Though the culture has shifted since the moralizing days when drug addiction was seen as a moral failure, stigma still persists. Many people who are suffering from alcohol or other drug addiction are too scared to seek help in an addiction recovery center, for fear of ridicule or gossip, even from close friends and family. But idle chatter or mean-spirited vitriol shouldn’t come between anyone and the hope of recovery. First and foremost, if you’re entering an addiction treatment facility without the support of certain friends or family members, try to distance yourself from them. During this crucial period of early recovery, you should concentrate your energy on becoming sober and learning how to cope, instead of wasting time on people who will only drag you down. Surround yourself with people who care about you and will uplift you, encouraging you in your recovery efforts. A time may come when you can repair the relationship, but allow yourself to focus first on taking care of yourself. Early recovery is a time of upheaval, of great ups and downs. You may struggle minute by minute to break the hold of your addiction, or suffer through withdrawal symptoms, but you may also be inspired by the courageous people around you, and make dear friends. Take this tumultuous and exciting time to focus on yourself, celebrating your accomplishments and learning from your mistakes. Focusing on your detractors will only lead to distraction and…