Recovery Isn’t Linear: Gentle Reminders for Addiction & Mental Health Healing
By: Growth Era Counseling & Wellness [Molly Smith, LPC]
While some dictionary definitions identify “recovery” as a noun, it is important to take a more dynamic look at the entire process of recovery, not just looking at recovery as a “destination.” For this discussion, we are looking at recovery as it relates to addiction, substance use, and relapse, but these reminders can fit into many different scenarios!
Recovery is a process of healing. It is deeply personal and unique to each individual. It takes time, patience, and self-compassion to even begin the process of recovery, let alone maintain it. Here are some things to remember if you are in early (or sometimes, even long-term) recovery.
Recovery looks different for everyone
It can be easy to compare ourselves to those around us. While it is good to have mentors or role models, more often than not, comparison leads to feelings of guilt, shame, or inadequacy. There is a common quote, “if we want to be where others are, we have to do what they do.” This is partly true; we do need to draw inspiration somewhere! What is important to remember is, if something doesn't work it is not a failure. It either requires more practice, or it may not be the path for you! There is no “one-size fits all” so it may take trying several different methods to find a rhythm and balance that contributes to maintained recovery.
There will be setbacks, no matter how much you prepare or practice
If there is one thing we can guarantee, it is that there will be bumps in the road: unexpected news, loss, stress, conflict. It is not possible to prepare for every scenario that may occur. We can build up our toolbox with tips, tricks, and skills, yet some days life gets the better of us. This is not a means to give up or give in! When you feel like giving up, remember why you held on for so long.
You have to do the work to see the results
One of the common myths is that recovery is a destination, something to “achieve.” You develop a routine and it works for a while. You start to feel better, balanced. This is good! Over time, that routine may become redundant, maybe it feels boring. you slowly slip away from the habits that kept you on the right track. This is a danger zone! Each day, there is work to put into yourself and your recovery. Some days, it will come with ease, others will feel like an uphill battle. Each day, you can choose to show up for yourself, and invest in your recovery, no matter the challenge or hardship.
Relapse happens: but it doesn't have to
Relapse does not have to be part of the recovery process, but it so commonly is. Relapses bring on shame, guilt, embarrassment, anger, disappointment. These are all valid emotions. It can be discouraging to find yourself back where you started after putting in time and effort to maintain sobriety. But the thing is, you do not have to be back where you started. You still have all the knowledge you gathered along the way and can implement it at any point to get yourself back on your feet.
You don't have to (and shouldn't) do this alone
Having a network of positive people can make a world of difference. This may be a self help meeting, a sober club or sports team, or just a great group of friends and loved ones. At Growth Era Counseling, we can support you at different stages of your recovery, offering encouragement, coping skills, and helping you challenge the negative self-talk that is keeping you from the best version of yourself.
If any of these hit home, or you're ready to start the therapy process, reach out today for a free 15 minute consultation!