Can a recovering addict continue to use Medical Marijuana as prescribed?
I had a problem with Meth, and got clean for 7 years, and continued to use my medical marijuana with out any problems. My boyfriend who is 17 years sober, and does not use medical marijuana for his conditions (he has cancer) feels that I would be messing up my sobriety if I were to medicate. The doctor prescribed me Xanax, since my paxil was failing. (I use the marijuana to hinder my very sever panic attacks, anxiety and depression) I have gained very positive results medicating this way. When I picked the Meth back up 7 years later for a 2 month period, I checked myself into a program, and have been working on it. I have no desire to use Meth again, as I know that could possibly be something I struggle with eventually to not use. But the Marijuana doesnt trigger a response to want to use other drugs. In fact, I dont even drink, because I dont like to.
I have been going to NA meetings and although I believe that I find many similarities with myself, and my behaviors in there reading materials. I disagree that I have a “Disease” and believe that the “Drug allergy” they refer to in my belief is a fancy excuse for a lack of self control.
I have worked out alot of the feelings I have about myself, and am building up a much needed boost of accountability and responsibility for myself that I was lacking before. With that said….I am very sure that I would benefit from using my medical marijuana, which helps the issue and allows me to function, over the barbiturate drugs the doctor has prescribed me, that make me feel VERY unable to function.
As a very strong advocate for the rights of marijuana patients, I feel I am neglecting my beliefs and my own self by not medicating, because my boyfriend says I wont be “Sober” anymore. I understand sobriety is stated by withholding from any mind altering substance, but the effects of Xanax is worse than any marijuana use…hands down.
Any thoughts?
And thanks!
I also have anxiety/ panic disorder. I have taken xanax before for it when they were still trying to figure out what was wrong and it did not help a bit. I do smoke marijuana and found it to be very helpful in relieving my anxiety. I have found that it is best to smoke later at night after you have already finished the day.
I do not know whether it will make you want harder drugs again- I have never used them. You just have to be responsible about when you use marijuana.
It already sounds like you answered your own question. That you may just be searching for someone to tell you what your doing is okay. I think the big question is will your partner want to stay with you if you continue the use of Marijuana.