We don’t always realize that we’re hurting those around us when addiction is active, and as we sober up, we begin to become more aware of this. It’s shocking, it’s painful, it’s devastatingly real – especially when we hear from those around us that we’ve hurt them, but even more once we let it sink in. There’s no turning back the time, and this may very well be one of the hardest lessons we’ll have to learn in recovery. We can’t go back to a previous time before our relationships with loved ones were broken. We can’t undo the damage that’s been done – and sometimes this truth can make a person feel absolutely horrible.
It was previously stated on the American Psychological Association’s webpage that when people feel guilt, they: “…tend to focus on behavior. Guilt is more proactive.”
If you’re currently struggling with guilt from the weight of your past, consider these 4 reasons why you need to use guilt to propel you into a healthier state of being:
- Guilt can be used to push you towards becoming a better version of yourself – especially if the actions that you took hurt those you love so badly that you never want to experience that again.
- After having felt the intense weight of guilt upon realizing how addiction has impacted you and those around you, you’re likely going to be more prone to empathizing with others – which will only bring you closer to helping people and forming a community who can support you.
- You’ve been through the worst – and now it’s time to pick up the pieces and create a better life for yourself.
- As human beings, we’re going to make mistakes. Some mistakes hurt worse than others, but they’re all part of the same game: learning.
If you’re ready to seek help, speak with a professional from Avalon Malibu. Recovery is possible.
Avalon Malibu is a world-renowned, California state-licensed mental health and substance abuse recovery center. If you are ready to seek treatment to develop the tools you need to overcome life’s obstacles and be on the road towards happiness, health, and well-being, call us today at 888-958-7511 for a consultation. It’s never too late, and there are people here ready to help you.
