We’ve all set goals for ourselves and reached those goals, only to take a step backward when we least expected it. It’s understandable that we might not be moving forward all of the time. After all, healing is not linear. Old habits can come back to bite us if we aren’t careful, and regressions can also happen even if we are extremely careful. It’s okay to fall down sometimes, but Arbor Behavioral Healthcare is here to get you back on your feet.
Healing Is Not Linear
You may have heard this phrase before, but what does it mean? When we say that “healing is not linear,” we mean that you can’t always expect yourself to move forward at the same pace always. Think of it as completing tasks for work. You may be used to completing five tasks per week. But then, one week you may get the flu. You might only complete two tasks that week. That’s what we mean by “healing is not linear.” You aren’t always going to complete five tasks per week, and that’s okay! You must learn, however, how you can get back to five tasks per week once you kick the flu. That’s what matters. The same is true for recovery. Some days, you might check off every task on your self-care to-do list. Another day, you may be feeling a bit more triggered than others and you may not be able to do every item of self-care. That’s okay. It’s important to be intentional with everything that you do, even if you aren’t completing everything like “normal.” Do a task with the intent of getting better, or don’t do it at all. Today, stop going through the motions. Do it because you want to do it, not because someone else is pushing you to. Take control of your recovery and do what is best for you. Remember: healing is not linear.
Two Steps Forward, One Step Back
If you’re recovering from a substance use disorder, you could be doing well for a long time. Something may come up, however, that sets you back. You may even relapse. The most important thing is to have the awareness of where you are and to know that you need to get back on track. Make sure your self-talk is positive and motivating you to keep moving forward. If you notice negative self-talk, stop the cycle. Making a conscious effort to choose recovery is the best thing you can do for yourself.
Arbor Behavioral Healthcare is here to help you during the good and bad times. We have programs that can benefit you. Call us today at (844) 413-2690. We can’t wait to speak with you and get you back on your feet today!