This is just a quick update. Today is day 15 free of opiate painkillers. All of the acute symptoms of withdrawal are now gone. I now only have a feeling of exhaustion and low mood. This part is more difficult to deal with as there is no definite timeline; it could last a few weeks to several months. It is very variable though and I have short periods where I feel a bit better.
I spoke to my doctor this morning and told him what I’d achieved and he was really pleased about my progress. I have been referred to a pain psychologist who will help me cope with my pain levels in a different way without medication. I also took my stash of meds to the pharmacy for disposal. I was never in any danger of relapsing but the act of disposal felt huge nonetheless.
So now I look to the future…