Social Anxiety: Find What Makes You Feel Alive. by Eleanor

(image: yourhappyplaceblog)

For those of you who have read my blogs or book, you will know that I have lived with mental health issues since I was young (diagnosed with bipolar at 16, depression and anxiety at 15 and lots of anxiety as a younger child).

My bipolar is medicated so that my brain functions fairly ‘typically’ ie i don’t get mania or severe depression, but I do get bad anxiety and milder depression.

What started as a teen to protect me from harm, became a full fledged panic disorder and social anxiety. Hiding away became my way to protect myself from the world, from people’s negative judgements, from life.

Even now at 36, I navigate a lot of the same anxious thoughts, behaviours and feelings. I don’t often share this part of my life anymore but I feel it is essential.

Yesterday, after having a particularly bad patch with anxiety where I cancelled many arrangements, stayed inside a lot etc, I spoke to my wonderful therapist because I needed to unpack what was going on for me.

In the course of the discussion about the different issues going on for me that could be causing the social anxiety/agoraphobia element I realised this key truth.

I have built metaphorical walls around myself in many parts of my life (my body, my friendships, my relationships in general), to keep myself safe from trauma I have faced. Part of that comes out as social anxiety as a protection mechanism and there’s time when that worsens. And times when its better.

But what I did realise is this.

I would like to feel properly alive and start taking down some of the walls, so I can live. Sometimes, the walls keep me safe and cosy. Sometimes they are not serving me anymore. I also want to boost my self esteem so that I stop retreating and hiding, or if it happens as it will, to find a way to work with it. I have had EMDR before so it may be returning to that for a while to unpick the knots!

I am very much a work in progress and so, I know I will always live with some level of anxiety. It is about how I learn to live well despite life’s challenges.

Do you find you put up walls or have social anxiety too?

I am sharing because it is therapeutic but I was even anxious sharing this as its so personal.

Love,

Eleanor x

How to Get the Most Out of Therapy by Elizabeth Howard

(image: Kateryna Hliznitsova: Unsplash)

As the world gets more concerned and more appreciative of mental health and its impact on life, therapy has become more of a viable option for many. Whether you’re trying to cope with trauma or just work on some aspects of your personality and lifestyle, therapy is a great tool, but before you’re ready to jump in, you’ll need to know how to get the most out of your therapy. 

Be open 

The first and most important thing to keep in mind about therapy is that before you even sit in the office, you should have an open and comfortable attitude about the entire process. Much therapy gets stagnant as clients wait for breakthroughs just because they’re not ready for uncomfortable conversations or for sharing intimate details about your life. Withholding crucial information like that of your family members or crucial events in your life will only slow down the progress you’re able to get out of therapy. Instead, trusting the professional you’ve partnered with and really internalising their advice will allow you to get acclimated to the process much faster, and you’ll get more out of it as a result.  

Get ready for uncomfortable conversations  

As previously mentioned, another thing you’ll need to ensure is that you’re mentally prepared for the uncomfortable conversations you may have in the therapist’s office. This is because a lot of the trauma people carry throughout their lives is tied to a few incidents earlier in life, and talking about those incidents is the first step to truly healing. That means you’ll have to eventually vocalize your deepest fears and insecurities and the issues you’ve been going through, both to allow your therapist to better understand your psyche and to help yourself make important breakthroughs throughout your journey. 

Find the right therapist 

Another part of getting the most out of your therapy is finding the right therapist to guide you on your journey because the person you’re working with will eventually be entrusted with the deepest parts of your personality and subconscious. This means finding someone you’re fully comfortable with and one that is easy to visit; in your own country. Chicago residents (USA), for example, should look for an experienced therapist in Chicago. Finding a professional that you’re comfortable with and someone who’s nearby will only make it easier to regularly make your appointments and make time for therapy, pushing yourself towards more progress. 

