Product Description
The compelling and deeply personal stories of six women'sjourneys through alcoholism and drug addiction, with commentary byBettyFord.

The Betty Ford Center is widely regarded as the nation's leadingaddictiontreatment hospital, and since it opened in 1982, over 56,000 peoplehavebeen treated there. Yet little has been written about what actuallyhappensduring treatment at the hospital.

Last year, during an alumni reunion, six women who had gone throughthecenter and with whom Betty Ford had close relationships, decided tosharetheir remarkable stories.

These are regular women, not celebrities, and they cross a broadspectrum ofrace, age, and class. One is a schoolteacher, another a housewife, andoneis a former gang member. These women were addicted to alcohol,prescriptionmedications, illegal drugs, and some to a combination of thethree. For afew of the women, their treatment was successful the first timearound-forothers the journey to recovery was much more arduous. Their storiesarehonest and open, at times funny, often heartbreaking, alwayscompelling.

Betty Ford weaves her own commentary around these narratives, givingdetailsabout the women and their lives-what they went through at the centerandwhat happened afterward -and sharing stories about her own battle withdrugsand alcohol.

Healing and Hope is a book for anyone struggling with addictionorwho knows someone who is. It chronicles the experiences of survivors,womenwho have fought to reclaim their lives and break free of theaddictions thathave held them prisoner for so long. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

A Personal Recovery Testament
What is missing from previous reviews here? The essential personal acknowledgment of THIS IS ME!

Yes, the testaments in the book are very powerful. I found many points of connection. I don't know where I will go from here, but I can say that the thought process of each woman who bravely exposed their souls in this book is a very valuable resource for those of us struggling with our own problem of addiction.
I may not fit the mold as presented by each woman here. That is not the point. It is recognizing the heart and soul of what it means to be buried in family issues and the "out" of numbing with drugs/alcohol.
I recommend this book for any person, male or female, who needs to face themselves honestly and with conviction on a very difficult social and personal journey to wholeness.

Great Book
Having worked at the Betty Ford Center for 11 years I recognized a couple of the women in the book.

Moving and Emotional
This book comprises the stories of six women who were patients at the Betty Ford Center along with commentary by Mrs. Ford. The book is divided into three sections based on "Dante's Inferno," which includes each woman's descent into the hell of their addictions, their climb into the purgatory of treatment, and the ultimate paradise of going into, and remaining in recovery. The first part of the book was, at times, hard to read as the stories of the six were heart rending. Although I am a male and a family member of mine who is in recovery is a male, I was nonetheless affected by their stories.

Even as they began to recover, relapse was a danger and several, in fact, did relapse. However, with more rehabilitation, they went back into recovery and I hope that all six, since this book was written, have remained sober. My family member in recovery did not go to the Betty Ford Center but to another, equally world class facility. I know how important it is for the alcoholic/addict to work through the 12 steps and this is what is done at the Betty Ford Center and at other reputable rehab centers.

The stories of the six are emotional. They come from different backgrounds but, their disease is very democratic. It affects rich and poor alike. I found myself rooting for each of the six as I read their accounts and I recommend this book to anyone who wants to learn about how frightening and difficult recovering from addiction and alcoholism can be, But, recovery also offers hope and ultimate healing.

Healing and Hope
Betty Ford narrates the stories of six women who have battled alcohol and/or drug addiciton. Each person shares her pain and rebirth into sobriety.This book is a 'must read' for any woman who has or is suffered from addiction.It is very benifical to those who know and love these women.These women, including Mrs. Ford herself, are very open about the pain that addiction has brought to them and all members of their family.They share with us that healing takes place in all members of the family - not just the addicted member.

Truly inspiring
This book made me appreciate for the first time how very difficult it is for an alcoholic/addict to get clean and stay that way. I have a friend who is a recovering alcoholic and this book made me understand at least some of what she went through--and still goes through. All of the women in the book are so impressive--An inspiring read! ... Read more

Product Description
About this Addiction Book:

Addiction Recovery and Cure - The Ultimate Tip Collection for Addiction Treatment and Regaining a Healthy Lifestyle...

This book if for people dealing with addiction and family members who wish to learn more about this condition.

Addiction is an issue affects all types of people from all walks of life.Not only is the addict affected, those people close to the addict will feel the destruction of addictive behavior.This book includes over 100tips that have been compiled to give you information about different addictions and how you can begin your recovery or help someone who needs to be in recvovery.

Some of the tips included in this book include:

• The importance of understanding what addiction is all about.
• Understanding the stages of addiction and the stages of recovery.
• Information about the detox process.
• Information about treatment programs.
• How you can get the most out of treatment programs.
• The importance of personal goals.
• The importance of finding balance in your life.
• Dealing with denial.
• Getting fit both physically and mentally.
• The importance of finding your own personal power.

You will find these and many more tips in this well written, easy to follow book on addiction and recovery. A must read for anyone fighting addiction or seeking to help someone with addiction. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

unreadable
i only read a page or two of this book on my kindle but it was written so badly and the so called tips it offers were so banal that i gave up. surely people who have to go thru the hell of addiction deserve better than this...

