Society considers addiction as a sign of weakness, a problem to be ignored, or an embarrassment to
the morality of our times.
In actuality, Addiction is a disease of genetic disposition and environmental
events. It is of epidemic proportions in this country, and can not afford to be ignored. 80% of crimes committed are
drug related, and children are experimenting with drugs at an earlier age than ever before in our history.
Addiction
crosses all lines of economic and social classes. It affects all races, ages, sexes, and even religious backgrounds.
It does not discriminate.
Addiction is a progressive and chronic condition, but it is treatable.
We
at T.Y.L.A. believe that the only way to stop the spread of this disease is to acknowledge the existence of it, and to help
men and women sustain recovery through education and counseling. We understand that gaining sobriety is only the first
step in recovery.
Recovery is not only abstaining from our substance of choice, but also discovering
the things that led to our addiction in the beginning.
Through education, we teach clients to understand the effects of addiction
on their bodies and minds, as well as the destruction it can have on relationships. With counseling and support we encourage
men and women to refocus their efforts to more positive life style changes that are needed to keep them from returning to
active addiction.
Recovery is a process, done in stages. It can not be accomplished alone.
Support is a beneficial poart of recovery, that is why T.Y.L.A. offers support to individuals who have the desire to reclaim
their life and achieve a lifestyle of sustained recovery from drugs or alcohol.
We the community,
and the nation as a whole, need to pull together in the support of substance abuse education and assist men and women sustain
recovery. To safeguard future generations, we need to treat today's problems of addiction.
Here at T.Y.L.A., we are doing our part!
Written by: Merrie Morris
Copywright 2009
