One common symptom of shame is developing codependent relationships with others. When working with others in their recovery one of the first things we learn is to be comfortable in your own skin – to love yourself unconditionally. If you love yourself unconditionally then you accept all the good and bad you have to offer, …
Continue reading “Part 2: The Path To Freedom Is Eliminating Shame”
Michael Herbert
With almost thirty years of recovery and twenty five years working in the addiction recovery field, I continue to evaluate barriers to recovery. What gets in the way of truly experiencing all recovery has to offer? My answer continues to be simple. Shame. It has taken me over half of my life not to view …
Continue reading “Part 1: “The Beginning” Shame and Addiction”
Michael Herbert
Everyone in addiction is different and goes through their own personal process of recovery. That is the beauty of us as individuals. Everyone has their own personal battles to overcome. Some may need medication to keep from using drugs. Being on a mood stabilizer can have its benefits in the short-term; however, in the long …
Continue reading “Recovery…Recovered That Is The Question (Part 2)”
Michael Herbert
The 12 step programs says that once one is in recovery they are always in recovery. Some use the term “recovered” when speaking about overcoming their addiction to drugs and alcohol. Which is correct, in recovery or recovered? And does it matter? The terms we use to describe ourselves and others matter. Language matters; however, …
Continue reading “Recovery…Recovered That Is The Question (Part 1)”
Michael Herbert
Trembling, as I document the downward spiral of, my daughter, my light. She has always been strong and independent. It is hard to watch her struggle and denial the substance that has taken over her former self. She a mere skeleton of the happy child she was once. The trail of fabrication about where she …
Continue reading “She Trembles”
Michael Herbert
What makes us want to do things to harm ourselves? Even when we are trying to improve our bodies, we will push ourselves to the point of excruciating pain, to get better. One more bench press, one more mile, one more hit, one more date with the person who does not really care for us, …
Continue reading “For The Love Of Addiction”
Michael Herbert
I sat at my work desk feeling like I was going out of mind. I was experiencing what I call a passive death wish. In my head I was saying, “I am tired and give up.” I cried, sobbed and whaled. I had experienced the grief and loss of my maternal grandfather who was my …
Continue reading “Next Level Freedom”
Michael Herbert
