Long Distance Relationship Advice: What to Consider Before Making The Commitment

Relationships require a lot of work and distance makes it even harder which is why a lot of couples choose to just give it up. I admit that being in a long distance relationship is not easy but I believe that when two people really love each other, they are going to do everything to make it work. It all depends how much you want to make things work. Sure you can pick up a long distance relationship advice here and there but are you willing to compromise? Are you willing to put an effort to make the relationship work?

Before jumping into this kind of relationship or before you decide to go on with it, you and your partner should have a serious talk so you'll know if you share the same goals. If one of you does not want the same thing then the relationship is bound to fail. A relationship will not see the light of day if only one person cares enough or worst if the two people involved don't take things seriously. LDRs are not for people who just want to fool around. It's not something that will kill your boredom or something that will be better than not having someone at all.

Love and trust are a given requirement in any relationship but will they be enough? The answer is simply NO. There are a lot of things you need to consider if you want your relationship to survive. You have to figure out a plan and talk how much time you have to spend apart so the other person won't have to wait in vain. The most difficult part in being in a LDR is the uncertainty. You have to discuss this kind of stuff in all honesty and you always have to think what is the best thing to do for both parties involved. Having a plan is very important; it serves as a guide for whatever steps you need to take. Do you plan on getting married eventually? How long do you have to wait for you to be together? How often can you see each other? Do you have the money to see each other as often as you like? Don't go on with the relationship without clarity because this will definitely lead to a strain of frustration and disappointment.

Another thing to consider before engaging in a LDR is communication. While there are different modes of communication to choose from, it still boils down to making the effort to talk to each other every single day. The frequency and quality of communication with your partner should be substantially increased. Are you willing to pay for higher phone bills from now on? Are you willing to go the extra mile just to talk to your partner every night? If you are a little worried of the amount of money you would have to spend on communication, don't worry because there are cheap ways on how you can connect. Why not try Skype or Gtalk? They are free and all you need is a computer. If you want to call your special someone's phone then you can take advantage of the Skype monthly unlimited subscription. For less than $7, you can pick a country (where your partner resides obviously) and call them unlimited! I've been using it for two years now and it made life much easier for me. Talk to your partner and make it clear how often you need to talk. My boyfriend and I talk twice a day (morning and bedtime) and we never missed. Of course the frequency of your communication will all depend on your needs. The most valuable long distance relationship advice I can give you is to make sure that you don't let a day pass without hearing from each other. It's one of the most important things you can do to make the relationship work.

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How To Stop Chronic Nail Biting

I know you are ready to eliminate this habit... Once and for all. In order to make a lifelong change, you need to do some self exploration and determine "why" you choose to bite your nails. Once you become aware, you WILL be able to change your behavior and enjoy the confidence and increased self-esteem gained from knowing that you are in control of the habit.

Ask your self... WHY DO I BITE MY NAILS?

Well... the answer varies from person to person and for that very reason, the answer of How to stop chronic nail biting will also vary. Luckily there are several options available to choose from.

I firmly believe, as with any habit or addiction, it is important to identify the "root cause". It is very difficult to conquer a habit and find the appropriate solution... Something that will work for you... unless you know what the triggers are.

Identify when and why you resort to nail biting or chewing. Some triggers that may lead to biting your nails include

STRESS
NERVOUSNESS
BOREDOM
MEDICAL / EMOTIONAL DISORDER

OK... so now that you are hopefully aware of what your personal triggers are, let's look at some solutions or interventions.

SELF - HELP INTERVENTIONS
As I 'm sure you are aware (and probably already tried) there are several methods you can try that are based on determination or replacement.

These include

1. chewing gum
2. sitting on your hands
3. Rubber bands
4. Gloves
5. Monetary Reward
6. Bandages

PHYSICAL INTERVENTIONS

Physical Interventions would include things that you can try to eliminate the habit. These types of treatments include

1. Aversion therapies or taste deterrents
2. Replacement therapy
3. Investing in false nails
4. bite plate or teeth guard

While each of these strategies can assist you to stop chewing your nails, I have generally seen more success when it is coupled with a solution that focuses on changing your mindset.

