Welcome back everyone to today’s blog. Occasionally people ask me about particular aspects of mental health and substance misuse conditions. Here is one aspect. What does Recovery mean? How will we know we are actively engaged in our Recovery?
Let’s answer the first question. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Association (SAMHSA), a working definition is, “A process of change through which individuals improve their health and wellness, live a self-directed life, and strive to reach their full potential.”
Psychology Today says, “Mental Health Recovery is a person-centered, transformative process. It involves enhancing health and wellness, leading self-directed lives, and striving to reach full potential. Recovery is not the same as a cure; it means creating a meaningful life and contributing to the community, with or without mental health issues. The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) defines recovery as achieving optional personal, social, and emotional well-being while living with or recovering from a mental health condition.”
Very Well Mind says, “The hallmark principle of the recovery model of mental health is the belief that people can recover from a mental illness to lead full, satisfying lives.”
Next, How do we know we are actively engaged in Recovery?
Health – overcome or manage one’s disease or symptoms by abstaining from substances and making informed healthy choices that support physical and emotional well-being. An example is participating in a yearly physical with our primary doctors and receiving a dental check-up twice per year. For some of us, we see a therapist regularly to learn skills and resolve long-standing emotional issues. Mental Health and substance misuse conditions are medical that may require medication to manage our symptoms.
Home – A stable and safe place to call home.
Purpose – Involved in meaningful daily activities such as a job, school, volunteerism, family caretaking, income, and resources to participate in society.
Community – Social connections, family, friends, support groups, church membership, and membership at a gym.
Recovery happens along many pathways. SAMHSA says, “Recovery occurs via many pathways. Individuals are unique with distinct needs, strengths, preferences, goals, cultures, and backgrounds – including trauma experience – that affect and determine their pathway(s).
There will be moments of sadness, anxiety, fear, and other suffering. When we actively engage in Recovery we learn the skills and techniques to help us ease our way through the eye of a storm. Recovery is grounded in allowing us to choose the level and types of engagement we desire. The beauty of our participation in Recovery is we can lead meaningful lives and find hope.
If you desire more information go to the following website: https://www.samhsa.gov
SuperHuman Being
Peace
Larry
email: ljw@superhumanbeing.net
website: https://superhumanbeing.net/