trailmix

I just want to pick up on something Cookie just said:

This is so true. In relationships, regardless of whether they are siblings, or friends or romantic relationships, there has to be some kind of balance. Well there doesn't HAVE to be and of course in the case of a relationship with someone in active addiction, there often isn't.

We are not set up to be in one sided relationships. It is draining, emotionally, physically, mentally. When there is no balance, none of those things are replenished. You give and give and support and support and get beaten up (emotionally) and there is no off-set to that. So where does that leave you? Drained, sad, worn down.

It is pretty much impossible to carry on that way with your mind telling you all this is wrong and you need to save yourself. This is wise though, you DO need to look out for yourself and as Cookie mentioned, at some point you are unable to look after anyone else.

That is why it is often said here, to take care of yourself. Eat well, talk to friends, post here!, get sleep when you can, get outside whenever possible, meditate etc (if you are in to that kind of thing) and distract yourself with entertainment sometimes to give your mind (and feelings) a break.

There will be brighter days ahead, as you can see you are already healing, but it will take time and there will be days where it feels like you are not making progress or you are stepping back, but those will pass as well. It's just important to be kind to yourself so you can push that healing forward as well.