ann-e: The world becomes our safety net

" The definition of creativity is courage."
- Henri Matisse
 

 
Communication Tips


THE BEST WAY TO USE The ann-e iPhone app

The best way by far to use this application is as a tool of prevention.

We know that relapse begins before you pick up. Once you pick up, you are in active addiction. Trace backwards from a binge and you will see where you began to relapse. It is often at a point where you lost contact with your support group. You began to isolate.

I heard a friend say today that at any moment, we are either walking towards relapse or towards recovery. By using the ann-e iPhone app to stay in touch with other recovering addicts, you know which direction you are walking.

Sign on in the morning or every so often during the day to check in with those of us who are walking in your direction - towards recovery. The ann-e iPhone app is also there in case of an emergency. But, the best way to prevent that emergency is to make sure you are moving moment after moment towards recovery.

The ann-e iPhone app does not replace communicating with your sponsor or attending meetings.

Communicating Via Text Message  
 

When one is On Call, here are a few lines that might be useful to use.

You are communicating with someone who is about to “ pick-up “ and they have reached out to you. They are looking for support.

“ What would help you right now? “

“ Is there anything at all you can appreciate in this moment? “

“ By reaching out you are past that danger zone.“

“ Can you move your focus from your “craving “ to your conversation with me?”

“ Can you stay in this moment, not in the future or the past? “

“ I am here for you right now. “

“ I know what it is like and I trust you can get through this. “

“ Let’s count together while that craving passes. “

Communicating Via Phone  
 

The best way to support someone during a phone conversation is to sincerely listen.

When you hear what that person is trying to communicate, let them know you have received what they are saying. You don’t have to solve anything while in this conversation. By just being on the other end of the phone, you are providing support. Listen and let the person looking for support, know that you are supporting him or her to get through another “ twenty-four “. Your job is to be compassionate towards this person and to yourself. You are providing a great service.

Face to Face Communication  
 

There have been many books written on this topic. The key here is the same as the above. Listening.

You do not have to fix this person’s life. You sincerely care and let that person looking for support know that you understand. That is all you need to do.

For this method of communication and for the two above, it is always a good idea to read step one together or use text messaging to write about it. Step one is a great place to start. It might be a good idea to keep it handy when you are On Call.

If you are signed on to support addicts then please try to be available during those times. Keep your iPhone close to you.

 

[ home ]