I don’t like the way my mind and body are changing in recovery

Recovery is a big life change, in more ways than one. Not only are you getting back to your “norm” with your body and mind, but you are also taking better care of yourself. Try to remember that all of us in recovery have been through this and you are NOT alone!

It’s normal to feel uncomfortable with the changes you are experiencing, and it does get better with time. Recovery is a process, and your mind and body will change into a healthier version of you throughout.  It’s okay to be uncertain and/or scared about the experience. And it’s okay to question whether or not you are doing the right thing.

Rest assured, it does get easier, and you will soon love the new you.

You are going through changes

In recovery, you go through a lot of changes, some mental, physical, social, and even spiritual. Make sure you put yourself as a priority. You have to do what feels right for you!

Some people may experience some of the following symptoms while entering into recovery:

• Mood swings or perhaps more intensified moods.
• Adjustment period before starting and/or stopping any medication: for safety, changes in medication should be made under a doctor’s supervision only.
• Needing and/or wanting to sleep a lot or you might have problems sleeping.
• Eating more and/or less
• Some people even find out they have certain physical conditions after they get into recovery: like infections, or issues with organs such as the liver, kidneys, or pancreas.
• Mental and/or physical withdrawal from substances: Symptoms like vomiting, nausea, sweating, confusion, anxiety, low mood, and irregular heartbeat can be scary.

Check-in with your doctor and reach out for support when you need it. Whatever you’re experiencing on your recovery journey is okay. You can get through this, one day, one minute at a time.

It takes time to get to know yourself

A really big turning point in recovery is getting to know yourself. You identify and practice your morals and values. You become comfortable with your decisions about your life and your life direction. With a lot of self-reflection, you can become comfortable with yourself and happy being in recovery.

Some ideas to help you get to know yourself can include some of the following:

• Journaling: This helps you let out emotions and feelings you may not be completely in touch with. Looking back on your journal entries can help you to see how far you have come, leading up to the current moment.
• Trying new activities: This can help you to figure out what you do and don’t like and explore your interests no matter how big or small, whether it’s sewing, playing a musical instrument, or hiking.
• Trying to conquer your fears: For example, if you are afraid of snakes, why not learn about them and figure out why they frighten you?
• Getting involved in activities around your town: This could include volunteering. This is a chance to socialize and make friends that don’t use substances.

Be gentle with yourself as you learn new things and re-discover who you are. You are bound to learn things you love about yourself, and you are bound to learn things you do not like about yourself. And just because there are things you don’t like about yourself doesn’t mean you can’t change them.

It’s important to remain loving and compassionate with yourself through it all. You are not finalized as you are now. Healing is an ongoing process.

Give yourself grace and patience

Don’t be so hard on yourself while you are going through and transitioning into recovery. Of course, that’s easier said than done. Take small steps and set measurable small goals. Remember to always take care of yourself both physically and mentally.

Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Recovery takes time. You have to remember that eating healthy, fitness, and mental and spiritual health are all equally important.
• Give yourself grace. Do what you feel your body needs but not to the extreme. You can and should allow yourself to take small steps.
• Keep picking yourself back up. You are not a failure, you are someone entering into recovery, and recovery is not an overnight process.
• Keep doing the activities that make you feel grounded, and joyful. If you find something positive that works for you, great! Do things that make you feel like you’re moving to a healthier version of yourself.
• Be kind to yourself. It’s easy to judge ourselves harshly, especially when we have tough days or it seems like others are doing better than us.
• Try not to compare yourself or your journey to anyone else.  Everyone is unique and recovers differently.

Recovery is a delicate process that we all must go through.  We all come about it and move through that healing process in our own ways. Sometimes, the path may look very similar to others, and it’s also okay to be on an individual journey. Learning to accept the ups and downs and practicing self-care can keep you motivated.

You don’t have to do it alone

As you are going through changes, remember you don’t have to do it alone. Talk to your doctors, confide in a friend or a close family member. Ask for help if you need it and don’t be afraid to speak up. The worst thing you could do is internalize and not express yourself in a conducive manner. Use your coping skills, reach out to your support system, and remember, you are not alone!