“Connection Calls” by Forest Benedict, MA, SATP-C

Here is another excerpt from a new LifeSTAR workbook I just finished writing that will soon be available to participants in our LifeSTAR of the Central Valley program.

Connection Calls

In Phase 1, participants learn the Cycle of Addiction and the importance of reaching out to escape this destructive pattern. This is not simply to create a distraction from temptation but to learn how to connect in emotional emergencies. Practicing this skill will help you stop the Cycle of Addiction when it begins, which must be mastered for successful recovery.

Your support network will include your Accountability Partner and others as well. It will include your Sponsor (if you have one) and other members of your group or 12-Step meeting. Utilizing the strength of your support network in times of need means learning to call for help. Here’s an example of how this works practically:

“Sooner or later, the urge…