The journey of recovery is lifelong and wrought with challenges. On your journey, you will likely encounter people who are exhausting and difficult. Conversely, you will also meet people you want to befriend. However, not every person you meet is entitled to know your story, no matter how genuine and nice they may seem. It is beneficial to affirm yourself, such as stating, “I get to decide with whom I talk about my recovery and what I decide to share about myself.” Remember that everyone’s path is different and no one has the right to pressure you to tell your story.
Your Mantra: My Recovery Is Uniquely Mine
This is your journey, and sometimes you may not want to talk about your recovery. You have the right to share with whomever you want and whatever details it makes sense to share. Recovery is a personal journey and it is uniquely yours. You have the power to choose what your recovery looks like and whom you share your journey with. Just like there is no one identical to you, there are no two journeys of recovery that are exactly alike.
What Are the Benefits of Talking About My Recovery?
You learned in treatment that effective communication skills are essential in building a healthy relationship. That applies to talking about recovery, too. It is easy to talk about when something is positive and uplifting in your life. Most people enjoy hearing about happy situations and things. Yet, the truth is that the world needs more honest people to open up about the experiences that have had. You never know whose life you can influence or inspire.
Perhaps you are asking yourself, “When is it appropriate to talk about my recovery?” There are certain situations when it can be beneficial, and these include:
- When it keeps you accountable: Holding yourself accountable in recovery is essential to living your best life. If you open up about your struggles, you are holding yourself accountable to others.
- When talking about your recovery can educate others: Although there is plenty of material out there to educate people, most people like relatable experiences. Some of the best stories are not told from a book but by a person in one’s life who has been down the same road.
- When it shows others that they are not alone: Perhaps at one time you thought you were the only one struggling with these issues. Then you were reminded that others understand and can support you. As you share with others, you may find yourself realizing that “talking about my recovery really helps people!”
Who Should I Talk About My Recovery To?
You may wonder, “Who can I talk about my recovery with at The Guest House?” There are many options. For example, you may decide that a confidential one-on-one option is right for you through individual therapy. You may choose to participate in group counseling as well.
In addition, you may want to explore communication with trusted positive support. You have the opportunity to build an alliance through positive relationships. One of the most supportive networks of recovery is attending 12-Step meetings in your area. At these meetings, no one forces you to speak. When you decide, “I’m ready to talk about my recovery,” you will be greeted with words of affirmation and encouragement.
What Is the Best Time to Talk About My Recovery?
As we’ve stated, you are in control of when to talk about your recovery. However, there are times when it is important to talk about your recovery. While you do not need to go into details, you may want to address recovery in the following situations:
- At a doctor’s appointment: Addiction is a medical condition. Disclosing this condition to your doctor will guide them to make important decisions concerning your health.
- In a close relationship: Opening up about your recovery is important in a relationship because it helps others understand the core of who you are. This helps people to feel bonded with you. Allowing yourself to be open and vulnerable can strengthen communication skills and relationships.
- In support groups: As mentioned previously, if you attend a 12-Step program, talking about your journey in a safe space will not only help you but also help others grow.
What if I Don’t Want to Talk About My Recovery?
You may think, “I’m not ready to talk about my recovery.” That is perfectly okay. Sometimes the struggle is that you are still trying to process this new life that you have found. Maybe you do not feel comfortable exposing your story to anyone else. In that case, trusted professionals at The Guest House can help you find safety and solace as you begin to share. We understand how difficult the process of recovery is and that not everyone is open to talking about their recovery.
We know you show up every day to be the best version of yourself and that is enough. One day you will say “I am ready to talk about my recovery.” It is important not to force this readiness but to allow it to come naturally. When it does, you will be met with support. You will also feel glad that you listened to yourself to discover the timing that was right for you.
Perhaps you’ve thought before, “It’s hard to talk about my recovery.” Talking about your journey can be difficult, especially if you are not comfortable with the people around you. You simply may not be ready to expose yourself. Talking about recovery can make you feel vulnerable and scared. Although exploring healthy communication is important in recovery, communication can happen in many forms such as disclosing your thoughts to a professional therapist or journaling your thoughts and feelings. At The Guest House, we understand that not everyone is on the same path. That is why we meet you right where you are. Give us a call today at (855) 483-7800 to learn more about how we can help you.