What emotion often accompanies attempts to abstain from substance use during recovery?

The emotion that frequently accompanies attempts to abstain from substance use during recovery is conflict and guilt. As individuals work through their recovery process, they often grapple with feelings of guilt related to past behaviors, particularly regarding how substance use may have negatively impacted their lives and relationships. This internal conflict arises from the desire to change and improve one’s life while also dealing with the remnants of past choices that may have caused harm to themselves and others.

This complexity of emotions can be a significant part of recovery; individuals may feel torn between wanting to continue using substances, which they have relied on for coping, and the recognition that abstaining is necessary for healing and growth. The presence of guilt can serve as a motivator for change, pushing individuals to confront their past and strive for a healthier future. Acknowledging these feelings is an essential aspect of the recovery journey, as it emphasizes the importance of emotional processing and personal accountability in overcoming addiction.