[shybaybe2003]

you know, if it wasnt for the body aches, the lack of energy, the constant cough, the depression and anxiety this wouldnt be to bad. I am going clean this time, for good. I have spent almost 10 years of my life living with drugs or alcohol and I have a child that needs a sober and clean mother. I will do it this time. Any advice on keeping up the willpower and these body aches and lack of energy?

[melinda7.5]

Hi shybaybe
At least you haven't lost your sense of humor...That was funny...you listed every bad thing there was to list..LOL
I'm sure you have heard me say, by day 4 It started to get better and regain my strength a little every day...
Do you want me to pull up the Thomas recipe for you...
Your child is going to like the new improved mom...
My daughter is 17 and I know it has made a big difference in her life with me not taking pills all of the time...
Take it one hour at a time if you have to...I know your going to do it this time..
Keep posting and let us know how you are doing..
Talk to you soon, Melinda

[pharmstud(ent)]

For body aches simply take ibuprofen, naproxen, or tylenol and maybe it will help some. For lack of energy you could simply try to get some relief from coffee or soda if you really think you can't make through the day. The first 4-7 days are usually the worst and I hope things get better for you. I am very VERY happy for you, because although it is my field I would definitely prefer any patient to not take any drugs at all. Your child will be very appreciated too. Keep it up, every day will be easier and easier, you can only go downhill, just be patient!!

[MaisieC]

Hi Shy,

Your post made me smile. A sense of humor is really important and a huge asset as you move forward. But even though your post was joke-y, it's absolutely true in a totally serious way, too. The withdrawal, even if it's bad, is such a small price to pay in exchange for getting your own life back and being able to be there for your child. It's the best gift you could possibly give to yourself and to your child.

For ongoing support staying clean, I really recommend making as many NA meetings as you can. You've had trouble with relapsing in the past (and you're not alone in that, of course), and it's sooooo helpful to have some phone numbers you can call when you're feeling like you're wavering. People who've been through it, understand your feelings, and can help you through the feelings of weakness and ambivalence and temptation. A sponsor would be ideal, but even before you get to that stage people at NA are usually very generous about sharing phone numbers and being there for each other. This board is a great community and a great resource, but it doesn't take the place of face-to-face relationships and people who get to know you from talking and spending time with you. I think that kind of support is really critical for you right now.

Hang in, and please keep posting!

[snakelady628]

Hello,
I want to congratulate you for taking the 1st step. You are trying and thats very important! Try to keep in mind that although this stinks right now, the body aches , the sleeplessness etc etc , that in the end it will all be worth it . Not only to you , but your loved one will get back the real you. A short time of discomfort ( although may seem forever at the time) is sooo worth a life filled with happiness. When you walk around with that Brick on your back , so doesnt everyone else around you. I agree with the above posts , to go to any and all NA /AA meeting you can get too . Having a structured support of ppl who know what you are going thru is priceless. It will give you a place to go if you are feeling dwon and ppl to talk to who can help you when things arise that may trigger you to use. Its important to also get a sponsor at these Meetings. So many good poepll at the meetings are always willing to sponsor a new member. And that person will be there for you anytime , no matter the hour of day. A life on drugs is no life at all as you well know. Have you tried talking to your Dr. about your addiction? Although I have a personal oppinion about using one drug to get off another drug , for some people its needed. There are drugs out there that are NON addictive that a dr can help you with should you feel you need that. Alwys keep up front what these drugs have done to you and your loved ones.. Find that inner self in you and grow a hatred for that demon. I wish you well on your journey and will pray you have the strength to keep going no matter what! Remember the price is a high price to pay.. and everytime you use you are bargaining with that price.

[shybaybe2003]

well day 3 i have a little more energy, but I feel kind of jittery and anxious.I get Klonopin but I cant get it filled until the 18th. I had a dosage change and am suppose to be able too, but my insurance wont cover it yet and my pharmacy is being slow to call them so whatever. I'll do without. I am a Medical asst. student and i am in a class where I have to draw peoples blood this week, Which i have, but the nerves I think are making it harder.

[Lou88]

Hi Shybaybe,

I have been off the vics 6 days now, I feel a little better---I mean a little. Hot showers help, a massage is helpful, vernors works for upset stomach. As crazy as it sounds the thing that has helped me the most is exercise. Your body is missing the rush of endorphines the vicodin was giving, when you exercise it forces the brain to produce them on it's own again. Yesterday & the day before I felt like ******** the whole day until I got a chance to exercise---then I felt a lot better the rest of the evening.

I was wonder how many you were doing per day--I was doing about 5/day which varied for 3 years.

i know it's hard but do not turn back, you can do it, be patient. Once these withdrawals are over for you and myself, we never have to go through it again.

Be careful with the Klonopin. It is addictive as well and you may also have to go through withdrawals to get off that too, use it sparingly.

I don't know you, but I know your pain, good luck and be patient, things will get better