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Signs Of Depression To Look Out For

Depression is an issue that affects millions of individuals around the world. This is a common occurrence that may result due to a number of reasons throughout an individual’s life. While depression may be mild, in many instances, it can be quite severe. It results when an individual not only feels “sad”, but also feels a sense of hopelessness and helplessness that can last for a short time, or continue for years.

In some cases, this mental condition can actually impair an individual’s overall ability to function in their day to day lives, and can result in that individual feeling as if taking their life is the only way to escape the emotions of despair that are experienced. There are several signs of depression to look out for. Here, I will share them with you.

Depression Signs to Watch For

It is essential that you learn to carefully monitor the signs of depression. Many serious situations are likely to occur if an individual suffers from severe depression and experiences symptoms that should have been recognized as potentially dangerous.

These situations may include an individual becoming homicidal and/or suicidal, indulging in drug abuse, resorting to alcohol abuse, and even the development of other types of mental illnesses developing. While it is true that the potentially dangerous signs of depression will vary by individual, the following represents some common signs to look for:

1.One of the first symptoms that something is seriously wrong is when a person suffers from depression and often feels as if they have nothing to live for. They may feel as if everything is hopeless. Individuals who fall into these emotions often may experience thoughts of suicide. In other cases, many do not place priority on the fact that there are consequences to their actions. This is when many will turn to pills, drugs, alcohol, and other types of behaviors that are considered to be dangerous.

2.The next symptom that is potentially dangerous when it comes to signs of depression to watch for includes behavior that is aggressive. This aggression may be towards others, animals, or even themselves. However, if this sign does become evident, it is absolutely necessary to ensure that help is sought. In many cases, the individual that is depressed simply does not recognize this sign in themselves because of the wide range of emotions that are experienced.

3.If you start to notice that an individual seems apathetic and does not care about the health of their body and similar issues, it may be time to recognize the depression as serious. These individuals may abuse drugs and alcohol, and may even indulge in serious problems like self mutilation and similar behaviors. If these signs are evident, it is time for help.

Overcoming Depression

There are many effective means of managing and overcoming depression. One of the most important things that anyone can do when it comes to this mood disorder is to develop a support system. It is important to have one or more people to talk to when you need it. In addition to this, there are medications that can help moderate chemicals such as serotonin in the body that are responsible for depression. It is also possible to receive counseling and behavior modification assistance. If you have depression, be sure to discuss your treatment options with your doctor.

Ian Spencer is an expert in solving anxiety and depression problems at http://www.TypesOfDepression.org . Where he provides anxiety help advice to treat depression and severe anxiety. Click Here to get your FREE anxiety analysis done online today. www.anxietyfreetoday.com/analysis/ to get your FREE stress analysis done online today.

Tricks To Attacking Anxiety And Depression Effectively

Anxiety and depression are two separate, yet similar mental conditions that often occur as a direct result of stress in the life of an individual. When an individual experiences the strain of anxiety and depression, many physiological and psychological changes occur in the body and the mind.

These changes can result in mental health conditions, as well as physical health problems that can burden the individual. This is why it is important to know and understand a few basic tricks to attacking anxiety and depression effectively. Here are a few of these strategies.

Simple Tricks for Standing above Anxiety and Depression

1. The first trick to attacking and depression is realizing that there is a complication in your life and that it must be attended to. You should do all that you can to learn about anxiety and depression. You need to know why it occurs, what symptoms that may make themselves evident, and when to tell if you are in danger mentally and/or physically from these conditions.

By equipping yourself with the knowledge that is necessary to understand what the problem is- why you suffer, what to expect when you suffer, and when to tell if you are in danger, then you are actually taking the necessary steps of effectively attacking anxiety and depression.

2. The next thing that you can do in order to attack anxiety and depression is to make an effort to see the positive in every single situation. It may be hard to believe it, but with each experience that you have in life, there is something to be learned. By keeping this in mind, you will be able to see things in a more positive manner. If you train your mind to find the positive lesson in everything, you will surely overcome the issues that you face when it comes to anxiety and depression.

