Addiction and Recovery For Dummies

Evaluate medications and treatment programs Break free from addictive substances or behaviors and get a fresh start Think you have an addiction? This compassionate guide helps you identify the problem and work towards a healthy, realistic approach to recovery, explaining the latest clinical and self–help treatments for both adults and teens. This book also offers tips on reducing cravings, handling your relationships, and staying well for the long run. Discover how to Identify the reasons for addiction Choose the best treatment plan Handle slips and relapses Detect addictions in a loved one Find help and support

Foreword. Introduction. Part I: The Hole in the Heart: Detecting Addiction. Chapter 1: Addiction: What Is It? Chapter 2: Substance Use, Substance Abuse, and Addiction. Chapter 3: Behavioral Addictions: Addictions Without Substances. Chapter 4: Dancing with the Tiger: The Risks of Experimenting. Part II: Taking Those First Steps. Chapter 5: Recognizing Addiction in Yourself and Others. Chapter 6: Assessing Your Readiness: Do You Need Help Now? Chapter 7: Quitting: Easy to Say, Hard to Do. Part III: Examining Treatment Approaches. Chapter 8: Treatment Choices. Chapter 9: Reviewing Inpatient and Outpatient Treatment Options. Chapter 10: Treating Physical Dependence. Chapter 11: Twelve–Step Programs. Chapter 12: Joining Self–Help and Support Groups. Chapter 13: Alternative Treatments. Chapter 14: Teen Treatment. Part IV: Life in Recovery. Chapter 15: Overcoming Barriers to Recovery. Chapter 16: Handling Slips and Relapse. Chapter 17: Handling Work and Family During Recovery. Chapter 18: For Families and Friends: Ways to Make a Difference. Part V: The Part of Tens. Chapter 19: Ten Ways to Help a Friend or Loved One. Chapter 20: More Than Ten Self–Help Resources. Index.

Brian F. Shaw, PhD, Paul Ritvo, PhD, and Jane Irvine, DPhil, are all university professors with more than 20 years′ experience in private consulting.