CHANGE YOUR MINDSET - BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTIONS

HABIT REVERSAL: Habit reversal may be deemed one of the most successful treatments to stop chronic nail biting. With this technique, the person becomes aware of the behavior and then combines it with a competing response to interfere or physical intervention. You learn to identify the triggers and "unlearn the habit". Combining two approaches... one physical and one emotional.
Engaging in this type of transformation process is beneficial to anyone. The techniques you learn from the emotional basis will undoubtedly be relevant and useful with any other habits and life changes you are looking to make whether it be smoking, weight loss... anything. It is all about adjusting your mindset -

Couple that with a physical intervention and you have a winner!

HYPNOSIS: Hypnosis is effective for many people wanting to change a behavior. It is designed to re-program your mind. This is not necessarily considered a conventional method however it is definitely effective, if you allow it to be. In the past, hypnosis was often "out of reach" due to cost or time commitment however that has all changed. There are many programs you can purchase online and listen to whenever it is conveneient for you. If you really having difficulty with learning how to stop chronic nail biting, I would definitely try one out.

GOOD LUCK... WITH DETERMINATION and some strategies, YOU WILL SUCCEED!

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Don't Over Indulge - Just Like Many Things and Switch It Up Early and Often

Everything is okay in moderation they say, and it appears at least in this case that "they" may in fact be right - so chock one up for the elusive wisdom of the crowds I'd say. Why do you suppose that humans like sugary foods? Perhaps for the same reason they enjoy being in an altered state of mind. This may explain why people eat too many sweets, get fat and have diabetes, or why people get addicted to drugs and alcohol. Okay so let's talk shall we?

If the human body has evolved to enjoy such things, and there must be a reason for it, such as humans like sweets because the fruits they were eating in their diet helped them survive and thrive, therefore they developed a taste for them. Thus, how could it be bad to eat more fruit? It gets back to that; all things are okay in moderation comment.

Not long ago, there was an interesting feature on Accelerating Intelligence, the Ray Kurzweil website titled; "The Evolutionary Origins of Optimism," posted on June 13, 2012, which quoted from the book; "Rainy Brain, Sunny Brain," by Elaine the Fox;

"Optimistic realists, whom I consider to be the true optimists, don't believe that good things will come if they simply think happy thoughts. Instead, they believe at a very deep level that they have some control over their own destinies," and;

"The function of our pleasure system is to entice us into doing things that are biologically good for us. This is why delicious food, especially in the company of family and friends, is one of the great pleasures of life. Because the experience of pleasure is fleeting, the pursuit of pleasure can all too easily spiral out of control, sometimes tipping into dangerous risk taking and addictions."

Indeed, if you drink too much alcohol you will have a terrible headache and hangover, and it should teach your lesson. If you eat too much fruit all at once you will become sick to your stomach, another lesson not to over indulge. You see, there seems to also be an evolutionary process to counter overindulgence. The question is are you listening to your body, and is the language I am speaking to you making sense?

There's a reason for all this, and to negate that fact would be to do so in ignorance. Does this mean you should do what feels good? Yes, but again only in moderation, don't go off the deep end, and perhaps that's my message to you today. Indeed I hope you will please consider all that think on it.

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Rehabilitation Programs at Alcohol Treatment Centers Offer Extensive Holistic Therapies

Many of us think that alcoholism is untreatable, but this is wrong because alcohol rehab programs are designed to meet the needs of alcoholics who are devastating their lives under the influence of alcohol. Alcohol rehabilitation program offers you the hope to dream of a life free from alcoholism through its holistic therapies.

When you are overpowered by alcohol, you lose control over yourself, which even drags you toward crisis situations. It is better to throw alcohol out of your life so that you and your loved ones can lead a happy, prosperous life without any kind of fear. In this regard, you must seek counseling from a professional counselor, who would guide you through the entire process and show you the way toward a better life. Counselors at the alcohol treatment centers would also guide you to choose the program that would best suit your state of alcoholism.

Your enrolment into any of the alcohol treatment centers will ensure that you are on the right track of recovery. You will receive several holistic therapies, such as life skill training, wellness therapy, behavioral therapy, stress management therapy, psychotherapy, relapse prevention therapy, so that your recovery is complete and there is no room for relapse. Besides pastoral counseling and Christ teaching sessions will help you stay focused on the right track.

Rehabilitation Programs

To begin with, you will undergo detoxification, which is the complete elimination of alcoholic traces from your body and mind. This will ensure that no chemical trace is left inside your body, which might produce cravings later. As withdrawal might result in pain, forcing you to relapse, holistic approach will ensure that your mental and physical dependence on chemical substances is ended and the recovery from alcoholism is complete.

