Posted by Jessica (209.186.148.220) on February 18, 2002 at 21:31:26:
In Reply to: need help posted by Anne on February 18, 2002 at 10:32:16:
: I'm a recovering alcoholic who quit smoking six years ago. Ten months ago, I picked up again (anger) and now I can't quit. I managed to put down cigarettes for a week (substituing Nicoret gum) but that lasted only a week. I couldn't deal with the constant rage that I felt. I didn't crave a cigarette, but just couldn't tolerate the constant feelings of extreme anger. Any suggestions?
First off congradulations on not drinking! That is such an accomplishment itself. I have cut back my drinking. Mostly because when I wanted a drink I wanted a smoke. But now I can occationally have a drink and I dont crave the cigarette anymore. Ive heard that quiting smoking is the hardest drug to quit, right up there next to heroin. I first started to quit about 13 years ago. It was a struggle of quitting starting quitting starting. This time I have lasted 8months.
I believe that some people who abuse alcohol, drugs and smoke are self medicating themselves because there are deeper issues that they are trying to escape from. I also believe in chemical embalances. If you are eliminating the "medicine" that you have prescribed to yourself for years (alcohol, cigarettes) , maybe its time to go to a REAL Dr. and see what he wants to prescribe for you instead.
There are many drugs out there that can help you overcome your addiction. Zoloft, Paxel etc. When people say "you are just switching your dependency on another drug". Its better than dying from the drug your on. Plus the drugs that Dr.'s prescribe are not instantly gratifying. They start to work over a period of time. Anyway its definately worth looking into. Not to mention talking to a counselor, or better yet your sponcer may help you figure out a way to turn that negative energy into something positive. Vigorous exercise keeps me calm.
Good Luck and God Bless