Recovering from addiction can be daunting, with fear of relapse often being the source of great distress. Relapse refers to any return to substance abuse after an extended period of abstinence; it is a common occurrence among those in recovery and may be caused by various triggers like stress, boredom, or social pressure. However, relapse does not indicate failure of the recovery process but instead requires further work in maintaining sobriety; that's where relapse prevention plans come in handy.

For the fellow truth-seekers, today, we're diving headfirst into the world of alcoholism. We're here to bust some common myths about alcoholism. So hold on tight as we embark on this myth-busting mission!

Are you or someone you know struggling with excessive alcohol consumption? Are you uncertain about whether it qualifies as a disorder? You've come to the right place for knowledge on this matter! Here, we'll discuss and learn about alcohol use disorder symptoms and more.

Innovative center for addiction recovery has served 30,000 individuals and families

June 21, 2023 (WAYZATA, Minn.) – The Retreat, the Wayzata, Minn.-based continuum of care that provides recovery services, programs and community resources to individuals and families dealing with substance use disorder, marks its 25th anniversary on Wednesday, June 21. 

What is the difference between sponsorship and sober coaching?  Can a person have both?  Can a person be both a sober coach and a sponsor?  

Introduction

You know all too well how difficult it can be to overcome substance abuse, yet resources exist that can provide essential assistance. Sober living homes are one such environment that offers safe havens where those recovering can work through the early phases of sobriety while building meaningful relationships and honing essential life skills.

Introduction

When it comes to addiction recovery, many people overlook the long-term implications. Long term recovery refers to maintaining sobriety after rehab and practicing healthy habits that prevent relapse. This requires more than just making a one-time decision; rather, it's an ongoing lifestyle choice requiring dedication and commitment on behalf of each individual.

Yesterday I flew with my daughter to Minneapolis for detox and treatment - an event I could only imagine in a faraway fantasy.  She called unexpectedly, after not talking to me for six months, and asked for help with the most desperate of states of heart/mind… begging to either die or get sober. 

I grew up in an alcoholic family.  As such I wasn’t imbued with a healthy sense of self.  I struggled with issues of low self-esteem.  I searched desperately for parental validation and proof that I was loved and worthy.  I was a child dealing with a very adult issue.  I had two alcoholic parents, and I didn’t have the coping techniques to deal with their alcoholism.

On March 11, 2023, The New York Times ran a commentary by Maia Szalavitz titled “People Have a Right to Nonreligious Rehab” questioning the connection between religion/spirituality and recovery, and we felt it was important to present The Retreat’s view on the issues raised in this article.