When we need to change, the change always starts from the inside. We need to set our minds first, and then our biology, our actions and our habits usually follow. If you are struggling with addiction or any other mental health issue, it is important that you start your recovery by changing your point of view when it comes to, well, everything.
We asked addiction experts from Substance Rehabilitation UK, a leader in addiction rehab, about the most beneficial thoughts that can become game-changers in your recovery journey.
Forget about the “Can’t”, Ask Yourself “Why?”
“I can’t” is a very strong, charging statement. While it may seem harmless, every time you use this verb in its negative form, you teach your subconscious that it is incapable. With time, even if it is able to perform, your body will listen to this learnt thought. Instead of saying “I can’t”, you should consider asking “Why would I?”
This question helps you understand what you want to achieve, and why. It also allows you to find out whether you have the skills required to succeed at the task at hand. If you feel like you don’t have the skills needed to complete something, ask yourself how much effort you’re willing to put into it. This way, you’ll be able to determine whether you’re capable of doing it or not.
The Value of “Well done!”
Sometimes we are so engulfed in the negative that we forget just how much e have achieved. Take a breather, pause for a bit after even the smaller achievements and say to yourself, aloud, “Well done!”.
You might think that this sounds trite, but it’s actually quite powerful. When you say “well done!”, you are acknowledging all the good things that you’ve done. You are reminding yourself that you deserve success and that you have worked hard to get where you are today.
To enforce the power of this, write down your daily successes. At the end of the week look at your list and congratulate yourself verbally for your achievements.
Learn to Say “No”
Saying “no” is one of the most powerful abilities we share as humans. The ability to refuse something gives us control over our lives and makes us more confident. Saying “no” means that you are making an informed choice based on facts and figures. It doesn’t mean that you are being selfish; rather, it means that you are taking responsibility for your life.
It takes courage to say “no”. However, once you do, you’ll see that you gain confidence and self-respect. You’ll notice that people respect you more because they know that you won’t let them walk all over you.
It’s important to remember that you don’t owe anyone anything. No matter how much someone wants something from you, you still don’t have to give it to them. Don’t feel guilty about saying no. Remember that you have a right to live your own life without having to worry about others’ expectations.
Don’t Be Afraid to Say “I need help”
It may seem like you are giving up, but in fact, you are moving forward. When we get stuck, when we go rounding circles, repeating over and over the same solutions which don’t resolve our addiction problem, we need someone to assess the situation from afar and give us a new point of view. We need someone to tell us what we are doing wrong and suggest ways to change.
We all need help sometimes. If you are struggling with an addiction, seek professional assistance. There are many options available. Your local drug rehab centre, hospital, private doctor or psychiatrist are some examples. They are trained professionals who will help you recover.
But you are not stuck with one option, you can also admit this to your loved ones, too. Let them try to help you because they care. In fact, their love and support will make recovery easier. Moreover, addiction usually affects your loved ones – your partner, your children, and your parents. They are involved anyway, by sharing your concerns with them, you acknowledge that.
Remind Yourself with “I deserve this”
Guilt, self-doubt, and low self-esteem are dangerous companions to addiction. They ruin us from the inside out and make us lose trust in our own decisions. A simple reminder that you deserve to be healthier, to be sober, and to spend some of your hard-earned money on self-care and recovery will help you immensely.
When you feel bad, remind yourself of these words. Repeat them whenever you start doubting yourself. This helps you stay focused on what you want. Reminding yourself that you deserve better will keep you motivated to work towards your goals every day.
Recovery Is Possible!
There are so many different types of rehabs and treatment centres. Each has its own philosophy, approach, and method of treating addiction. So, if you’re looking for a place that suits you best, there are plenty of choices. Whether you’re looking for a residential rehab or outpatient aftercare, you should dedicate your mind to healing your body. One cannot go without the other. By the power of words, we can self-impose positive, healthy attitudes. Addiction is often enforced by years of “I can’t”s and “I don’t deserve”s. Removing the effects of these takes a long time, but it can happen.
