why do i feel so paranoid all the time?

[torri226]

I notice when im not using I feel paranoid, does that sound strange, I feel like everyone Is talking about me and looking at me like they know something,which really when I think rationally,its soooo not true.  during my week of detox I took 2 days off,said I had a flu bug or something. The next day 3 friends I work with called to ask how I was doing,cuz they know I never call off. so yet another reason I should not feel so darn paranoid. I guess does anyone else have this problem and hopefull that will go away.  I used to be so confident and sure of myself.........just want that old feeling back.

[torri226]

thanks guys,really do appreciate the comments.Another thing I notice I when im off work (like I have been the last 2 days) they seem really long,cuz I just don't feel like going any where or going out with girlfriends,its not like they don't call cuz they do,i just make excuses.i guess its cuz im not really myself yet and ill hear from them, stuff like whats wrong u don't seem like urself or r u feeling all right? and again I feel like I just have to tell yet another lie.Like  ive been doing all along.to myself,my husband and my family.  I know I just have to get over this and move on to my new life.   thanks again  love you all for responding

[kyle505]

Nerves feel like they're exposed; the anxiety and drama levels are running high. This is normal. Be careful about wanting the "old feeling" back. Make sure that you're longing for the confidence that comes with sobriety, not the false sense of well being that meds offer. A big difference.
K

[FourJays]

I felt the same way.  I think the pills did 'dull my reality' for sure.  I was in such a fog for so long that I just didn't really notice or care about what was going on around me, what people thought, my appearance, etc.  But when the fog lifts and you re-gain clarity, I think you notice more ('care more') about these things and are more self conscious.  I bet it will get better very soon....it did for me!  Hang in there :))

[VICourageous]

Well I felt anxious and high ash anxiety during my detox but I was a bit Paranoid when I was Using. Being clean I can look someone right in the eyes and smile. Using I could not. This here should pass.

[ariley13]

I also had this during detox. I attributed it to my horrible anxiety, which I have always had off and on. It was out of control during detox though. I still have little 'spells' where I get anxious and panicky and start to have the 'they're out to get me' mentality. I just take some deep breaths and put on some music if I can. It does get better. Hang in there.

[dominosarah]

You feel naked right now and vulnerable.  You are no longer hiding behind a bottle of pills.  They gave us a false sense of security.  Hold your head high, you are a wonderful person!!

[ricart70]

It will most likely go away as you get more comfortable with being clean. I know what you mean though. The brain mimics a lot of different psychiatric conditions sometimes when trying to readjust to the new situation it has found itself in( no pills dulling reality) . Just try not to worry and chalk it up to detox. You are doing great and it will start paying off for you very soon .Just keep it up and don't ever go back !   ;)))