Recovering from an addiction isn’t easy and it doesn’t occur over night. People battling
addiction are often very hard on themselves, particularly if they experience a lapse or relapse.
Having self-compassion is a critical element in addiction recovery.
Guilt and Remembrance
Individuals often feel guilt for the things they’ve done, said, or how their addiction affected
loved ones in the past. Obsessing over those things isn’t productive and only provides one
dimension to the entire problem of addiction. Self-forgiveness and self-compassion must be
present if individuals are to heal and move forward with their life.
Recalling what led to the addiction is an important aspect. It allows individuals to understand
the realities of the addiction and make informed decisions about measures they can take to
improve their life and future.
What It Means
Self-compassion means extending the same forgiveness, grace and understanding to oneself as
they would to others. It involves understanding rather than acting critically or harshly.
Demonstrating self-compassion recognizes that people are only human and make mistakes.
People that are able to show themselves self-compassion are more likely to be able to change
harmful behaviors. Self-compassion is much the same as showing compassion for others. Doing
so releases “feel good” endorphins and aids in building self-esteem and empathy.
Honesty
Being honest is a key component of self-compassion. It doesn’t include inflating
accomplishments or excusing bad behavior, actions or speech. Neither does it include ignoring
what has gone before. Being honest means realizing that even though life may be challenging,
alcohol or drugs will not make a situation better.
Victim Mentality
Some people that are overcoming addiction develop a victim mentality or become selfish.
While it’s true that an individual may have been victimized, its a great opportunity to extend
self-compassion to themselves and take steps to create a healthier narrative.
Support
A support system is an integral part of demonstrating self-compassion and recovery. There’s no
room for criticism, recriminations and judgements. A support system can be friends or family,
and should include a mental health professional specializing in addiction.
Southcoast Psychiatric Services
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, feelings of hopelessness, relationship problems, or other pressures of life? Don’t suffer in silence. The doctors and therapists of Southcoast Psychiatric Services can help. Caring, compassionate, and completely confidential, our services are provided by highly-experienced, licensed, and board-certified healthcare professionals, dedicated to improving your health and wellness.
Whether you require medical treatment, counseling/psychotherapy, or both, we are happy to offer the best care available – at your convenience.
Call us anytime @ (561) 241-6628 Because you don’t have to suffer in silence.
