We may fear that being in touch with our feelings will trigger an overwhelming chain reaction of pain and panic.
Basic Text, p. 30
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While we were using, many of us were unable or unwilling to feel many emotions. If we were happy, we used to make us happier. If we were angry or depressed, we used to mask those feelings. In continuing this pattern throughout our active addiction, we became so emotionally confused that we werent sure what normal emotions were anymore.
After being in recovery for some time, we find that the emotions we had suppressed suddenly begin to surface. We may find that we do not know how to identify our feelings. What we may be feeling as rage may only be frustration. What we perceive as suicidal depression may simply be sadness. These are the times when we need to seek the assistance of our sponsor or other members of NA. Going to a meeting and talking about what is happening in our lives can help us to face our feelings instead of running from them in fear.
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Just for today: I will not run from the uncomfortable emotions I may experience. I will use the support of my friends in recovery to help me face my emotions.
I know I have lost both of my parents while in recovery , they were both in there nineties , I did not have to use when that happened. I talked to other addicts who had lost a family member . It is better to bereave in a group , so you all can share your experience , strength and hope .I talked with my sponsor who also had lost his mom when I first got clean.The friends I have found in recovery have helped me face my emotions and stay strong through it .
