Restarting the journey

[Langer413]

Hi all, I've been lurking around but finally decided to join and post. I had a 6 yr habit on 4-6 5mg hydro due to a back injury in 2009. I started out at 1-2 a day, but as you know, I needed more and more to be okay. I only took what was prescribed to me though - 180 pills a month. At the end of 2014 I realized I had a problem and wanted to quit, and I did. I went to N/A and did all the right things. I had a set back recently with a large ovarian cyst that had to be removed, so I had to go back on pills for about 3 weeks. I'm smarter and stronger now, so walking away is much easier. I'm on day 3 today with minimal side effects. The worst is the lethargy. I thankfully can sleep, but it isn't good sleep. The closest meeting isn't until Friday so I could really use some additional support until then. My sponsor has been great through all of this. I know that sometimes things happen and you have to take a legitimate form of pain med, but I was really thrown when it happened so close to my quit date.

[Langer413]

Today is day 30, but I'm having one of those days. I have the body aches/headache like its day 1 all over again. It's cold and windy out with no sun so I can't even get out to enjoy the day! This is definitely a day I'm taking "one at a time." I know tomorrow is another day. I read here daily but don't post often. For those of you that post a lot, does it help?

[Sonrissa]

I don't think you are back to square 1.  You are already on day 4,  and your withdrawal symptoms are pretty mild.  Typically on day 4,  you would be feeling pretty bad.  

As far as a relapse goes, if you took your pills due to a legitimate medical reason, and you did not abuse them, and took them only as long as necessary, then no, it is not a relapse.  When I had my broken leg surgery, I did not feel like I had relapsed.  But, I did start counting my clean time after I stopped taking pain pills.  It's really kind of an individual thing, and everyone has their own feelings about it.

You are doing great.  Keep moving forward!  I wish you all the best.

[Langer413]

Thank you so much for responding! I'm trying to stay upbeat, but I'm still so early in the process. I had almost 4 mos in before I had the cysts removed. I'm praying that the last 3 weeks don't hinder all the good work I've done so far. Today is day 4 and I'm doing pretty good. I get out and walk each day - and you're right - sunshine and fresh air is AMAZING!! I guess my big question is, am I really back at square 1 physically/ mentally? I know NA doesn't say this is a relapse since it was medically necessary, but it sure feels like it!

[Sonrissa]

Hi Langer, welcome.  I glad you did join and posted. This is a great place for advice and support.  It sounds like you have things in control. I completely understand your situation.  I broke my leg and had to have surgery after I had been clean for about a year.  Going to NA is great.  To help with lethargy and sleep issues, I found that exercise was the best thing. If you can get yourself outside for a walk in the fresh air, it will really help. I always felt better and had more energy after being outside. Also, soaking in an Epsom salt bath will help with restlessness.

Take care, and keep posting with any questions or if you need some support. All the best to you!

[mlajl]

Problem with pain pill addiction, is life throws u curve balls, and u may have to go on them for a short while to manage pain from a accident or medical conditions .. as long as we stay in control, which is not easy, being wiser about the the darn pills are a plus, but not always works in our favor..  darn things get their hooks in you.. glad u are staying vigilant!