Awesome
Very important subject; tools to assist in the recovery of substances are extremely valuable. New information is necessary to keep us all up to date.
Aaron Bryant: BSW, CSAC Author A Synchronous Memoir of Addiction and Recovery

Alcholism, Drugs, or whatever, you need to read this
Alcholism, Drugs, or whatever addictions you or someone you know has, you need to read this.Teaches understandings of Alcohol Abuse, and drug abuse, that everyone needs to be aware of, plus it's cheap.

Great Tips to Recover from Addiction at Home
If you are looking to recover from addiction without having to get professional help, this book should help.It gives you lots of tips and advice on exactly what you are going through and how to recover at home. ... Read more

Product Description
This story is intended to take its reader on a journey that starts with the somewhat privileged childhood of an upper middle class boy and transitions into a profound story of substance abuse and addiction. This narrative illustrates the overwhelming compulsion of substance abuse and allows the reader to travel through a multitude of societal horrors including gangs, prostitution, homelessness, and incarceration. As the reader begins to feel there is no hope, the resiliency of the human spirit shines through on the road to recovery. The theme of this book revolves around the synchronicities that occurred throughout my journey and ultimately brought me to a career of service.

Those who are in recovery or are currently struggling with addiction will be able to connect with A Synchronous Memoir of Addiction and Recovery through their own personal experiences. Family members of those struggling with addiction may gain some insight into addiction and also gain some hope as they witness the transformation that is possible for anyone. Clinicians and counselors can utilize these stories to add to their understanding of addiction and build on their repertoire of supportive interventions
... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Substance Abuse Counselor, Aaron Bryant Has Written An Intriguing Novel About The Ups and Downs In The Life Of A Drug Addict
Delve into the life of an addict in this poignant story from author and substance abuse counselor, Aaron Bryant.Bryant takes you on a journey into the darker side of addition and recovery.This is not for the faint at heart, but neither is the world of drugs, alcohol, and addiction.

This story not only truly characterizes the life of an addict, but also the long, excruciating road to recovery, for the both the addict and their family and friends. Drugs, sex, and violence are all fairly depicted by the author. Be prepared to cry and get angry, as if a family member of this addict would.

Bryant has used his experience as a counselor to accurately develop this storyline.Kudos, to the author, for daring to write about such a touchy subject, and for not understating the brutal and honest truth of drugs and addiction.

Wonderul insight to a world not my own
Watch Video Here: http://www.amazon.com/review/R2VECURCEBZEO7 Wonderful book that takes you through the life of an addict before and after the addiction.I had no idea!

Fast Paced and insightful
This is the review from the first book sold in physical form:
Windy Allred
This book is so awesome. I was engaged from the moment that I read the first page and couldn't put it down until the book was finshed. I recommend this book to anyone who has, or is struggling with addiction. Furthermore Irecommend it to anyone who knows anyone currently struggling with addiction or those that are simply interested in the topic. This book demonstrates how great of a hold that addiction can have on a person, but it also shows howa person can overcome addiction which provides great hope.
Great Job Aaron ... Read more

Product Description
The National Institute of Health has identified sexual addiction as a research priority. This volume provides a detailed definition of sex and love addiction as well as an explicit outline of treatment and recovery. It uniquely integrates sex and love in its formulation and presents a two level approach to recovery. This presentation provides in-depth examples and suggestions for change and supports the growing involvement of Twelve-Step programs in mental health. Professionals will find this volume an excellent resource in their clinical practice. ... Read more

Product Description
"Hundreds of millions of dollars per year are wasted on
ineffective treatments for addiction, while millions of people
are left searching for answers -if they’re lucky to still be alive.


Finding alcohol and drug rehabilitation methods that work begins with
a better understanding of what addiction really is and examining how
many people have been able to recover permanently, without relapse.
The New Face of Recovery does this and more, such as exposing the lie
that labels addiction as an incurable brain disease and outlining the
common elements of all truly effective rehabilitation programs.

Addiction is not hopeless. There are common sense solutions if you’re
willing to look and see for yourself. This book provides real answers
to this devastating problem on individual, family, community and
nationwide levels. It is time for a change from what has been in place
for decades to something that really works.After all, results are what
matter most.



Warning:
This is not a book on disease. Addiction is NOT a disease.
"
... Read more

Product Description
The addictions treatment field is currently undergoing a period of increased scrutiny, upheaval and change. The growing emphasis on treatment accountability and cost effectiveness is leading to major changes in standards of care. Inconsistent practices based solely on clinical intuition rather than hard scientific evidence of treatment efficacy are rapidly becoming unacceptable.

Translating science-based treatments into clinical settings is an important priority in the addictions field and has been the subject of an influential Institute of Medicine report. Substance abuse treatment programs are now mandated to provide evidence-based treatments, with funding and insurance reimbursement contingent on their doing so.

Evidence-Based Addiction Treatment provides a state-of-the-art compilation of assessment and treatment practices with proven effectiveness. A substantial body of evidence is presented to provide students, academics and clinicians with specific science-based treatments that work. Written at a level appropriate for a variety of audiences, research studies are discussed but highly sophisticated knowledge in research methodology is not required.

