Even when we think we’ve got it all figured out, life happens. We’re caught off guard by a situation involving our family members, we begin ruminating, we’re having an “off” day – something happens and we find ourselves struggling to keep up again. Part of being human is working through the ups and downs, but this is much easier said than done sometimes. If we add mental illness to the mix, our recovery may seem even more complicated, with seemingly little control or ability to resolve the issue. The good news is, we do have some control over our despair – the first step is often identifying what’s been holding us back in the first place.
Whether we know it or not, human beings are vulnerable – and that means that sometimes, life affects us a lot more than we think it does. If we’re not careful, however, these impacts could sabotage our recovery, even if we’re unaware of it. Consider some of the following core issues that often hold many people back from healing:
- Ruminating over the past
- Worrying about the future
- Self-blame, guilt and punishment
- Trauma
- Denial
- Believing that you aren’t capable of recovering
- Loneliness and isolation
- Feeling purposeless and empty
- Mental illness symptoms
Yale Medicine covered the story of a man recovering from mental illness. Despite everything that was holding him back – his symptoms, being misunderstood, being stigmatized and going through some very difficult life circumstances – he continued to push through. He had faith that he was on the right path and he remained positive. His doctor stated,
“[Bob’s] done astonishingly well. A lot of that has to do with his personal determination, his generally positive attitude and his ability to get people to help him because they like him. He has a wonderful, upbeat personality…that’s been a tremendous asset for him.”
No matter what life throws your way, stand your ground. Have faith and positivity that right now, at this very moment, you are right where you need to be. Surround yourself with people who love and support you and don’t give up.
Cumberland Heights is a nonprofit alcohol and drug-addiction treatment center located on the banks of the Cumberland river in Nashville, Tennessee. On a sprawling 177-acre campus, we are made up of two 12-Step immersion campuses, 12 outpatient recovery centers and 4 sober living homes. We believe that each person has a unique story to tell – and that’s why we always put the patient first.
Call us today at 1-800-646-9998 to take the next step towards your happiness and health.
