Depression

[dixielove]

I have been off cocaine for 35 days now and I have been so depressed and full of anxiety. I wasnt this way before I started doing drugs. I know my brain chemistry is out of whack right now and that is why I'm like this but can anyone give me an estimate of how long will it take to get rid of this depression and anxiety?

thanks,
Dixie

[cj.]

dixielove:

35 Days!!! Way to Go!!!

If you don't use drugs to give your brain a boost, you will find that when your chemicals balance out, you will have more than enough to sustain your new way of life.

You may want to check out some info about Post Acute Withdrawal to find out how long it takes.

cj

[Brenshay]

Dixielove,

Just wanted to say that I understand how you're feeling. I have suffered from depression and anxiety both before I used drugs and after. It's certainly no fun trying to make a big life change as you have done and then be depressed on top of it.

I wish I knew how long your symptoms would last, but if they continue for a long time there are things you can look into to treat the depression if you are willing. I currently use a combination of medication and therapy which helps a lot. I have to say also that visiting these boards helps me feel a lot better. I hope for the best for you and that your suffering is short lived.

[Frost]

You're doing great! I'm soooo proud of you! Unfortunately, everyone is different and so the only thing I can offer is this. I know it isn't too fun right now but even when things feel real bad, hold on and don't use. If you use, you'll have to start this cycle all over again - go through these feelings all over again - only prolong the pain. That is of course, if you make it back. I have faith in you. Give time time and it will get better.





'In the end only kindness matters.' - Jewel

[Phinneas]

dixielove-- I, too, have severe depression from being on and getting off opiates. I have just accepted the depression as part of the process, though. It's not fun, but every day I am clean and sober is one more day closer to feeling better. When we abuse ourselves with chemicals, it takes time for our brains and bodies to become unscrambled. This might be a good lesson in patience... I'm an addict, I want patience NOW! lol Hang in there, 24 hours at a time, it will get better. I promise!

jojo

[Time2Surrender]

Dixie,hang in there.This will pass.I know its hard,Im going through the same thing.One thing that really helps me is exercise.I love going to the gym,it really helps me.

[weathered5150]

The hardest thing about my addiction to except was the damage I did to myself and to those around me. Dixielove, I can tell you this, whether you've just know decided to change your life with soberiety, 35 days or a year are more, it's what you do in the next five minutes that will make the difference between sucess and relapse. I have been in the AA and NA since 1983, but I reinvested myself (or slipped) into dope many times. By the grace of God and the fact that I've chosen NOT to get high yet tody, I been sober since July 4th 2000. Most of the time I busy myself with life and do well not to think about how it feel s to get high, but since I first found the program and even through this moment I still think as an addict. I hope I always do. Because that part of me and my life that I loath, I must embrace and accept to stay clean. God bless you and keep you safe.

Peace, Ricky-D