- Treatments that work
- Explicit case examples
- Contributions by well-known researchers on addiction treatment
- Simple ways to evaluate treatment effectiveness
- Accompanying web-site with exam questions ... Read more

Product Description
THE REALITY OF ADDICTION AND RECOVERY.

Stephen s life as an addict was a nightmare, bringing him to some of darkest and loneliest places imaginable.

After his introduction to drugs and alcohol at an early age, his life became a series of desperate, morbidly comical attempts to support his addictions -- including botched robberies, corporate embezzlement and prison time.

Twenty years later, Stephen finally reached rock bottom and entered a recovery program though it took losing his job, his family and himself to get him there. Once clean, he was faced with a new challenge: rebuilding his entire life from scratch, with nothing but faith to go on.

A testament to the power of twelve-step recovery, Rising Above the Influence is Stephen s honest, inspiring account of the depths one man can fall to and the heights he can achieve if only he reaches out a hand for help. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

All therapist and counselors should read this book
Stephen J. Della Valle is brutally honest in his biography, Rising Above The Influence. He was in middle school when alcohol and drugs began to take over his life. He "lived to get high." Violence, crime, and addiction went hand in hand. While Valle is quick to point out that he is not offering excuses for the life he led, he shares the loss of his mother and the lack of attention from his parents. Parents do make a difference in a child's development and behavior. Steve was incarcerated so often he knew the guards by name. Eventually Steve went to rehab (more than once). Today he is a changed man.

Rising Above The Influence has pictures of his family. Velle's narrative will bring tears. All therapist and counselors should read this book. He is brutally honest, leaving out nothing. I believe Rising Above The Influence can be a warning to some and offer hope to others. Valle is proof that you can rise above addiction. I suggest giving this book to friends that need encouragement to get through their addiction.

Rising above the influence is excellent!!!!
This book is fantastic. I sent it to my son who struggles with addiction. He was really inspired by this book. I also read it and was fascinated by the insight and the way the story was so easy to relate to. Three of us were reading this at the same time and we all were mesmerized by the stories. Stephen overcame a terrible place in his life and lives on to accomplish more & more each day, including recieving a Humanitarian award!His story is engrossing and he never glosses over any obstacle he faced.Buy this book!!
Buy several like I did and give them to people that need this inspiration. I am on the family side of the addict and it still meant alot to me.

Could not piut it down
Rising Above the Influence, a true story of a down and out addict's fight to survive on the corrupt streets of Newark during the 1970's.This book is a tear-jerking narrative of crime, conflict, and struggle with hopeless addiction told like never before in a straight forward easy to read manner which consistently shocks the reader and leaves one breathlessly craving for more with every chapter.An inspirational must read for anyone striving to overcome addiction in the face of overwhelming odds and resistance and a great encouragement for family struggling with drug abuse.Rising Above the Influence is a chronicle account of a young man's journey from despair and desperation to becoming a successful entrepreneur and the president of the board of directors of the largest rehabilitation center in New Jersey.

A top pick for anyone looking to get out of the fog themselves
The dark fog of addiction has destroyed many lives beyond repair. "Rising Above the Influence: A True Story About Alcohol, Drugs, and Recovery" is how it almost happened to author Stephen J. Della Valle. This is his story of his plummet to the very bottom of humanity, and his long climb back up to normalcy - inspiring indeed. With a message of "don't be afraid to ask for help", "Rising Above the Influence: A True Story About Alcohol, Drugs, and Recovery" is a top pick for anyone looking to get out of the fog themselves and for community library self-help collections.

COULD NOT put it down.Suddenly its 2.30am and The last line is read.
Im a student at Seton Hall Un. and its finals week and I have NO time for frivolous reading of any type.When I opend the box I was commited to at least reading 6 pages with the proloage, no more. I opend it looked at the pic's in the middle "wow ,what a looser I thought.I read the ist page then the second and before I knew it the author had taken contol. I kinda felt, at that exact time, that I HAD BEEN CONNED but there was no conn at all, I didthe math andmade some inqueries and a GUY I know who knows another GUY said "Don't worry abbboout it!meaning "Its ALL TOO REAL"The real engien that drives the story is its air of genuinness,and realy who would lie about this kind of nightmare?.You have to read it and youll understand what everyone is begining to say.Its a must read this summer I would definatly recomend it to any one. Not just thoes who suffer with recovery isues.I was in suspence the entire time after the 1st few pages.Its a excieting as any crime novel Ive read lately. En'joooy!




... Read more

Product Description
Are you an alcoholic/addict? Do you love one? Need help?

Customer Reviews (2)

Getting Down to the Real Deal
This book really hits home and keeps coming! From C. J. Camp's family history all the way through, it all sounds so painfully familiar. I was especially touched by his descriptions of always feeling "different" from other people; not being able to connect heart-to-heart very easily, if ever.

I was also deeply affected by the idea of a "mental picture" of God and the suggestion that the picture many people have is probably inaccurate. God's been given a bum rap!

Wonderful touches of humor throughout, yet always informative and to the point. Good for the family members of addicts also!

