December 11, 2003

Holiday season particularly difficult for those in recovery

Editor,

For a person overcoming a drug or alcohol addiction, this time of year can often be difficult. There are too many reminders of past transgressions against friends and family. There is also damage that has been caused to oneself, but probably the most difficult obstacle is the amount of alcohol consumed by others during the holiday season.

Being a legal drug, alcohol is so socially acceptable, yet unbelievably destructive to our society at the same time. According to the latest survey on national drug use statistics, there are approximately 14 million Americans who have alcohol problems, let alone those addicted to other drugs. Add on to that the damage caused and lives lost through drunk driving and other accidents and domestic abuse.

A common dilemma for many who are in the recovering process or who have been sober now for years is whether or not to participate in the numerous parties this time of year. There are office Christmas parties, dinners, and of course New Year's parties, all of which typically have lots of alcohol.

The decision not to drink can be simple if one has completed full rehabilitation, but for those that have only received patch treatments or who don't feel in control of their lives again, going into agreement with the group that it is OK to have a couple drinks can lead to devastating consequences. For example, someone that was addicted to cocaine or methamphetamine could justify it by saying that "alcohol wasn't really my problem," only to find themselves in an altered state of mind and make more unhealthy decisions such as "one line couldn't hurt," or "I should celebrate my sobriety."

This may sound absurd to some, but it is a common mistake made by many people every year, which sends them immediately back down into a dwindling spiral of addiction once again.

Since drug and alcohol addiction affects the lives of every single American in one way or another, it would benefit us all to be aware of what we're doing to ourselves and others at such events. Encouraging someone to "relax" or "let loose" and have a drink isn't helping them, it's destructive.

So let's ensure that we all have a happy and healthy holiday season and look out for each other.

Luke Catton
President, Narconon Arrowhead

Accurate, compelling reporting

Editor,

I just read your article on the Pioneer fire in the Times. You did a wonderfully thorough, accurate and compelling job of putting everything into words.

I have been misquoted and read so much mis-information in my dealings with the press over the years, your article was very refreshing.

You worked hard on it and it showed. Thanks for a great job of professional journalism!

Steve Dini
Drama Teacher
Pioneer High School