Counseling is a great approach to cleanse the mind of the addict so that chemical dependency is ended and no room is left for relapse. Therapists will ensure that you undergo various physical therapies so that your body becomes accustomed to practicing restraint from alcohol and that you have all the skills in your kitty to doing so. Cognitive behavioral therapy will focus on your mental and psychological wellbeing so that you can easily mingle with the society at large and that it does not result in triggers. You would also learn how to manage stress and anxiety and keep their levels down. Slowly, you will realize that these have no place in your life.

Inter-socialization skills will ensure that you are a changed human being, with better socialization skills, showing responsibility toward society. As a changed human being, you can become a brand ambassador of the alcohol rehab program, guiding other struggling alcoholics to walk on the path of sobriety by quitting alcohol.

Your nutritionist will help you realize the role a proper diet in enhancing your fitness levels and keeping you away from addictive substances. You would learn to depend on a balanced diet. It is a known fact that a physically weak body craves for other supplements, suppressants, and depressants, such as alcohol or intoxicants. Contrarily, a physically stronger body is less likely to yearn for intoxicants. If the need arises, you can always bank on nutritional supplements to back up your diet program. These therapies, including yoga, meditation, massage, will also ensure that there is no place for relapse in your life.

Alcohol treatment centers are a true friend to an addicted individual. Choose any of the treatment centers if you, too, want to join the list of individuals who have recovered completely from the clutches of alcohol addiction.

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Seven Long Distance Dating Survival Tips

A long distance relationship requires commitment, strong ties to each other, telling the truth and being totally honest with one another. To endure it requires two people who genuinely love each other. The type of long distance relationship I am talking about is overseas dating or international dating. This is truly a long distance relationship.

Being in this type of relationship is one of the hardest things you can do, but well worth it. Being away from someone who you have come to love can be emotionally draining but here are some tips that may help.

1. You must communicate regularly. A combination of emails, phone calls, instant messages, Skype or webcam sessions are great ways to communicate in a long distance relationship. With work, and other daily obligations, communication can be the first thing to go. Try to set up a daily routine. The best time is usually at the end of the day when you both can discuss how your day went. Even a few minutes together every day to connect and check in with each other can produce amazing results.

2. Another nice thing can be to surprise them with a call or text message about how much you miss them or love them. An occasional unexpected voice mail, email or text can go far in showing them you are thinking of them during the day.

3. You will both have to make compromises at times. You may need to forego weekend plans or stay home from a party so you can connect with your sweetheart by phone, webcam or text. When you do go out with friends or family, be sure to tell your partner what you are doing and make a point to include them in your daily activities so they have a better understanding of your life and how you spend your time. Keep them included in your life. Make time for them. Even if you have to work all weekend, make sure you connect and let them know you are thinking about them.

4. Set up a time one weekend every now and then for them as well. Plan to goof off on the webcam and talk on the phone and just talk about your childhood, funny things that have happened to you and your hopes and dreams for the future. Listen to your partners stories as well. These times are so valuable for really getting to know someone.

5. You have to trust that your partner is being faithful and committed to you. It can be hard to trust and it is perfectly natural for bad thoughts to creep into your mind from time to time. Be sure to talk this out with your sweetheart. Jealousy and distrust will not hold you together. Honesty and communication will.

6. Don't ever assume you know what your partner is doing or thinking. If you have doubts or questions about something, ask! Communicating by email is especially difficult because you can not see the other person's face or hear the tone in their voice. You may misinterpret an email and if you don't ask about it, you could create hard or negative feelings without even realizing it.

7. Keep the romance alive by telling your partner how much they mean to you. Don't hesitate to send a spontaneous email or text. Let them know you are thinking about them. Let them know you miss them and try to always plan your next meeting so there is something positive to look forward to and talk about.

This may seem like a lot to take in but it will be well worth it when you are finally together. A couple that has survived a long distance relationship is stronger and their relationship is built on a firm foundation of communication, trust and patience. Good luck and enjoy getting to know each other one day at a time!

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My Life Changes

"Here's to the crazy ones, the misfits, the rebels, the troublemakers, the round pegs in the square holes, the ones who see things differently. They're not fond of rules and they have no respect for the status quo. You can quote them, disagree with them, glorify or vilify them. About the only thing you can't do is ignore them because they change things. They push the human race forward. And while some may see them as the crazy ones, we see genius. Because the people who are crazy enough to think they can change the world, are the ones who do."