3. Many individuals have successfully overcome their issues with anxiety and depression by finding a creative outlet for the emotions that are associated with these complications. For example, many individuals may elect to write their thoughts down in a journal. Others may choose to pick up a hobby in creative dance, or even various types of art. There are always crafts, theaters, and many similar levels of creativity. Individuals who engage in creative activities have been found to be stronger, and happier than those who fail to engage in these types of activities.

As you can see, there are a number of tricks to attacking anxiety and depression effectively. Many individuals may find that pursuing individual and/or group therapy may be an effective means of combating these conditions that occur as a natural result of stress. There are also some people who elect to allow themselves to be prescribed various types of medications to deal with these conditions. The important thing is to ensure that you find tricks that will help you deal with these emotions. If you fail to do this, you may find that you suffer from a wide range of potentially devastating health effects.

Ian Spencer is an expert in solving anxiety and depression problems at http://www.Depression-Treating.com . Where he provides anxiety help advice to treat depression and severe anxiety. Click Here to get your FREE anxiety analysis done online today.

Top 3 Cures For Depression Exposed!

There are various forms of depression, each having its own cause and effects. Every individual has exhibited signs of depression in various points of their lives. Depression is the result of the mind processing events, examining the situation and negatively responding to it by feeling sorry for one’s self. There are tons of ways which one can cure himself of depression, and here are the top 3 cures for depression exposed!

Most of the symptoms of depression are easy to recognize. There is pessimism and despondency involved when one suffers from depression. Sometimes guilt, worthlessness and loss of concentration, memory or decisiveness may prevail. Suicidal thoughts may also be part of the process. In such cases, immediate help is mandatory. Restlessness and irritability may also be signs of depression. There are also physical signs of depression. Headaches, backaches, stomach problems and chronic pain that do not go away unless treated may actually be the result of depression. Sometimes, hyperactivity and almost manic behaviors are subtle indications of depression.

Short-term depression, as a result of a personal loss, such as death of a loved one or loss of a desired work position, responds well to physical activity. This is one of the top ways of curing normal depression. Clinical depression may respond well to this technique but also require additional therapeutic intervention. Why does physical activity help depression? Let’s expose the truth behind this secret.

Depression may be the result of chemical or alcohol dependence. It may also include phobias, which are irrational fears. They could make one dizzy when standing at the edge of a low balcony, have one refuse to touch door ways and public areas with bare hands because of they are afraid of germs or dictate how many steps one can take to the count of five. Phobias and irrational fears make one feel out of control and thus cause the individual to feel weak and insignificant. Depression and phobias are interlinked, as developing one usually triggers the other.

Although scientists are not able to pinpoint the exact reasons why physical exercises can help one relief depression, research has shown that conducting physical activities regularly can help one reduce stress, anxiety and depression at the same time. Some believe that it increases the amount of mood-enhancing neurotransmitters that occur in the brain. Others believe that it is strictly due to the production of endorphins, the feel good hormones and decreases cortisol, the stress hormone simultaneously. Still there are others who feel that it releases the muscle’s tension and gives one a better night’s sleep. All psychologists understand that the feeling exercising gives is one of accomplishment and satisfaction. These alone, combat depression, although only for a short period.

A second cure for depression is that of cognitive therapy, which examines the depression and feelings of self doubt and worthlessness. The theory behind this therapy is that when light is shed on the emotions and thoughts of the individual, a true understanding of the reasons behind the depression is known. Most of the times, irrational beliefs disappear once verbalized and examined. This is one of the most effective forms of therapy to date.

Of course, major depressions could take place due to a chemical imbalance in the brain. This therefore leads s us to the third cure for depression, which requires the intervention of doctors for complete stabilization. Major depressions may require doctors prescribing long term medication accompanied with therapy and counseling sessions. Depending on the severity of the situation, doctors will diagnose the patient and prescribe accordingly.

If you believe that you suffer from depression, then try changing your diet, getting exercise and make sure that you get sufficient sleep each night. These short-term cures for depression may be all you need to feel happy and joyful again.

