Addiction

GENERIC FIRST STEP

Powerlessness

1: Describe your pre-occupation with opiates. How have your feelings, your attitudes, your beliefs and physical well-being changed as a result of this pre-occupation?

A: My entire thought process focused on getting my next dose(fix) of my drug of choice. Even watching TV or exercising I would still be thinking of my next dose.

I have a strong sense of low self-esteem; I often avoid friends for fear of needing to answer their questions.

I stay at home more, avoiding people in general.

2: Name six ways you have tried to control your behavior in terms of your addiction.

A: Lying, manipulation, avoidance, excuse-making, stealing, deceit.

3: At what times of the day are you most apt to be distracted by your addiction?

A: At virtually any time, but more often in the morning, and often during idle time as well.

4: List 10 lies you’ve told others about your addiction.

A: 1: It’s not a problem. 2: I can stop anytime 3: I need it for pain control. 4: I’m not hurting anyone 5: It’s not my fault. 6: I need it in order to work these hours. 7: It’s my business, no one else’s. 8: No one cares. 9: I don’t have an addiction 10: The physicians caused this.

5: List 10 lies you’ve told yourself about your addiction

A: 1: I can stop 2: I’m not hurting anyone 3: I’m simply treating my pain 4: No one will notice 5: I’m not addicted, it’s for pain control. 6: No one understands my situation. 7: The pain is not controlled, I need more meds. 8: No one can help me, except me.

6: Describe how you feel when you are experiencing your addiction.

A: Anxious, exhausted, depressed, Un-interested, In pain, Euphoric,

7: Describe how you feel afterward:

A: Ashamed, Embarrassed, Angry, Disappointed, Worried, Sad,

Unmanageability

1: What effects has your addiction had on your physical health?

A: Tired, less physically active, possible liver damage, Bowel disorders

2: How has your addiction affected your thinking?

A:...