his Web site was launched in
early 1995, and was amongst the first sites dedicated to, not only providing alternative theories of addictive behavior and change, but
providing addiction information in general. HabitSmart has
been alive and kicking since its debut, despite occasional objections to its non-twelve
step focus, and primarily because of the hundreds of positive responses to the site.
The site offers an abundance of information about addictive behavior: theories of habit
endurance and habit change as well as tips for effectively managing problematic habitual
behavior.
Many people grappling
with addictive behavior are not aware that, as opposed to just one,
there are many potentially effective routes to change. In as much as AA
and associated 12-step approaches have been useful to many, one size does not fit all.
Furthermore, many who align themselves with the 12-step model can augment their recovery
with other information and tools.
INFORMATION DRIVES CHANGE
The Self Scoring Alcohol Check-up is an on-line questionnaire for people concerned about their
alcohol consumption. It is hoped that filling out the form will enable
respondents to examine important aspects of this behavior and consider various change
options. This is not a diagnostic assessment, but an opportunity to examine "the
facts" about your drinking (e.g. quantity consumed, unique triggers, consequences)
and hopefully find some route to change which is commensurate with your needs and goals.. Includes the SADD (Short-Form
Alcohol Dependence Data Questionnaire).
The
Codependency Idea: A Disease of Caring This lengthy article
offers an alternative to the "codependency mentality" and tips for people in
relationships with addicted individuals.
The Cognitive Therapy Pages This new addition to HabitSmart is designed
to be an introduction to cognitive therapy of emotional problems. Articles address the
cognitive model, depression, anxiety, anger management, as well as tips on thought
monitoring and cognitive disputation.
Under Construction: THE COGNITIVE MODEL OF DEPRESSION: A MULTI-MEDIA
PRESENTATION First in a series
of presentations to educate the principles of cognitive therapy.
NEW
Kicking Depression's Ugly Butt
Chapter summary and excerpt from Dr. Westermeyer's depression self-help book, available
Summer, 2004 at bookstores and directly from Quick
Publications.
Tipping
the Scale This exercise and accompanying documents
were written to help you understand and counter ambivalence.
Push Harm Reduction: This was the first site on the WWW dedicated to providing information
about Harm Reduction and associated interventions. Check it out! Assimilate and spread the
word! Nine articles dealing with outreach, needle exchange, methadone,
as well as dieting and clinical implications of harm reduction.
Jump Starting that New Years Resolution Failed your January change agenda? Here's
some tips for getting back on track. By the way, You don't have
to wait until 1-1 to make a resolution!
Memory Model of Problem Drinking: This
empirically-based document offers an information-processing conceptualization of craving,
urges and loss of control.
Coping With Urges: The article offers
tips for "out-smarting" the various breeds of urge.
Coping with Addiction is an excellent article that provides answers to many questions people
have about drug and alcohol abuse plus some useful advice on methods of change. <
