Posted by LynneDa on October 31, 2003, at 13:55:24
In reply to for lynneDa, posted by helenag on October 31, 2003, at 13:44:53
Helen - I'm so happy to hear you told your therapist and it was no big deal! What a relief for you! You can be really proud of yourself!
I do believe that the feelings you have are pretty common to people deliberating about a substance abuse problem. You are not alone, that is for sure!! The idea that it takes a disaster or crisis to get you motivated is pretty typical human behavior :-)
In terms of your sponsor, isn't that what she signed on for - the ups and downs? It's not your job to protect her, but hers to choose what limits she needs to set - if she feels the need to protect herself. Don't go this alone, Helen!
In terms of drinking to relax, you can look at it as a habit and/or coping mechanism. Stay busy and use whoever you need to in order to get through the urges!
I'm glad you found a therapist you like and can trust. Therapy is a tricky thing. I don't know if it's ever cured me of anything, but it has helped me to recognize things in myself and given me some alternative solutions to really tough situations. The chemical side of depression, alcoholism, or whatever is even trickier though. Just work on the parts you can!
I'll be waiting to hear how your weekend went if you feel like sharing. Peace to you too, you deserve it!
~ Lynne
poster:LynneDa
thread:274065
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/psycho/20031030/msgs/275300.html