@Codiene princess
I failed so many times to quit during my years. Persistance and learning are key. Try not to berate yourself when you "fail" because really is it a failure if youve taken something useful from your attempts?
Unfortunately I cant say whats changed this time other than I was just sick of going in the same circles again and again.
Feeling isolated after quitting ones doc seems to be a pretty common theme
As much as I need to better regulate my social media usage I find it incredibly helpful to connect to like minded ppl - whether theyre in recovery too or, also like me, interested in other substances (which arent problematic to me). But more than just substance related there are so many forums/groups dedicated to activities etc that my irl friends arent.
@Ganjcat
mental cravings were a large part of my continued alcohol use.
Opiates are different though and I cant speak much in that regard as they never really grabbed me the way alcohol did but I imagine certain aspects of addiction are relatable. Distractions helped during those first bits to help keep my mind off drinking - movies, video games, hobbies. Meditation, exercise and yoga helped with the anxiety and depression but they certainly arent panaceas like I see so many ppl make them out to be.
But dont be afraid to seek medical assistance - be it in the form of therapy or prescription intervention to help get you off. Many ppl find NA and other meetings such as SMART meetings that MistressofFitness referred to to be of benefit but I cant speak to any of these options. I was kinda ... stubborn? and for whatever reason. Honestly I think it was in part due to my perception of the nature. But certainly it couldnt hurt to check one out - you can always bail if you dont jive. Journalling both here and irl really helps me to get the thoughts out which I figured meetings were at least somewhat about.
@Mistressofitness
"so I joined a group in my area that was primarily gay men and it SAVED my ARSE! " I laughed at the irony surrounding that one
Ya I have addictive tendencies that reach beyond substances too (lol?)- social media, junk food, yoga and meditation and exercise (when I get going), etc. Mindfulness really allows me to be aware when these issues crop up though Im not always capable of changing them in that awareness.
Youre not the first one to mention smart meetings and cbt therapy.
More recently Ive been trying to set smart goals surrounding some of my goals.
I hope your meetings work out.
At times this thread would go dry with responses, so
Thank you all for taking the time to write
Cheers