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Dear Opiates...,
First of all, congratulations for getting off the drug. Believe me, although it may not seem like it now, things can and will get better. But you'll have to take some steps to make them better. The first and most important suggestion I can make is to find out where the nearest Narcotics Anonymous meeting is and give it a try - make a pact to go regularly at least for a limited time to listen to others talk about the 'change of life' (which is nearly total) entailed by giving up drugs and alcohol. The 12 step approach could really help your anxiety - not least because it will connect you with other people who are going through a similar tug-of-war. As for antidepressants, you may indeed want to go into psychotherapy and discuss that option, but I'd opt for 12 step meetings and non-drug therapy at first to see if you can get a handle on your distress without resorting to medication. In other words, give psychotherapy and recovery via the help of 12 step meetings a chance first. Medication may be indicated depending on what a good therapist may determine - but there's a lot you can do before that possible turn in the road.
There really is help out there. I hope you'll reach out for it. And again: CONGRATULATIONS on getting and staying clean.
best - and keep us posted -
Guy
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