I heard the news tonight that a friend of mine has just passed away. He had cancer and although it really upset me at first, I know that he is now spared the pain and misery and may he rest forever in peace. I have been sitting up all night reflecting on the days we were close friends. It was during my twenties when wild parties and free flowing alcohol was all part of the fun. I am in awe of how my life has changed since then.

During my late thirties, the alcohol had started taking its toll on my health and my life. After a near death attempt at trying to stop cold turkey, I booked myself into rehab and stayed sober for the next eight years. The first thing I did on leaving rehab was to visit the local AA group but unfortunately the lack of support from my family and a personal problem I had with the chairperson, hurting my pride and threatening my ego, I stopped going to meetings. I threw myself into working flat out all day in a demanding job, returning home in the evenings to do housework and raising my two sons as a single mother. I was miserable, unhappy and lonely.

When the shit hit the fan - divorce, bad health, depression and the loss of my job - I did what any untreated alcoholic would do - went on the band wagon again. For the next six years I was in and out of relationships, in and out of hospitals and even a visit back to rehab could not stop me from relapsing. Just over two years ago, my appendix decided to take a trip behind the back of my colon and burst. It took the doctors three days and an MRI scan to pick up the problem but by then my whole system was poisoned. The next two months of recovery from surgery, carrying around a vacuum attached to my stomach, was my saving grace. I had time to take stock of my life and realized I had to take a second chance at recovery.

I found an online AA meeting and by the grace of God have been sober since. I have learnt that the drink is only a symptom of alcoholism. There are other underlying causes for my disease. So how has my life changed?

· I have a program which I follow to the best of my ability on a daily basis.

· Pride and ego has no place in my decisions today.

· I am willing to go to any lengths to keep my sobriety.

· I strive to stay open minded and honest with myself and others.

· I take any bad situation and change it into an opportunity to grow.

· I turn negative thoughts into positive thoughts which lead to positive action.

· I do not blame anyone for my wrong doings - only me.

· I have forgiven my past and learnt from my mistakes.

· I have made my amends to those I have hurt and continue to do so.

· I live for today and do not try and foresee future expectations.

· I tolerate those who ridicule me for they do not understand.

· I still have my problems but I have the tools to cope with them.

· I am growing a little more spiritual each day through prayer and meditation.

· I follow positive people and read and listen to motivational material.

· I try and maintain an attitude of gratitude and live life on life's terms.

I feel blessed today. I have nothing materialistic but I have my sobriety and my sanity. I no longer live in fear and hopelessness. I know in my heart that I am doing the best that I can at this moment and this is exactly where I am supposed to be at this time and place. Outside circumstances I cannot change, but I am changing what I can and that is me, from the inside out.

So I once was a rebel and a troublemaker, I probably am still a bit crazy and others may see me as a misfit and a round peg - but I am doing my little bit to change the world. I have made my pledge:

I am responsible.
When anyone, anywhere, reaches out for help,
I want the hand of AA always to be there.
And for that: I am responsible.

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How to Keep a Guy Interested Long Distance

Long distance relationships can work as long as both parties are willing to commit. Of course you have to love and trust each other enough for you to make that commitment. It's not that easy but if you know how to keep a guy interested long distance then there's no reason why you can't make the relationship work. I am a living testament that people can survive in a long distance relationship. My man and I have been together for four years now and we haven't seen each other in person for 3 years. People are always amazed how we do it considering the fact that he lives thousands of miles away from me. There's really no secret but there are a few tips on how to make this kind of relationship survive.

1.) Communication is Key

This is probably the most important aspect of any long distance relationship. Communication is not as problematical as it used to be because there are so many ways on how to keep in touch with someone. Skype, Google Talk, Yahoo Messenger and ooVoo are just some of the things you can use to talk to each other. If you want to keep a guy interested, you have to constantly remind him that you are there for him. Don't let the day pass without sending each other a text message, private message or email. Call each other often if your schedule permits. Hearing your voice everyday will make the distance less painful plus this will keep you firmly on his mind. Give him the assurance that although you may not be there physically, you are just a phone call away if he needs somebody to talk to. Whether he wants to vent or share a good news, he can call anytime. Let your guy know that he is constantly on your mind. Text him sweet messages all the time and let him know that you miss him. Send him sexy messages or photos once in a while. Make him excited in seeing you again. Tell your guy what you are looking forward to when he comes visit you.