Ian Spencer is an expert in solving anxiety and depression problems at http://www.Depression-Treating.com . Where he provides anxiety help advice to treat depression and severe anxiety. Click Here to get your FREE anxiety analysis done online today.

Top Depression Treating Techniques Revealed!

There are many individuals today who suffer from depression. Most of them suffer in silence, trying to hide the way that they feel from those close to them, as they fear being judged or embarrassed. This is especially true in today’s competitive society where suffering from such a condition may make one look weak. As such, to prevent yourself from being caught in such situations, it is crucial that you know the top depression treating techniques to manage and overcome such problems.

Exercise

Doing aerobic exercises does not only make you healthy physically, it is also documented to increase and stimulate endorphins produced in your body. Endorphins are compounds that are produced within the pituitary gland when strenuous exercises such as aerobics are done.

Endorphins are the compounds that give us a sense of well being and help us remain happy. Many clinical experts have found that majority of clinically depressed individuals lack endorphins in their system. This lack of endorphins can be directly linked to experiencing signs of depression. When you boost endorphin production in the body, you will feel better and happier etc. As such, exercising effectively helps to boost endorphin production in the system, thus helping one overcome depression with a feeling of contentment.

Social Support System

We all need to have a good social support system. That’s what friends are for! Family and friends are there for us to reach out to when we need help. If you are experiencing depression, then you need to ensure that you stay socially active. One of the signs of depression is avoiding people, but this is one of the last things you should do. By staying around people and sharing with them your fears and problems, you are actually fighting depression effectively.

Talking It Out

Whether it is with your friends, family, an external support group, or counselor, talking it out is a very effective way of treating depression. If you are unable to share your problems with others, they will usually accumulate and your condition will worsen in time to come. Thus, doing so only leads to greater feelings of hopelessness and depression. As such, it is crucial that you are willing to step out and share your thoughts will others without the fear of being judged or looked down upon.

Prescribed Medication

Today, it is very easy to get prescribed medication for depression. In fact, it might be too easy to get a pill that is supposed to cure someone of depression, such that many may even abuse it. In most cases, all you need to do is tell your family doctor that you have been feeling down and emotionally drained recently, and he will be more than happy to give you a prescribed dosage of what you need.

Anti-depressants are one of the most overly prescribed medications in America. Most of these anti-depressants are only supposed to be used as a last resort when other treatments are not working. Usually, these medications are only used when the depression becomes so severe that other forms of treatment are not able to have any effects on the patient.

Unfortunately, there are many people taking these medications who are not diagnosed to be “clinically” depressed. As such, you should always seek professional advice and consult a doctor to properly diagnose what is the best cure for you. This will be effective for you in the long run if your case requires the use of it. Furthermore, be cautioned that many of the anti-depressants on the market today have side-effects that could vary in severity depending on each individual. So make sure that you are informed of all the potential effects that consuming them could have on you so as to have optimum effects.

Most anti-depressants should not be consumed over extended periods as it is unhealthy for the body to over rely on it. This could even lead to serious complications later and require higher dosages of medication as the body has already been accustomed to it.

There are healthier ways of treating depression and anxiety disorders without using prescription medications as a first choice. As such, before consuming them, try several of the above mentioned techniques that have proven to work for millions in treating depression.

To treat depression effectively, it is up to you to start exercising and becoming more socially active. This is because doing so will only allow you to feel a lot better about your life. These top depression treating techniques revealed are widely used by people today, so try them out to see a change in your life now.

Ian Spencer is an expert in solving anxiety and depression problems at http://www.Depression-Treating.com . Where he provides anxiety help advice to treat depression and severe anxiety. Click Here to get your FREE anxiety analysis done online today.

Children And Depression - What Parents Can Do

All parents want to ensure that their kids are always healthy and happy. But what happens when happiness, or the lack of it, is a bigger problem that you expected? The truth of the matter is that childhood depression has become an increasingly larger problem in today’s society than ever before. It might also shock you to know that it is something your own flesh and blood may be suffering from. If you are concerned that your child is suffering from depression, there are several courses of actions you could choose to take, and you will find that the sooner you act, the better it is for your child. There is a close link between children and depression these days, so parents should do all they can to prevent or manage this situation effectively.

