What should I do if my doctor prescribed addictive medication?

This is a legitimate concern that requires careful relationship health/improving-communication" class="internal-link">communication skills" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Communication with your healthcare provider. Being in recovery doesn't mean you can't receive appropriate medical care, but it does mean you need to take extra precautions with potentially addictive medications. Always inform your doctor about your substance addiction history before any treatment begins. Be specific about which substances you've had problems with and how long you've been in recovery. Most healthcare providers want to help you maintain your sobriety while addressing your medical needs. Ask about non-addictive alternatives first. For pain management, this might include physical Psychotherapy, non-opioid pain medications, injections, or other treatments. For Anxiety disorder, alternatives might include Psychotherapy, non-addictive medications, or relaxation techniques. If an addictive Psychiatric medication is truly necessary for your health, work with your doctor to create a safety plan. This might include having someone else hold and dispense your Psychiatric medication, taking the lowest effective dose for the shortest time possible, and having frequent check-ins with your healthcare provider. Consider involving your addiction counselor or sponsor in these decisions. They can help you weigh the risks and benefits and provide additional support during treatment. Be honest about any concerns or cravings that arise while taking prescribed medications. Your doctor needs this information to help you safely manage your treatment. Remember that taking Psychiatric medication as prescribed for a legitimate medical condition is not the same as relapse, but it's important to remain vigilant and maintain your recovery support systems during this time.