On the subject of reaching for codeine in response to the ups and downs of life, many will probably have heard of Prof Steve Peters’ ‘chimp model’ (originally described in the book ‘The Chimp Paradox’).
Essentially, the theory goes that this ‘inner chimp’ is our unhelpful emotional reactions and instinctive feelings towards events/people/situations, and that acting on these instincts is what derails us all the time and results in dreadful choices.
In the follow-up, ‘A Path through the Jungle’ he takes you through a really accessible was to put your chimp back in its box, develop the resilience to manage it and not respond emotionally to setbacks, negative feelings etc.
It’s really practical with clear explanations, just enough science to reassure you he’s a real Prof with proper knowledge of how the brain works and some great tips on managing your chimp from the very first chapter.
Highly recommended if codeine has been an emotional crutch/solution in your life and this is why you can’t escape it.