I just graduated IOP and honestly, I’m sitting here wondering if I made a mistake. I know all the tools, I know how to not isolate, and I’m doing the work to adjust to a new job routine. But being out of group is incredibly hard, and the sadness and anxiety are just overwhelming right now. Knowing what to do doesn't stop the floor from feeling like it completely dropped out. I really don't need a checklist or advice on how to fix it. I'm just running on fumes and terrified that I wasn't actually ready and left too soon. Did anyone else feel this way too?
I’m literally a week away from graduating IOP myself and I’m thinking the same thing….i guess it’s because I’m use to it…but I’ve done everything right since I’ve started
I remember leaving it is very overwhelming at first. I am now 11+ years clean and sober
Of course! When we are thrust into emotional
situations we all tend to back away and feel like we are not ready. It's part of grateful growth. Sometimes it's scary being human.
I absolutely felt this way. I felt like I had this giant toolbox with everything in it and then I had to show up on the job site for real this time and that was my life. Unstructured and raw. Learning what tool to use where and how just took time and walking through the fear always helped me grow. Staying connected with those also walking the path and those who had walked it before me made it possible to learn what tool to use where and when there is no tool, lean into my relationship with my higher power. It’s a process and not a linear one. I just had to walk through the fear and grow.
You’re not alone