There was a time in my life when I did not understand how an individual could become addicted to alcohol, illegal or narcotic substances. A recent experience changed my understanding, awareness and my own susceptibility to addiction. In sharing my experience and thoughts, I hope others may understand and realize their own relationship to addiction.
As a chronic pain sufferer for many years, I have taken medications as prescribed toward minimal relief. However, I have not thought seriously about taking hard drugs like marijuana, cocaine and the like. Nor have I considered drinking heavily to mask my pains.
Over the weekend, I shared a wonderful outing with friends and we were imbibing in alcoholic substances. During that time, I was in pain, and it seemed the more I partook in drinking alcoholic beverages, the more the pain went away. And then, a friend commented of how “I was walking straighter”. Before the comment, I did not think deeply of the pains I experienced earlier during the day.
Then thoughts were flooding my mind of how the alcohol had “numbed” my physical pains. I believe there are pain receptors in the brain that were affected; though, I am not a clinician and have not researched the issue of pain receptors. However, I thought to myself, “I can see clearly now, how someone with chronic physical, emotional or mental issues can seek comfort in a bottle (alcohol) or illegal drugs”.
The further I reflect on this topic, I am more sympathetic toward those who “mask” their pains, whether mental or physical through these avenues. I do not know why I never thought deeply on this subject before, or why now was the time for reflection…I do know, I felt compelled to write about my thoughts and experiences.
For me, I can see clearly how a person can use these substances to alleviate the pains of life as mentioned before; both physical and mental. I had a few drinks and felt as the saying goes “pretty damn good”!
My hopes are to convey to those who are considering the above choices that I understand. Also, my hopes are for those of us with these issues can see clearly enough to “not” become dependent on prescription, non-prescription or illegal substances.
I can see clearly now, can you?
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