Can you recommend a good book?

Specialties Addictions

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I am a new grad who just got a great job working at a long-term rehabilitation center for women addicted to drugs/alcohol. I start my new job in a few weeks, and would greatly appreciate it if anyone could recommend a book(s) to read on this topic. There are so many out there, and I was hoping for a recommendation from a nurse. Thank you so much!

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Specializes in diabetic education, dialysis.

Hi!!! Welcome! I don't know if I'll be much help, but let me try... I am a nurse who is in recovery herself. I have a year and two months clean and sober.

Maybe I would start by attending open AA/NA meetings....check the websites or if you have a meeting schedule available....make sure the mtg says "OPEN"....closed meetings limit attendance to ppl with the disease. Or go to Al-Anon/Nar-anon? Just getting familiar with the 12 steps and the lingo of the program. Not all treatment centers are 12 step based, so I don't know if that is helpful advice. Oh and FYI, Alcoholics Anonymous (and NA, as well, sorry) has their own "Big Book" that you might want to be familiar with.

Some books that helped me in my journey...."God on a Harley" by Joan Brady ( OMG this book changed my life ) it basically told me to slow down, live in the moment, and that the void you've been trying to fill with material things (men, drinking, drugs, shopping, careers, etc) would never be filled by anything other than to love oneself and find the spiritual connection between yourself and your Higher Power. "Sermon on the Mount"...author????

Am looking forward to what the others reccommend. Hope you find your new career path rewarding. I know this new life path I've found certain is. :)

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You were a huge help! Thank you so much!

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I've been in addiction nursing for 4 yrs, and mostly have found out things by looking it up on the internet. But I did get a very good book called "Illegal Drugs" by Paul Gahlinger,M.D.,PhD. Although a lot of patients are addicted to legal opiates and benzos, this is a really good introductory book to the other illegal drugs that you will see patients addicted to. Good Luck. Addiction nursing is never boring! I enjoy it immensely!

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