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STAGE ONE RECOVERY CHEMICAL or CODEPENDENCE
 | We stop our primary addiction one day at a time. |
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| Accept treatment and recognize that no more than ten percent of recovery takes place in treatment center. |
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| Full recovery from the neurological and physiological consequences of chemical dependence requires approximately 6-24 months or more for alcohol (the most forgiving of drugs) and up to 5 years and beyond for other drugs. Data not available for codependence. |
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| Post acute withdrawal syndrome (paws) includes rebalancing the neurotransmitters and chemistry of the brain and the body's central nervous system. |
The following symptoms may persist:
- Inability to think clearly
- Emotional overreactions or numbness
- Physical coordination problems
When health returns often so does denial.
Testimonials
After 32 years of marriage, I had finally had enough of my spouse's alcoholism. I gave him the ultimatum that he quit drinking, gets help or our relationship was over. He did that, and then began the awareness of my codependence. I had compared my relationship to that of my parents, and believed mine was nowhere near that bad. I accepted behaviour that was abusive, mentally, sexually, and emotionally. I believed the problem belonged to my alcoholic spouse.
I soon was faced with my denial of enabling him, and of my addiction to spite and anger. I had used anger to keep people away and not get hurt and I was not prepared to willingly give that up. I have had to accept that this behaviour was affecting all of my family and friends. I have to work every day finding more appropriate methods of interacting.
Sydney
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