Between learning about one’s addiction or mental illness, building a support network, working through deep-rooted issues, and optimizing one’s health, recovery can make anyone feel a slew of emotions. We may feel a sense of hope, but also fear. Dedication, but also exhaustion. Recovery is a notable journey to embark on, but knowing which emotions can slow down our success is important. The Addiction Recovery Network, a health information website, notes 4 main emotions that can hinder our success in recovery:
- Loneliness. Recovery often means that we must shed those in our social group whom do not help us get better. Those who reinforce our negative behaviors or make us feel like harming ourselves are often distanced from us because we want to lead a happier, healthier lifestyle. In doing this, we may feel lonely for a brief period. Loneliness is dangerous because it can lead us to contacting those who do not benefit our lives or making harmful decisions. Being a part of a support group or contacting our peers in recovery or a counselor are great solutions to combat this feeling.
- Guilt. This emotion can damage our self-love, and needs to be addressed to avoid making destructive choices in response to this emotion. Making amends with both ourselves and others can help us overcome this. Speaking with a therapist or rehabilitation counselor can also help us develop tools to manage this feeling.
- Anger. This emotion is the most dangerous because it can cause us to take actions that we may later regret. Finding healthy ways to express our anger is critical during this time so that we stay on track with our recovery.
- Boredom. Entering recovery means that we must change our thought and behavior patterns – what used to be a normal way of life is now something that must change to make way for a newer, healthier way of living. Developing new, safe hobbies to engage in is critical during this time.
Addiction Helpline, a UK-based organization working to help those in recovery, provides several reasons for why individuals fall into these emotion-traps:
- Many people who have been addicted or have a mental illness have become numb to their emotions, which can lead to making irrational decisions that could put their health at risk.
- The beginning of recovery can involve a lot of challenges and stress, which takes some time to manage.
- Post-acute withdrawal symptoms can impact someone’s mood.
- Those who have developed an addiction or mental illness at an early age may not have the proper coping skills needed.
If you believe you may have an addiction or mental illness, speak with someone today. Avalon Malibu Health & Treatment Center has licensed and experienced health professionals who can work with you depending on your needs. Don’t wait any longer to take control of your life. Call 844-642-5059 now.
