In this episode of the Recovery Rebirth Podcast, we mull over what it means to be restless, irritable and discontent; which can be warning signs of imminent relapse. We discuss the red flags that alert us that we’re veering off our path in recovery. Even after we establish a good stretch of sobriety, we can fall prey to the pitfalls that take our focus off of our recovery. A strong indicator is when we start taking others’ inventory, or focusing on others shortcomings. Or thinking we’re experts on others’ lives or where they could improve their recovery program. This is common for people struggling with codependency.

When we find ourselves focused outward, it’s a good time to check in with ourselves and our recovery. Being mindful to stay in our hula hoop or stay in our lane is vital to our recovery. It’s also crucial to the health of our relationships to keep our hands off of others’ recovery and lives. Our unintentional advice giving or micromanaging others’ lives will surely breed resentment;.  We ponder the important distinction between recognizing others’ red flags and recognizing our own. We also discuss the differences in red flags for those with substance use issues and people with codependent tendencies. 

Depression and anxiety can be red flags that we’re slipping in our recovery and are common co-occuring conditions with addiction. We talk about the propensity to stay busy, even being addicted to busyness, so we don’t have to sit with ourselves and our discomfort.. Being alone early in recovery can trigger our restlessness and anxiety.. As we grow in our recovery, we learn to be comfortable by ourselves. Loneliness can transform into solitude, communing with our Higher Power is an essential component of this transformation.. We use the analogy of recovery serving as a life jacket to keep us afloat and prevent us from drowning. 

We discuss the importance of staying connected to recovery, including attending meetings regularly, even when things are going well. A crucial aspect of recovery is sharing our experience, strength and hope because it can be helpful to folks newer to recovery. We too were that newcomer full of anxiety, fear, resentment who desperately needed that message of hope. This encouragement is still needed for those of us in long-term recovery because life will keep happening on life’s terms. We encourage you to keep coming back and taking life One Day at a Time. 

Resources

Websites

https://www.samhsa.gov/

https://www.aa.org/

https://www.swmichiganal-anon.org/

https://coda.org/

Books

“Alcoholics Anonymous: The Big Book”