2.) Take Advantage of the Web Cam

When you live miles away from each other, web cam will come in handy. Just a quick reminder, don't ever let him see you looking sick or pale. Make the effort to look beautiful by putting on a little makeup (eyeliner, mascara, a little blush and lip stain will do) and fixing your hair. Instead of your usual straight hairdo, why not curl your hair once in a while. Put on clothes that you know will turn him on. Wear something sexy. Whatever starts his engine, do it!

You can use the web cam to bond with your man. Let him watch you cook or do your daily activities. You can also watch a movie together or better yet, pretend you are having a date!

3.) Send him presents

You don't have to be physically together for you to do something special for your man. Send him a box with his favorite things in it. Include items that will also remind him of you. One little thing you can do is to send him your lingerie and spray it with your perfume so he'll be reminded what he's missing. This is surely an effective way on how to keep a guy interested long distance.

Be as creative as possible. Go ahead and come up with themes of all the items you are going to send him to make it more exciting.

LDRs require a lot of work but once you are finally together, every effort you made will be worth it. Love is a critical aspect and so is trust. Without the latter, your relationship wouldn't see the light of day.

The Role of the Feedback Loop in Solving Addiction Problems

The problem with addiction is that it is one that feeds on itself. Often known as a vicious circle it a phenomena known to scientists as a positive feedback loop. Whilst such loops can be beneficial under certain conditions they are usually a problem to be avoided and there are measures that can sometimes be taken to solve them.

The first of these measures is limiting exposure which in this case means limiting the availability of the substance feeding the addiction to a constant amount. Whilst this prevents the addiction from escalating it is evident that it will be ineffective in moving towards a cure but simply prolong the problem. It would in any case have to be supervised by another person who would be aware of the wiles an addict might use to hide the habit and the source of more drugs.

In contrast, to limiting the amount, the second method is more drastic and entails cutting off the supply completely, sometimes known as the cold turkey cure and usually considered too drastic.

It is preferable to remove the desire for more drugs by a substitute that weans the addict off the drug, perhaps by virtue of removing the benefit that the addict enjoys, equivalent to opening the feedback loop.

An alternative is to introduce a delay in the loop. An interesting question is whether the delay could be gradually increased so that eventually the addict is weaned off the drug. Perhaps a similar effect could be achieved by reducing the dose gradually at each fix, or by diluting the concentration, which is equivalent to reducing the gain of the loop.

We then move to the 6th method, the external influence, implying that other people take action, usually perhaps at a treatment centre where a strict discipline is enforced. The external influence will also include police action to stem the provision of drugs that entice the addict on a continuing basis.

Evidently the addict needs to want to be cured of the addiction. Education on the consequences will be important as will the company the addict keeps. It is important not to be in the company of fellow addicts who reinforce the behaviour and provide the temptation by try "just one more". Methods for curing problems come under the heading of compensating feedback loops. Compensating feedback may be advice on the outcomes of the habit but will be stronger if the addicts educate themselves on the consequences of continuing addiction and take the necessary steps to cure themselves.

The final consideration is the need to realise that they are unable to resist the temptation even if only a small sample is taken. Like alcoholics, who think that one drink won't hurt, the will power to stop is not there and they will find it impossible to limit themselves to just one (or two... ). To control their habit the only cure is complete abstention.

These comments have been by way of example but a more thorough investigation would be by using these examples in order to trigger a brainstorming session. Such sessions can be applied to all kinds of problems and offer the potential to consider other possible alternatives.

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How to Tell If a Long Distance Relationship Will Work

When a couple has a long distance relationship, one of their primary concerns is to know if their romantic relationship will work in the long run. They're concerned about the longevity likelihood for their romance so they can avoid heartache before they invest their heart, life, and soul into each other prematurely.

First, let me distinguish between the two primary types of Long Distance Relationships, aka LDR. The first kind of Long Distance Relationship is that which is between two people who have already met each other in person. The second category of Long Distance Relationship is that which between two people who have not yet met who are pursuing a relationship exclusively online. The scope of this article is the help specifically couple who have met in person and have an in person relationship, which for various reasons are now in a Long Distance Relationship.

If the two of you have already met and are enjoying a relationship where you have in person personal interaction, then you have a relationship which is real and is based in physical reality. The two of you already know about how you share personal chemistry and body language signals for developing and fostering your relationship.

