Argued over time and by laymen and medical experts alike, the use of certain medications has always been risky for those recovering from drug and alcohol abuse.
A talk this morning with a long-time friend, recovering addict, and sufferer of a major anxiety disorder left me with more questions than answers.
In the years that I have been in recovery and working in the field, I have been relatively staunch in my opinion that certain prescription medications are off-limits to addicts and alcoholics alike, especially when used as a course of treatment over the long-term. I have not been alone in my opinion – many others agree that the use of narcotics, benzodiazepines, stimulants, and even nicotine may trigger certain receptors in the addicted brain and greatly increase the chances of relapse (the return to active addiction).
Yet when looking at the problems that face those with co-occuring issues such as severe anxiety and phobias, adult ADHD, and chronic pain, it seems that there has to be a middle ground.
It seems that for my friend, this middle ground has been reached successfully. After a rocky start, attempting to stay sober and battle both chronic pain and severe anxiety using both narcotic and non-narcotic medication and non-addictive anxiety treatments, this man has finally found relief. Through both successful surgery without the use of narcotics for aftercare, the use of a longer acting form of an anti-anxiety medication, support groups and friends, and most importantly a deep level of self-honesty, he has maintained sobriety for over four years.
So I am forced to regroup, take a look at my black-and-white thinking, and remind myself that everyone is different. What works for me may not work for you, or maybe just a part of it – which is why everyone sharing their stories is so important to recovery.
And please remember, nothing said here should be taken as advice – it is simply my observations and opinions!
