Alcoholism and Drug Addiction: Lessons Learned

Most people have difficulty taking a meta-perspective to their addictions and figuring out what and why they are doing while addicted. However, I've treated both women and men in recovery who often say "I thank my addiction. I wouldn't be the person I am today without it!" It sounds strange. Why would you want to thank your addiction? It causes much pain and isolation. It appears that when a person can discern meaning in their life's narrative, they are more likely not to return to these behaviors, since they have learned what they needed to learn and moving on to the next phase of their lives.

What can a person "learn" from their addiction? Well, the learning usually occurs in contrast to the recovery they practice secondary to their addiction. For example, a client recently shared with me "without my addiction I would not have learned to have empathy for those struggling with addiction and other dark forces in their lives". This person is a physician who travels the world assisting poor countries with outbreaks of epidemics and their health care needs. He has become empathic secondary to his addiction to alcohol and pain medications. He came to understand the "meaning" of his addiction and replaced it (with the help of professionals and the 12-Steps)with a life of giving kindness without counting the cost!

Addiction is not to be glorified. However, once you begin the contemplative journey towards recovery, don't necessarily reject your experiences as an addict, but bring them along with you into your recovery. If you, or a loved one is struggling with addiction and trying desperately to be sober, please call our 24-Hour HelpLine at (866)478-9898.
"There is no coming to consciousness without pain"
Carl Jung

Recuperatio Primoris! (Recovery above all else)

Dr. Bill Heran