I’m worried I’ll be addicted to painkiller and valium for life

DEAR DEIDRE: FOLLOWING a traumatic car accident three years ago, I have become addicted to prescription painkillers and Valium.

When my doctor tried to wean me off them, I felt so anxious and ill that I couldn’t function. To my shame, I ended up buying them illegally from a man in a pub.

I’m a 42-year-old professional woman, and have never taken recreational drugs. I don’t even drink alcohol.

My leg has healed, but I can’t cope without my drugs now.

It’s impossible to sleep, I feel jittery and anxious, and all I can think about is my next dose. I’m scared I’m going to lose my job.

I think I’ve got PTSD from the accident, too.

All my GP says is that I need to lower my dose slowly. It doesn’t work. I’m scared I’m going to be on them for life. 

DEIDRE SAYS: Admitting you have a problem is a brave first step. Now be honest with your GP about your addiction and ask for help.

Contact We Are With You (wearewithyou.org.uk) for free and confidential support with addiction.

If you have PTSD, find help through Anxiety UK (anxiety uk.org.uk, 03444 775 774).