The rule of abstinence from all mood altering chemicals is a good one for drug addicts and alcoholics recovery to follow. In fact it is necessary in almost all cases.
This, however, leads to conflicting advice and misconceptions when it comes to doctor prescribed medications for help with anxiety, depression and mental health issues. It is very important to have a frank open and honest discussion with your doctor concerning your addiction. In many cases there are alternative medicines that can be used that may not affect your addiction.
It is usually an error however to stop taking depression or anti-anxiety medications without consulting your doctor. It may be a case of the medicine working; you feel good, therefore believe you don’t need the medicine. Quitting the medication can bring you back to depression or anxiety and that can be a distinct relapse trigger. It is a normal, but counterintuitive idea that if we are feeling better we don’t need the medication.
Any move with medications should be taken only after expert consultation preferably from a doctor who is an addictionologist or is a member of ASAM (American Society of Addiction Medicine).