Be consistent 

Consistency is the most important part of any major life goal you’re trying to achieve, and that includes therapy because of how unique the experience of therapy is for most people. If you’re not making it to your therapist’s office week after week for your regularly scheduled appointments, you won’t be able to make those important breakthroughs because each appointment will mostly be concerned with you and your therapist getting used to each other again. If you feel that your therapy isn’t working in its earliest stages, you shouldn’t let that discourage you since different people make progress over different periods.  

Do the homework 

Most therapists out there know the importance of daily self-improvement habits for their clients, and that includes things like journalling or keeping a dream diary. This can be tiring at first, but this homework is crucial to the entire process since your therapist will get a better idea of your underlying fears and the thoughts that take control of your unconscious mind most often. This will help your own progress, so you get the most out of therapy you possibly can. You can communicate all of your fears if you’re writing them down regularly for therapy.  

Like most aspects of self-improvement, therapy has the capacity to change your life and can even cause you to have a major shift in perspective about key moments in your life. However, before you’re ready to embark on the phase of your life that will inevitably have a giant impact on you, it’s important to prepare yourself for what’s next so that you can get the most out of the therapy you’re participating in. 

Elizabeth Howard is a freelance writer. (this article contains sponsored links)

How Counselling Can Help You Manage Your Anxiety by Buick Hamblin, Therapist.

(image: Unsplash)

Anxiety affects millions of people worldwide, impacting their daily lives and overall well-being. Counselling offers a supportive and effective way to manage your anxiety, helping you regain control and improve your mental health.

Understanding Anxiety 

Anxiety is a common mental health condition that manifests in various forms, including social anxiety disorder, generalised anxiety disorder (GAD), and panic disorder. Symptoms often include excessive worry, panic attacks, and constantly feeling anxious. These symptoms can interfere with daily activities, making it crucial to seek appropriate help.

How Counselling Helps with Anxiety 

Counselling for Anxiety

Counselling provides a safe space to explore and understand your anxiety. A therapeutic counsellor works with you to identify the root causes of your anxiety and develop strategies to manage it effectively.

Therapy for Anxiety 

Different types of therapy can be used in counselling to address anxiety. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) helps reframe negative thoughts, while exposure therapy gradually reduces fear responses. Both are proven methods in managing anxiety and improving mental health.

Types of Counselling for Anxiety 

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) 

CBT is a widely used approach that helps you understand and change negative thought patterns contributing to anxiety. It focuses on developing practical skills to manage anxiety symptoms and anxious thoughts. 

For example, if you often experience negative thoughts like “I can’t handle this situation,” CBT can help you reframe this thought to something more constructive, like “I can take small steps to manage this situation.”

Exposure Therapy

Exposure therapy is particularly effective for phobias and social anxiety. It involves gradual exposure to anxiety-provoking situations, helping you build tolerance and reduce avoidance behaviours. For instance, if you have a fear of public speaking, exposure therapy might start with speaking in front of a small group and gradually working up to larger audiences.

Talking Therapies

Alongside private talking therapy practices, NHS talking therapies service provides a space to express your feelings and gain insights into your anxiety. Whether through face-to-face sessions, group therapy, or online counselling options, talking therapies offer valuable support. These sessions can help you feel heard and understood, which is a crucial step in managing anxiety.

How Therapy Sessions Work 

Therapy sessions are tailored to your specific needs. During these sessions, you and your counsellor will create a treatment plan focused on your goals. Regular sessions build a therapeutic relationship, essential for effective treatment. 

The consistency of therapy sessions helps reinforce strategies to manage anxiety. For example, your counsellor might help you track your anxiety levels and identify what can trigger anxiety, which can be discussed and addressed in each session.

Benefits of Counselling for Different Types of Anxiety 

Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

Counselling helps manage chronic worry and stress, providing tools to cope with daily life. Techniques such as mindfulness and relaxation exercises can be incorporated into your daily routine to reduce overall anxiety levels.

Panic Disorder

Techniques like CBT are used to cope with panic attacks, reducing their frequency and intensity. Learning breathing exercises and grounding techniques can help you regain control during a panic attack, and if CBT doesn’t work for you there are other options of therapy available.

