Why Do We Keep Taking Them

Yesterday I asked what do you get from the pills? I determined NOTHING. But now I ask--why did I keep taking them? I was not getting pain relief and not getting high either so what was it? Some thoughts---
1) I don't deserve to be clean and sober and have a happy healthy life?
2) I can't be perfect in everything I do sooo I numb out feelings?
3) I'm hurt and angry sooo I numb out feelings?
4) I have anxiety about how to handle things in my life sooo I numb out feelings?
Does this sound familiar to anyone and it seems to me that to get and stay clean we must learn to love and care and respect ourselves enough to do that. Getting past the physical W/D is one thing but what about this issue? I've read alot on this site about how to handle the physical but would love to hear some experiences on how you learn to love yourself enough to treat your mind body and soul with respect which means not poisening onesself with opiates.

[imanaddict]

After care is extremely important! NA or AA meetings usually help and some need to take it a step further with counseling/therapy.

[10356]

I had gone to a psychiatrist every week for a year.. In the beginning it was twice a week.. This is what had helped me the most... I wish you well.. lesa

[dominosarah]

After care is very important......sara