“Acting out” is moving negative emotions into addiction behavior with the purpose of not feeling those feelings. “Acting In” is trying not to ‘act out’ but without recovery (of the real self) which leads to feelings of deprivation and irritability. Recovery is dealing effectively with emotions. (ie learning to identify and verbalize/feel emotional nuances. Central to recovery is a support system and healthy boundaries.
A ‘Dry Drunk’ in Alcoholics Anonymous is the same concept to “Acting In”. Recovery is not just stopping a behavior. Recovery is moving into a deeper more meaningful life with people who can see us and care about us….because we show honesty in telling on ourselves. It takes courage to be in recovery.
Don L. Mathews MFT, Director
Impulse Treatment Center
2940 Camino Diablo #110
Walnut Creek CA 94597