Step 1 of the Nar-Anon Program: We admitted we were powerless over the addict - that our lives had become unmanageable. In this episode, questions 18 - 40 are discussed:
- Are most of my waking thoughts consumed with worries about the addict?
- Have I let go of things there were important to me, like hobbies and friends?
- Have I lied or covered up because of the addict? Explain.
- Do I have trouble sleeping at night?
- Am I having financial problems?
- Am I having health problems?
- When was the last time I did something fun?
- How has the addiction of a family member or friend changed my life?
- Do I think the following emotions or behaviors indicate an unmanageable life? Anger, fear, guilt, obsession, anxiety, pride, jealousy, control, frustration, denial, sadness, distress, dishonesty, manipulation, resentment, hate, negativity, low self-esteem, shame.
- Which of these emotions or behaviors stand out for me? Why?
- Am I able to accept that my life might be unmanageable?
- How has denial played a part in my life with regard to my life being unmanageable?
- Do I feel responsible for the addiction of my loved one and/or do I blame others?
- What am I currently doing to help or enable the addict because of these feelings?
- Do I feel responsible for other people’s actions?
- Do I have a strong need to be in control? In my own life? In others’ lives?
- What do I fear will happen if I let go?
- Do I allow other people or circumstances to control my life?
- How does this keep me from taking care of myself?
- Have I accepted as fact there are situations in my life over which I have no control? Explain.
- Do I understand addiction is a disease that cannot be cured?
- Do I try to work the addict’s program instead of my own?
- In what ways do I feel pity and/or compassion for the addict?
Visit https://www.nar-anon.org/ for helpful resources or to find a meeting.
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