De Miracles Asia Nieuwsvoer

Early recovery can bring up a challenge a lot of people don’t expect: friends who still drink the way you used to. You might feel solid in your decision to stay sober, then suddenly feel caught off guard by a casual invite, a little pressure, or a “come on, just one” moment.

The thing is, boundaries don’t have to be dramatic. They’re not about judging anyone or cutting people off. They’re just a way to protect your recovery and stay steady in the life you’re building now.

Sometimes the biggest stress isn’t the situation itself; it’s not knowing what to say.

Step 1 - Acknowledge

The first step is awareness of the manifestations (ie symptoms) of the disease in you.

Here are some manifestations that may indicate that you are suffering from the disease of addiction today:

• You are using or thinking about using today
• You are obsessing about someone or something today
• You have given untrue reasons for your behavior
• You have blamed someone or something for your behavior today
• You are looking for an easier way than what is being offered
• You are afraid for no good reason today
• You are avoiding something you should do today
• You feel restless, irritable or discontent today
• You have behaved selfishly, dishonestly, fearfully or resentfully today
• You have been over-sensitive, taking things too personally today.