What you should think about first is recognition. Essentially, childhood depression is an illness where feelings of depression continue for extended periods of time, and negatively affects the child’s ability to function and cope. You may notice that depression can manifest in a variety of ways, from your children’s moods and their physical appearances, to their behaviors and their mental states. You might notice a child who was once interested in a variety of things, let his or her world shrink a great deal by shutting them out of his or her life completely due to depression. Also, you may observe various physical symptoms, including weight and appetite loss, problems with digestion, headaches, migraines or irregular sleeping habits.

When thinking about childhood depression, bear in mind that younger children will usually develop more physical symptoms than older kids. This is because younger children tend to have less ability to express themselves as compared to older and more matured children.

If you wish to fight childhood depression, you ought to educate yourself on the issue. Speak with a professional counselor who has experience in this field and see what you can learn from him or her. The therapist will most likely have you bring the child in for several individual sessions to diagnose his condition.

When thinking about what you can do for your child on a more personal, day to day basis, you can begin by ensuring that you are always there for your child. Make sure that all lines of communication are kept open, and that your child knows that he can always go to you for all his needs. Many children feel that they are alone in the problems they face. Thus, simply reassuring them that they are not can make a huge difference in your child’s life. Learn more about what your child does and his or her interests to improve your relationship. Encourage your child by providing good advice when there is a need to and lend a listening ear when he needs one.

Remember that childhood depression is something that is a very real today. Depression is a condition that both children and adults suffer from. So, understanding the relationship between children and depression will give parents a greater idea of how they can manage and prevent their children’s condition from worsening.

Ian Spencer is an expert in solving anxiety and depression problems at http://www.TypesOfDepression.org . Where he provides anxiety help advice to treat depression and severe anxiety. Click Here to get your FREE anxiety analysis done online today.

Teenage Depression - What Parents Can Do

As a parent, one of the things that you want to ensure is that your child is happy. But what happens when you know that your teenage child is suffering from depression? This is a problem that many parents today face, which can be a huge cause for worry and concern. But the truth of the matter is that there are a lot of things that parents can do to help their children. As such, even before your teenager begins to struggle with depression, you ought to know all the things that you can and should do to manage and overcome such situations. And one of the most fundamental things is ensuring that you can recognize this condition.

Recognizing teenage depression can be difficult even for someone who has known the teenager for their entire life. It can be difficult to differentiate between actual teenage depressions from the general problems that adolescents face when growing up. Keep in mind that your teenager will be changing in many ways during these years, emotionally and physically, and it can be hard to tell what is “normal” and what a cause for concern is. Make sure, however that you do have regular contact with your child and that you are able to tell what he or her feels at various situations. Having a good relationship with your child is important in trying to help him deal with feelings and emotions.

There are some very common signs to look out for when identifying teenage depression. For instance, you might notice that he or she has been extremely hostile or angry lately, whether it manifests in bursts of temper or sullenness. They may seem sad or helpless, or you might find that they easily burst into tears. They might also appear very tired all the time and lack motivation to carry on with their lives, or they might even engage in extremely reckless or dangerous behaviors.

Essentially, you need to be on the lookout for changes in their behaviors. Make sure that you question them, and find out how they are periodically. For instance, if your teenager has suddenly lost interest in something that they used to love, it is an important warning sign that you should take note of. You might also notice a sudden drop in their grades or that they have simply stopped caring for themselves. Keep an eye out for anything that may seem morbid or suicidal. They can take the form of drawings, words or speeches, and they all represent a cry for help.

Another thing that parents can do is that they should always respect the thoughts and feelings of their children. Do not dismiss their feelings, and do not always tell them how good they have it now. One thing that everyone needs to understand is that the people around them, no matter how old they are, put some form of pressure and stress on your children.

Do not hesitate to get professional help if necessary, and remember that you should always be safe than sorry. Some of the symptoms above can be indication of a medical or psychological problem that your child is facing, or even a combination of the two.

