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Default Feb 18, 2019 at 07:10 AM
  #1
This may sound extremely strange here, but I wanted to try a different track for my situation and wondered if people in this forum might have some perspective.

I read something recently where somebody replaced “therapy” and “going to therapy” with “substance” in the DSM criteria for addiction and, according to that, I would qualify for therapy addiction. Makes some sense to me – I’ve been in and out of therapy for 55 years, almost continuously since my late husband was diagnosed with a terminal disease 22 years ago.

I’ve been “clean” for 2.5 years, replacing internet forums for therapy itself – kind of like methadone for drugs?

What I’m wondering is – after addiction, how do you build a life centered on something else? I think I lacked a sense of a core self, or something, going into therapy all those years ago. The last therapy experience was horrific, exposing some core hurt I expect, and in the last 2.5 years I may have gotten some stronger. But still not living life very well.

Does that ring true for anybody with addiction and recovery experience?

It’s very hard for me to seek out just calm but pleasant experiences – my habits and neural pathways don’t go that route much – but I’m thinking that may be one thing to do. Any other suggestions?
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Default Feb 18, 2019 at 08:20 AM
  #2
I'm so sorry you're hurting so much, here today I understand what you mean. I don't know if I would go as far as calling it an addiction, but I do think one may become too dependent on therapy and his/her life may feel empty as a result. A good therapist should avoid that, but it sounds like you haven't had very good experiences. I'm so sorry to hear that. I think it's important to discover what would you like to do with your life right now - what are your goals? Do you have any hobbies? What do you like to do in your free time? Perhaps you could start from there. I'm so sorry, I know it's hard. Please don't give up. I believe you will get stronger with time. It won't be easy and it will take time, but it can be done. Remember that things won't stay like this forever. They can and will get better! Try to hang on. You can do this! You're strong, I know that. I believe in you. Remember that we're here for you if you need it. Feel free to PM me anytime. Let me know if I can do something to help you. I'm so sorry you have to deal with this
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