The arrival of the new year brings with it the promise of growth and progress. It is a time when many of us consider what we would like to accomplish in the months ahead. But it can also cause some to reflect on change.
Perhaps habits they would like to reform or new directions they want to move in. The important thing is that we use this time for both reflection and inspiration. The focus can be to welcome calming wisdom into your heart rather than anxious pressure to perform the impossible. Awareness and deliberate optimism are key.
Gratitude
Gratitude is always an excellent place to start when working to cultivate positive energy in mental health or addiction treatment. 2020 was especially challenging for most of us. However, you made it through. Consider making a list of all the things you are grateful for over the past year —accomplishments you have made.
Goals met. Challenges conquered. Think about the people you love who have been in your life for another year and how much they mean to you.
Optimism about your circumstances and the new year ahead does not mean we do not acknowledge challenges, though. We all have them. No one’s life is perfect, no matter how it may appear to the outside observer.
One of the kindest things we can do for ourselves is to admit when we need help and ask for it. The new year is an excellent time to commit to taking that first step of self-care. Even a small first step is significant.
Ask for Help
There is a sentiment that a problem shared is a problem halved. Perhaps admitting to a trusted friend or support that you’re not OK and asking their opinion on what you might do next. Problems we keep to ourselves are the least likely to be resolved, so throw open the curtains and let in some sunlight.
Positive thinking is just the beginning, of course. If we want to see a change in our lives, the requirement is action. That might seem like a frightening prospect, but if we have accepted that change is needed, we can be honest and willing.
Once we ask for help with an open mind, we have already begun to act. If you can accept that the way you’ve been living isn’t in your best interests, it also means being willing to accept others’ help and direction.
Whether your challenge is mental health or addiction to drugs or alcohol, help is available. Millions of people have traveled the road ahead before you. You might imagine your situation is too dire or too different for anyone else to understand. It’s OK. All that’s required is the tiniest amount of faith to keep moving forward.
Take Action and Move Forward
Recovery is about action and does require work, but there is no mystery to be solved. In the beginning, especially, recovery is about willingness and honesty. You don’t have to find the answers yourself. But you do need to stay out of your own way. Be willing to follow directions and put one foot in front of the other.
One of the most beautiful things about recovery is that it is a team effort. The best way for others in recovery to continue to grow is by helping you. The best way for you to begin to recover is by accepting their help. This wonderful symbiosis is the magic that makes recovery a self-sustaining process.
Promises Behavioral Health is ready to help you move forward. Whether you need mental health treatment or addiction treatment, we have residential treatment, outpatient care or even virtual IOP options to fit your needs. The next step is up to you. Pick up the phone or enter a chat with us. Let’s work together to make the new year ahead full of promise for you. Call us at 844 875 5609.