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Gateway to Recovery - May 1 & 8, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
 The Gateway to Recovery series provides information on how to detect addiction and what friends and families can do to help those needing treatment. This information series is free and often the first step in helping people find treatment and begin the healing process. The first Wednesday class focuses on the topic of “What is Addiction?” and addresses use, abuse and dependence of drugs and alcohol, the bio-psycho-social-spiritual aspects of addiction and the stages of change and recovery. The second Wednesday class focuses on the topic of “Help and Hope for the Family.” This seminar addresses addiction as a family disease and how it impacts each member of the family. We also talk about enabling behavior and codependency and survival roles and rules. Gateway to Recovery is facilitated by Mary Boone and is held from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. on the first and second Wednesday of each month at Austin Recovery (8402 Cross Park Dr., Austin, TX, 78754). Click here for more information.
Second Saturday Workshop – May 11, 10 a.m. to 12 noon
“Boundaries: The Key to Balance” presented by Cynthia Schiebel, M.Ed., LPC-S, LCDC, AAC, ADC, ACPS, BCC
 “Boundaries” are a system of setting limits that enhance a person’s ability to have a sense of self. Healthy boundaries help us to contain and protect our reality, acknowledge our value and worth, and foster moderation and balance in our living. Boundaries are the common denominator for balance in our 4 core self-care areas – physical, mental, emotional and spiritual. Through information, modeling, and experiential activities, participants will: define external and internal boundary systems, examine appropriate boundaries and boundary violations, experience exercises for establishing/practicing healthy boundaries, and transfer learning to personal and professional settings. This workshop is appropriate for all attendees and the learning can easily be used for personal and professional growth. Second Saturday Workshops are held the second Saturday of each month except December and are free to the public. No registration is required. PLEASE NOTE: Beginning in April 2013, Second Saturday Workshops will have a different feel, getting back to the series roots of “recovery enrichment.” The topics will be more recovery-focused than professional development-focused. As a response to feedback, we will still be offering Continuing Education Units (CEUs). Two hours of continuing education credits are offered to chemical dependency professionals with LCDC, ADC, LCSW and LMSW certifications as approved by DSHS and TCBAP. Second Saturday is held at Austin Recovery (8402 Cross Park Dr., Austin, TX, 78754). Click here for more information.
HOT EAPA Workshop at Austin Recovery – May 15, 9 a.m. to 12 noon
“Social Media Marketing 101: Using Social Media to Build Your Practice” presented by Ramona Cruz-Peters, Director of Marketing & Communications, Austin Recovery.
 Does social media have you confused? Are you overwhelmed by LinkedIn and Facebook, and not sure why anyone would want to “tweet?” Then this workshop is for you! Come and join us for an interactive, non-intimidating introduction to social media and how you can use it to market your practice. Social networking is a major part of our daily lives and our culture, and this will not change any time soon. In a world where the majority of consumers expect for companies and organizations to have a social media presence, there is a great opportunity to engage with users and network online. This presentation will act as an introduction to social media marketing geared at marketing your private practice or small business. Attendees will learn the importance of having a social media presence, the time and skills required to manage various social networking profiles, summaries of the major social networking sites (to determine which options are right for you, as well as the basics on how to use them), how to effectively engage users on these sites, how to set realistic expectations for your marketing efforts, as well as helpful tools and best practices. Continuing Education Credits: 1.5 PDH’s for CEAP, 1.5 CEU’s for LPC, LCDC, LCSW, and LCDC. Cost: Cash or Checks: Payable at Door. EAPA members – No charge, Non-EAPA members – $25.00, Students and first-time attendees – $10.00. To RSVP: email Ramona Cruz-Peters at rcruzpeters@austinrecovery.org. Presentation held at Austin Recovery (8402 Cross Park Dr., Austin, TX, 78754). Sponsored by Covenant Hills.
Austin Recovery Alumni Events
Join the Austin Recovery Alumni for fun events and fellowship throughout the week. Events include Sunday Night Alumni Speaker Meetings, Big Book study groups, Musical Journey, skating, hikes around Lady Bird Lake, drum circles, bowling nights, game nights, evenings at the coffee shop and more. For moreinformation, contact Austin Recovery Alumni and Volunteer Coordinator Jeff Kamen at 512-697-8513 or click on the Alumni events link on www.AustinRecovery.org.