The Way It Really Is!
This book really touched a chord in my heart. C. J. Camp lays it out; the good, the bad, and the ugly. He tells his own hair-raising story (child abuse, neglect, etc.) and how he turned to sex, drugs, and alcohol. He talks plainly and unsparingly about his descent into the depths of misery and his near-death. He recounts the powerful "spiritual experience" that saved his life; an encounter with the Holy Spirit (John 6:44-45).
He then explains the 12-Step method of recovery from a Christian perspective in simple terms that everyone can understand. He really made me rethink a lot of my old ideas about cleaning up my past and getting right with God and others.
I also learned more about the true nature of God (as opposed to the unfortunate "mental picture" of God that I was given as a child). That has made a tremendous difference in my life and in my recovery. The first Christian recovery book that's real and true, not stuffy or too theological. A sense of honesty pervades the book. ... Read more

Product Description
A rabbi, a psychiatrist who specializes in addiction treatment, and many recovering Jewish people share their experience with and understanding of the twelve Jewish steps of recovery from addiction of all kinds based on conversations with each other--and with God.

Twelve Jewish Steps to Recovery explains how the Twelve Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous is relevant for Jewish people. Many Jewish people see the Twelve Steps as "Christian" and have difficulty relating to the Steps as Jews. The authors present the Twelve Steps in a Jewish context.

In a spiritually supportive way, Rabbi Olitzky and Dr. Copans resolve questions such as: Why are Jews uncomfortable with the Twelve Steps? How does the Jewish understanding of the material differ from the Christian understanding of it? Which Jewish sources explore the concepts of recovery and renewal? They present a Jewish perspective on the Twelve Steps and offer consolation, inspiration, and motivation for recovery through drawing on traditional Jewish sources and quoting from what recovering Jewish people say about their experiences.

Artist Maty Grünberg's illustrations of the gates of the Old City of Jerusalem open each chapter of Twelve Jewish Steps to Recovery as the reader is welcomed into another stage of a Jewish Twelve Steps experience. These illustrations were selected to emphasize the relationship between heavenly and earthly in all our lives through the prism of Jerusalem. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Not Jewish Enough for Me
Was expecting something a little more Jewish and insightful from this book.I could have written this book in a few hours; with all the Jewish commentaties out there (Rashi) the book could have been deeper.

A companion guide to recovery
I purchased this bood so I could better understand the 12 step recovery programs from a Jewish perspective. There is some language in the 12 steps that is difficult for Jews to reconcill with Jewish beliefs, this book gives you the tools to do that. I say it is a good companion book because it takes the 12 steps form AA, NA etc. and while it does not change the content of those steps, this book explains the steps in accordance with Jewish beliefs, gives guidance based on Jewish traditions and offers prayers grounded in Jewish beliefs. It is an important for any Jew or non-Jew, in recovery to own.

Twelve Jewish Steps to Recovery:
my order arrived in an undamaged package. Twelve Jewish Steps even though about the same as the original twelve steps it's a must have for anyone of the Jewish faith seeking to recover.

Jewish and Non- Jeiwsh 12 step addiction recovery
I am a rabbi and I work as chaplain with inmates in the jail system as well as people who suffer from the disease of (various) addictions outside that system. This series of books By Rabbo Olitzky has been a extraordary help in tying recovery, increasing spiritual exploration and helping those I work with to begin 'real' recovery possibilities: one day at a time.
It is both easy to read and layered with information/quotes from texts, opening the way for questiond, practical ways to get started/continue. I highly recommend this book.

Book is our text for JACS meetings
A group of us recently organized within the Jewish community of Phoenix to start a local chapter of JACS, Jewish Alcoholics, Chemically Addicted Persons, and Significant Others. We use this book as our text. A brief description of the JACS organization, and its relationship to and with other 12-Step programs is included in the Afterward section. Our group has grown steadily week to week, using "Twelve Steps" as both a source of inspiration and as an educational tool. It is not a replacement for other 12-Step programs, and doesn't try to be. Each chapter is devoted to one of the 12 principles, a concept that is not in the Big Book of AA, but which often triggers the introspection and self-awareness that is crucial to persons in recovery. Many Jews in our group are people who felt uncomfortable in traditional 12-Step meetings, for many, often different, reasons. This book reaches out to those people especially, helps ease their suffering, and brings all of us closer, ending the isolation which is so devestating. People get to recovery through many paths. We have found "Twelve Jewish Steps" to be both inspiring and community-building. So far, we've bought 24 books and we continue to need more. People use this book, reading it over and over. It increases compassion, understanding, and hope in both the person in recovery and in his/her family. There is no higher praise I can give. ... Read more

Product Description
A certified addiction counselor and renowned recovery speaker offers a new perspective on addiction, presenting addictive behavior as a search for wholeness. Original. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Must reading if in recovery
I love this book and I loved the man Tom Brady Jr, he is missed.He had more years recovery than God, 40+ before he passed away.He was on the speaker circuit and spoke from a alcoholism/drug addiction point of view (the same thing anyway).Any thing you can get from this man you will love... Jim G, Tonasket, WA & Las Vegas.

