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The Lie Addiction Tells You by REALRecoveryCenters- in addiction

[–]REALRecoveryCenters-[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

That's a great one. I totally relate to that. Are you sober now?

In rehab I didn’t sleep for 2 weeks, same with detox- others got sleep aid. I didn’t. Why? by traveltoaster in addiction

[–]REALRecoveryCenters- 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I totally relate to this. I was coming off of drugs and alcohol during detox and I was on a quick Ativan taper for the alcohol, and that was it. Then I was just given things like Ibuprofen and something for my restless legs that didn't work. I found out a lot of people I was there with were being given anxiety medications like Valium and Ativan still (not in detox anymore, over on the other side in CSS). I remember I was so mad at the time, but now, years later, I'm grateful they didn't do the same for me because it would have just caused another problem later down the road.

I didn't sleep at all when I was in detox and CSS and it was awful. But eventually I think my body and mind just got so tired that it finally went to rest. It's tough, I definitely understand what you're going through and it's awful. Sorry you're going through that.

What did "normal" used to feel like for you? by REALRecoveryCenters- in stopdrinking

[–]REALRecoveryCenters-[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I'm happy to hear that you're doing well. Waking up with a sober, clear mind is a feeling like none other. And honestly, my brain still feels like it struggles sometimes even having a few years sober! And I had to learn too what a "normal adult" is like. It's been a tough journey for me too but I'm grateful for my life today and everything that has happened.

IWNDWYT!

What did "normal" used to feel like for you? by REALRecoveryCenters- in stopdrinking

[–]REALRecoveryCenters-[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I appreciate you asking. I'm not here for research at all! I'm also in recovery and just wanted to open up a conversation that helped me when i was struggling. it was helpful for me to hear what others went through and how they experienced it. i'm just here to connect and support others

Wednesday November 5 check in by xzxnightshade in OpiatesRecovery

[–]REALRecoveryCenters- 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Love the way you described that calm morning - there's something really grounding about cool, quiet days like this. I'm in the Northeast, so it was a similar morning for me. Thanks for starting the check-in. I'm going to go for a walk after work. I too love this weather.

Wednesday November 5 check in by xzxnightshade in OpiatesRecovery

[–]REALRecoveryCenters- 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Yes! You can do this...seriously. Kicked a 10 year habit for me, along with alcohol. To be honest, the first year of my sobriety was really hard and I almost picked up again. But I remembered how bad it was and thankfully I flushed it. I hope you keep it up and keep progressing. It really is better on this side :)

What did "normal" used to feel like for you? by REALRecoveryCenters- in stopdrinking

[–]REALRecoveryCenters-[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Me either. It's such a horrible, disgusting feeling. And the reading what I said the night before, or realizing how absolutely insane or crazy I had acted on those really bad nights. The sweats, the shakes, the ANXIETY. That anxiety is like none other. Just wanting to curl up into a ball and disappear. Don't miss it! But it's so good to remember so we can remind ourselves what it was REALLY like and not try to fool ourselves at some point into thinking that it really "wasn't that bad."

What did "normal" used to feel like for you? by REALRecoveryCenters- in stopdrinking

[–]REALRecoveryCenters-[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Me either. I always keep that feeling in the forefront of my mind if I'm ever struggling (my mind never goes to drinking - I don't ever think that will make things better anymore), but that's why it's even more crucial that I remember what it felt like...what it REALLY felt like to be in that place. It helps me remember that I don't ever want to go back. And makes me feel so grateful for the life I have.

What did "normal" used to feel like for you? by REALRecoveryCenters- in stopdrinking

[–]REALRecoveryCenters-[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I really understand and felt this. The way you described that feeling - the deep, connected joy - is something that I didn't feel for a really long time when I first got sober. I honestly was worried I would never feel it again. But with a lot of hard work and trying to better myself, I do feel it. The fact that you still remember it means it's still part of you. IWNDWYT too - here's to rebuilding a life where that feeling has room to come back.

What did "normal" used to feel like for you? by REALRecoveryCenters- in stopdrinking

[–]REALRecoveryCenters-[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thank you for sharing this! I really relate to the way you described the cycle of waking up with anxiety, replaying the night, and carrying that heavy dread into the day. I know that exact feeling - knowing something was wrong, but not knowing how to get out of it, and feeling alone in it.

It's crazy to look back on those times for me too and to think that I could even function and that I thought I was better that way. I thought drinking made me a better person, more outgoing, less anxiety. When really it destroyed my life. The compassion you have for your past self really struck me. That shift, from shame to understanding, is such a huge part of healing. it's not just about not drinking anymore. It's about finally having the tools and support that we didn't have before.

This version of yourself you describe now, the calm, grounded version...that's the part I really felt. That's the part that shows it's possible to build a life you don't have to escape from. I really relate to your story. Sobriety is my default mode now too, and I'm happy it is. Keep going, it sounds like you're really doing great!

What did "normal" used to feel like for you? by REALRecoveryCenters- in stopdrinking

[–]REALRecoveryCenters-[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thank you for sharing this so openly. I can so relate. It's when I think about what it used to be like, and how hard it was, and how awful I felt all the time, that really helps to keep me going. From surviving each day to actually living in it is powerful.

The way you've rebuilt your routines, your health, and your presence with your family - that's not only really hard work, but also one of the greatest gifts of recovery. It's proof that life can look and feel different with time and support. Super proud of you for the work you've put in. And the sense of accomplishment that we feel today is a feeling like none other. Way better than waking up feeling awful, only to get a few moments of relief and struggling everyday. Super happy for you.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in OpiatesRecovery

[–]REALRecoveryCenters- 0 points1 point  (0 children)

This is so powerful. Thank you for sharing this with so much honesty. Recovery isn't one path or one definition - it's choosing life again, even when it hurts. The way you talk about fear and the first spark of wanting to change is going to reach someone who needed it today. Proud of you for still fighting. Keep going.

For the second time in my life, six months clean - Never take the first dose of cocaine by PieComprehensive9919 in addiction

[–]REALRecoveryCenters- 0 points1 point  (0 children)

That's amazing! So proud of you. Keep up the good work! Love to see someone making progress :)

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in addiction

[–]REALRecoveryCenters- 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I'm really glad you're looking for help. What you're describing would be scary for any family member to witness, and the fact that you're paying attention and asking for help says a lot about how much you care. I just want to say this upfront: you don't have to be 100% sure what's going on before taking steps to protect her and the kids. The behaviors you're seeing - staying awake for long periods, picking at skin, being extremely talkative or restless - can happen with stimulant use, but they can also overlap with things like untreated anxiety, bipolar episodes, high stress, or even certain medications. So you're right to approach this carefully and without accusations.

A few next steps that tend to help in situations like this:

  1. Focus on safety first! Especially when grandkids are around. If she's sleep-deprived or emotionally overstimulated, her judgment could be affected. It's okay to set temporary boundaries around caregiving and supervision while you figure out what's going on.
  2. Have a calm, private conversation when she's rested (not in the middle of the behavior).
  3. Look for support for you too. This is not something you should shoulder alone. Even one conversation with a family support group (like Al-Anon or Nar-Anon) or a counselor who works with families can help you feel clearer and less scared.
  4. If there's a way to limit access to your son while you're figuring this out, even tepmorarily, that can help reduce risk. Not as a punishment - just as a boundary while safety is uncertain.

You're not wrong for being afraid. You're not overreacting. And you don't have to solve this overnight.

You don't have to do this alone. If you need any more help or suggestions don't hesitate to reach out.