Volunteer Opportunities at Austin Recovery
Austin Recovery is always looking for volunteers to provide additional support to our clients in residential addiction treatment in the following areas: financial planning, parenting skills, healthy relationships, job readiness/ interviewing skills, stress management, anger management, self-esteem and abuse issues. We also need volunteers for clerical work, yoga, arts and crafts, dance, spa days (pedicures, manicures, hairstyling), recreation and weightlifting. If you are interested or have questions, please contact Austin Recovery Alumni and Volunteer Coordinator Jeff Kamen at 512-697-8513 jkamen@austinrecovery.org.
With Earth Day upon us, we have a guest blog post written by Austin Recovery‘s Director of Marketing & Communications, Ramona Cruz-Peters.
Preserving our Planet for Future Generations
 Moving to Central Texas from Southern California a few years ago, I was actually surprised by the lack of motivation to recycle in my new neighborhood, as well as how resistant some people seemed to be to use reusable bags, and the lack of public transportation. For a region of Texas that I perceived to be very outdoor-focused and socially-conscious, I expected Central Texas to be ahead of the curve in these areas. I am happy to see more of a movement recently, as taking steps to live with ecological consciousness has been a big part of my life growing up. Growing up in a desert region of Southern California, I was no stranger to droughts and the need to conserve water. Recycling wasn’t just an option, it was a way of life. My family had far more recyclable and compostable waste than actual trash. And plastic or paper grocery bags? You’d get dirty looks at the grocery store if you didn’t bring your own bags. The poor air quality of Southern California was also a constant concern, as we would make every effort to carpool and use mass transit to mitigate the problem. All of the light bulbs in our house were switched to compact fluorescent, and you can be sure my mom would follow you around the house to turn off your lights and electronics that were not in use!
A lot of these things were part of my life out of habit. Now that I have my own children, I think about and notice these steps we take in our day-to-day lives even more. I am reminded that it is not just about me and this planet that I adore. It is about having a beautiful planet with healthy animal life and ecosystems, safe climate, and liveable conditions for not only my two boys, but for generations upon generations down the line. We love to camp, travel and be outdoors. Some of my favorite parts of the world are its natural wonders, and I think of how tragic it would be if our future generations were unable to enjoy them as much as we do.
As Earth Day approaches, I suddenly began to see a link to the work that we do to treat addiction and the work we need to do to preserve our planet. Austin Recovery values treating addiction as a family disease, and sees the importance of breaking the cycle of addiction in families for future generations through our Family House program, our various forms of family education and therapy, and even our upcoming Kids Camp. Just as it is our duty to break the cycle of the harm addiction causes to families, we have a duty to break the cycle of damage to our Earth so that it can be enjoyed (and livable) for future generations.
How can we do this? There are a number of resources out there, but I can suggest starting by making these basic changes to your everyday life, just like my family did. While some of these may seem like effort in the beginning, you’d be amazed at how quickly they can become a way of life, second nature!
1) Recycle! You would be amazed to see that almost everything you put in your trash is actually recyclable. Paper (junk mail, circulars, magazine, newspapers, etc.), cardboard (boxes, paper towel rolls, etc.), glass (think old food and condiment jars and bottles), most plastics (just flip them over and look for that little recycle triangle symbol – this includes most food containers, milk jugs, etc.), and Styrofoam (yes – this landfill enemy can be thwarted easily by putting it in the recycle bin – most Styrofoam containers, cups, etc. are recyclable! Again, just look for that little triangle). When you get in the habit of recycling, you may notice that you go through 4 times the amount of recyclables than you do actual trash. The remainder of your trash will contain a lot of compost, so if you have the ability to compost, you may want to look into that too!
2) Switch your lightbulbs out to compact fluorescent bulbs. While they may cost slightly more than standard bulbs initially, they will save you much more money than you spend: they last 10 times longer than standard incandescent bulbs AND they use less energy, therefore saving you money on your electric bill (which we know here in Central Texas can be a big help!).
3) Bring reusable shopping bags to the grocery store. There are a lot of reasons why reducing paper and plastic bag waste is important to our environment, so feel free to Google it and learn for yourself.
4) Conserve water by taking showers instead of baths, turning the water off when you brush your teeth, and if possible change your old water guzzling appliances like washing machines out for newer, more water-efficient models. They are often energy-efficient too, so this will save you money on both your water AND electric bills.
5) Carpool and take public transit as much as possible. Do you have a significant other that works similar hours to you? Then find ways to carpool to work (which also saves you gas money!). Meeting a friend at a concert? Pick them up and drive together instead of taking two separate cars… this makes parking easier, traffic more fun to sit in if you are with a friend, and gets another car off the road!
Do you have any easy tips to live more “green” in our daily lives? Comment below so we can share ideas!
