In the last 48 hours, I have recognized my mood spiraling. When this occurs I do the following to help manage my symptoms:
- I use mindfulness. Its components are nonjudgment, gratitude, patience, a beginner’s mind, trust, non-striving, acceptance, letting go, gratitude, and generosity.
- I lean into my feelings gently and with compassion rather than doing distracting activities.
- I remind myself that my current mood is temporary.
- Ensure I am getting a good night’s rest.
- Ensure I am taking care of my nutritional needs.
- Remain connected to my support network
- Do an actitivy I enjoy – puzzles
When I find myself in this state of mind, I notice panic leaping to the surface. The source of this anxiety is connected to my history. I hold on to the memories of early Recovery which took me into a deep, dark place. My greatest fear when I struggle like this is I will return to the moments of my past.
Even after 30 years of Recovery I still need to work on my program daily. I believe moments in Recovery such as this will surface at times. Whether we are in Recovery or we are not, being human hurts. I highly recommend the book, “The Happiness Trap” by Russ Harris
Russ states, “In our short time on this planet, we’ll have many moments of marvel, wonder, and joy – but also many of angst, dread, and despair. We’ll know the highs of love, connection, and friendship – but also the lows of loneliness, rejection, and loss. We’ll experience the delights of success, victory, and achievement – but also the miseries of failure, defeat, and disappointment. In other words: life is difficult. And if we live long enough, we’re all going to experience pain, stress, and suffering in many different forms”.
Where does this put me at this point? My mood may have a connection to the physical challenges I am experiencing right now. I have multiple infections, which I am undergoing treatment for. Research is clear about the mind and body connection. Most likely my physical issues are a result of suffering from depression and anxiety for over 30 years.
Russ reminds us, “The problem is most of us don’t know how to deal effectively with (pain, stress, and suffering) this reality. We work hard to find happiness – but all too often (it’s elusive) and even when we succeed, it’s usually short-lived, leaving us dissatisfied and wanting more”.
I have years of insight into my Recovery with the aid of God and practicing the 12 steps. I share my journey toward hope, healing, and health with you using a balanced approach. There a good times in Recovery and there are times like I am having right now. This is the road of Recovery and I appreciate each one of you for supporting me personally and as a Certified Peer Specialist.
SuperHuman Being
Peace
Larry
email: ljw@superhumanbeing.net
website: https://superhumanbeing.net/