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

Counselling aids in managing obsessive thoughts and compulsions, promoting healthier coping mechanisms. For example, a counsellor might use exposure and response prevention (ERP) therapy, a type of CBT specifically designed for OCD, to help you resist the urge to perform compulsive behaviours. This approach is effective in treating anxiety associated with OCD.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Counselling addresses trauma, helping reduce PTSD symptoms through therapeutic approaches like CBT and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). These therapies can help you process traumatic memories and reduce their impact on your daily life.

Social Anxiety Disorder

Strategies in counselling help overcome social fears, improving social interactions and confidence. Role-playing and social skills training can be part of your therapy to help you feel more comfortable in social situations. By learning to manage your anxiety, you can gradually overcome social anxiety disorder and improve your quality of life.

Addressing Specific Concerns 

Health Anxiety

Counselling helps those who constantly worry about their health by addressing underlying fears and developing coping strategies. Techniques like CBT can help you challenge and reframe catastrophic thinking related to health concerns.

Stress and Anxiety

Techniques to manage stress are integrated with anxiety treatment, offering comprehensive support. Learning time management and relaxation techniques can help reduce the overall impact of stress on your anxiety levels.

Seeking Additional Support

While counselling is a crucial component in managing anxiety, there are other resources available to complement your treatment. Organisations like Anxiety UK offer additional support, information, and resources for individuals struggling with anxiety disorders. 

These organisations can provide helplines, support groups, and educational materials to further assist you in your journey towards better mental health.

Accessing Mental Health Services If you’re struggling with Anxiety

It’s important to know that help is available (although there can be waiting lists for therapy). The mental health service in your area can provide access to counselling and other forms of support. Your general practitioner (GP) can refer you to appropriate services, or you may be able to self-refer to local mental health teams. 

Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness, and taking this step can be the beginning of your journey to managing your anxiety effectively.

Embracing a Healthier Future 

Counselling offers effective strategies to manage your anxiety, tailored to your specific needs. By working with a counsellor, you can gain control over your anxiety and improve your mental health. 

Whether it’s through CBT, exposure therapy, or talking therapies, counselling provides the tools and support needed to navigate your anxiety and lead a more fulfilling life. Understanding the types of anxiety disorders and how they can be managed through therapy is crucial in overcoming anxiety.

If you’re struggling with anxiety, consider exploring counselling services. Taking the first step towards seeking help can make a significant difference in managing your anxiety and enhancing your quality of life.

Buick Hamblin is an experienced counsellor and psychotherapist with over 20 years in the field. Specialising in person-centred therapy and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), she offers compassionate, non-judgmental support to clients dealing with a range of issues, including depression and relationship problems. Accredited by the BACP since 2007, Buick provides flexible counselling options both in Grantham, UK and online.

Accessing Therapy And Our Groundbreaking Mission: by 24hr Therapy

(image: 24 hr therapy)

At 24hr Therapy, we are driven by a simple yet profound belief: accessing therapy should be as natural and straightforward as getting a coffee. Our mission is to remove the stigma that surrounds mental health issues and foster a culture where mental well-being is openly discussed and prioritised. For too long, mental health has been shrouded in misunderstanding and fear, preventing many from seeking the help they need. We aim to change this by making mental health care more approachable, accessible, and integrated into daily life.

Imagine a world where scheduling a therapy session is as routine as meeting a friend for coffee. This is the future we envision—a society where mental health care is seamlessly woven into the fabric of daily life. Leveraging technology and innovative approaches, we provide 24-hour access to professional support, making it easier for people to get the help they need, whenever they need it.

Unlike traditional therapy, which often requires waiting days or even weeks for an appointment, our platform offers immediate support with a pay-per-minute model, giving users complete control over their spending and making high-quality mental health care both accessible and affordable.

Our platform is the first of its kind, offering therapy to users the very same day they sign up. Available anytime, anywhere, 24 hours a day, we connect users with a qualified therapist within minutes.

This immediate access is crucial, especially considering that nearly two-thirds of people surveyed in the UK (64%) put on a brave face to avoid talking about their mental health. We understand firsthand the importance of immediate support, and our mission is to ensure that everyone has access to the care they need, exactly when they need it.