Teenage depression is a serious issue that needs to be treated as soon as it is detected. Remember that your child, no matter how independent they might seem, will still depend on you in times of need. So make sure that you are able to respond to it well, so as to help your child manage teenage depression effectively.

Ian Spencer is an expert in solving anxiety and depression problems at http://www.TypesOfDepression.org . Where he provides anxiety help advice to treat depression and severe anxiety. Click Here to get your FREE anxiety analysis done online today.

Top 3 Types Of Depression Faced By People Today

Everyone in this world has suffered from depression at some point in their lives. It is almost impossible to find a person who has never experienced sadness or misery in his or her life. With life becoming more demanding in today’s competitive world, more and more people are feeling stressed and worried out. This then leads many to become depressed if they are unsuccessful in achieving their goals. The severity of the depression depends on various environmental factors that contribute to one’s stress. The two most distinct types of depression are depressive disorder, also known as major depression, and dysthymic disorder. Another type of depression that is common is bipolar disorder, or manic depression.

Major depression, or depressive disorder, is a mixture of feelings that inhibits the person from dealing with normal or daily activities in a regular manner. This is the type of depression that many associate with clinical depression, and is usually related to the subject when depression is first mentioned. Those with severe cases usually find it difficult to get through the day, and often have problems getting out of bed in the morning.

Dysthymia disorder is a condition that can last for two or more years, but has way milder symptoms compared to major depression. Dysthymia is often referred to as chronic depression. It prevents the sufferer from functioning like a normal person or excelling in his or her talents. In addition, those with dysthymia will often have sporadic episodes of depressive disorder.

The specific symptoms of dysthymic disorder include restless sleep, or excessive sleeping, a lack of energy or feeling of fatigue, a sense of hopelessness, low self-esteem, and difficulty making simple decisions. Due to the fact that dysthymia has only a few symptoms compared to that of major depression, it is much more likely to go untreated and ignored. The symptoms also tend to be more resistant to regular forms of treatment.

Manic depression, or bipolar disorder, has several cycles of mania and depression symptoms. Mania is known as sporadic periods of overexcitement, delusions, or overly extreme responses. It is also known to include violence if the condition is very severe. The manic “episodes” as they are called, can last anywhere from one day to one week. The person will show an elevation in self-esteem, lesser need for sleep, and they will usually react with impulse purchases or risky behavior. They are also more talkative than usual. In the most extreme cases, hospitalization is needed to prevent them from harming themselves or other people around them.

Each form of depression has its own requirement for treatment and ways of approaching the issue. Many researchers feel that it is genetic and is likely to affect a patient if their parents or other relatives have been diagnosed with a similar condition. However, depression can also happen to those with no medical history of depression in the family.

One is also capable of being diagnosed with depression over multiple times. Many people go through their entire lives normally until one misfortunate event takes place which ignites their repressed feelings that have been bottled up over the years. Also, some are aware of their condition but only wait until their sadness and hurt is too hard to bear before deciding to seek help. This is unhealthy for one’s mental health and overall well being. Instead, medical help or advice should be sought for in advance to help one alleviate the severity of the condition, so as to put the patient back in control of his or her life again.

Therefore, if you think that you may be suffering from depression, tell someone. Seeking help is the first step, and there are many effective treatments out there that can help you enjoy a better life. Many avoid treatment because they are worried that they will have to rely on medication for the rest of their lives. While this is true for some, it is not always necessary if your case is a minor one. Many people are able to stop medication after intervals of dosages after they have managed to learn how to cope better. Certain rounds of therapy may also be required depending on your case. Thus, understanding the top 3 types of depression faced by people today helps you identify the potential reasons for your unhappiness in life.

Ian Spencer is an expert in solving anxiety and depression problems at http://www.TypesOfDepression.org . Where he provides anxiety help advice to treat depression and severe anxiety. Click Here to get your FREE anxiety analysis done online today.