For whatever reason, the two of you now are either in or are facing a period of your relationship life where you two are separated physically.

Mutual caring and respect are a priority in your lives.

The two of you make an effort to spend time together and share an activity where you can, even with you're being apart from each other in a Long Distance Relationship. Many couples where one spouse is serving often in a combat capacity in one of the branches of the military often cannot do this for days at a time. When the two of you discuss this in advance, then you two can reach agreement.

Honoring the value and importance of each other.

Often the spouse who is serving in the military, many of your life variables are outside of your power and control. Know this in advance. Communicate with your spouse well in advance. People in the business world can sometimes feel like their job position is completely in the control of their boss and company. By communicating with your partner and honoring their importance in your life as a priority as well is both a sign of the vitality and longevity of your relationship as well as one of the relationship habits that will contribute to relationship's success.

Your life paths are aligned and your families are supportive.

Most couples have careers which are separate from each other. However, look at the purpose of the work you both are doing. Are they aligned and supportive of each other? Secondarily, reflect on how supportive your families are of your relationships. When you two share alignment and a supportive family environment, then you can know with confident that your Long Distance Relationship can survive and thrive long term.

This article is brought to you by FREE DATING SITE.

Five Reasons to Consider Alcohol Treatment

1. Getting help saves lives

It's no secret that in the worst cases, alcohol addiction can and does kill. Drinking heavily regularly makes people more likely to put their lives at risk. In addition, heavy drinking causes serious health risks which can lead to death. Therefore, alcohol treatment which helps you stop drinking can literally save your life.

However, in many cases, alcohol treatment will save a life by preventing it being wasted - getting help can dramatically improve quality of life. Stopping drinking is the best way to get your life back on track at work, in terms of relationships, goals and ambitions.

2. Meet positive new people

Many people who are addicted to drink are closely associated with people who have a similar lifestyle to them. This can make it hard to change behaviour and break routines. Spending some time getting alcohol treatment can widen the circle of people in your life. You'll meet addiction professionals who understand your problems and those who've experienced issues with drugs or drink themselves. Having a support network of people makes beating addiction much more achievable for many.

3. A chance to focus on sobriety

Undergoing treatment, especially in a rehab clinic, gives you a period to focus on getting sober, away from work and everyday worries. Getting help in a residential rehab centre provides a safe, reassuring and stress-free environment to abstain from alcohol.

Treatment usually involve detox - at this point, when there are no alcohol toxins in the body, many people can think clearly for the first time in a long period. With their mind free of the fog of drink, they can consider their future and how alcohol is damaging their life and health.

4. Alcohol treatment can help you stay sober

Good alcohol treatment expands beyond the initial detox or rehab - it should also include aftercare, which is essential for many to stopping drinking for good. Alcohol treatment will also help you tackle the underlying reasons behind you drinking - these might be stress, depression, trauma or something else. Tackling these, rather than just the physical dependence, is key to stopping drinking.

5. Rediscover life and yourself

When they become alcoholic, many people lose sight of themselves, their interests and what they want from life. For example, people forget their hobbies, they stop taking care of themselves, exercising and eating well, and many people begin to neglect the people close to them. Alcohol treatment can help shift the focus in your life away from alcohol and back to what you really want.

Therapy and counselling can help you find out how to gradually get your old self back. Whilst undergoing treatment you won't be drinking and you may also be given vitamins to help you get your body back in balance

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Having God

Since the inception of our being, we have been granted a name of a God that we are instructed to serve. We grow up in a community adapting to a set of beliefs that we keep on embracing with every passing breath of ours.

As a child, I did the same. I had just one definition of God; THE ONE who keeps an eye on my every thought, word & action. He is somebody who is sure to grant my each and every wish, everything, even when my mum and dad, my elder brother or sister, even my dearest uncle or aunt may fail to provide. I grew with the same passion and tried my level best to keep away from all sorts of wrongdoings. I stayed afraid to utter words in front of my parents even when they were astoundingly inconsiderate. I felt guilty that I carry lots of mistakes or to more exaggeration, several sins on my profile as a kid. God granted to me however has been the best buddy ever. He always listened to me. He never shouted at me or never asked me to keep my mouth shut for the rest of my life.

Now I have grown up; simply putting it I have gained understanding. I might not be a wise one but at least the gift of having God in my life is the most precious and honorable of all. Seriously, I am being honest at the core of my heart.

