Flair Ups

[dalin]

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REVIEW WHEN A FLARE-UP OCCURS

The term "flare-ups" refers to definite time periods when those in recovery experience increased amounts of tension and anxiety. If they use mind or mood altering substances, it is likely during the "flare-up" period. It is important that those in recovery, their family and friends become aware of the onset of a flare-up and what can be done.
Flare-ups occur at predictable intervals: 5-6 days, 5-7 wks., 5-7 mos., 11-13 mos.,
17-24 mos., 4 ½-5 yrs., and 10-12 yrs., some report that at 3 years clean it was tough.
The flare-up which occurs in the 17-24 mo. range is, in most cases, quite severe and intense. It is normally the last one that the person will experience to this degree until the 10 to 12 year range. Flare-ups happen. They are a normal part of recovery.
Recognizing the onset of a flare-up include feelings of irritability, moodiness, boredom, restlessness, difficulty in eating or sleeping. These signs grow in intensity and peak, normally lasting about 3-4 days. During a flare-up the person be extremely depressed. They might feel hopeless. They may display outbursts of anger for almost no reason or for something insignificant. Acting like a, "dry drunk", or what is called, "stark raving clean". Displays related to someone who is high or intoxicated. These signs may be passed off unless one is watching for them. Juvenile behavior, unreasonable giggling, acting "weird", restless, bored and sudden concern for their health, job, family, are just some behavioral changes.
What to Do:
DO NOT USE ANYTHING!!!! NO MATTER WHAT!!!!!
1. The first step in recognizing a flare-up is to expect them and watch for the signs.
2. When you suspect a flare-up period is coming, seek help from someone who will understand what you are going through; your counselor or therapist, your partner. Someone who will not offer you something to get high with.
3. Stay busy, clean the house, do a hobby, go for a walk, work out. Do service work for NA or AA. Do volunteer work for your community or church. Exercise, proper diet and getting the correct amount of sleep are extremely important to your recovery.
4. Realize the storm will pass. Flare-ups last 3 to 4 days. Things will return to normal.
5. Learn to enjoy the rewards of being clean. Take pride in your good points and appreciate what you are grateful for. Make a gratitude list everyday. Stay in touch with what is positive in your life.
6. Realize there is no cure..... Only complete abstinence from all drugs including alcohol and marijuana.
7. H. A. L. T. - HALT stands for Hungry, Angry, Lonely, and Tired. Look out for these conditions, especially any 2 together. If you are hungry- eat. If you are angry- express it to someone appropriately. If you are lonely- call someone. If you are tired- rest.
8. Most of all- know that you can do this. Millions of others have. If they can do it, you can, too. You do not HAVE to relapse.

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