NCJ Number
184978
Date Published
August 1999
Length
229 pages
Annotation
This workbook describes various strategies for overcoming addictions.
Abstract
There are many levels and subtypes of addictive behavior and many ways to change them. A major feature of this workbook is its acceptance of the philosophy of harm reduction. Harm reduction focuses on helping the individual move toward problem resolution, even if that resolution does not occur entirely or all at once. Moderation or abstinence is a personal decision, and abstinence is not a rigid requirement. The approach incorporates the ideas that "something is better than nothing," and that a small step is often easier to take than, and sets the stage for, a large one. Harm reduction is a practical approach that acknowledges the differences between individuals and respects their capacity to shape their own lives. The book is divided into the following chapters: Getting Started, The Initial Benefits of Addiction, The Current Benefits of Addiction, The Current Costs of Addiction, Coping and Connecting, You Have Choices, Identifying Craving, Understanding Craving, Coping With Craving, Other Satisfactions, Building a New Life, and Following Through. Figures, appendixes, index