Loosid Sober Tip of the Day December 13

Looking further into the stigma of shame & guilt.

The definition of stigma is a mark of shame or discredit. A STAIN

The stigma that alcoholism or addiction is something to be ashamed of prevents millions of us from getting the help we need.

This is a stigma and a stain that needs to be erased because it kills the very millions mentioned above who buy into it.

Far too many of us feel it is our fault (guilt) that we cannot handle substances, while so many others can.

What you need to know is that it is not your fault.

We cannot wish it away any more than we can wish away diabetes or high blood pressure.

It is a disease and very thankfully, it is one that is 100% treatable provided that we follow a spiritual program.

It is also critical to understand you are not alone. There are tens of millions of us who share this same common bond that we can connect with and who can show you what it takes to get to the other side.

Once we understand this, the guilt and shame often completely evaporates on the spot and we become willing to receive help.

If you are new to recovery, it is absolutely critical that you know this. If you are confused, PLEASE ask questions below as our entire community is here to help you.

If you have been in recovery for a while, take this time to share some tips to let the newcomers understand they are not alone.

There are many people in the Loosid community who need to hear what you have to say.

With Love, Loosid :pray::heart:

7 Likes

I took a course on meditation and I practice it as my 11th Step routine

Amen, much respect for the program and practice what is preached

Thank you for sharing this!!

Stigma wreaks havoc on our Psyche and has been the sole reason I was a chronic relapsed. The distorted thoughts of “ I am a bad person because I used drugs” or “ I am a horrible person, defective, and forever unworthy” has plagued my thinking. People who are not familiar with psychobiology and science behind addiction believe that addicts are bad morally defective people. This stigma is shown by facial expressions, verbal statements, and a judgmental superiority that only serves to cause shame in those who suffer with this disorder.

I have changed my thoughts using techniques in David Burns book “ Feeling Great” to reduce and eradicate the stigma induced shame, anxiety and depression. This book or techniques within required written work (like the 12 Steps) and has made me feel like a different person while helping prevent a relapse.h