The most important thing to take into account when at the start of your journey to recovery from a mental illness or addiction, is that it takes time. Mental illnesses like depression, anxiety and substance abuse do not develop overnight and so it is natural to expect that the healing process will also take time. The fact is that there are stages of recovery that span a person’s lifetime once they have completed a mental illness treatment program.
There are generally considered to be six stages to recovery from mental illness, as follows
- Acceptance
When a person has a mental health problem, the most common barrier to them receiving treatment is denial. Where denial prevents healing, acceptance has the opposite effect of encouraging it. It is therefore crucial that you have achieved a level of acceptance before embarking on your recovery journey.
- Insight
Much of the work done in overcoming mental illness is based on improved understanding and insight of your condition which is gained during treatment. Once you have a clear understanding of the warning signs of your illness, you can learn how to cope more effectively with any episodes.
- Action
During recovery it is always a good idea to set goals and objectives that provide you with measurable progress. This adds incentive and motivation to your recovery strategy. Say for example you know it makes you feel worse when you stay up late, make a point of turning into bed earlier.
- Self-esteem
Many mental illnesses are associated with low self-esteem and so it makes sense to rebuild confidence levels as part of your recovery. Overcoming mental illness is a significant achievement which in itself warrants self-congratulation.
- Healing
Mental illnesses are generally relapsing conditions which people need to learn to cope with in recovery. It is vital that you understand that you will have bad days as well as good days but you will be better equipped to deal with negative feelings over time and after specialist treatment.
- Meaning
People who have been suffering from mental health conditions generally lose all sight of who they are. This can mean they have neglected the activities they previously enjoyed or become alienated from people they were formerly close to. The final stage of recovery involves rediscovering what is important to you in your life and reengaging with the activities and people who enrich your life experience.
Recovery is possible. Don`t be afraid to speak up and ask for help. Serene Rehabilitation Centre is here to help. A Rehabilitation center based in Nairobi Kenya that provides confidential support to anyone in need of help with a Mental illness or Substance Use Disorder.
Make a visit or call/text 0746460202 today.