We are dedicated to improving well-being with personalised, immediate assistance. Our diverse network of certified counsellors and therapists is equipped to assist with a range of mental health concerns, whether managing a diagnosed condition or navigating everyday stressors. By empowering individuals to prioritise their mental well-being, we are reshaping the narrative around mental health and fostering a culture of understanding, compassion, and accessibility.

We have an innovative approach to mental health care and are UK based. Together, we can redefine how we think about mental health and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Take a look at https://www.24hrtherapy.co.uk/

Non sponsored post.

Tap Your Worries Away – How EFT Therapy (Emotional Freedom Technique) Changed My Life by Dominika Kalinowska

(image: Jared Rice, Unsplash)

I’m Dominika Kalinowska, and I’ve been battling anxiety for a good chunk of my life, especially during my university days in the UK. Little did I know, anxiety would become my constant companion.

It started with those occasional anxious moments in my younger years, but once university hit, it ramped up. I was juggling studies, part-time work, and adapting to a new country. Stress became my middle name, and it took a toll on both my mind and body.

I tried all the usual stuff—meditation, yoga, positive affirmations—but nothing seemed to stick. My body rebelled with heart palpitations, vertigo, and all sorts of nasty symptoms. I withdrew from social life, fearing the physical fallout of pushing myself too hard.

But here’s the thing: once I stopped fighting my anxiety and accepted it for what it was, things started to change. I stumbled upon something called EFT therapy, or tapping therapy. It’s this great practice where you tap on specific points of your body while talking about how you feel.

I know, it sounds a bit out there, but trust me, it works. With each tap, I felt a little lighter, a little freer. It was like I was finally giving myself permission to feel my emotions without judgment. And that made all the difference.

So, what exactly is EFT therapy? Well, it’s a blend of ancient Chinese acupressure and modern psychology. Sounds fancy, right? But it’s actually pretty simple. With EFT, you tap on specific meridian points on your body while focusing on the issue you want to address.

Here’s how it typically goes down: you identify a problem—whether it’s anxiety, stress, pain, or anything else that’s bothering you—and then you start tapping. As you tap, you also say out loud how you’re feeling and what you’d like to feel instead.

It’s like giving yourself permission to acknowledge your emotions and then letting them go. And let me tell you, it’s incredibly freeing. I first heard about EFT therapy during my search for healing anxiety. Traditional methods weren’t cutting it for me, so I figured, why not give tapping a try? And boy, am I glad I did. With each tap, I felt a little lighter, a little more in control of my emotions.

But here’s the thing: EFT therapy isn’t just about tapping away your troubles. It’s also about reprogramming your brain. By combining tapping with positive affirmations, you’re essentially rewiring your brain to think more positively.

And the best part? You can do it anytime, anywhere. No fancy equipment or expensive therapy sessions required. All you need is your hands and a willingness to give it a shot.

I’m not saying EFT therapy is a magic cure-all. It’s just one tool in the toolbox for managing your emotions. But for many—including myself—it’s been a lifesaver.

Now, as a psychologist and hypnotherapist, I’m all about spreading the word on EFT therapy. And if it worked for me, it can work for you too.

So, if anxieties got you in its grip, don’t be afraid to reach out for help. Whether it’s therapy, meditation, or a good old-fashioned chat with a friend, there’s support out there. You’re not alone in this journey, and there’s no shame in asking for a helping hand.

With love,

Dominika  

Dominika Kalinowska is a psychologist, psychotherapist and hypnotherapist who has benefited personally from EFT therapy.

5 Benefits of Existential Therapy by Lizzie Weakley.

(image: Austin Chan, Unsplash)

It’s not uncommon for individuals to feel lost, overwhelmed, or dissatisfied with their lives. You may struggle to find meaning and purpose, leading to a sense of unease and frustration. This is where existential therapy comes in. Existential therapy is a type of therapy that focuses on helping individuals confront and come to terms with the existential challenges of living. It can be a powerful tool for those seeking meaning and purpose in their lives. This blog post will explore 5 benefits of existential therapy.

Increased Self-Awareness

One of the key benefits of existential therapy is increased self-awareness. This helps individuals understand themselves on a deeper level. The therapy sessions provide a safe and supportive environment where people can explore their innermost thoughts and feelings. By gaining a better understanding of themselves, individuals are often able to make more informed choices and live more fulfilling lives.

Improved Coping Skills

Existential therapy also helps individuals develop better coping skills. The therapy sessions often involve exploring the challenges of living, such as the inevitability of death and the search for meaning and purpose. Through this exploration, individuals are able to develop better coping skills and strategies for dealing with the existential challenges of life. This counselling can lead to increased resilience and the ability to handle difficult situations with greater ease.

Greater Sense of Purpose

Another benefit of existential therapy is the development of a greater sense of purpose. Through the therapy sessions, individuals are encouraged to confront the big questions of life, such as “Who am I?” and “What is my purpose?” This exploration can be uncomfortable at times, but it can also be incredibly rewarding. By developing a greater sense of purpose, individuals often find that they are more motivated and fulfilled in their daily lives.

Improved Relationships

Existential therapy can also help individuals improve their relationships. By gaining a deeper understanding of themselves, individuals are often able to relate to others in a more meaningful way. By focusing on the existential challenges of living, such as the search for meaning and purpose, individuals are able to connect with others on a deeper, more authentic level. This can result in more fulfilling and meaningful relationships.

Increased Creativity

Finally, existential therapy can lead to increased creativity. By exploring the existential challenges of living, individuals are often inspired to think outside the box and express themselves in new and unique ways. This can lead to increased creativity and a sense of joy and fulfillment.

Overall, existential therapy can be a powerful tool for those seeking meaning and purpose in their lives. This therapy can lead to increased self-awareness, improved coping skills, a greater sense of purpose, improved relationships, and increased creativity. If you are struggling to find meaning and purpose in your life, consider exploring existential therapy as a way to move forward. Remember, you are not alone in your search for answers, and existential therapy can help you along the way.

This article was written by freelance writer Lizzie Weakley.

10 Tips For Supporting A Loved One Struggling with Alcohol Dependence by Elizabeth Howard.

(image: Alvin Mahmudov: Unsplash)

Alcohol dependence is an addiction that has a significant effect on the person who is struggling with it, as well as their loved ones. While it might be difficult, aiding someone through their recovery process is essential to assist them in kicking their alcohol addiction. These are some insightful suggestions for offering a loved one struggling with alcohol dependence genuine support.

Understanding the Nature of Alcoholism

Understanding the nature of alcohol dependence is crucial for providing appropriate support to a loved one who is struggling with the addiction. Physical and psychological dependence are both aspects of the complicated illness. . Knowing the nuances of this lays the groundwork for providing knowledgeable and empathetic support.

Foster Open Communication

Encourage your loved one to communicate honestly and openly. Establish a secure environment where people can freely express their ideas and experiences without worrying about being judged. They can communicate their emotions to you in a non-judgmental setting, which helps to develop trust and reinforce your bond. This candid conversation is essential to comprehending their viewpoint and offering useful assistance.

Educate Yourself About Alcohol Addiction

When it comes to assisting someone who is battling alcohol dependence, knowledge is a powerful tool. Spend some time educating yourself on the various facets, including its causes, effects, and the available treatment options. If you are well-informed, you will be able to provide support that is more meaningful to the individual and will become an invaluable resource for them on their path to recovery.

Encourage Professional Help

Encouraging your loved one to seek professional aid is just as vital as providing emotional support. They will have access to professional help that is designed to meet their unique requirements if you suggest therapy or counselling to them. They can also use free alcohol addiction helplines to connect them with experienced specialists who can offer urgent support and guidance at any time.

Set Boundaries

Being your loved one’s supporter means looking after yourself too. Set up healthy, defined boundaries for your own emotional and physical wellbeing. Maintain your composure while asserting these limits and be sure to explain that you are doing it to maintain a healthy and supportive connection between you and the other person. By establishing boundaries, you foster a more positive dynamic.