In the sphere of my understanding, the meaning of god has come across in strangest ways through the multitude that dwells around. Putting it more precisely, god is available in various shapes and sizes. That being has taken countless forms like my next door neighbor, my closest friend, stranger passing by or my colleague or may be my boss in my previous or present company must have made power, crudeness, authority, lust and above all MONEY as their ultimate god. With no offense to any religious belief, but this attitude in my true honesty is becoming far more a norm of this materialistic world.

Hold on for a second, exactly god has appeared in different shapes and sizes such as a stack of money, size of my bank account, credit card or the thickness of my wallet. More amazingly, even when I am a first rated fool with no or least business acumen of any sort but yes I can be a chatter box or a trumpet blowing hard causing extensive noise pollution all the time, lying down on the floor every now and then telling my big daddy that I need to be next higher authority in line, putting forth that I am not taking up any next assignment till the time you fill my pocket with an undeserving incentive or perk. No daddy, you are not supporting me any more.

Give me a break here, holding one's horses I believe is never considered at all. Is that so? Power, greed and selfishness are sure to take me one step above and beyond the normal definition of humankind.

Do we still know who exactly our God is or we plan to sleep over it for the rest of our lives. This is for each one of us to think hard about. Let's start thinking. Will you?

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Gambling Addiction Stories

I don't have to look very far to find a gambler: I am a compulsive gambler myself.

First of all, I used to play poker. This became progressively more time-consuming. I began by playing for an hour or two every so often. Then it progressed to an hour or two every day. Eventually I was playing from eleven in the morning until midnight day after day. Inevitably my studies suffered. So did my home life. After I lost three months' income on the turn of one card, I stopped. Just like that.

My wife was more than upset by my behaviour. I didn't want to lose her. The choice seemed to be straightforward at the time. What I had not foreseen was that my addictive nature would simply express itself in other ways.

I went into property development. I bought two old cottages, did them up and sold them for a profit. Then I bought two more and was equally successful. Then I bought a farm and it was an absolute disaster. I had done well when property prices were going up but I came crashing down when the inevitable recession followed.

My bank manager had said that I appeared to have talent in this area. Of course I did. Everyone does when values are increasing. The skilled professionals buy at the bottom of the market and then sell at the top. They see it all as a business, not as a passion.

I was cleaned out. I was left owing more than our total assets.

I was fortunate to have my professional income so I gradually clawed my way back to solvency.

So, as property values increased again, I re-mortgaged our home and my office and built a rehab.

In the first year we lost our total financial assets but, as property prices had risen again, I was able to re-mortgage again and stay afloat.

That established the pattern for the next twenty two years. Each time we made a loss, I re-mortgaged. The home that I had bought for £4,600 eventually had a mortgage of £650,000. The rehab expanded and we built offshoots.

Eventually I had paper assets of many millions and I had one hundred and twenty staff.

In my personal life I was always very abstemious. I bought second hand Volvos. I rarely took holidays. I bought books rather than rich men's toys that would decrease in value.

But I risked too much and trusted too much and that brought me down. Compulsive gamblers tend to give up their addiction only when they have nothing left to lose. That is precisely what happened to me. Sadly, yet again, my gambling addiction hurt my wife.

Gambling in casinos or on racetracks or in betting shops or online never appealed to me. My gambling was seemingly legitimate - but it was gambling none the less and I paid a dreadful price for that.

Nowadays, I work on my own, doing highly specialised and delicate work with people who are depressed or frightened or traumatised.

I look after addicts of all kinds, and I also work with their families. I have had the professional training and experience to know what I am doing in this field of work.

More importantly, I have had the personal experience to enable me to understand other gamblers instinctively and guide them towards putting it behind them.

I believe that I was born with an addictive tendency and I shall die with one.

But nowadays, I don't gamble on anything, not even on the lottery. I do the things that I need to do each day to keep me free from compulsive behaviour.

I'm happy, at peace with the world, creative and enthusiastic. I don't want to build an empire again, nor to take risks of any kind. I'm very content as I am.

This article is brought to you by PERSONALS.

Reasons To Consider Alcohol Detox

Alcohol detox usually involves using a supervised course of medication to rid the body of alcohol toxins.

When the person then stops drinking, the medication manages the worst of the physical withdrawal symptoms from alcohol. Alcohol detox isn't a magic bullet but can help someone focus on changing their behaviours and getting their life back on track.

