Please help me believe..

[Kfred]

... the energy will come back.  I've posted a few times and read many, many posts.  My cycle is officially 1-2 weeks "on" and 3-4 weeks "off".   When clean, I eventually decide I need a week of physical and mental energy and get a batch of vics.  My addicition doctor prescribed clonidine while helpful, actually made this cycle worse.  Rather than have the bad withdrawls I've just taken a few of these and withdrawl is minimal at best.  Not the pure torture I used to have.  It's not even about the euphoria anymore - which only lasts 15-20 minutes anyway.  It's just the energy these pills give me 30 min. 1 hour. even 3 hours after I take them.  Sometimes I think my energy level could be low abnormally, like a medical condtion or something... ARGH!!!!

[122 Tactical Fighter Group]

Changing is correct above in saying that its a vicious and self perpetuating cycle.....you just gotta break it - the first rule here is that the user never wins - - its not fast easy or fun. But I did it....after a 20 year habit that was finally 20-30 10mg hydros per day....You can also and there are many people and great resources here for you - a  lot of people that understand..........best to you

[broknbck]

ever had your iron level checked?

my was severly low where the doctor wanted to put me in the hospital. it will make you very, very tired.

but then this is usually a problem for women only.

[changingbestfriends]

You absolutely must believe.  I think I have finally got it.  Yes the energy comes back.  I haven't been an exerciser for 20 years, (just a little relapse and lack of energy there.), I started walking, first just to the mailbox and it isn't that far from the house and then around the house once, not a large house mind you, then to the top of the hill, now up to 3.2 miles a night.  I have played raquetball 3 times in the last week which is something I have never done befre.  TOday is day 32 for me off vic's and I used to think the same thing....How would I work full time without it??????? How could I do this or that?????? The problem is it is a vicious cycle and a lie.  Our minds are wonderful about telling us that we need a chemical to operate efficiently and effectively when it is totally the opposite.  Aren't you tired of having them for two weeks and being out for three???  If I can spend half as much time in my life doing constructive things versus the constant thought of when you can get your next rx, things will ultimatley always improve.  I wish you the best.  You can do this.  We are here for you.  I am proud of you for posting.  Take care!!!!!!!

[sadinmichigan]

I also know what your talking about...have you tried power walking like 30 min a day..I think that has helped me more than anything..i used to down the Red Bulls..and of course I am addicted to coffee..but I seriously think I am immune to caffeine..lol..anyway..the hardest part about deliberate exercise..is starting..

[mustanginhouston]

I know exactly how you feel that is the problem with me. I feel like I need them or should I say I want them. I feel like I have to have them to cook dinner or just do everyday chores. When I am off them I take aderral for energy and then I switch back to vics. But you are right when I do have them I feel energy for about an hour. I wish I could tell you an answer but I am trying to figure out that question myself but if you find out please let me know. Maybe it is a medical condition.