Thirsting for Wholeness
I have owned this book twice and currently wish I had a copy.It was very insrumental in helping me understand the spiritual illness I suffer from and the disease I have, of addiction. I can't understand why this book isn't still on the shelves of every bookstore.Tom Brady in his special way explains with clarityexactly what I needed to know to begin to recover. The book is still used to help people in institutions and can be a key to a full knowledge of the condition addicts must face and remedy. I have read this book atleast four times and will seek to obtain it once more. ... Read more

Product Description
Self-help organizations across the world have attracted millions of individuals seeking to address addiction problems with drugs or alcohol.This book provides an integrative, international review of research that focuses on how these organizations affect individual members and whether self-help groups and formal health care systems can work together to combat substance abuse. In addition, it offers practical strategies for individual clinicians and treatment systems on how to interact with self-help organizations. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Circles of Recovery Indeed!
I have been sober for over twenty years, and for every person I meet in AA, I know ten who should be members but are put off by the slogans, seemingly religious orientation, etc.This is the first book I ever read about other paths to sobriety; a world wide survey of what works and what does not. (For instance, in Poland, far from being anonymous, if you are long term sober, they put you on TV. Why should our often illiterate amd overpaid athletes and rock stars be our only culture heros?)
A first class, helpful book, authoratative - the author is a professor of psychiatry at Stanford -- and very easy to read-- no jargon. Bill Manville ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (14)

This book is AMAZING! the cost and was wonderful and the shipping fast!
This book is an amazing book...its not just your typical addiction book, it has stories and so many useful facts and really keeps the attention!I have engulfed myself in this book and have learned so many new things about addiction and how the brain works when it comes to addiction!I would recommend this book to anyone, not just addicts or recovering addicts.Psychologists, social workers, family members of addicts and for anyone who would like to know about addiction and what it is like to use drugs or be addicted.
The cost of this book was wonderful and the shipping was fast. I used this book for a paper and had it here in plenty of time to read the whole book and write the paper using the information from the book!
Very recommended seller!

Don't pay full price
Good book. Has some good information and inspiring stores. I thought the flow was all over the place. I think it is suppose to follow an HBO miniseries that I have yet to see. I have a personal interest in alcohol and drug dependency but otherwise would not have purchased this. If you can get it for way under retail then it is a good buy and a good addition to your collection. Otherwise I their are many other choices out their that give the reader more information and are more useful.

"Why Can't They Just Stop"
This is one of the best books I have read on the subject of Addiction and alcoholism. It not only is informative for the addict/alcoholic themselves, but it is for everyone who is or has been affected by addiction of some sort. It is also for professionals alike. It gives great insite to the idea that addiction "is" a brain disease. I find in my recovery that there are so many people, friends, family, active & recoverying addicts that can't even begin to understand what addiction really is. That its not we're just a bunch of low life losers who choose this life stlye or death from it. It is a real ptoblem for America and the more people that get involved and educate themselves maybe just maybe there may be more help for those who are so sick that they can't help themselves and if they choose to get help. God willing it will be the "right" help. Not just throw someone into a 28 or 30 day treatment program and then throw them back into the reality they came from and except forever abstinence. It's an issue that needs to be addressed to Medical Ptofessionals, educational institutes that offer classes to get certified or a degree to treat these poor unfourtunates, General MD's should have at the very the very least a crash course in addiction. I went to see what a thought was an MD for my dual-addiction of depression/opiate addict and they teach you in recovery to be brutely honest, because they say you are only as sick as your secrets. When I first sat down with her (she was a 1st yr resident). I told her I was chemically dependent, her response to me was, "what's that"? I could go on and on about how ignorant our society is to the disease of Addiction, but really? Would it do any good? Read the book-it's great!

a good synopsis
This book highlights the different opinions in addiction treatment. It is conveniently arranged. The stories of addicted people are good examples of practice.

understanding the diesase
Wow, this book is so jam packed with information on just about every addiction out there.It touches every addiction from many different angles.It is good to know that Science is progressing in finding ways to help the addicts to recover better.I learned so much about alcoholism and how it really affects the brain.It explains everything so good that anyone can understand "Why they can't just quit". I recommend this book to anyone. ... Read more

Product Description
One of the most original works on substance abusetreatment in the last decade, pathways explores the pilgrimage betweentwo social worlds-one that promotes exeessive use of psychoactivedrugs and the other that promotes radical abstinence from thesesubstances-and how individuals can move from one culture to the other.This anthropological study of addiction and recovery as a culturalphenomenon serves as a manual for both substance abuse program designand clinical techniques in substance abuse assessment and treatment. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Insightful
The continued education and search for additional information is imperative to addiction.
Aaron Bryant: CSAC, BSWAuthorA Synchronous Memoir of Addiction and Recovery

Excellent book explaining differences in drug mis-use folks.
The culture of recovery explained here shows those involved in the culture of addiction that there is hope and a future.I found this work to be very up-lifting in its description of the life of recovered people.

