You have come to the point within your recovery that you are thinking about making amends. However, you are contemplating how this action will help you long term. Making amends is about putting the past behind you and demonstrating to others that you are a changed human being. This new way of life serves you for the highest good, and you are ready to acknowledge the actions of a former version of yourself.
Making amends is about honoring your recovery and exploring forgiveness from others and yourself. This article will walk you through helpful tips on ways to make amends through individual/group therapy and support in an alumni program.
Why Is It Essential for Me to Make Amends in Recovery?
Sometimes the idea of making amends can seem way out of character. You may think that you would rather not go through that experience again, or maybe it is easier to forget about that part of your life. This is not only an uncomfortable space for those involved but also for you.
However, you may have experienced that nagging thought that you need to acknowledge something specific. Whatever category you fall into, you have arrived within a space that will explore the importance of making amends for you and the other people involved.
One of the hardest aspects of addiction is that your brain is rewired to chase the next best thing, no matter who or what is involved. As you know, addiction is a disease that destroys whatever is in its way to get what it needs or wants. Substance abuse changes the way the brain works within the pleasure center. As a result, you may not feel normal without a high.
This is where amends come in. You may have already acknowledged that you were not your normal self. However, it may be difficult to accept that your actions may have hurt another person. This can be uncomfortable; however, without uncomfortably, change cannot occur.
How Am I Going to Benefit From Making Amends?
First, making amends gives you hope for a new and brighter day. You can acknowledge that your past is behind you and are a different person within recovery. Reflecting on how far you have come and continuing to grow has many benefits in recovery.
Second, acknowledging the person that you were in a particular situation not only helps you grow, but the person will see that the old version of you no longer exists. In recovery, there are many triggers that you can face. Of those things, undealt with emotions and feelings may be near the top of your list. Making amends is important because it allows you to feel free of past actions and helps others heal too.
Lastly, making amends leads to healthy connections within your family and community. This is just an example of how healthy relationships are built. Making amends leads to understanding addiction and the ways that it impacts your life. You just may be able to save someone else’s life by acknowledging yours.
Setting Boundaries When Making Amends
Understanding your boundaries before you make amends is super important. You have to ask yourself some difficult questions. For example, even if you make amends, you may have to ask yourself, “Is the person healthy and going to support my recovery?” Even if you or they have the best intentions, it might not be a good fit.
Face Your Truth
You are in recovery and plan on never going back to where you were. If you do not confront your bad choices, then it becomes impossible to learn from them. Often, your friends and family are the ones who walk with you in your addiction. While you are in recovery, it may be difficult for them to see you healthy. It is okay to give time and space when needed.
Recovery is a life journey, and it is important for you to give yourself grace. Understand that just because you are ready to make amends does not mean that others are ready to forgive you. Often, the hardest things are the best learning experiences.
A Heartfelt Sorry
There is nothing more real than a genuine apology. You have changed and are ready to show others that change is who you are. Take the initiative to acknowledge your wrongdoings and the space to understand how others feel. Paying attention to other people’s feelings and listening to them express themselves plays an important role. Remember to extend grace toward others and yourself.
Individual Therapy Can Help With Making Amends
No matter where you are in your recovery, individual therapy is always a bonus. Making amends can be difficult on the human mind and play with your heartstrings. It may be a good idea to talk to someone with an objective point of view who is skilled at empathy.
Alumni Program
An alumni program can be beneficial in many ways. Feeling connected to others brings a sense of change and hope. At The Guest House, we believe that community is the cornerstone of recovery. Sometimes, you find connections within treatment, and you want to continue forth.
However, those connections are lost in the shuffle of life. With an alumni program, you do not have to worry about losing connections. You are a part of the community of support and healthy relationships. This can support your recovery in building healthy connections and bouncing ideas within a group of humans that have similar struggles.
Looking at the bigger picture of your recovery is a big step. Facing that you have hurt people in your past and exploring ways to make amends is a brave space to be in. You are not here by chance but for a reason. This is your time to shine with grace. You may feel like you are alone on this journey. However, there are resources that can assist you with a sense of community. At The Guest House, we understand that making amends can feel like a lonely space. This is why we pay special attention to connection and healing. You are always welcome, and we will meet you with acceptance. Give us a call at (855) 483-7800 today.