People dealing with addiction or recovering from addiction do not always consider the power of recovery language. The way we speak to each other within a 12 step meeting or support group is very different than the way we should speak with the rest of the world.  As we have seen so much with bullying in recent years, words do matter.  As an "addict" or an "alcoholic", it sounds like I am still in the midst of my disease.  While there is no cure, I do believe I am in recovery which according to SAMHSA means, "A process of change through which individuals improve their health and wellness, live a self directed life, and strive to reach their full potential." Now who doesn't that apply to!?! So in my work as a recovery coach and as a sober companion, I do try to get in the habit of saying, "Hello, my name is Danielle and I am a person in long term recovery".  Stay tuned for some resources on recovery language training.  For more information on the importance of recovery language when dealing with addiction, read this new editorial in the journal of Substance Abuse. If you or someone you know is struggling with any type of addiction, please give us a call at 774-329-4393.

My personal belief is that there is not one specific way to overcome addiction. What worked for me was surrounding myself with a lot of intelligent and positive people who were recovering from their own addictions. The more people in my life who had what I wanted, the more excited I was about the future possibilities and the more attainable long-term sobriety seemed. The mainstream is catching on to this, and people are starting to understand the critical advantages of working with a well-qualified recovery coach or sobriety coach. I thought this New York Times article offered an excellent perspective on the benefits of recovery coaching services for mothers.

Mothers Find a Helping Hand in Sobriety Coaches