Grief, Addiction, & Recovery

Grief can both be a contributor to substance abuse and can be sublimated during active addiction, leading to various destructive physical and psychological manifestations. Grief is precisely what helped push Anonymous Wombat into his last, and worst, relapse.

"Unresolved grief and depression can make a person more vulnerable to developing a substance abuse problem. Someone unable to work through their feelings of loss in a healthy way may self-medicate, turning to alcohol or drugs. While these substances may relieve or numb the grief-induced pain, the effect is short-lived.Unfortunately, self-medicating with substances won’t take away the pain of loss. In fact, alcohol and many drugs act as depressants in the body. They may intensify negative emotions, such as sadness or shame. In addition, substance abuse complicates every aspect of life, from the ability to hold a job to the quality of relationships. Abusing alcohol or drugs creates negative emotions and conflicts that make it harder to work through grief in a healthy way.Other risk factors can raise the chance for substance abuse during the grieving process. For example, a person with a history of anxiety, depression, previous addiction, or a lack of social support is more prone to turn to alcohol or drugs to cope after a loved one’s death. Those with a family history of alcoholism or drug addiction may be more vulnerable as well."

https://www.elementsbehavioralhealth.com/featured/grief-and-substance-abuse-coping-after-a-loss/

Grief Process Stages:

1. Denial/shock

2. Anger

3. Guilt/Bargaining

4. Depression/Anxiety

5. Acceptance/Healing

The effects of grief can last a lifetime if not properly processed. It's important to let people know how you feel and what you need. A healthy lifestyle is essential to resilience.