Off To A Good Start

08/18/2014

Hi. My name is Alex and I’m terrible at remembering to blog every day. Sorry not sorry. Today’s topic was “I Am An Addict”: Identification and Denial. My IOP leader, Beth, felt that none of us in our group we’re denying that we had a problem. We all can admit that there is something wrong and it needs to be fixed. So, instead of discussing denial, we discussed what the reasons we told ourselves it was ok to drink/use when we got cravings. We all had to write on the board some of the reasons we came up with…here are a few:

• You are more fun when you’re drunk
• You’re more confident and better looking when you’re drinking
• Drinking makes the pain go away
• You’re good at hiding the fact you’re using
• Weed is going to be legal soon
• Everyone is doing it
• Nobody will know you’re doing it
• It’s easier to drink/use then it is to fight this constant battle

                Everyone had their own reasons behind why they did/do what they do. Our minds are always giving us false reasons and excuses to why it’s ok to use or drink just this one time. But what our minds don’t tell us, is that if we do it just this once, it’s going to happen again. And again. Once you start, it’s hard to get out again. That’s why it’s so important to recognize the signs of relapse before it’s too late.

                I’m really enjoying going to group during the week. I wish it was a daily thing. I always leave group in a great, happy mood. I love it. The people are amazing, and even though I barely know them, I love them to death and would do anything for them. After group today, I had an individual meeting with my IOP leader. We set up a plan and she gave me some things to work on. I’m looking forward to what happens next time we meet. (: