Pain Medicine in Recovery: Balancing Healing and Risk
I don't even get to the point where I know if I need it or not. It doesn't make any sense to me, because my idea is: how would I know if I ever really needed it?
Pain management in recovery is a tightrope walk. In this episode of 'Recovery (Sort Of)', hosts Billy and Jason tackle the thorny issue of using pain medicine while in recovery. Both seasoned veterans of the 12-step journey, they bring personal experiences to the table, discussing how prescription pain meds can be a double-edged sword. On one hand, these medications are often necessary for genuine pain relief; on the other, they can be a gateway back to addiction.
Billy and Jason dive into the complexities surrounding this topic, shedding light on how medical professionals sometimes encourage the use of pain medication as part of the healing process. But does this advice hold water, or does it simply mask a potential relapse trigger? They also scrutinize the attitudes within 12-step fellowships towards members who need pain management, questioning whether the community's support—or lack thereof—is helpful or harmful. The hosts don't shy away from tough questions.
How do you know if you really need the meds? Is there a way to manage pain without risking sobriety? Billy shares his own struggles with these questions, making the conversation deeply relatable for anyone grappling with similar issues. This episode is a must-listen for those in recovery facing chronic pain or considering pain medication. It offers not just a discussion, but a sense of hope and support.
Tune in to hear Billy and Jason's candid insights and perhaps find some clarity for your own journey.