Thanks for listening, and Happy Earth Day!
Today’s guest blog post is contributed by Linda Mikesic, LCSW, LCDC, Director Of Clinical Services, Austin Recovery. Linda shares on the challenges faced for couples in early recovery when one of the people in the relationship is in recovery and the other is not.
Couples in Early Recovery: When One Person is in Recovery and the Other is Not
By Linda Mikesic, LCSW, LCDC, Director Of Clinical Services, Austin Recovery
Although recovery from addiction is an exciting time for couples to grow and embrace positive change, it is also a challenging time as each person attempts to adjust to the new behaviors and interactions that sobriety requires. For a couple to recover from the pain that the addiction brought into their lives, it is essential to regain the trust that was lost both in the relationship with the other person as well as the relationship one has with oneself. Sometimes the focus of recovery is on the alcoholic/addict and again the person not in recovery feels left out and alone. Often their expectation is that now that their loved one is sober, they will finally have their undivided attention and now it is their turn to shine. It is important that the couple redefine their relationship both as individuals and as a couple as trust is rebuilding. A new look at trust is essential as the foundation for further work. Both partners have to take some responsibility in what went wrong in the relationship and look at what they can do differently to prevent the cycle of destruction that addiction often encompasses. In order to heal, individualiial support systems are helpful to begin working on individual needs that are not dependent on the other person. Each member of the relationship needs his/her own individual support system that can validate him/her as a separate person to encourage growth as an individual and not simply as part of a couple . Building trust with oneself to set and honor healthy boundaries develops safety and a sense of balance that can be freeing and healing. As the addict becomes more independent, this can bring up fears such as not being needed as much or that now that the addict is “better” they will leave them. When the recovering person begins attending meetings, working with a sponsor, meeting new friends also in recovery, the non-addicted person may feel angry, scared, and unsure of where they fit in the new relationship. Developing a support system reduces the isolation that keeps one from wanting to control the addict/alcoholic and provides a place for the non-recovering person to be heard and their own feelings validated. Also, In the event of a relapse, the entire system does not have to collapse as support provides an avenue of hope that one’s own stability does not have to end if my loved one chooses to use again.
In addition to individual interventions, couple’s counseling in early recovery can also be an important ingredient in the change process. As one person changes, the other person inevitably feels a need to adjust to these changes. Couples, like families, often resist change due to the complexity of moving away from the familiar to a world that seems different and unknown. Along with recovery comes a new set of problems that couples are often ill-equipped to manage. Couples often lack the skills needed for effective problem-solving, communication, and processing past hurts without causing more shame and guilt. Counseling can enhance empathy, understanding, direction, listening, and objectivity. Contracting in couple’s counseling can provide written reminders to the couple that they have agreed together that in the event of a relapse, the non-recovering person has permission to not enable, to stay safe, and to not contribute to maintaining the addiction in any way even if it means leaving the relationship until the addict/alcoholic agrees to get help. Power changes in the relationship can also be addressed as the couple attempts to find a new homeostasis rather than automatically reverting back to old behaviors that keep the couple in the midst of dysfunction instead of developing new ways to engage when stressors arise.
Recovering from an addiction requires commitment, change, support, and a redefining of roles for both individuals in the relationship. Both individual and couple issues need to be addressed. It is normal in early recovery to have questions about where the relationship is headed and even to ask if the relationship will survive the changes that recovery brings. A new set of issues surface that may seem overwhelming and confusing. Overcoming the pain caused by the addiction does not happen overnight. Time, patience and effort are required as the couple strives for a more healthy balance that includes both individual and relationship changes. Education about addiction, on-going support systems, and the acquisition of hope that things can and do get better empower couples transitioning through the stages of recovery toward a successful outcome. Long-term recovery for a couple is exciting and rewarding as each partner learns that individual growth does not mean sacrificing the needs of relationship. As the old behaviors die off and new ways of functioning emerge and take over, success and happiness are possible. The goal for each couple is finding what works in the partnership that produces closeness, happiness, the ability to solve problems and manage conflict, and the recognition that healing is a process that is shared with openness and a willingness to be an active participant in the change process.
Somatic Experiencing
By Maryse Saffle, LCDC, Experiential Coordinator, Austin Recovery
Trauma is an internal straitjacket created when a devastating moment is frozen in time. It stifles the unfolding of being, and strangles our attempts to move forward in our lives. It disconnects us from our selves’, others, nature and spirit.” –Dr. Peter Levine, PhD, developer of Somatic Experiencing
As the Experiential Coordinator at AR, I regularly take clients on deep evocative musical journeys for them to experience and heal past hurts, traumas etc. However, I realized that for some of our clients, their trauma and subsequent PTSD was too severe, and I became interested in finding a short term modality to help heal trauma. I am beginning my Advanced Training (3rd year), and am grateful to bring this to AR. Too often trauma is the root cause of substance abuse, and unless we help clients heal at a deep somatic level, their chances of relapse are higher. I wanted to help restore goodness and help build resilience.