An Anthropological Study of Addictions Made Easy
This work is essential reading for both substance-abuse treatment professionals and all others who have an interest in addictions. The ability to understand the addict, recovering or not, is simplified inWhite's work. White divides the addict into three easy-to-understand groups(Acultural, Bicultural and culturally enmeshed), providing an importantinformational tool for assessment and treatment planning. Just as thetreatment professional should understand the ethnic and religious cultureof the patient, so too should he understand the culture of addiction andrecovery within which the substance abuser "resides." Knowingthat there is a "cultural" difference between inner-city heroinaddicts and codeine dependent nurses, for example, it follows thattreatment for each group should also be different. What makes White's workparticularly important is the scientific foundation from which it wasresearched and written. It is an anthropological work in lay-person'slanguage. ... Read more

Product Description
Internet Addiction: A Handbook and Guide to Evaluation and Treatment

"This book provides cutting-edge coverage by expanding the field to include specific problems such as online gaming, cybersex addiction, and gambling addiction. Its extensive attention to dealing with adolescents is essential, given the rapid rise in media and technology use by both Net Generation young adults and iGeneration teenagers. I am thrilled to have this invaluable, comprehensive, well-written resource for my own work and recommend it to people who need to understand this unique form of addiction."
—Dr. Larry Rosen, Past Chair and Professor of Psychology at California State University, Dominguez Hills, author of Rewired: Understanding the iGeneration and the Way They Learn and Me, MySpace, and I: Parenting the Net Generation

"Our clients come to us when online pornography, video gaming, social networking, gambling, and surfing create untenable disruptions in their lives. If we do not understand what we are seeing and how to address it, we will not be able to provide the help they need. This book provides the practical information clinicians can use to assess and treat this growing problem."
—Hilarie Cash, PhD, coauthor of Video Games and Your Kids: How Parents Stay in Control, and cofounder of reSTART: Internet Addiction Recovery Program

"Internet Addiction: A Handbook and Guide to Evaluation and Treatment provides an integrated and current overview of the different types of Internet addiction-gaming addiction, gambling addiction, and cybersex addiction. The authors deserve ample praise in providing such a comprehensive and informative guide for Internet addiction."
—Ran Tao, MD, Professor and Director, and Xiuqin Huang, MD, Associate Professor, Treatment Center for Internet Addiction, General Hospital of Beijing Military Region, China

The first empirically informed reference for defining, assessing, diagnosing, and treating problematic Internet use Comprehensive and timely, Internet Addiction explores:

• Validated assessment tools to differentiate normal from compulsive patterns of computer and online usage

• The most addictive or problematic online activities

• Epidemiology and subtypes of Internet addiction such as online pornography, Internet gambling, and online gaming

• Current theories on the risk factors associated with the development of an addictive disorder related to Internet usage

• Evidence-based treatment strategies for helping clients of various ages, taking into account main presenting problems and individual situations and circumstances

International in scope and empirically based, the cultural and global impact of this subject is discussed, introducing practitioners to the latest clinical implications, assessment methods, and treatment approaches in working with clients suffering from this emerging addictive disorder. ... Read more

Product Description
On June 28, 1996, Pat Holloran’s life changed suddenly and forever when Drug Control confronted her for the theft of narcotics from the hospital where she worked.

Customer Reviews (2)

Inspirational
Having just discovered the depths of denial in my own addiction, I was enormously grateful to find a book that I could relate to. As an RN finding that Im not the only one, and that recovery and continuing to work as a nurse was still a possibility. Patty, in sharing her story, made it easier for me to accept my own addiction and keep me on the road to recovery and a life of joy that I didn't know was possible! Thanks for sharing Patty!!

This book is an ispiration to all people. Not just nurses.
Thank you Patricia for writing this book. Your courage to write your painful experience is beyond words. Addiction is a powerful disease.
... Read more

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This book is valuable and different in that the author’s inner perspectives explore some of the personal, internal battles and issues the addict faces during the surrender to addiction then recovery. It is important to know that an active addict or one going through recovery interprets his newfound horizons in unique ways as addiction to cocaine opens up strange new worlds.That a person who has earned or possesses all the trappings of success can allow cocaine to seemingly unconscionably bring on ravages of degradation to his life is phenomenal. The slide into hell with cocaine counters everything precious and known to us. For an individual to escape the forces of cocaine addiction calls for an understanding of that roadmap in order for him to stand a chance at recovery, especially that the greatest enemy lies within the mind.Some issues discussed here pertinent to a recovering addict are: links between mind, body and soul; regaining life’s lost values; pleasure and depression levels of cocaine; making the mind master the crucial moments of predetermination.This writer has surrendered then resurrected from the ravages of cocaine addiction going on nineteen years. He has recounted that secret inner-battle and war. Recovering cocaine addicts do at times feel possessed, invaded and being controlled. The addict must understand that years or months free from the drug may only be an innocent deception, as the battle to overcome it may take years of practicing a healthy lifestyle. Having awareness of the pitfalls of recovery may help addicts defy the high failure rate.To rehabilitate and resurrect oneself from cocaine is a time of challenge and internal wars as denial of cocaine’s ultra-orgasmic pleasure requires superhuman mystical, emotional, spiritual and physical strength developments of their own. The pleasurable consequences of addiction seem to suppress, overcome then swallow the meaning of life itself.With millions worldwide addicted to cocaine, and praying for a w ... Read more

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A handbook for all clinicians who need to tap into the power of twelve-step programs. ... Read more

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Addiction Recovery Tools: A Practical Handbook presents verified recovery tools with a methodical "when and how" approach for each available tool. Including both Western and Eastern methods, the book catalogs the motivational, medical-pharmaceutical, cognitive-behavioral, psychosocial, and holistic tools accessible in a wide variety of settings and programs.

