In Times of Illness - Narcotics Anonymous

By living the Narcotics Anonymous program, we finda measure of stability in our lives. We apply theprinciples of the program to help us find spiritualwell-being when we are ill. Sharing openly with ourdoctor and our sponsor, relying on a Higher Power,and practicing the Twelve Steps are important tools.These can help each member find a sense of balancethat is comfortable and appropriate. Life in recoverycan be complicated by illness and the possibilitythat we may need to take prescribed medication. Westrive to stay vigilant in applying the principles wehave learned in NA. When we do this, our personalgoals and recovery remain intact.Regardless of how we work our mental andspiritual program of recovery, we may reactto medication like we did when using drugs.It’s helpful to remember the importance ofmaking a conscious decision not to medicateourselves or treat our own illnesses.A recovery support network is vital. Oursponsor, medical care providers, and NAfriends can help us inventory ourselves andmonitor our use of any medication.Cleantime is an issue for each of us toresolve individually with our sponsor andour Higher Power.“Everything that occurs in the course of NA service mustbe motivated by the desire to more successfully carry themessage of recovery to the addict who still suffers.”BASIC TEXTIn Times of Illness17