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Old 08-15-2007, 09:35 AM
  # 29 (permalink)  
lightseeker
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Join Date: May 2005
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I believe that many relapses occur because after finding the early stages of recovery - as Mertzie spoke of - that the underlying core issues rear their heads. If they are not dealt with then relapse is highly likely.

Many active addicts would love to stop doing what they are doing...however, their brain chemistry has been changed and the neural pathways and responses don't allow that. It takes time for the brain to heal and the addict has to be away from the using environment to allow the brain healing to occur which then allows them to learn the coping mechanisms and responses of recovery. If it was simply something as simple as a choice, most addicts would quit.

great discussion!
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