Somatic Experiencing® is a short-term naturalistic approach to the resolution and healing of trauma developed by Dr. Peter Levine. It is based upon the observation that wild prey animals, though threatened routinely, are rarely traumatized. Animals in the wild utilize innate mechanisms to regulate and discharge the high levels of energy arousal associated with defensive survival behaviors. These mechanisms provide animals with a built-in ‘’immunity’’ to trauma that enables them to return to normal in the aftermath of highly ‘’charged’’ life-threatening experiences
It is an integrative approach to the resolution and healing of trauma. The Autonomic Nervous System is designed to regulate itself, but this process becomes thwarted when undermined by trauma. Somatic Experiencing facilitates reconnection to the sensations and movement of the body in order to access our innate capacity for healing.
Somatic Experiencing employs awareness of body sensations to help the nervous system re-regulate, rather than re-live or re-enact a stressful situation. The process supports conceptual understanding and the opportunity to find higher meaning in your life experience. By increasing our awareness of the relationship between our body and mind we are able to reconnect the fragmented parts, integrate our experiences and access our true self. This is how we become whole.
Our clients become empowered when they realize they have the capacity to truly heal. One client I worked with suffered from severe PTSD after two tours of duty. He came to us for substance abuse, but left healed at a deeper level became he was able to self-regulate whenever he became triggered.
More information can be found at www.traumahealing.com ; recommended books are “Waking the Tiger” and “In an Unspoken Voice”, both by Peter Levine, PhD.
Hall of Fame Running Back Earl Campbell Helps Raise More Than $300,000 for Drug and Alcohol Addiction Treatment
The Football Great Shared How He Overcame Addiction to Prescription Drugs at Austin Recovery Fundraiser
 Last week, Austin Recovery, the largest non-profit drug and alcohol treatment center in Texas, hosted its second annual Speaker Series fundraiser luncheon at Austin City Limits Live at The Moody Theater. The event featured famed University of Texas Longhorn Running Back and Hall of Fame Houston Oiler Earl Campbell as the keynote speaker. The goal of the series, in which a nationally acclaimed artist, entertainer, or speaker shares his or her story of recovery, is to break the silence and stigma placed on addiction while raising essential funds in support of Austin Recovery.
Earl Campbell, a Texas native, overcame a youth of poverty to win a Heisman Trophy and would go on to join the Houston Oilers as first all-around pick in the 1978 draft. Years of playing football took a toll on Campbell’s body, and after multiple surgeries he found relief through prescription painkillers, which eventually took over his life. Yesterday, alongside his sons Tyler and Christian Campbell, Earl shared his personal and family story of a journey from fame to addiction, then recovery and healing. For a time, alcohol and drugs did what Earl’s football opponents could not, and brought down this formerly indestructible force of nature fondly known as the Tyler Rose.
“I was so embarrassed because I’m Earl Campbell. But it can happen to Earl Campbell, too. I got with the program… I needed some help. I couldn’t do it by myself” said the retired Running Back of his addiction and recovery during his speech. “I thought I was existing all those years as Earl Campbell. But the last three years have been the best. It’s made all our lives better.”
The luncheon’s proceeds, which totaled more than $300,000 in ticket sales and donations, will support Austin Recovery and allow the treatment center to continue achieving its mission: to provide the highest quality of drug and alcohol treatment to anyone who needs it, regardless of personal circumstances.
“Witnessing the support this community has shown for recovery from addiction and alcoholism today was astounding,” said Mel Taylor, President and CEO, Austin Recovery. “While Earl’s ultimate victory over addiction – his most formidable opponent – is a shining example of the possibility of recovery and restored hope for families, there are many out there who have not been as fortunate,” Taylor added. “The disease of alcoholism and addiction knows no age, racial, or socioeconomic barriers, and the reality is that there are tens of thousands of Texans and their families who are currently suffering.”
In 2010, an estimated 22.1 million persons (8.7 percent of the population aged 12 or older) were classified with substance dependence or abuse in the past year based on criteria specified in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th edition (DSM-IV).
