It can be tough dealing with the harsh opinions and comments of others about your past. Even if you handle the conversation well, these situations can cause or increase negative feelings about yourself.
When faced with the stigma of addiction, controlling your own thoughts is just as important as controlling how you react to other people.
Shame
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Many
people in recovery are ashamed of their past. While you may be embarrassed by
some of your behavior while actively addicted, it’s important to keep it in
perspective. Let it be a reminder of what could happen if you relapse, and
work hard to handle yourself in a more responsible and respectable way going
forward. Show yourself and other people, through your words and actions, that
you’ve made positive changes in your life.
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Guilt
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Many
people in recovery feel guilty about their past. While it’s normal and
healthy to regret bad things you did while actively addicted, it’s important
not to dwell on them. Apologize to anyone you may have hurt, take pride in
your recovery efforts, and keep moving forward.
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Low self-esteem
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Many
people in recovery have low self-esteem. They don’t see any good qualities in
themselves, and don’t think they have anything to be proud of. Overall, they
consider themselves failures.
If
you have low self-esteem, it’s very important to challenge and change your
beliefs. Your successful recovery depends on it! This is especially true if
these negative feelings led you to drugs, alcohol, or gambling in the first
place.
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Depression
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Many
people in recovery suffer from depression. Depression is a serious illness
that causes feelings of sadness, irritability, anger, anxiety, and/or
hopelessness. While we all experience these emotions from time to time, they
are very strong and long-lasting in a depressed person, often interfering
with his daily life. Sleep, appetite and weight, energy level, concentration,
physical health, and interest in activities previously enjoyed can all be
affected.
If you
think you might be depressed, it’s important to seek professional help. Many
effective treatments, including counseling and medication, are available.
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Relapse
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Unfortunately,
many people return to drinking, drugs, or gambling because they are unable to
deal effectively with the stigma of addiction. Perhaps they give into the
temptation because they feel that, despite being in recovery, they continue
to be judged by their past behaviors. Don’t let this happen to you! It’s
important to realize that, over time, you can regain trust and respect by
working hard at being a responsible family member, friend, and employee.
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For tips on rising above the stigma you may experience from co-workers and other people around you, and strengthening your recovery, check out our earlier post, Strategies for Overcoming the Stigma of Addiction.
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