Healing the Scars of Addiction

HEALING THE SCARS OF ADDICTION

Gregory L. Jantz, with Ann McMurray

ISBN 978-0-8007-2773-4

Self-Help / Addiction and Recovery

Revell Books

196 pages

$13.99 softcover

The wreckage of addiction lies scattered around too many people--from the one who is or was addicted to those in relationship with that person. Age-old culprits of drugs, alcohol, and gambling are joined by newer addictions, such as food, prescription medication, shopping, pornography, and technology. Left unaddressed, addiction devastates lives now and makes it difficult to see a positive way forward.

For anyone struggling with an addiction, attempting to live in recovery, or seeking to understand the mind of an addict they love, Dr. Jantz's newest book is a lifeline. In it he helps readers answer tough questions, such as

- Am I an addict?
- Why is the first step so hard?
- How can I put my life back together?
- Where do I go from here?

Addiction doesn't have to have the last word. Healing the Scars of Addiction offers a holistic approach to healing so that readers can reclaim their lives and move forward in hope. 

My thoughts (reviewed by Steve)  This is a self-help book.  However, it’s not just another self-help book.  Throughout the book, Dr. Gregory L. Jantz, PhD, and co-author Ann McMurray, keep playing the one string that they want you to remember:  hope.

Dealing with real-life issues, sharing (in a transparent yet respectful manner) real-life stories, celebrating real-life victories . . . and commiserating with real-life set-backs . . . the authors of this book just keep reminding me of that favorite Americanism:  “Where there’s life . . . there’s hope.”

Regardless of your particular addiction, the authors reveal that there is a “commonality” to the addiction cycle.  And they aren’t shy about the truth . . . and they don’t pull any punches.  If you are looking for a “feel – good, let’s all sing Kum – Ba – Yah! scenario . . . you’ve selected the wrong book.

However, if you are serious about dealing with your addiction, or helping someone with theirs . . . and you are willing to put in the work necessary . . . this book can be a great “first step” in that process.  The author’s are quick to point out that there is no “quick fix,” and that this book is intended to be a “conversation starter.”

But you know . . . that’s where it all begins.

I received this book free in exchange for my honest review.

5 stars for a refreshing voice dealing with a difficult subject!