With more than 500 guests, attendees included Luncheon Chairs Val Armstrong and Rachael Wyatt, long-time Austin Recovery supporter and Honorary Chair Edith Royal, Dawn and Greg Crouch, and several sports personalities including Master of Ceremonies Ron Franklin, James Street, Thomas “Hollywood” Henderson, Doug English, Randy McEachern and others. Sponsors included Greenstream International and Maxwell Locke & Ritter.
Gateway to Recovery - April 3 & 10, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
The Gateway to Recovery series provides information on how to detect addiction and what friends and families can do to help those needing treatment. This information series is free and often the first step in helping people find treatment and begin the healing process. Gateway to Recovery is facilitated by Mary Boone and is held from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. on the first and second Wednesday of each month at Austin Recovery (8402 Cross Park Dr., Austin, TX, 78754). Click here for more information.
UT Presentation at Austin Recovery – April 5, 9 a.m. to 12 noon
“Intensive Outpatient Treatment: A Family Model of Recovery” presented by Robert Hilliker, LCSW, LCDC, CCF-C and Jamie Milward, LMSW, The Council on Alcohol and Drugs Houston.
Participants will have the opportunity to explore the use of an integrated treatment approach with substance abuse and comorbid psychiatric disorders. They will examine the therapeutic efficacy of blending psychodynamic, family of origin, behavioral and strengths-based perspectives with twelve step recovery concepts into a holistic, family-centered practice. Group discussions of structuring outpatient practice and interventions will occur. Participants will be able to identify the co-occurring psychiatric diagnosis most often comorbid with substance use disorders and their impact on outcomes, and examine the family’s role in treatment, to reduce recidivism rates and positively influence recovery success. 3 CEUs available. Click here to RSVP. Presentation is held at Austin Recovery (8402 Cross Park Dr., Austin, TX, 78754). Click here for more information.
Second Saturday Workshop – April 13, 10 a.m. to 12 noon
“Finding Peace: Spirituality and Recovery” presented by Drew Brooks, Executive Director, Faith Partners
Addiction disease is similar to other chronic illnesses (i.e. hypertension, heart disease, emphysema, asthma, diabetes) which have identifiable symptoms and behavioral components, but unlike the other chronic diseases, Addiction has a Spiritual Remedy. For many individuals, spirituality and religion are important components of successful recovery from substance use disorders. We will explore the underlying spiritual disciplines of the 12-Steps that transform our lives and give us greater peace and healing in recovery. This interactive workshop includes activities and discussions that demonstrate spiritual disciplines within the steps, especially the last three growth steps. Second Saturday Workshops are held the second Saturday of each month except December and are free to the public. No registration is required. PLEASE NOTE: Beginning in April 2013, Second Saturday Workshops will have a different feel, getting back to the series roots of “recovery enrichment.” The topics will be more recovery-focused than professional development-focused. CEUs will no longer be offered for Second Saturday Workshops. However, professional development and continuing education workshops will continue to be offered at Austin Recovery throughout the year. For any questions on Second Saturday, feel free to email Ramona Cruz-Peters at rcruzpeters@austinrecovery.org. Second Saturday is held at Austin Recovery (8402 Cross Park Dr., Austin, TX, 78754). Click here for more information.
Austin Recovery Alumni Events
Join the Austin Recovery Alumni for fun events and fellowship throughout the week. Events include Sunday Night Alumni Speaker Meetings, Big Book study groups, Musical Journey, skating, hikes around Lady Bird Lake, drum circles, bowling nights, game nights, evenings at the coffee shop and more. For moreinformation, contact Austin Recovery Alumni and Volunteer Coordinator Jeff Kamen at 512-697-8513 or click on the Alumni events link on www.AustinRecovery.org.
Volunteer Opportunities at Austin Recovery
Austin Recovery is always looking for volunteers to provide additional support to our clients in residential addiction treatment in the following areas: financial planning, parenting skills, healthy relationships, job readiness/interviewing skills,stress management, anger management, self-esteem and abuse issues. We also need volunteers for clerical work, yoga, arts and crafts, dance, spa days (pedicures, manicures, hairstyling), recreation and weightlifting. If you are interested or have questions, please contact Austin Recovery Alumni and Volunteer Coordinator Jeff Kamen at 512-697-8513 jkamen@austinrecovery.org.
Happy (Good) Friday! There has been a lot of talk about “Process Addictions” (gambling addiction, exercise addiction, food addiction and eating disorders, shopping addiction, sex addiction, self-harm, internet addiction, video gaming addiction, etc.) over the past few years, and it seems to be building more and more lately. We are pleased that one of Austin Recovery’s Counselors, Lorraine Saldivar, LCDC-I had offered to write a guest blog post for us on Chemical Addictions vs. Process Addictions for us to share with you all. Thank you, Lorrie!
