Living with undiagnosed and untreated mental health issues, or experiencing severe substance abuse without any support, can cause severe internal and external confusion.
Our bodies and minds can confuse chaos with the feeling of being alive. We confuse drama and intensity for real adventure and excitement. We suffer swings of serious depression or ecstasy as signs we should either give up entirely or continue down our destructive path.
Once we move into stability, health, and recovery, we may experience numbness, apathy, extreme boredom, or even feel like nothing is going on in our life.
These feelings are perfectly normal and are a response to the trauma we experienced.
But how do we come back to feeling? How do we redefine fun?
- Start slow. Remind yourself that you have been desensitized and that there is nothing wrong with you.
- Process any painful experiences either by yourself, with a support group, or with mental health professionals. Ask yourself, “Was that truly being alive?” or “Was that really exciting?” or “Was that toxic relationship truly love?”
- Reflect on what you think real adventure, stable love, or healthy excitement could be.
If you aren’t sure, that’s okay. Take it as an opportunity to ask and learn from members of your care team or people you trust.
- Practice grounding exercises or activities that bring you back to yourself and your body. You can stretch in the morning or do yoga. Consider taking 10-15 minutes for meditation, or do a reconnection exercise by touching your arms, legs, feet, head, torso, shoulders, etc.
- Take time to notice and clarify true feelings. For example, looking at a beautiful sunset is authentic awe. Playing games or sports with friends is real excitement, and learning a new skill or talent is real fun. It’s okay if you don’t feel the awe, excitement, or joy right away. Give yourself time.
- Ask others what they do for fun, and try new activities out!
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.
