12 Addiction Stories from 2012

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Everybody has a story; in fact life is full of stories. Some stories inspire us, some teach us lessons. Here we have a 12 different people and their stories abotut addiction and recovery.  1. Dan’s Story A former Duffy’s guest tells of his skepticism upon first arriving at Duffy’s, his desire to give up, and a counsellor’s love that changed his life. 2. Whitney Houston’s Story Doubtless you have already heard of the tragedy of one of America’s most beloved celebrities. Whitney’s death reminds us to ... Read More →

5 Addiction and Recovery Infographics From 2012

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What do you get when you combine great information with great design? Great Infographics! We all know that the disease of addiction affects all of us, but sometimes seeing that information in picture format helps us to grasp those concepts more easily. These addiction and recovery infographics cover everything from how much drugs affects the state of California to how to be thankful in recovery.  1. California Drug Abuse Stats & Infographic Just how prevalent is illegal drug abuse in California? From emergency room visits to the marijuana market to treatment and rehab, this infographic gives you numbers you ... Read More →

Top 10 Posts From 2012: Duffy’s

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We thank our Duffy community and all those who have read and commented on our blog posts this past year! Here we have compiled our most popular blogs of 2012.  1. Top 10 Most Commonly Abused Drugs and Their Effects Ever wondered which drugs are the most commonly abused? As our number one hit in 2012, thousands of people are wondering the same thing. Based on data from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, this blog lists the 10 most popular drugs in the nation. 2. Vicodin 301: Why is Vicodin Addictive? We’re not blowing an issue out of proportion is we ... Read More →

Merry Christmas!

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Dear friends and family: During this Christmas season, we want to take a moment to thank you for letting us be a part of your new life in recovery. We miss having your beautiful spirits around Duffy's, but we're excited that you have an opportunity enjoy a new life and freedom this holiday season.  Wishing you love, joy and happiness this year! Love, The Duffy Family ... Read More →

What should I do if I relapse during the holidays?

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Question: What should I do if I relapse during the holidays? The holidays can be one of the most difficult times for those of us in recovery. We're getting invited to employee Christmas parties and other family and friend events where drinking is expected. And sometimes we relapse almost accidentally, maybe because we just want to fit in with those around. So what can you do if you relapse? Is your entire recovery ruined? The good news is that a relapse doesn't need to derail your journey. Instead, talk about it! Go to a meeting, call your sponsor, ... Read More →

How to Refuse a Christmas Invitation While in Recovery

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Question: How do I refuse a Christmas invitation without offending someone? How do I tell people I can’t drink?  This is one of the most commonly asked questions during the holiday season. And no wonder: refusing Christmas invitations never occurs without a layer of awkardness.  Ask for advice. The first thing to do is to ask your sponsor or A.A. group what has worked for them. It may be as simple as, “No thank you. I’m not drinking tonight.” or  “Mom, I appreciate your help and input, but ... Read More →

Should I skip my employee Christmas party?

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So you have lots of Christmas parties you're supposed to attend--like your work Christmas party--and you're dreading them because you're in recovery, attempting to live a life of sobriety. How are you going to be able to stay sober at a Christmas party?  Question: Should you avoid or skip your employee Christmas party if you're in recovery?  We recently asked Gayle, our counselor at Duffy's, what advice she would give. She said you don't necessarily need to skip your Christmas party, but here are a few things you should consider when making ... Read More →

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Ten Tips to Stay Sober at a Party: Infographic

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It's the holidays--Christmas and New Year's--some of the hardest times of the year to stay sober--especially at a party. And chances are, every December, you get invited to multiple Christmas or New Year's events. Is it actually possible to hang out with your friends and not drink? If you're in recovery (or just don't want to drink), consider some of these helpful tips for staying sober at a party. (By the way, these tips aren't time sensitive--you don't have to use them just during the holidays; they'll actually work any time ... Read More →

Why is it hard to stay sober during the holidays? A Staying Sober Tip

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Staying sober during the holidays isn't easy, probably because you're surrounded by friends and family, creating emotionally charged and stressful situations. Some of the sticky situations you might encounter this season might may include   Family conflict. Strained relationships may complicate holiday planning--or leave you with little to plan for.  Past Guilt. Memories of what happened during past holidays create feelings of guilt and embarrassment. Self-consciousness. Worrying about what others think of you and fear of being put on the spot may further add to the holiday stress.  These situations are prime opportunities to trigger a ... Read More →