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You or a loved one may be living with or was recently diagnosed with a mental health disorder. For many, their diagnoses triggered self-shame, fueled stigmas, and many other emotions; even for some, it was a relief to know “what wa" going on finally." Some people feel overwhelmed by their diagnosis and have encountered many challenges.
About 66.5% (38.8 million) of adults with a history of mental health issues consider themselves in recovery.
In a world where mental illness is often stigmatized and misunderstood, we must remind ourselves that our diagnosis does not define us. Many believe mental illness means they cannot live a healthy life. Throughout countless decades, "mental illness" was a big secret. No one talked about it!
I've heard stories of people keeping their loved one separated from others in the home… keeping them in a back room because they're "crazy."
Forty years ago, we did not have as much information on mental health and psychology as we do today. 2023, and we are finally discussing mental health out loud!
In this blog, we will discuss how hope plays a vital role in your recovery journey and what are the best keys to restoring your hope. Let's get started!
When I facilitate various support groups in my recovery community, many peers have shared they are not always supported by their family or friends. They are sometimes told, "Cheer up," "You'll be okay," or "Nothing is wrong with you." Hearing those statements invalidates one's feelings and mental health challenges.
Mental illnesses are often called invisible conditions because of the symptoms that others cannot always see one experience. Many peers feel hopeless and don't believe recovery is possible with hope for the future. Yet, I am here to attest that there is hope and recovery is possible no matter the mental health diagnosis.
Embracing hope in mental health is a must-have for long-term recovery.
Recovery is a path that many individuals embark upon when facing various challenges, whether it be addiction, mental health issues, physical injuries, or other setbacks in life. It's a journey that can be incredibly challenging, but one thing that can light the way is hope.
Hope is a powerful force that can propel us forward, even in our darkest moments. In this blog, we will explore the importance of hope in the recovery journey and how it can be your guiding light towards a brighter future.
Hope recovery is a process, and those with mental health disorders can live a purposeful, meaningful, and healthy life. Recovery is not linear and doesn't look the same for everyone. With management and treatment, which consists of routinely seeing a psychiatrist/therapist, taking medications, and maintaining self-care, those with mental health diagnoses can work, go to school, pursue their goals, and attain the desires of their hearts.
Challenges can/will arise when one relapses, experiences symptoms, or a crisis, yet living a healthy life is possible. Remember, it is okay to have bad days, to feel overwhelmed, and to make mistakes. Embracing self-compassion allows us to nurture our mental well-being and cultivate a positive relationship with ourselves.
To foster a society of hope, we must first be a community of support; we must promote awareness through education and advocacy. Mental health takes a village, the village of the community, mental health professionals, family, and friends. Support looks different for each of us, based on our needs.
Having healthy, nonjudgmental, authentic transformation about mental health allows individuals to be open about their own mental health stories. It takes a lot of trust to share what they feel internally, emotionally, and mentally. Family and friends also face challenges when supporting a loved one with mental illness and may not always know the best approach, but sometimes it's as simple as asking, "How can I support you?" Be patient, kind, and helpful with your loved one. Check in to let them know that you are there for them! Focus on their strength, and do not limit them by their diagnosis.
Getting our hope back starts with dealing with long-term stress. When we feel scared, mad, or worried, we tend to stay in survival mode, which researchers call the "Downstairs Brain." To bring back our hopeful thinking with a sense of calm and confidence, we can use the 3 Keys to Greater Hope, which help us reconnect with our "Upstairs Brain."
Let's see how these 3 Keys work:
A hopeful outlook breeds optimism. It's the belief that no matter how challenging things may seem, there is always a way forward. This optimism can inspire others who may be struggling on their recovery journeys.
Hope is the spark that ignites motivation. It takes courage to face your demons and work towards a better life, and hope gives motivation to do so. When you have hope, you are more likely to take risks, try new things, and step out of your comfort zone, all of which are essential elements of the recovery journey.
Hope provides the coping mechanism you need to deal with life's challenges. Recovery often involves dealing with triggers and temptations that can lead you back down a negative path. Hope gives you the resilience to resist these temptations and find healthier ways to cope with stress and adversity.
Recovery is not just about overcoming obstacles; it's a profound transformation of the self. It's the process of healing physical or emotional wounds and emerging stronger than before. Hope is the cornerstone of this transformation, as it's the belief that healing is possible and you can emerge from the other side as a better and more resilient person.
Hope is closely linked to belief. It's the belief that you have the strength and the capacity to change your circumstances. Recovery often involves facing difficult truths about ourselves, our actions, and the impact they've had on our lives and the lives of those around us.
Hope recovery, faith, and acceptance need to originate from within. One cannot earn long-lasting hope for the future just by temporary inspiration. Self-care is a hot topic in our society for rehabilitation. However, practicing self-care is vital in sustaining one's well-being and empowerment. Self-care isn't surface-based; resting well, maintaining a healthy diet, and exercising are essential.
Our well-being and mental health should be our priority; we cannot be everything to everyone else until we take care of life skills first.
At my recovery center, I often suggest self-care jewels to peers: meditating, journaling, reading a book, resting, walking, addiction recovery, solo traveling, or spending time in nature. Another key component in life skills is self-management:
In the recovery journey, Hope is one of the most powerful tools for smooth growth towards a better future. It is the faith that things can improve and that a better future lies ahead. Even during our addiction recovery, hope and acceptance can be the guiding light that leads us toward healing and transformation.
By holding onto the recovery community, we open ourselves up to possibilities, empowerment, resilience, motivation, and the encouragement that we have the strength to overcome obstacles.
You are not alone on this journey, and with the right support, self-compassion, and determination, you can create a life filled with joy, fulfillment, and hope for the future.
🔍 Want to upgrade your life skills with the help of a recovery center?
Join our recovery community (MentalHappy) and get the desired transformation.
MentalHappy does not provide medical care or advice. You understand and agree that MentalHappy
(I) is not a medical care provider
(II) is not a substitute for seeking medical care
(III) does not provide therapy, medical, psychiatric, or psychological advice, an
(IV) cannot be used to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or condition.
This service is not for emergencies. If you or another person is in danger, call 911 immediately. If you are suicidal, the National Suicide Prevention Hotline can help. Call 1-800-273-8255 or notify appropriate emergency personnel. Contact your local protective services agency if you know a child, dependent adult, or elder abuse.
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Use these resources to get immediate help.
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