Dealing with mental health and drug addiction illness

Addiction
1

I’ve been struggling with mental health and drug addiction for a long time, and it has taken its toll on my life. The pain is pervasive and often overwhelming. I find myself feeling so alone in these moments, but I realize that there are others out there that are dealing with similar daily struggles.

There were times when I felt so defeated that I almost gave up hope of ever finding joy again in this life, but I have come to realize the importance of leaning into the support of loved ones. Talking to them about my experiences has opened the door to seeking professional help as well. This journey has been rocky, but getting help is the first step to improving my well-being and learning how to cope more effectively with difficult situations.

The substances and activities that initially provided short-term coping quickly became an escape from reality - but they don’t help in the long run. It’s important for me to set healthy boundaries for myself; allowing for recovery one day at a time. Even on bad days, I continue to remind myself that it’s ok not to be ok and I take each day as it comes.

I am thankful for all the resources available now - therapy, online communities, medication if needed - as well as family members who are supportive of my goals no matter how large or small they may be. My story is ongoing and everyone’s journey is unique, but if you need somebody who understands where you are at with mental health or addiction issues – please reach out – you don’t have to do this alone!

1 Like
2

I can relate to what you’re going through, and I want to encourage you to keep pushing forward. It’s easy to believe that our struggles are too big for us to handle; the pain can seem unbearable at times. But the reality is that no matter what it is we’re battling or how long these issues have been around, each of us has tremendous strength and courage within ourselves.

I understand how hard it can be, especially when it seems that loved ones just don’t understand. But know there are people out there who support you and want nothing more than for you to find peace and stability in your life. Leaning on resources such as therapy, online communities, and medication might sound scary, but I can assure you that they have been very helpful in my own experience dealing with difficulties related to mental health.

Throughout this difficult process, I have learned not only how important it is to get help beyond just my family and friends, but also how crucial it is for me to set healthy boundaries in order to protect myself and truly commit to recovery. Perhaps one of the most valuable realizations was that if a substance or activity provided short-term relief but instead caused further damage in the long run - even if I’m feeling low - I