The struggle with mental health and addiction can leave our lives in chaos and uncertainty. In addition to our own experience and feelings of sadness and depression, this struggle can profoundly impact our loved ones, families, and friends. Once we commit to recovery, it can be challenging and painful to reflect on the damage we may have caused to our relationships.
Please know that healing, mending, and rebuilding these relationships is possible.
How do we even begin the process?
What if it feels scary and overwhelming?
These are excellent questions, and all feelings around repairing relationships are healthy and completely understandable.
Ideas and Opportunities to Rebuild:
- Start slow. Make a list of people you would like to reconnect or repair relationships with.
- Practice what you want to communicate by writing letters or reflecting first.
- Request a time and date to talk. Remember, these conversations deserve to be uninterrupted.
- Share what you feel comfortable sharing, but remember that you do not owe anyone every detail of your life.
- Use “I” language. Own your behavior and take responsibility for yourself.
- Invite the person to share their feelings and experience. Always remember to pause if it becomes too much.
- Listen without judging yourself, and remember, you are not your past actions.
- Share creative solutions to repair the relationship. You might consider phone chats, coffee dates, letters, or anything else you think of.
- Honor your limits and boundaries. If you sense the relationship could become harmful or hurtful because it’s too recent, communicate clearly, and respectfully that you need more space.
If your friends and loved ones need more time and are not ready to begin this process, the best thing you can do is honor their wish, and not take it personally. People heal and move at different speeds, so please remind yourself of this. Take that extra time to focus on yourself and other relationships in your life.
Finally, don’t neglect to repair the relationship with yourself, as this is the most important relationship you will ever have.
At Alta Loma Transformational Living, you will meet knowledgeable, compassionate professionals that understand addiction in all its forms. Alta Loma uses an integrative and holistic approach to treat addiction and mental health issues. No treatment is one-size-fits-all, where you will have a team of experts prepared to create your customized treatment plan. We offer care for your mind, body, and spirit, so that you can heal from the inside out and look forward to a lifetime of sobriety and wellness. If you are ready to take the first step in your recovery, please call us at 866-457-3843.
