Questions & Answers about Meth Addiction and Recovery

• May
  04

  Staying Clean

  Question:
  After looking over this site and many other meth related sites I have a question about my fiances past use of meth and potential relapse. He is now on home detention and has been since January of 03. He is working hard to build a non user future for himself and claims no desire to use again. I didn't know him when he was using, but i've fallen in love with the man who is straight. I am well versed in 12 step recovery as my x husband was an alcoholic and I am into Al-Anon. He says I inspire him to be a better man, my life style of no drugs no alcohol appeals to him as he seems to be genuinly sincere about major life style changes. He has cut ties with all his old friends, pulled himself out of the life if you will. This addiction seems to mirror my x's addiction but I need a few questions answered. My questions are as follows.

  What is the reality of long term recovery with out the help of a 12 step program? Has there been any known real success stories doing it on your own? (other than the rare exceptions). I'm sorry if my questions sound naive to you, but I have no experience in dealing with anyone on or recovering from this drug. Any insight would be appreciated.

  Answer:
  As long as the friends your fiance has cut ties with are the ones associated with his drug use that's a step in the right direction and one of the most important steps. If so, I definately think he's serious. Once home detention is over I hope he can stay focused and continues with his lifestyle changes which includes cutting ties with friends and dealers associated with drug use.

  There have been people who were able to stop using meth on their own without the help of a 12 step program or any other form of treatment but not many. Whether they were successful in the long term is another story. Especially in the beginning having the support of other recovering users helps to strengthen a person's recovery and prevent relapse. Not everyone does well with group support because they don't want to be the center of attention or want to join in and talk but they don't have to. They can just sit and listen and still get the support and knowledge they need.

  The reality is everyone is different and their form of treatment and support is too. Most people in order to be successful in the long term have to learn coping skills in order to maintain abstinence and sobriety. Either 12 step programs, therapy, counseling or treatment programs offer support, guidance and skills to help maintain abstinence and sobriety.

  Followup Question:
  Do you have any suggestions that can help a person stay clean, I know someone that's having a hard time getting their life together since they stopped using meth recently.

  Answer:
  It's extremely hard to change behaviors for anyone no matter what they are especially without help. Cutting ties with friends associated with drug use is very important and necessary for a person to stay clean. Staying busy and getting some kind of physical exercise helps with anxiety, stress and depression which definately makes you feel better.

  Some form of 12 Step program can really help a person stay focused, maintain abstinence and feel better about them self at the same time. Some people need counseling or therapy for a while in order to develop coping skills that are helpful when changing behaviors and developing new ways of thinking.

  Reading isn't for everyone but successful addiction recovery books are uplifting and give strength to your own recovery helping you to stay focused and positive. Just never stop trying, ask for help when you need it and don't give up. Every day gets a little better and a little easier but addiction is a lifetime disease and something that has to stay in the forefront of your mind. But sobriety sure is worth it!

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  Posted on May 4th, 2011

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