3 Stress Games That Will Relief Your Stress

Stress is something that each and every one of us faces and has to deal with daily. There are times when stress can get the best out of us. It can make life really difficult, and if not dealt with properly may lead to numerous health problems. This is why it is important that we deal with stress in the most positive way that we can. To help you manage your stress effectively, here are 3 stress games that will relief your stress.

1. Board Games or Puzzles

I am sure that you have had one of those days, where it seems like everything that can go wrong already has and you simply cannot take anymore nonsense in your life. You can gradually feel the stress and headache develop in your head. Then something unexpected makes you laugh, one of those good belly laughs. Before you knew it, your stress is gone. Whatever was bothering you seems to have disappeared.

One of the best ways to relief stress is to play games that make you laugh, as they will help take your mind off all your troubles. Try a game of charades or Pictionary with a group of friends, or other online games that are relaxing to help relief some tension.

Puzzles are the favorite of many. They include jigsaw puzzles, word puzzles, word searches and such. All of these games work to keep your mind preoccupied. Your mind will be busy focusing on the tasks before you; and therefore have no chance to think about all your worries and troubles.

2. Exercise

Exercising does not necessarily mean working out at the gym. While for some, the best way to handle stress is to get a good work out, however, you can always consider other less intensive games if you prefer a lighter exercise regime. For instance, participating in outdoor sports like softball, baseball or even football helps to remove some of the pressure that you are facing as your mind is focused elsewhere. An entire hour of physical activity will definitely make you feel better and refreshed.

If you are not into sports, consider taking a roll in the park or at the beach. Getting a breather and some fresh air will surely make you feel good about yourself.

3. Hobbies

Having a hobby or doing something that interests you will help relief your stress. They range from reading a book, to sewing or even gardening. Some men may prefer flying model plans, going fishing or golfing. These are all hobbies that can help one relief stress as they provide lots of enjoyment and fun. Make a date with yourself and give yourself a much deserved break. You do them on a routine basis so as to manage your stress effectively, instead of waiting for it to build up. Dealing with stress is essential to having good and enhanced health.

These 3 stress games that will relief your stress has worked for many. So, get your life back on track by preventing or managing stress effectively today.

Ian Spencer is an expert in solving anxiety and stress problems at http://www.What-Is-Stress.org . Where he provides anxiety help advice to treat stress issues and severe anxiety. Click Here to get your FREE stress analysis done online today.

Surviving a Relapse and Embracing Life Again

Like most diseases, the road to recovery for addiction and alcoholism is not always a straight one. Since I first came into recovery sixteen years ago I have suffered many relapses all quite devastating to me and those who love me. And yet, there have been some very helpful reminders I’ve picked up along the way which have sustained me and helped me pick up the pieces and get back into the game of life. I’d like to share these with you in this article.

First of all it should be noted that relapse happens long before the addict picks up that first drug. There are often many signs which are usually and unfortunately not apparent to the addict him or herself. The addict may be harboring resentments, be engaging in old addictive behaviors or thinking patterns, they may be obsessed with the idea of using or be hanging on to a reservation that one day he/she will be able to handle a couple successfully, they may become complacent or ungrateful or a host of other symptoms.

But for most, and this has certainly been the case with me in the past, pain happens. The last relapse I endured I had been involved with someone and fallen in love. That relationship ended and around the same time I had two deaths in the family. The pain was unbearable, the loneliness infected me, and rather than getting honest with others about my pain, I began to isolate, drift into self pity and remorse and the next thing I knew I was back in the throws of a full blown relapse.

Therefore it should be noted that in order to avoid a relapse in the first place one must adhere to the principle of constant vigilance with a program of healthy action. Regular meeting attendance, talking honestly and openly with a sponsor and other trusted friends, daily contact with a higher power, reading recovery literature, journaling, all of these help. But once the relapse happens, how then does the addict get back on his/her feet? Usually a stint at detox is the first order of business. The addict needs to dry out and be off the drug for a period in order to regain balance and direction and most detox centers offer daily meetings, healthy food, and counseling support.

