With Mother’s Day right around the corner, I’ve been thinking a lot about how my mother has influenced me. I often find myself saying things that my mother used to say to me: “people are more important than things,” or “think about the consequences of your choices first.” Here’s another gem that I find myself repeating to myself often: “A man convinced against his will is of the same opinion still.” This quote is so old, that no one really knows who this original author is – but it is highly applicable in the world of recovery.
At AToN, we focus on utilizing tools that will build motivation. Rather than trying to “convince a man against his will,” we allow our residents to look at all of their options. This is where SMART Recovery’s Cost Benefit Analysis (CBA) can be especially useful. The CBA helps residents put their choices and behaviors under a microscope and look at the short- and long-term costs and benefits. It is much more than a “pros and cons” list! The CBA can apply to many things – “should I give up ALL habit forming substances?” or “should I take anti-craving medication?” or even “should I go to a sober living after discharge?” among others. Our residents often begin using this tool spontaneously in treatment to assist in decision making once they have experienced the power of the Cost Benefit Analysis. Many times they ask for additional copies to take with them after they discharge! Check out SMART Recovery’s CBA!
Happy Mother’s Day!
Dr. Cannon
Clinical Director
