17 days sober… depression, lack of motivation, feeling lethargic, it has all been really kicking my a$$ these last couple of weeks. I try to do productive things, like working full time, going for walks, museums, seeing my family, etc but as soon as I am alone with myself all the negative feelings of hopelessness, and lack of self worth begin to sink back in. Does that ever go away? I know l have a long road ahead of me but dam.. I don’t know how much more I can take. Any suggestions? Does the depression diminish with time?
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Slowly. But I was on a 30 yr run. You’re young and hopefully sober for life. It gets better, but even 2.5 years in I still have the exact same reactions you describe. When I’m engaged in something/someone it’s all good. I get home alone and it comes back. I’m still working at it and it has gotten better but I have a lot of damage and it will take time. At first it’s hard to accept but it gets easier. Hang in there. Congrats on your time, keep it up. It’s worth it.
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Just embrace what you’re feeling. I’m going through ups and downs as well. I learned if I come to acceptance with this process it’s actually not so bad. You and I are just combing out of something like a long term relationship. Just embrace the mourning of this and how it’s making you feel and move on!
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Hang in there Alexis. The old habits won’t help.
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What makes you laugh ? Specific tv show, film, comedian, person ? Good standup comedy gets me out of my own head
Be patient, and kind to yourself. It does go away, as you work a program. If you are in AA, work the steps. They are in order for a reason. You are just beginning a fantastic journey. I know it doesn’t feel like that, but you need to face the past traumas and emotions so you can let them go. You may want to get professional mental health help as well. What our addiction did to our brains need to re wired. Hang in there!
Google Refuge Recovery and check out some of their guided meditation exercises. Super helpful when you're alone and feeling anxious / depressed.
Thank you I will check this out. Nice job your a great example
When I first got sober the ups and downs were like an intense roller coaster. Almost three years later there are still ups and downs but it is more of a gentle rocking. I find that when I am feeling in the dumps or anxious and depressed going to a meeting helps tremendously. Share it with the group. Even if it’s “I feel like garbage and I want it to stop. Thanks for listening. “ you will be surprised at how many people feel exactly the same.
It took me 25 years to defile myself to the point where I surrendered and learned to be sober. And within 6 months I was feeling mentally, physically and spiritually better than I ever remembered.
Hang tight. Make good decisions. Patience is not our strong suit, but it pays off big.
Meetings. Get plugged into a program.
We feel you.. I've been there done that..Your not alone..Get plugged in.. And if thats not you try meditation, that helped me a lot.. You Tube it..