Abuse Recovery
Serenity- The Answer to Addiction?
by John Gary
Serenity is the calmness individuals feel inside. Serenity is a huge part of our physical and emotional self-care. When individuals suffer from stress and are worried, frustrated, and anxious our physical body is affected. Individuals find their immune system is weakened which can lead to illnesses such as heart disease, cancer, and irritable bowel syndrome. Loss of emotional serenity can lead to depression, insomnia and memory loss, as well as eating disorders and substance abuse.
In substance recovery serenity refers to an individual’s state of mind where they are calm and tranquil, at peace with daily life problems. They can rely on this peace to deal with day-to-day issues instead of substances.
Addiction
Addiction is a common way to deal with the stresses and problems of life. In the beginning the alcohol and drugs dull the problems and it’s nice to be without them for a while. The individual feels much better using the substances that they become dependent on them and a dependency is born.
When addiction has taken over a life the substance itself becomes a problem. What was once a quick fix to help is now a daily habit. Substances cannot help you deal with life but serenity can give an individual what they need.
Serenity Prayer
Many addiction groups and centers use the serenity prayer as a guideline for their work with individuals. While this prayer is a religious one it has been adapted for work in the substance abuse arena.
Most people believe in a higher power whether it’s God, Goddess, Great Spirit, or Creator. The serenity prayer helps individuals have the courage it takes to face their addictions. The prayer is this:
“God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.”
Accept the Things I Cannot Change
Individuals need to think realistically about the things they cannot change. Many people think they can change someone else but we can’t make people change. People have choices and we have no power over others.
The Courage to Change the Things I Can
We can only change ourselves. Individuals have to work hard to change themselves. They have to get a clear picture of who they are right now and what they want to change. We need to face the truth of our addictions and find a better choice.
And the Wisdom to Know the Difference
Once an individual understands the difference in what they can change and what they cannot change they can stop trying to control things they have no control over. The individual will begin to see their own problems and find a deeper respect for them selves. Then they can begin to make choices that are healthier for them.
One of the most calming and peaceful environments is somewhere near water. Many facilities for addiction are found near water where lakes, seas, and oceans create a tranquil background for recovery. One such treatment option is finding a reputable California drug rehab facility.
Treatment centers not only give support for addiction but they also encourage healthy eating, exercise, and many other habits that keep bodies well. Healthy bodies mean healthy emotions, and mental stability. Some treatment centers also offer services for family members such as counseling and suggestions to support their loved one when they return to life outside the treatment center.
