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444932 tn?1273980797

Need Aftercare Help!

I posted yesterday for the first time in over a year after relapsing with hydrocodone. Thanks to everyone who responded to my post with support and advice. The best advice given is to get into aftercare/NA but I have some issues with getting the aftercare I need. Hope someone can help.

I work in mental health and I have worked with people who suffer from addictions and yes, I very much understand the importance of aftercare. I honestly do not mean for this to sound like yet another excuse of an addict and I would really like some advice so I hope someone can help. I live and work in a very small town. I truly believe that NA works but I can't go to meetings where I live or anywhere near where I live because I would run into too many current and former clients. It would make it very difficult for me - and possibly them - to be able to be open and honest as is vital to the process.

Someone asked what led me to relapse last year. It was the death of my grandmother. I have enough insight to know that I do not know how to handle any kind of emotional stress or pain and until I learn to do that or find the root cause, I will be at a high risk of relapse.

Any advice?????
9 Responses
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935907 tn?1296069836
Hi pers, there is one idea that came to mind that you could try out and that is an online 12 step meetings that is available especially on weekends and one every evening during the week. I do believe there are a few available, and I have visited a few of those sites and they are very very good and for those who live too far from a real meeting. Another solution for you is to extend your travels out a little bit more. If not then try the online meetings or support groups. God bless and good luck,, mike in nc
Helpful - 0
199177 tn?1490498534
YES you will need long term care but as everyone has said most drug and alchol conuselers are recoverying  addicts as is mine and thats why I can realte to her .I dont think I could get advisment from someone that had not walked in my shoes .
Helpful - 0
444932 tn?1273980797
Thanks, everyone.  
Helpful - 0
736475 tn?1281259327
all of my cousellors were also in recovery and went to meetings. i felt closer to them and more prone to tell them things because of this. i say get over it and go to a meeting. you will be glad you did. i always am. peace,sway
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
My aunt is an addiction counsellor and goes to meetings. Nobody thinks bad of her, in fact it's awesome and I have the upmost respect that she goes to them still. I prefer talking to someone that has been there, done that. If you don't want to go to N/A, there are other types of aftercare too. Find something that works and work it:)
Helpful - 0
222369 tn?1274474635
EVERY single one of my counselors at my rehab were recovered addicts or alcoholics. In fact, I think it's a true asset for addiction counselors to be recovered addicts as well. We are the only people that truly understand this disease. Your disease is looking for excuses for you not to go. Don't listen.
Helpful - 0
1311328 tn?1273665692
I think Your health should come first and your treatment. I understand the difficult situation of not wanting to be placed in the same treatment as past clients but your health is the priority at this point.
Is it possible for You to go to another town just until You have recieved the help You need it may give you time to get out and have a break as well as a better oppurtunity to get help and treatment.
It does not have to be long term I am not saying to get up and move but a break might help. I do agree with You and understand the professional and client relationship and while it may work for some people it does not always help with all.

Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
My counslor as well as my drug and alcohol advisor go to meetings in the same town and often times in the same rooms as my and other clients just like me. I would much rather see my people working programs and showing me how and why recovery works ,than using and pretending everything is fine. As addicts we know how to pretend everything is fine, when it's not. We know how to lie to ourselves and others. What we are not good at is getting the truth out into the cold light of day, where it can be handled and honestly delt with. Addict brains love a dirty little secret and can work to think of all the reasons why not. I challange you to do the next right thing and make a list of all the reasons why you can do it. Or better yet quit all the back and forth BS and go to any meeting anywhere any day at any time. That's what they are for use them.
Becca
Helpful - 0
495284 tn?1333894042
COMMUNITY LEADER
There are mental health workers who go to meetings in my area and i would much rather talk to someone who understands what i am going thru.  This comes down to how bad do you want your sobriety.  There is no shame in walking thru those doors. Doing it alone hasnt worked so well now has it?  What about a therapist?   The answer is right in front of you, now grab it and run.....No excuses, only solutions.       sara
Helpful - 0
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495284 tn?1333894042
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