Let’s talk about the “It helps me feel better” excuse. Sometimes, we need to numb our pain. I get it, but gratification doesn’t need to be instant. In sobriety, we need patience; sometimes, we must stay in our feelings. Sure, using or drinking might make you feel better temporarily, but in the long run, your feelings will be back to guilt and shame.

When you get undesired and cruel results, realize you’re not alone; it happens to everyone. Believe you’re strong enough to ride things out and don’t succumb to chemicals for temporary relief. Think of alternatives, things you like to do that keep your mind occupied until things pass.

Scientifically, it might be good to understand what’s going on with your brain and its reward system. Neurotransmitters boost the levels of feel-good chemicals like dopamine and endorphins. Dopamine is like the brain's high-five for things it loves. Usually, this pleasure is released for good stuff like eating good food or nailing a workout, but drugs and alcohol hijack this system, giving you a larger dose of dopamine.

Some substances also increase endorphins, like the body's natural painkillers and mood lifters, sometimes a warm fuzzy feeling. But here's the catch: it’s all short-term fun. Over time, your brain gets used to these artificial highs and wants more to feel normal. Plus, these substances can harm other parts of your body, like your liver with alcohol or your heart with certain drugs.

So, while drugs and alcohol temporarily boost the feel-good chemicals in your brain, they're messing with your body's natural balance and can lead to serious harm over time. It's a bit like eating candy – sweet at the moment but not so great for your health in the long run.

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