For some, treatment will be necessary but for those who have already been several times, all they may need to do is get back to the basics of a recovery program. A commitment to ninety recovery meetings in ninety days, daily contact with a sponsor, a big book study, weekly counseling to deal with unresolved core issues, journaling, step work, healthy diet and exercise and lots of time spent with friends in the program. For those who are lucky enough to survive a relapse they should realize that God has kept them alive for a reason. Maybe it’s to help someone else, maybe it’s to achieve some childhood dream, but whatever the case may be, a relapse can be the jarring experience which strengthens and solidifies their future recovery.

Zach Samuels is the author of Confessions of a Crack Head which can be found at Confessions of a Crack Head. The site offers resources for addicts and their families, a blog, a forum, contact information, and more.

Twelve Step Programs- A New Way to Live

For anyone who is or has known an addict in the problem it has most certainly been made apparent that a life based on self will run riot, obsession and compulsion, insanity, desperation and devastation, (to name a few of its characteristics) can hardly be a success. A using addict goes to any means and any lengths to get one more, to get that next fix that will cure all.

The only problem with this scenario is that one is too many and a thousand is never enough. An addict can never satisfy his/her craving because once the drug (and this applies to process addictions too such as gambling, sex, or shopping) has been consumed an allergic (abnormal reaction) takes place which makes it literally impossible to stop based on his/her own will power. This is coupled with an obsessive mind which convinces the addict that he/she can handle one or two more. Powerlessness and unmanageability.

This is the basis of the first and in my opinion the most important step. One must be able to admit and accept on a deep level that they are powerless over their addiction and when they use, unmanageability in every area of their life will set in. The irony of this step is that once one admits this powerlessness they are no longer powerless. This is because they open themselves up to a belief that a power greater than themselves can help them with their problem. Some call it God, others the power of positive recovering people in the club rooms. Whatever they choose, it is personal to them and that is why it works.

Twelve step programs are big on not telling someone what to believe in or how they should define that belief. The third step is all about making a decision to turn your will and life (many define this as your thinking and your actions) over to the care of God as you understand him. This can be understood as simply as choosing to do the next right thing or going on to working the rest of the twelve steps. The fourth and fifth step involve taking stock of defects, resentments, fears, and sexual misconduct in order to get rid of (fifth step) all those bad feelings which keep the addict stuck and continue to send the addict back out.

When the recovering addict uncovers his/her character flaws in the fourth step, he/she becomes willing to have them removed (sixth step), and tries to act opposite of them. They humbly ask God to remove them in the sixth and seven step and believe that God does that when they are willing and ready to change. In the eighth step and ninth step the addict makes a list of people and institutions they have harmed and become willing to make amends to them and then go ahead and make these amends. This is not simply going to those people and saying sorry and making excuses for their previous behavior.

Lord knows we said sorry enough times before and never meant it. Making amends means taking responsibility for past actions and making them right. Fixing them. The recovering addict pays people back or begins the process; they admit their wrong doings and make a commitment not to let it be repeated. In doing so a great deal of self esteem is built because they have gotten rid of so much guilt and shame in the process and most people will encourage them to continue on with their new way of life and keep up the good work. The last three steps are known as the maintenance steps. Ten involves continuing to take a daily personal inventory to stay on the right path with their thoughts and actions and promptly admit when they are wrong.

Eleven advises regular prayer and meditation to stay in touch with that power which the recovering addict uses as a source of strength, and twelve is about passing on this new way of life to others who are new and desperately need it, as well as continuing to practice the spiritual principles of the steps in their lives. It’s a program for living. It’s a program for change. It’s a program of hope. The twelve principles in order are: honesty, hope, faith, courage, integrity, willingness, humility, brotherly love, discipline, perseverance, awareness of God, and service. The twelve steps offer the addict a way of life which is indescribably wonderful.

Slogans such as first things first, easy does it, live and let live, one day at a time, think, think, think, just for today, along with the camaraderie of one addict helping another (sponsorship) keep the recovering addict coming back for more recovery at the meetings and passing on what they learn to new people who were once just like them.

Zach Samuels is the author of Confessions of a Crack Head which can be found at Confessions of a Crack Head. The site offers resources for addicts and their families, a blog, a forum, contact information, and more.

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