Here are good reasons to try alcohol detox.

Decrease health risks

There are many significant health risks associated with prolonged heavy drinking. These include the risks of developing illnesses such as liver cirrhosis, pancreatic damage, some cancers, heart conditions and more.

According to experts, the more alcohol you drink, the worse the associated health risks are.

Improved personal life

As well as serious health problems, drinking heavily can also cause a range of personal problems. Alcohol is sometimes associated with violence and aggression and drunk people are sometimes liable to say or do things which they wouldn't normally or which put them and others at risk.

Further to this, alcoholism can result in professional problems, with people either being drunk or smelling of alcohol at work or not turning up for work/under-performing when they're there.

Heavy drinking often causes problems between friends, relations and couples. Alcohol can erode the trust which keeps relationships strong.

In addition, some people get themselves into financial problems because of their dependency on alcohol. Debt or a shortage of money can lead to stress which can cause a vicious cycle of drinking. Alcohol detox can help to break this cycle.

Beat alcohol dependency and addiction

Detox can help beat alcohol addiction for good. Many alcoholics drink on a daily basis and one of the key reasons they drink is to suppress unpleasant withdrawal symptoms, such as nausea, shaking, sweating, hallucinations and more. Detox can be instrumental in ending this loop.

Focus on getting well

Detox is often carried out in an alcohol rehab clinic. This can give an alcoholic the time that they need away from work and everyday stresses to really focus on getting well again. The detoxification process is just the beginning. It should be accompanied by counselling, therapy and aftercare which starts to get to the root of the cause of heavy drinking. This combination of treatment helps alcoholics to change their habits and behaviour and prevent a relapse of heavy drinking.

Time in a clinic or counselling sessions are also often a good opportunity to meet positive people who understand your situation and have perhaps been through something similar themselves. Many people keep in touch with people they meet while they're undergoing alcohol treatment and detox.

You should always consult a medical professional before you stop drinking suddenly. In many cases you'll be able to undergo detox at home but a doctor will ensure that you do so safely.

This article is brought to you by ONLINE DATING.

Real Life Tips on How to Beat Drug Addiction and Stay on the Road to Recovery

I've been clean for just under 3 years after trying to beat my addiction for 10.

My recovery was far from skips and sunshine.

Instead it was a mixture of crushed dreams, failure and relapse following short clean spells.

Recovery was and still is a constant battle that no-one prepares you for.

Relapse is not failure but an important element of your recovery. Not everybody is willing to say that out loud.

Try not to take it too hard if you relapse. Look out for your triggers. Ask yourself whether you are 100% committed to kicking the habit once and for all. Sometimes we set ourselves up to fail so we can enjoy "one last smoke or hit."

I have taken my relapses so badly in the past that the guilt and shame pursued my using until I was out of control and helpless yet again.

Fighting my Fate

I remember the constant battle, day in, day out with the metaphorical angel and demon that resided in my head. In my final recovery there was one life-changing incident that defined who I am today. I was overwhelmed by emotions and withdrawal. I was in early stages of recovery and had just got over the physical withdrawals. The demon addict timed it perfectly and decided to pop in and pick up where it had left off.

It didn't take long to convince me, almost like a robot programmed; I instantly made an excuse and set off to my dealers across the bridge. I reached the steps of the bridge and the voice of reason and light started to ask me why? "You've come this far!" "Turn around and go back home." The demon addict butted in rudely, "just one last time", "you've had such a hard few weeks", "you need a release". "Think of how good it will make you feel!" The angelic voice was familiar I recognised the faint whisper from times gone by. This time she had found the strength to speak up.

I was torn and confused, unsure as to what direction to take. I thought of my family, the love in my life and all that I stood to lose and made the hardest decision. I decided to take control and fight for my life. I felt powerful. Never before had I beat the demon of addiction, I had always surrendered weak and vulnerable to its destruction and then wallowed in the self hate and pity that addiction brings. I walked home with a sense of victory and a real awareness of my vulnerability. It was then I realised I needed to look after and protect myself from here on out. I hope that all of you in early recovery find the strength and courage to carry on and beat it, don't be afraid to give it a good kick from time to time when it rears its ugly head.

Remember the addiction is part of you so don't surrender, don't be a prisoner in your own skin. Release the Demon in order to protect your Angel. The fight is within!

This news article is brought to you by CONFLICT IN RELATIONSHIPS - where latest news are our top priority.