Speaking directly to practitioners with an easy-to-read outline for each tool, the book addresses the following questions: When and how does it work? Why does it work and with whom? What are the practical guidelines for success? What are the potential pitfalls?

The contributors, all experiences addiction recovery specialists, present comprehensive descriptions of each tool as well as practical aids – worksheets, lists, scales, guidelines, and interactive exercises – to help the practitioner incorporate the tool into practice. Further instructional resources are supplied for training, continuing education, and career enhancement.

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A valuable resource for addressing/promoting the spiritual awakening/development for patients based on a thoroughly researched system of meditation

Nearly 40% of americans saw an alternative healthcare practitioner last year. Interest in Yoga—an aspect of ayurveda—is growing nationally and is starting to become part of more progressive treatment programs. Patients want more. Providers need to offer more. And choices need to be based on sciencetific research on complementary/alternative medicine, which is under-researched in the addictions treatment field right now. Their has been a flurry of interest in Trancendental Meditation (TM) the past few months, mostly due to very impressive research on lowering blood pressure—especially in African Americans. This groundbreaking, scientifically based book shows how TM can have profound health-promoting effects on addictions as well, according to recent research on profound brain changes caused by TM practice.

Self-Recovery acquaints readers with the use of Transcendental Meditation program and Maharishi Ayur-Veda. This natural comprehensive approach to health care, as brought to light from the ancient Vedic tradition of India by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, allows individuals to break negative habits that arise from an incomplete understanding of the relationship between mind, body, and environment. Self-Recovery shows how this ancient system of mind-body medicine, through its mental and physical procedures, can be used to treat addictive diseases effectively.

The first book written on the application of the Transcendental Meditation (TM) program and Maharishi Ayur-Veda to addictions treatment, this volume is interdisciplinary in scope with original chapters by psychologists, physicians, physiologists, neurochemists, and other addictions professionals who offer an alternative paradigm to understanding and treating addictions.

In contrast to conventional treatments, the TM program and Maharishi Ayur-Veda appear to provide a natural, comprehensive treatment approach that profoundly influences all levels of individual life that can impact on the addictive process. Not overly technical, Self-Recovery shares the pioneering experiences of clinicians using these holistic procedures as well as the striking findings of researchers who have integrated them into current chemical dependency treatments. For readers without prior introduction to this new approach, the TM program and Maharishi Ayur-Veda are briefly but thoroughly described. Readers looking for an effective mind-body treatment of addictions that is holistic in nature will find it in this book as it introduces them to this very ancient, but quite relevant, system of healing that can act in a complementary fashion with modern psychological and medical approaches to addictive disorders. Practitioners will find a description of Maharishi Ayur-Veda programs and learn about incorporating them into daily practice. Psychotherapists will learn how this unique program can affect the recovery process from addictive diseases.

Through rich presentations of theory, research, and clinical case studies, Self-Recovery makes knowledge of Maharishi Ayur-Veda and the addictions come alive. The book is divided into four sections, the first of which contains an examination of the theoretical underpinnings and existing research on the TM program and its applications to addictions treatment. The second section features original research on the impact of TM on severe alcoholism and nicotine addiction. In section three, clinicians share case studies on the impact of the TM program on personal growth experienced during recovery from alcohol and other drug addictions. Section four presents theory and clinical application of the twenty approaches of Maharishi Ayur-Veda in chemical dependency treatment. A vital source of information on addictions treatment, this book is essential rea ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Very inspiring
Charles Alexander's book, Self Recovery is particulary helpful because it includes many different experiences with recovering from drug abuse.In some, the recovery is simple and immediate with beginning the regular practice of TM.He also gives examples of more difficult cases where recovery is interruptedand regained several times before self recovery is achieved. The study imvolving alcoholics living on the street wasespecially important as it showed that by adding a stress management strategy to a traditional treatment program, some actual progress was made where progress is not usually seen.

That there is a stress management technique effective enough to break the grip of drug addiction is exciting.That it issometimes challenging to keep people on the program is realistic.That it is sometimes incredibly easy and immediate is corroberated in the prioneering work on TM that Dr. Herbert Benson and Dr. Keith Wallace did at Harvard in the early 70's. It is described in Benson's book, The Relaxation Response.

Dr. Alexander's book is timely.The only real way to win the war on drugs is to reduce the demand for drugs.TM is a useful tool in establing self sufficiency, clear thinking and success in life. ... Read more

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"I don't even help [my children] with their homework in the evening because I'm in the chat rooms, and I don't help put them to bed because I don't realize how late it is. I also don't help them get ready for school in the morning like I used to do because I'm checking my e-mail. And I just can't stop myself."—Raymond, an Internet addict.