Chemical vs. Process Addictions
By Lorraine Saldivar, LCDC-I
First, it is important to understand that all addictions, chemical or process, affect the neuro-chemical reward and gratification system of the brain. The reasons a person initially starts using substances or begins a process may differ, but because the pleasure sensors in the brain receive a surge of dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin, and epinephrine, the brain perceives it as pleasurable and initially satisfying. This is the reason people keep coming back. When they come back again and again and again, the person can become addicted to the surge. Addiction happens when the brain goes from wanting these chemicals in order to “feel good” to needing them…and eventually will need more of them. This is what is known as tolerance and can happen in chemical and process addictions, with some variances. For example, when a person is addicted to crack cocaine, the person eventually needs more crack in order to feel the same level of high. However, with a porn addiction, for example the person does not need more porn, but rather different types of porn in order to satisfy the craving.
Something we see that is common in both chemical and process addictions is that consumers continue to use their drug of choice, or practice the rituals of their process addiction despite negative physical, relational, emotional, and sometimes legal consequences.
So why am I talking about this on a blog for a treatment center for drugs and alcohol? Well, it is not uncommon for us to find out a client that comes to us for treatment for a chemical addiction, also has, or has had a process addiction. Twelve Step support groups often warn people in recovery of the perils of cross addictions, and often people think only in terms of looking out for other chemicals. Because we know chemicals are often used as a maladaptive coping mechanism to deal with overwhelming feelings of anxiety, depressions, or to alleviate pain, people in recovery need to learn to identify addictive thought, behaviors and actions. For example, a person who turns to food for comfort may eat an entire pizza in order to cope with certain emotions. However, once the pizza is gone the person may then feel an overwhelming amount of shame and guilt and thus may turn to alcohol in order to “feel better” about over-eating.
A key component to helping people who may be suffering from one or both of these types of addiction is education. It is important to find out as much as you can and then to seek help either through treatment, support groups, counseling, prescribed medications (if warranted), or any combination of the these. Finally, it is important to know that the brain is a wonderfully powerful organ that can overcome any addiction and to know that there is ALWAYS hope!
Today’s guest blog post is on PTSD, and was provided by Richard A. McGoldrick, LMSW, LCDC and Counselor at Austin Recovery. Richard specializes in PTSD work with our clients, and will be providing a series of guest blog posts around the topic of PTSD for our blog this year.
Survivors of Trauma
By Richard A. McGoldrick, LMSW, LCDC and Counselor at Austin Recovery
 Survivors of trauma. Who are they? They are combat veterans, people who experienced abuse of some type, survivors of assault, those who lived through natural disasters or terroristic acts just to name a few examples. What is trauma? The International Society for the Study of Trauma and Disassociation (ISSTD), describes traumatic events as “emotionally shocking events that overwhelm a person in a variety of ways.” Every survivor’s story is different, their experience is unique to them, and most often how they respond influences whether they develop Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). It is important to point out that not everyone who experiences a traumatic event ends up with PTSD.
My interest of PTSD began through an under graduate field placement at a Vet Center in West Texas. The Vet Center, a specialized treatment branch, of the US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), provides mental health services to combat veterans and to survivors of sexual trauma encountered while on active duty. I was fortunate enough sit in group therapy sessions during the field placement. Among the participants, who made up the group, were veterans from the Vietnam Era, the Gulf War, and the War on Terror. While attending graduate school at The University of Texas at Austin School of Social Work I enrolled in a course devoted to treating traumatized populations. From these opportunities, I set out to learn about trauma and its effects on a person’s well-being.
PTSD is classified as an anxiety disorder. According to the National Center for PTSD, a branch of the VA, PTSD was classified as a mental health disorder beginning in 1980. This disorder is unique because its cause is attributed to a known outside stressor or event. Most other disorders are attributed to biological, environment, or social factors. There are specific criteria that a person must experience to meet this diagnosis. Understand that diagnosing a person for any mental health disorder(s) is partly subjective and that there is even debate within the mental health profession as to the need to provide a diagnosis. With this said, the criteria established within the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM), a manual used to set criteria for nearly 300 disorders, does serve a useful purpose.
According to the National Center for PTSD website, a person must experience a traumatic event(s) that involves the witnessing of death of another person or injury to either another person or themselves or is threatened for their own safety. Beyond this, a person experiences feelings of hopelessness, is in upmost fear, and in a state of horror because of their experience. The ITSSD added that reactions vary from person to person. For some trauma survivors, they may present with “anxiety, fear, shock … (with) emotional numbness, and personal or social disconnection. Please click on the second link below for detailed information about the clinical criteria for PTSD.
