05-06T15:06:39.268-07:00

You may be familiar with the "ACA Characteristics". Here is some positive reinforcement in the form of "The ACA Affirmations". It's great to have a goal and some feedback to measure progress.Check these out and see how far you've already come!People in authority don’t frighten me anymoreI don’t need the approval of others in order to be okI’m not a victim any longerI take care of my own wants and

Cnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-42338366361025336032008-04-30T19:49:00.000-07:002008-04-30T19:55:38.635-07:00

Special thanks to Anonymous for sharing this:What is the inner child?I guess I think of it as the real me- how I really feel deep inside.Because I have learned to negate my feelings, sometimes how I feel is initially a mystery to me. But the feelings are there if I want to tap into them. I just stop and ask myself "How do you really feel?" or "What do you really want?" or "Does that feel right?"

Cnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-45580533286020686822008-04-28T09:53:00.000-07:002008-04-28T09:59:00.034-07:00

Kudos to Rick for sharing his discovery of coping.org with us.This site: http://coping.org/Includes all kinds of help for dealing with issues and stress in your life including:Tools for Handling LossTools for Personal GrowthTools for RelationshipsTools for CommunicationTools for Anger Work-OutTools for Handling Control IssuesGrowing Down: Tools for Healing the Inner ChildThere is a ton of useful

Cnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-66162293844371780852008-04-15T13:51:00.000-07:002008-04-15T14:13:55.462-07:00

Don't Trust. Don't Talk. Don't Feel.I have repeatedly read that this is a common dogma in dysfunctional families. I have only recently come to realize how this directly affected me in my own upbringing. Sometimes these three sentences are presented in a different order. For me It starts with trust.Don't Trust.Children by nature tend to naturally trust those around them. Not trusting is a behavior

Cnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-24700152263343387022008-04-08T08:32:00.000-07:002008-04-08T08:51:48.075-07:00

Resolving some of the mystery surrounding the 12 Step recovery process. One man's insightful, compelling opinions and interpretations of The Twelve Steps from Sobriety TV.Step One:View More 12 Step Videos OnlineCheck out the Orange County ACA website at: Orange County Adult Children

Cnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-71377316204973282492008-03-29T10:26:00.000-07:002008-03-29T10:32:58.645-07:00

"We are slow to believe that which, if believed, would hurt our feelings." -OvidMost of us in recovery have engaged in denial from time to time. Some of us relied on this tool.We may have denied events or feelings from our past. We may have denied other people's problems; we may have denied our own problems, feelings, thoughts, wants, or needs. We denied the truth.Denial means we didn't let

Cnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-85758645150503319682008-03-17T11:31:00.000-07:002008-03-17T11:43:34.674-07:00

I just discovered these recordings of ACA speakers and found them interesting and helpful and wanted to share them:(Click and a new window will open- audio will play.)The Name of the DragonStudent shares about growing up with an alcoholic father and faculty member breaks down the dysfunction of a broken alcoholic family system. Barb Gana, Chuck Renz.Alcohol and the FamilyExpert on the Adult

Cnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-91210866549935064182008-03-04T10:03:00.000-08:002008-03-04T10:05:26.587-08:00

Special thanks to Kristy for sharing her story:A guy named Dean I met at camp came and handed out little white flags, as a symbol of surrendering, or "accepting what we cannot change." I have found it so useful to have a visual in my battle with myself, to give it up, turn it over, or otherwise make myself vulnerable. I waved it all day today, it helped. It's helping me develop a sense of humor

Cnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-25228154658338822312008-02-28T10:23:00.000-08:002008-02-28T10:26:35.342-08:00

How do you deal with a mother who is physically, verbally, and emotionally abusive?How do you deal with the guilt and sadness of not being able to have any kind of relationship with your mother unless you are willing to sacrifice your well-being? Dr. Townsend answers this difficult question (3:24):[Your browser does not support frames or is currently configured not to display frames. Please

Cnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-88969559676842715432008-02-18T09:39:00.000-08:002008-02-18T09:45:50.624-08:00

When sharing with an individual or as part of a group, using "I" statements can make a big difference. An "I" statement is sharing in the first person as opposed to using words such as "we", "they", "us" and "you". At first, it may seem like an insignificant detail but using third person statements is distancing and impersonal. It can even be an attempt to sub-consciously control others or place

Cnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-14681134055350638452008-01-29T10:03:00.000-08:002008-01-29T10:12:33.542-08:00

Camp Recovery 2008 at Camp de Benneville Pines"Emotions in Motion" April 25-27, 2008Camp Recovery 2008 is a weekend of self-care where you and you inner child have the opportunity to grow, heal, play, discover reflect and work on yourselves. This year's camp features workshops, 12-step meetings, crafts, music, drumming, hiking, body movement, dancing and fellowship. All persons from ACA, CODA and

Cnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-90201918088394144662008-01-06T11:06:00.000-08:002008-01-07T16:36:04.123-08:00

Have you ever met a "Decider"? A Decider is a person that makes choices so quickly and effortlessly you wonder how they do it. I had a friend, Brian, who would walk into a car dealership and commit to buying a new vehicle within minutes. To him, it was not a spur of the moment or impulsive thing. He simply had the ability to surmise his options and make the right choice for himself very quickly

Cnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-56967182455626916462007-12-17T09:04:00.000-08:002007-12-18T12:22:57.268-08:00

Little Miss SunshineExcerpts from http://www.couns.uiuc.edu/brochures/dysfunct.htmResulting ProblemsAbuse and neglect inhibit the development of children's trust in the world, in others, and in themselves. Later as adults, these people may find it difficult to trust the behaviors and words of others, their own judgements and actions, or their own senses of selfworth. Not surprisingly, they may

Cnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-1358806357973234462007-12-04T09:55:00.000-08:002007-12-04T09:57:59.562-08:00

H.A.L.T.H.A.L.T. indicates that you need to stop and take care of yourself when you get Hungry, Angry, Lonely, or Tired. Being too hungry, angry, lonely, or tired, are conditions that leave us more vulnerable to the temptations that lead us away from our program of recovery. Part of recovery is learning to pay attention to these inner signals and practice appropriate ways to meet our needs and

Cnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-221101278797301003.post-29244443972798404452007-11-19T12:39:00.000-08:002007-11-19T12:44:35.470-08:00

From http://alternativebroadcasting.org/archives/2007/08/20/emotional-intelligence-and-acas-adult-children-of-alcoholics/Emotional Intelligence and ACAs (Adult Children of Alcoholics)August 20th, 2007Everyone in the alcoholic’s family suffers effects from thedisease. Typically everyone involved in the life of thealcoholic and dysfunctional family has low or no emotionalintelligence. They don’t

Cnoreply@blogger.com1