Other Resources
There are many pathways out of substance use disorder (SUD). Recovery isn't a one size fits all proposition. Most of us use a number of different tools. The standard approach is to go to treatment and then attend AA. Even within this framework, there are different things that work for different people. Faith based support is important for many. Traditional psychotherapy is helpful, especially for those who have co-occurring mental health conditions. Embarking on a physical fitness regime is exceptionally beneficial for others. Mindfulness and meditation practices also work, and are promoted in recovery support communities like AA. For certain people, especially those with opioid use disorder, medically assisted treatment (MAT) may be appropriate.
Our philosophy is if it works and its not destructive or harmful, then do what works. There are however certain overall themes that should be incorporated and considered. Craving is the driving force of SUD. Remaining abstinent is necessary to allow the brain enough time to heal, and form new neural connections that lead to the elimination of craving and long-term remission of SUD. Belonging to a supportive recovery community is usually vital to maintaining continual abstinence and establishing new emotional coping strategies, especially during the early recovery period.
The important thing to know is that there are resources out there, and the people who are these resources are more than willing to help. We understand the reticence to reach out. We were in the same position - Confused, terrified, demoralized and defeated. But a whole new wonderful life awaits on the other side of just asking for help. Feel free to contact us, we're here to help. Some other incredible resources are listed below.
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) - AA has helped more people recover from alcohol and drug addiction than any other organization (Learn more). AA is anonymous, you don't need to sign up or provide any personal details. You can show up to meetings drunk or high and you'll be welcomed. The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking (using). AA also welcomes those with addictions to other drugs. Addiction is addiction, no matter our drug of choice (Visit the AA website).
AA is ubiquitous, one can find AA meetings anywhere. There is no cost to attend, although a donation of a few dollars is customary. If you don't like a particular meeting, keep trying others until you find a place you feel comfortable. AA is strange at first. We don't live in a culture that values vulnerability and catharsis, and we don't arrive at the doors of AA in the most amenable frame of mind, but give it a chance and some time. The support AA provides is invaluable on many levels. Virtually all of us hated AA at first, until we grew to crave meetings and the connections the program provides. AA is filled with normal, kind, educated, successful people. Addiction doesn't discriminate. Give it a shot.
AA Big Book. The Big Book is the guide to AA. Its relatively short, there are only 164 pages in the main body. The remainder of the book is comprised of the stories of those who have recovered. You can click the link at the start of this paragraph to obtain a copy. There are also mobile apps in both the Apple and Google Play stores to download a copy to your phone.
The book lays out the 12 Steps suggested as a path to recovery. The book was written in the 1930s, so the prose is archaic. There is also a lot of God verbiage in the book, and in the language of the 12 Steps. Don't let this dissuade you if you aren't an ardent Christian. Most of us show up as agnostics, or atheists, and remain that way, at least with regard to organized religion. While the God language is off-putting to most, it does allow us to ponder questions relative to spirituality that are important to our personal growth, but AA isn't a religion. Our advice is to give the program a chance. There are many different facets of AA, and we all seem to find that one branch that ends up being our life line.
Recovery Research Institute: The Recovery Research Institute is a great resource for learning about recovery. The founder, Dr. John Kelly, has done incredible work in the field of SUD recovery. You can also find his lectures on Youtube.
Lawyers Assistance Programs: Your state bar has a lawyers assistance program (LAP). These organizations are great resources. They are wholly underutilized because lawyers are very reticent to call a bar agency to self-report a substance abuse problem, but LAPs are not in the discipline business. They will assist you confidentiality, and put you in touch with recovering lawyers in your area.
ABA Commission on Lawyer's Assistance Programs (COLAP): The ABA's COLAP is a great resource for learning about SUD, and the well-being challenges facing the profession. Its website has very useful information.
Others in Recovery: The last thing that most of us who have struggled with SUD are motivated to do is reach out to someone else in recovery. Most of us know someone who has resolved an alcohol or drug problem. Talk to these people, the vast majority will be more than willing to share the things that worked for them. Become a seeker of knowledge about your own mental health. Learn from others who have gone before.
Never Give Up: Above all else, never give up, and keep trying. Keep trying new things. Something is bound to click and end the cycle of misery that is active use addiction. If you fall down, get right back up. All of us in long-term recovery have failed countless times before finding the incredible peace that is life in long-term remission. Recovery becomes a wonderful journey of discovery. Its the greatest gift you'll ever give yourself and those who love you.
Feel free contact us confidentially. We've been right where you are. We ultimately needed the structure and support that Vivon now provides for legal professionals. It wasn't available to help us on our journeys, that's why we started this program. We want you to avoid the misery we endured.