Internet addiction is real. Like alcoholism, drug addiction, or compulsive gambling, it has devastating effects on the lives of addicts and their families: divorce, job loss, falling productivity at work, failure in school, and, in extreme cases, criminal behavior. The problem has already reached epidemic proportions in the United States, and the number of "netaholics" continues to grow rapidly as more households and businesses go on-line. Yet, until now, no one from the mental health community has come forward with a specific description of Internet addiction and its effects or a strategy for treatment and recovery.

In Caught in the Net, Kimberly Young shares the results of her three-year study of Internet abuse. Often using the words of the Internet addicts themselves, she presents the stories of dozens of lives that were shattered by an overwhelming compulsion to surf the Net, play MUD games, or chat with distant and invisible neighbors in the timeless limbo of cyberspace.

Why is the Internet so seductive? What are the warning signs of Internet addiction? Is recovery possible? Dr. Young answers these questions and many more. She provides a questionnaire to help Net users determine whether they are addicts, and offers concrete steps to help problem users regulate Internet usage and devise a more balanced place for it in their daily lives.

For Internet addicts as well as their parents, spouses, friends, and employers, Caught in the Net offers guidance on where and how to seek help from counselors, therapists, and other professionals who take this affliction seriously. For mental health professionals, this book provides insights into the nature and causes of Internet addiction and encourages counselors and therapists to expand their addiction recovery programs to address the specific problems of Internet addicts.

"Think that computer addiction is a joke? Think again. This groundbreaking book is the first to explore on-line addiction in a serious way and to consider the effects on individuals and their families. Caught in the Net is an important book for anyone who spends mornings and evenings connected to the Net."—Clifford Stoll, author of The Cuckoo's Egg and Silicon Snake Oil.

"An excellent account of the dangers of the burgeoning Internet industry. Dr. Young carefully outlines the traps into which people can fall and offers pragmatic self-help suggestions. Caught in the Net is valuable for both consumers and the professionals who deal with them."—Maressa Hecht Orzack, PhD, Founder and Coordinator, Computer Addiction Services, McLean Hospital Lecturer, Harvard University Medical School

"I don't mean to spend all my time this way, but I can't stop. It's the only place my opinion matters and I feel important."—bob&atsign;age38.automechanic.internet.addict

"I feel guilty about it, but when I tried to break free, I simply didn't have the strength....I'm a long-time smoker, but I've found the craving to go on the Internet first thing every morning is stronger than my urge to light a cigarette."—marylou&atsign;age40.motheroffour.internet.addict

"When you're talking about the Internet, you're talking about power. It's the most powerful information tool I have ever known. When I explore the on-line world, I feel like that robot in the movie Short Circuit. I need more input! More input!"—dave&atsign;age28.militarytelecommunicationsexpert.internet.addict

"I feel the rush every time my mind gets connected to this intensely powerful information whirlpool. When I enter cyberspace, I become one with my mind. It's like Mr. Spock doing the Vulcan mind meld."—josh&atsign;age29.computerprogrammer.internet.addict

itt. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (20)

Outdated Information
I should have paid more attention to the publication date before I purchased this book.The information in it concerning the internet is antique at this point.Days of CompuServe, AOL and hourly charges for time spent online are long gone.It's hard getting past the outdated information to find the book of any help.It's a good enough read but check it out of the library and save your money.

Prescient
This book was written almost 10 years ago, back in the days of list servers and chat room mania.Even so, it really captures the allure and addictiveness of the electronic medium.I bought it because my 19 year old son is addicted to video games.Though it isn't (yet) an "official" psychiatric diagnosis -- probably due to lobbying by the video game industry to the psychiatric industry (maybe even payoffs) -- it is a REAL thing.If gambling can be an addiction and sex can be an addition, video gaming can definitely be an addition.I probably shouldn't have written this review because I haven't finished the book yet, but Amazon sent me this email asking me to ... so far it is very factual and resonates completely with my son's situation.I haven't gotten to any "solutions" yet ... I am hopeful.

out of date
out of touch. It would be good to take a re-visited look at the issues involved.

Helpful Information - Do You See Yourself?
First, the drawback? This book is based on studies done ten years ago. But to be fair, the problem is real and getting worse. And we need more current research into this addiction that fractures families.

Now, let's look at the positive side of this book. The reasons around this addiction haven't changed. People who are addicted to the 'Net often don't see there's a problem until, well, there's a BIG problem. Dr. Young gives us helpful information on how to become "unplugged" and get back into real life.

If you think you have 'Net addiction, it won't hurt to read this book, would it?

This book saved my family!
Dr. Young's strategies helped me to identify and learn about my addiction to the Internet.I was spending all kinds of time in online chat rooms and instant messaging, my marriage of 15 years almost ended, and I almost lost my kids because of it.My wife bought this book and it helped me to understand what I was dealing with - an addiction - and gave me specific ways to help me recognize what triggered this problem.I've been in counseling for the past few months and slowly putting my life back together and I thank Dr. Young for her book.It saved my family! ... Read more