Model the way of Recovery

How does one model the way of recovery? This differs from person to person. Often, the term is used to describe individuals who set standards, apply skillsets in diverse environments to make the most out of life on their recovery journey, while holding themselves accountable for their actions.

This is accomplished and demonstrated by making and keeping appointments for self-care, setting and achieving goals, keeping up with hygiene, advocating for better quality of personal care, understanding our symptoms, medication side effects and triggers, educating ourselves about ourselves, making healthy choices both physically and mentally, setting boundaries, and asking questions to develop strategies to overcome obstacles.

Setting boundaries between professional and personal life can be challenging. A short-term sacrifice can turn into a long-term problem. Being open and honest with yourself and others allows for discovery and knowing limitations.  Reaching out for assistance shows how much you care to overcome the issue at hand. We are under a microscope.

What you post, comment, or share on social media is in public view, which can affect those we serve, who we work for, and/or ourselves in positive and/or negative ways.

A good resource to use as a guide is the Eight Dimensions of Wellness from SAMHSA (https://www.samhsa.gov) which provides an image of what holistic wellness looks like. Like human beings are mental, physical and spiritual beings.

The above aspects can be further expanded as the following: Emotional, Environmental, Financial, Intellectual, Occupational, Physical, Social, and Spiritual. By keeping all dimensions in balance, we model the way of recovery.