This simple but powerful relapse prevention tool requires just a bit of preparation.
Write yourself a letter that details the positive experiences you’ve had in recovery. Take a look at how your relationships have improved, whether you’re self-esteem is improved, and your physical and mental health. Detail your goals visions and dreams. Be positive and upbeat. Now, take that letter put it in an envelope and write the following on the envelope, “open in case of emergency”.
The next time you have an urge or craving to return to use open that letter and read it carefully. Think about what returning to drug and alcohol use really means, play that tape forward. Realize that you’re not really thinking about using drugs or alcohol once, but returning to a life full of pain and misery. Weigh your decision, because the power of choice is yours.
Don’t be afraid to break the seal on that letter in case of need, because after all, when you are done reading it you can always put it into another envelope and readdress to yourself.
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{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
Love this idea, Bill….very empowering. The treatment center that I went to when I got clean and sober had me do something similar…I wrote a letter to my addiction, saying goodbye to it. I still have the letter, it’s pretty cool. I told my addiction that I was going to be ruthless with it and overcome it with spiritual principles. I just dug that letter out a while back and it gave me a smile. Neat stuff.
This is also what makes journaling so powerful. If you keep a daily journal and just chronicle your thoughts and feelings, it can be a great release for you, but also gives you something to gain perspective later on. You can look back at your old journal entries and really get a sense of how you’ve grown.
Anyway, thanks for the idea….I will pass it on to others!
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I really like this idea Bill. I am going to suggest it to my partner, he has been off drugs for quite a while but I know occassionally, when times get a bit tough, it’s at the back of his mind to consider drugs again.
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