Connection to Others vs. Attachment to Chemicals
It is the season where our connection to our loved ones may be contrasted with our need for chemical pleasure or relief. Through alcoholism and addiction, we lose the capacity to relate with our loved ones. Replacing meaningful human interaction with chemical pleasure and relief, we often seek out others who share our predicament. Beneath a defensive shield, we feel empty and alone.
We lose touch with our families and friends by prioritizing access and use of drugs and alcohol. Our values shift from generosity and compassion to gaining pleasure or relieving discomfort. Connection with others is contrasted with our attachment to alcohol or drugs.
The winter solstice is a metaphor for moving from the longest night to returning light. Many cultural traditions and beliefs contain the message of moving out of cold winter solitude to the hope of a warmer, more joyful life. So is it with addiction and alcoholism. When drugs and alcoholism are needed to maintain routine and bring less pleasure and relief, recovery lies as a promise at the other side of that longest night.
In recovery, we hope for the best for everyone. We encourage you to practice the following skills which can be achieved through recovery from drug abuse, addiction and alcoholism:
- Social awareness – You can understand the emotions, needs, and concerns of other people, pick up on emotional cues, feel comfortable socially, and recognize the power dynamics in a group or organization.
- Relationship management – You know how to develop and maintain good relationships, communicate clearly, inspire and influence others, work well in a team, and manage conflict.
- Self-management – You’re able to control impulsive feelings and behaviors, manage your emotions in healthy ways, take initiative, follow through on commitments, and adapt to changing circumstances.
- Self-awareness – You recognize your own emotions and how they affect your thoughts and behavior, know your strengths and weaknesses, and have self-confidence.
And we at Twin Town Treatment Centers wish you the best holiday moving from the darkest day into returning light!
Twin Town Treatment Centers is immediately accessible to all Los Angeles and Orange County residents, is accredited by The Joint Commission, and is certified by the California DHCS. All network HMO/PPO/EPO insurance plans and Medi-Cal contract with Twin Town Treatment Centers to provide drug and alcohol rehabilitation. Our phone is answered by real people. We can see people on the same day you call. (866) 594-8844
