Clinging Quote by Meljean Brook
““Mine crept up on me instead of hitting me fast, but after a while, it was the same—so that if I didn't have a…a salve, I couldn't function, and I'd start planning my day around just getting it," she said quietly, and had to swallow before she continued. "And you tell yourself that it makes you feel good—but really, you're just getting by. Because you feel like shit with it, but you really feel like shit without it, so you need it to get through the day. And after a while, you‟re desperate to get through the day without it, but know that stopping will feel worse than going—and you don't know if you're clinging to it as much as it‟s clinging to you. But you‟re constantly looking for a way to get rid of it without hurting yourself…but there‟s no way. And eventually you hate it as much as you need it. (..) So I never, ever want to be anybody's salve.””
About This Quote
An addiction to a coping mechanism feels both necessary and destructive, creating a paradox of dependence and desire for freedom.
In simple terms: Addiction feels essential yet harmful, and quitting seems worse.
Key Takeaway
Seek healthier coping strategies.
Themes
addiction
dependence
self‑care
Mood
cautious
hopeful
Type
self‑help
psychology
When to use this quote
- mental health
- substance use
- stress relief
- recovery
Key Concepts
psychology
paradox
survival
Questions to Reflect On
- What healthier alternatives could replace this reliance?
- How can you tolerate discomfort without the crutch?
A Different Perspective
Stopping may feel more painful than continuing.
![“I try to picture where in my body I feel the most anxious. [...] At first it makes me feel even worse and I want to open my eyes but I force myself to take a breath and just allow it to be there. Nothing happens [...] it hasn't got any better - but it hasn't got any worse either.” quote by Zoe Sugg (aka Zoella](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/e9c/zoe-sugg-aka-zoella-288468_anxiety_i-try-to-picture-where-in-my-body-i-feel_272557.jpg)
