I have used so many things to replace the dope and fix! My faves are sex, food, and shopping! Does not matter if I can afford it, I will spend the money and then struggle through till the next payday. I AM NOT PERFECT!! I have been told by other addicts that have been through the same thing that any day clean is a success. NO MATTER WHAT, don't pick up the dope!! When I struggle through the days of overspending I don't allow or excuse it with, 'well, at least I didn't get high' because I can take that and really cause some damage if you know what I mean. I am restored to sanity by many things....the utility bill, the gas gauge, another addict sharing in a mtg, and the 'high' i get when I am spending money. The thoughts come before the action and therefore we have a fighting chance. Just like urges to use dope, I share my urges to shop, eat, use others for sex, (excessively) etc., with another addict and have not met one that can't relate!!!! PROGRESS NOT PERFECTION!!!