Given the nature of the high-risk lifestyle that many alcohol and drug dependent people live, some experience traumatic events consequently. For others they experienced trauma before using any drugs or alcohol. Regardless of the timing of the event, drugs and alcohol is a form of self-medication for some clients. In addition, the ITSSD stated that increased use of alcohol or drugs, after experiencing trauma, is an indicator for the need to seek professional help.
Part of the diverse treatment that is offered here at AR is curriculum lectures. A module is devoted to Trauma and Recovery. Among the content presented to the clients within this module is learning about PTSD, the relationship between PTSD, alcohol, and drugs, learning grounding techniques, and coping strategies. The Trauma and Recovery lectures as well as the other treatment while participating in any of our programs are intended to empower the clients with the necessary skills to help them to maintain sobriety and live a meaningful life.
References:
The International Society for the Study of Trauma and Disassociation. (2013). What is Traumatic Stress?
Retrieved March 17, 2013, from http://www.istss.org/WhatisTrauma/4605.htm
US Department of Veterans Affairs. (2012, August). National Center for PTSD. Retrieved March 15, 2013, from http://www.ptsd.va.gov/public/pages/fslist-ptsd-overview.asp
US Department of Veterans Affairs. (2012, August). Vet Center. Retrieved March 16, 2013, from http://www.vetcenter.va.gov/
Today we have another guest blog post by Randall S. Smith, LCDC, and Senior Counselor at Austin Recovery. For more guest blog posts by Randall, click here. Today, Randall shares his thoughts on an element of spirituality as being a key to recovery, why “spirituality” doesn’t have to mean the same thing for everyone, and ways you might be able to access your own spirituality.
Spirituality: Undefined
Randall S. Smith, LCDC, and Senior Counselor at Austin Recovery
 One of the most common blocks that I have come across in treating people who struggle with addiction is spirituality. I could offer many theories as to why, but each individual has their own reason, and to them it is valid and true. They have every right to hold on to that as their life and their pain is theirs and life and pain is unique. Each has a unique experience and that should never be invalidated.
The problem comes that as we go through recovery one aspect is apparently clear to success and that aspect is spirituality. Often I think the problem of having spirituality is the overwhelming size of the ideas and dogma that are often associated with religion. I think it also lies in the human idea that everything must be understood and categorized. Sometimes it is easier to believe in nothing than something, because nothing will do exactly what you expect it to do, and it can’t let you down.
If we stop and accept that we are nothing more than carbon, chemicals and a series of electrical pulses than we have sold ourselves short. We are beautiful through our imperfections, which gives use the opportunity to be something more than we were programmed to be. Imagine a life where we are all perfect without need for improvement, how would we ever celebrate what makes us diverse and beautiful.
Please allow me to set the stage for the beginning of spirituality. Let’s start with a quote from Socrates: “the beginning of knowledge is accepting that we know nothing.” The smartest and most intelligent among us may give us insight to many things, but they will never be able to tell us how everything we know to be “true” came to be without a beginning. If you ask the question “where did that come from?’ over and over eventually you will not have an answer. The very laws of science states that matter cannot be made or destroyed, but yet we know it to be true. It had to come from somewhere. Even if this is not a compelling enough argument, I will stop the larger scheme and return to a more tangible and meaningful level of understanding. There is so much that we do not comprehend. Define what makes us attracted to others, define love, fear, hate, anger. We may be able to understand with clumsy words and have a layman’s understanding but they will never really explain certain feelings. I could tell you what it was like to see my son for the very first time, or what I feel when my daughter smiles at me, and I could tell you what unconditional love is, but you wouldn’t know until you experienced it yourself. As I stated everyone’s experience is different, but we all have had moments in life that we just can’t fully explain.
The trap that we fall in is thinking that spirituality has harmed us or others. The problem is that it is not the spirituality and it is largely not the religious dogma or literature either, as most is centered on loving and helping others. What we see is the misuse of religions and spiritual ideas by those who are self-seeking, creating a paradoxical event that those who practice in such ways are living contrary to the very values that they claim to love. In short, if we define spirituality by the action of others we have closed our minds to what spirituality is to us.
