People, places, and things. Potential triggers for anyone suffering

Recovery
#1

People, places, and things. Potential triggers for anyone suffering from addictions. I have a person in my life who means the world to me. I would literally do anything for this person...and have. The only problem is, this individual can also be one huge trigger.

In the past two years, negative interactions with this person have led me to serious bouts of depression; severe cases of anxiety; and a trip to the local hospital's behavioral unit for suicidal ideation. And yet I kept coming back for more. That is the potential power of people, places, and things. Another example of how insidious this disease is.

My dearest friend will not change anytime soon. Change requires admitting you have a problem. So I will lose that friendship to save myself. I know it is the right decision. It is the only decision I can make. But dear God, my heart hurts so badly right now.

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#2

A man’s gotta do what a man’s gotta do. Trust that the world has a plan for you…any your friend. You do you, and let go of everything else that is out of your control. Who knows what will happen. That person might get inspired by your strength one day. Either way, you need to take care of #1

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#3

I am so sorry Tj. Big Air Hug :cry:. I understand. Sometimes I seem to care about others more than myself. I am learning to love me too. Just because a person has a big heart doesn’t make them weak. Be strong. Love yourself. Do the right thing and pray for them. I believe God can do miracles even though he doesn’t always Pray for others can help. You are right they have to make that choice. Figure out what makes you happy. If you don’t know. Keep looking. Never quit trying to find it. Make a list of all the good things about you. Make a written list of goals. Pray :pray:. Don’t give in to alcohol. It won’t help. This is encouragement. I am only 3 days in to this but have been sober before for long periods of time.

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#4

This can be a painful conclusion to come to, but like you said, ultimately we have to do what is best for us to protect ourselves and our sanity. Good luck!

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#5

“I was told that I must want sobriety for my own sake, and I am convinced this is true. There may be many reasons that bring one to AA for the first time, but the lasting one must be to want sobriety and the AA way of living for oneself.” -pg 354

I too have had to make some difficult decisions on friends, but it was what I needed to do. Without sobriety I am nothing. In active addiction I am a friend to no one.

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#6

Thanks. Taking care of myself is a weak point. Clearly the universe wants to give me an opportunity to change that.

#7

Thanks Dianne. And the hug is greatly appreciated. I could use a lot of those right now.

#8

Thanks Jenn. Sometimes doing the right thing hurts the most.

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#10

I would lose my family and friends.over my sobriety and be be good with it.aa meetings