Looking Inward in Recovery

Tonight in the support group, members focused on looking inward for their identity, validation and recovery instead of “out there” for the solution. The first step to change is becoming aware of what needs to actually change and accepting where you are in that moment. Group members were able to process their increased awareness, of even parts of themselves they’d rather not look at like the compulsion to eat, obsessive thoughts around food, over control, the need for others’ validation, shame, and how difficult it is to be honest with others about their struggle.

One member expressed her need for others to validate her worth and her feeling of being unable to do that for herself. Another member encouraged her by expressing how she is now able to look inward and see her value, but it took several months to do so. Finding our own self-worth takes time. However, group members encouraged one another to begin searching for little things about themselves they appreciate: being a faithful friend and a hard worker, contributing to the community in a positive way, and developing the unique personality each person has, for example.

Recovery does require that we look inward for healing. This is difficult but so rewarding in the long run. Sometimes this means slowly removing our “safety net” and allowing the masked emotions and wounds underneath to be uncovered and dealt with. The “safety net” may include anything that gives you a sense of control and allows you to distract from what’s really going on: relationships, over-working, busyness, substances like alcohol or other medications, for instance. Recovery takes place when you can sit with yourself, be real with yourself, and allow yourself to see and feel what’s going on inside. The good thing is that you don’t have to do all this work alone…therapists, support groups, friends and family can all encourage you on this journey, even though they can’t do the work for you. I hope that we all continue to look inward this week and continue on the path towards greater health we are all on…

Kathryn