The basis of your own spirituality is a seed. You must choose how to water and grow it. It does not have to be well defined, it only has to be a quest to be better than yourself. I have found that it often starts with building self-worth. Self-worth starts by understanding who you are and how you accomplish the building of yourself. Are you a father? What does a good father do? When you start to do those actions you build self-worth. Stop others from labeling you and you let your own spirituality label you by your actions. If you are ever having trouble understand that you cannot go wrong with these traits: peace, hope, love, self-control, kindness, goodness, faith, Joy, and mercy. If we practice these traits we create a new relationship with others, and we will see the change in our self. And that is as much of a spiritual change as we were ever seeking.
March Your Calendars for March Events at Austin Recovery!
Amplify Austin - March 4, 7 p.m. – March 5, 7 p.m.
Join us for Austin’s first community-wide giving festival. Amplify Austin is a challenge our community to raise $1 million in 24 hours for 330 Central Texas nonprofits collectively! Visit this website (AmplifyATX.org) during Amplify Austin Day, which starts at 7pm, March 4 and ends 7pm, March 5. At that time, the Amplify Austin website will be transformed into a giving site; you’ll be able to search by the name for Austin Recovery. On Amplify Austin Day, we are giving back to the city we love. Join us!
Gateway to Recovery - March 6 & 13, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
The Gateway to Recovery series provides information on how to detect addiction and what friends and families can do to help those needing treatment. This information series is free and often the first step in helping people find treatment and begin the healing process. Gateway to Recovery is facilitated by Mary Boone and is held from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. on the first and second Wednesday of each month at Austin Recovery (8402 Cross Park Dr., Austin, TX, 78754). Click here for more information.
Second Saturday Workshop CANCELLED for March 2013
We hope you will instead join us at our Speaker Series Luncheon with Earl Campbell on Tuesday, March 26, 2013. For more details, or to purchase tables or seats, click here to visit the event website. Second Saturday Workshops will resume in April 2013 with a different feel. The series will be getting back to its roots as a “recovery enrichment” series, with more of a recovery focus for those in recovery, and the loved ones of people in addiction and recovery. While this will often include a clinical education component, there will be less emphasis on professional development and continuing education, and more of an emphasis on recovery. For your convenience, we will continue to offer many continuing education opportunities at Austin Recovery throughout the year. If you have any questions about Second Saturday, feel free to email Ramona Cruz-Peters at rcruzpeters@austinrecovery.org.
Austin Recovery Speaker Series Luncheon Featuring Earl Campbell – March 26, 11:30 a.m to 1:30 p.m.
 This series is an annual fundraising luncheon speaker series that began in the fall of 2011, taking place at Austin City Limits Live at The Moody Theater. Each gathering features a nationally acclaimed artist, entertainer, or speaker who shares his or her story of recovery. The goal of the series is to break the silence and stigma placed on addiction, while raising essential funds in support of Austin Recovery’s commitment to provide high-quality services to all in need. This year’s keynote speaker is legendary Texas Longhorn and Houston Oilers Running Back, Earl Campbell. Event Chairs are Val Armstrong and Rachael Wyatt, with Edith Royal as Honorary Chair. We are also pleased to announce Ron Franklin as our Master of Ceremonies. Earl Campbell, a Texas native, overcame a youth of poverty to win a Heisman Trophy and would go on to join the Houston Oilers as first all-around pick in the 1978 draft. Years of playing football took a toll on Campbell’s body, and after multiple surgeries he found relief through prescription painkillers, which eventually took over his life. Three years ago, with the help and encouragement of his family, Campbell courageously took on the challenge of living drug- and alcohol-free. Click here for more information, or to purchase tables or seats at the event.
Austin Recovery Alumni Events
Join the Austin Recovery Alumni for fun events and fellowship throughout the week. Events include Sunday Night Alumni Speaker Meetings, Big Book study groups, Musical Journey, skating, hikes around Lady Bird Lake, drum circles, bowling nights, game nights, evenings at the coffee shop and more. For moreinformation, contact Austin Recovery Alumni and Volunteer Coordinator Jeff Kamen at 512-697-8513 or click on the Alumni events link on www.AustinRecovery.org.
Volunteer Opportunities at Austin Recovery
Austin Recovery is always looking for volunteers to provide additional support to our clients in residential addiction treatment in the following areas: financial planning, parenting skills, healthy relationships, job readiness/interviewing skills,stress management, anger management, self-esteem and abuse issues. We also need volunteers for clerical work, yoga, arts and crafts, dance, spa days (pedicures, manicures, hairstyling), recreation and weightlifting. If you are interested or have questions, please contact Austin Recovery Alumni and Volunteer Coordinator Jeff Kamen at 512-697-8513 jkamen@austinrecovery.org.
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