Finding Purpose After Prescription Drug Abuse

purpose-after-drug-abuse

Contributor: Crystal Karges, MS, RDN, IBCLC Special Projects Coordinator at Eating Disorder Hope/Addiction Hope

The struggle with an addiction to prescription medications takes a significant toll on a person in more ways than what may be apparent and obvious.  While there certainly are significant physical consequences that result from prescription drug addiction, a person’s life is affected in countless other ways.

For example, when an individual is engrossed on obtaining their drug of choice and getting their next high or fix, this often leads to the neglect of other important aspects in life.  This might include everything from relationships, a social life, job and career, hygiene, spiritually and more.

Rebuilding

Business people waiting for job interviewWhile treatment and recovery allow a person to slowly rebuild each part of their life, the process does time and dedication.  Some aspects of recovery may be more intense than others or take significantly more time to work through and rebuild.

For example, the detoxification phase of recovery typically does not last long, though is extremely intense as the body recuperates without dependency on a drug or prescription medication.

Reestablishing a career that may have been sabotaged by an addiction to prescription medication or rebuilding a broken relationship will take significant more work and time.  Every phase of the recovery process is essential to building a life after prescription drug abuse.

Runner feet running on road closeup on shoe. woman fitness sunriIn the midst of the many changes and challenges that come with recovery, it may feel difficult to find a new purpose in life.  When in the throes of an addiction, a person may find purpose and motivation in getting their next fix and maintaining the habits and behaviors associated with their addiction.

When practicing abstinence from a drug and rebuilding a new life outside of an addiction, this also involves finding new purpose and fulfillment.

If you are struggling with finding your purpose after prescription drug abuse, remember that you have a newfound freedom and hope in your recovery.  Your potential in life is no longer limited or hindered by your addiction, and you can begin to explore new possibilities that give you hope and support your future.

Perhaps this includes finding a new hobby, rebuilding relationships, thriving in a new career or job, volunteering and giving back to others, or growing spiritually.  Whatever the answer might be, your life is valuable, worthy, and deserving of hope and purpose!

Community Discussion – Share your thoughts here!

Are you in recovery from an addiction to prescription medications?  If so, what has helped you in finding your purpose and rebuilding your life?  What encouragement might you share with others who have found themselves in a similar situation?


The opinions and views of our guest contributors are shared to provide a broad perspective of addictions and co-occurring disorders.  These are not necessarily the views of Addiction Hope, but an effort to offer a discussion of various issues by different concerned individuals.  We at Addiction Hope understand that addictions result from a combination of environmental and genetic factors.  If you or a loved one are suffering from an addiction, please know that there is hope for you, and seek immediate professional help.  

Last Updated & Reviewed By: Jacquelyn Ekern, MS, LPC on September 18, 2015. Published on AddictionHope.com