Religion VS the 12 Steps.

[HelpMe305]

I am an addict. I have made it thru withdrawal. I've read a lot about how important aftercare is. Ive been to a couple NA meetings. They didn't really do it for me. I don't want to constantly be reminded of my addiction. Although, I know I will always be an addict I refuse to let it define me. Which comes to my question. Is it possible to look for god instead of using NA as aftercare? I know some aren't religious, however I am. I am definately willing to make changes for the lord. But I also accept I am only a just barely out of detox and there are a lot more people with experience out there. I don't know it all. I just don't know if NA is for me or I'm not giving it a chance. Opinion????

[gnarly_1]

Faith plays a huge role in my sobriety I still see a counselor but it is my walk with God that keeps mr on the strait and narow my wife Kat has 24yr with nothing more then her walk with God to keep her addiction at bay aftercare is an individual thing and is often made up in parts of different things just so your seeking help is the key good luck to you and God bless........Gnarly  

[InNeed0924]

Yes, yes, yes!  God brought this to the surface so you can take care of it!  NA and other aftercare programs are an important part of being sober - to some.  For me, Jesus was the only way.  He will guide you through this -- you simply have to ask.

[kyle505]

Faith is a wonderful thing - it can work miracles, so to speak. If you find the strength you need to stay clean in your faith, then you need to embrace it.
One thing - although you may not want being an addict to define you (we are all so much more than that), you can't forget that part of yourself and the journey to get to where you are now.  

[dominosarah]

You have to do what is right for you.  If you find the comfort in God then lean on your faith.  The important thing is to stay clean and do whatever it takes to stay that way~~

[minn66]

I actually understand exactly what you mean. Yes, I did get addicted yet that doesn't define me. Sometimes I feel that the more I think about it the worse it makes it. NA has been very helpful to me, don't get me wrong, and it helps that I have a close friend in my group. Right now, though, church and my counseling are doing more for me. No two recoveries will be the same and it is important to be in a program or plan that works best for you.

[jusmejen]

In my opinion God is the only way!

[atthebeach]

yes, you can take 5-htp only if you dont take an anti-depressant. look at the bottom of this page at the health pages.

[akitagurl12]

I feel like you do & my belief in Jesus & God is what keeps me sane during this.  

[HelpMe305]

Thank you. I also have another question. I take a multi vitamin and emerganc. What should I take for my brain. I've read a couple different things. But $ is tight so I wanted mayb an all in one? Like 5-HtP? Or fish oil.

[atthebeach]

congratulations on your clean time. the answer is yes. you can use the LORD as part of your aftercare. getting involved in a church, having prayer support,counseling with a pastor, getting involved with a bible study. prayer.
some people dont like na because of the constant reminder to have to admit they are an addict.
there is also programs that are faith based they use a 12 step program but you never have to say you are an addict.

http://www.overcomersoutreach.org/

http://www.celebraterecovery.com/

my daughter and i atend.

keep the faith. you are doing awesome.
sending prayers
debbie