April 12, 2017Tyler Collins
Have you hit your lowest point? In the world of addiction, hitting rock bottom is a phrase that nearly everyone has heard before. Generally, it refers to a time or situation in life where one has hit their lowest point possible. It is when an addict feels like things cannot possibly get any worse for them.
Everyone’s rock bottom is different. In my case, I had already lost the support and companionship of sober family and friends and was feeling sick most of the time. My rock bottom moment was when I lost my job do due my drinking. Without money, I could no longer afford to buy alcohol. I was deathly afraid of going through withdrawal. I also couldn’t pay my rent, so I was soon going to be without a place to live. And since I burned all my bridges during my addiction, I had no one to ask for help.
Second Chances
I remembered there was one condition where I would receive help from my loved ones: if I was willing to go to rehab. Considering the fact that I would soon be homeless if I didn’t, it was the only thing I could really do. At least in rehab, I would have a place to stay and food to eat. And if I could actually beat my addiction, I might even be able to get my old job back. For the first time in years, I actually felt hopeful.
A Learning Experience
Looking back to that time where I hit my rock bottom, I find that I am grateful for the experience. Beyond the obvious reasons of becoming clean and sober and getting my life back, I have learned solid lessons and appreciate the wisdom I now have to share with others who may have hit their bottom. Here is some of the good that came out of it:
- In my despair, my fear and frustration were so great, that I declared to myself that I was never going to be in that position again. I deserved better and was no longer going to accept less of myself or others around me.
- With every drink I took, I cleverly deluded myself that everything was just fine. Hitting bottom allowed me to see myself and my choices for what they really were and created a desire in me to change that.
- I began questioning everything about my life, my choices, and even the motivations of others. With everything turned upside down and analyzed in detail, I was able to start over, building my life on a firm foundation.
- I began to understand what my triggers are and how to combat them.
- I gained humility by learning that life is not black and white, and I didn’t know everything.
- I developed compassion, because I know what it is like to live in the deep, dark pit of despair, fear, guilt, and shame.
- I was able to let go of everything, since nothing I was doing on my own was working anyway. As a result, I built a brand new life on a firm foundation.
- I learned to be accountable for my own actions instead of blaming others.
- I developed gratitude. After hitting my lowest point, I realized how many things I took for granted, or even felt entitled to, that I now appreciate in a way I never could when I was drinking.
Courage and wisdom are two of the gems mined in one’s darkest moments. Hitting rock bottom is actually a golden opportunity that leads to taking that first step to claiming those jewels and so many more.
If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction to drugs or alcohol, please contact Lighthouse Treatment Center today for help. One of our experienced treatment advisors will be happy to provide a no-cost, no-obligation consultation. Contact us today.