Once the decision has been made to attempt to live a sober life, the addict/alcoholic commonly experiences a number of different fears. To many, the initial attempt at sobriety is like setting sail in uncharted waters.
If detox is necessary, the individual is confronted with the fear of withdrawal from drugs and/or alcohol. This fear alone is sometimes enough to lead to using. In truth, professional detox centers are determined to make the process of detox as bearable as possible. Depending on the substance, there are different drugs to ease the discomfort. After a few days the individual is typically eating and sleeping better and generally feeling better.
A couple of fears experienced in early sobriety may be; a fear of how to do anything fun without drugs or alcohol. Another is how to face life’s issues without the numbing effects of substances. Many of us used in order to ease the fears common in life. The idea of “living life on life’s terms” is a scary proposition for the individual used to escaping life by the use of drugs and alcohol. The recovery process deals with these fears head on and with some sober time and a strong support system, these fears can be overcome.