Attend Support Groups Together

Investigate the option of joining support groups together as a group. Friends and family members whose lives have been impacted by the addiction of a friend or loved one might find a supportive community in these groups. It can be really encouraging to talk to other people who have gone through similar experiences, and it can provide useful insight into different ways of dealing with difficult situations.

Practice Patience and Empathy

Alcohol dependence recovery is a progressive process that calls for both tolerance and compassion. Recognise that setbacks and relapses are possible and that this is a journey. Adopt a compassionate stance in these instances instead of passing judgement, stressing the significance of carrying out the healing process. Your constant support through thick and thin can play a big part in their eventual success, however not everyone is the same.

Encourage Healthy Lifestyle Changes

Encourage healthy behaviours to help in the healing process. Inspire people to engage in regular physical activity, maintain a healthy diet, and get enough sleep. Not only does engaging in healthy behaviours contribute to one’s physical well-being, but it also helps in the improvement of one’s mood and the reduction of stress.

Celebrate Milestones

Maintaining motivation throughout the process requires acknowledging and celebrating victories at every stage of the healing process, regardless of how minor they can appear. Positive reinforcement can be provided by acknowledging accomplishments along the path to recovery, such as abstaining from alcohol for a short time, finishing a counselling session, or achieving a particular objective. By celebrating together-achieved milestones, you can improve your connection with one another and emphasise the significance of their efforts.

Be a Source of Consistent Support

When helping a loved one through alcohol dependency, consistency is the most important thing you can do. Maintain a persistent commitment to the welfare of the people you care about to establish yourself as a dependable source of assistance. They may report feeling more confident and secure in their ability to heal because of this unwavering support, which helps establish trust and confidence. Keep in mind that the steadfast dedication you show toward helping them can be a big factor in their recovery.

Understanding, empathy, and encouragement are necessary while helping a loved one who is battling alcohol dependency. You can help them heal a great deal by being involved in their path, remaining informed, and encouraging good adjustments. Consider calling a helpline for professional advice and support if you or someone you know needs help right away.

This blog was written by Elizabeth Howard.

4th Book Anniversary: Bring me to Light, My Memoir On Living With Bipolar And Anxiety.

(image: Trigger Publishing)

Four years ago today, my book ‘Bring me to Light: Embracing my Bipolar and Social Anxiety’ was released to the world, in partnership with Trigger Publishing.

I wrote it to explain how I turned the darkness that bipolar episodes can bring, into light. And so people reading feel less alone, so stigma can fall. So important to talk about our illnesses once we are better, so that it isn’t so hard to understand.

Living with severe mental illness like bipolar psychosis. mania or suicidal depressions can be very challenging. However, they do not have to be your entire life. For me, medication and therapy over time have helped me. Its different for everyone.

If you would like to read my story or gift it to a friend to help them, please see Amazon or other well known bookshops.

And remember- we are never truly alone although being ill can feel unbearable- hold on to hope if you can:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Bring-Me-Light…/dp/1789560365

To happiness and good health,

Eleanor

Road to Recovery: 5 Ways To Combat Addiction by Lauren Perry.

(image: free image)

Addiction is a multifaceted problem that can impact individuals from all walks of life, irrespective of their age, gender, or background. Whether it’s substance abuse, alcohol addiction, or behavioural disorders, seeking help is the first step to recovery. In this article, we will explore five ways to combat addiction and pave the way to a healthier, addiction-free life. Whether you’re personally grappling with addiction or you’re supporting someone on their path to recovery, these insights will provide valuable guidance for understanding and combating addiction effectively.

Seek Professional Help

The journey to recovery from addiction frequently commences with the essential step of seeking professional help. Therapists, counsellors, and healthcare providers play pivotal roles in guiding individuals toward a healthier, addiction-free life. For those dealing with co-occurring mental health and substance abuse disorders, specialised treatment centers, known as dual-diagnosis treatment centers, offer a higher level of care and a tailored approach to recovery. These centers are equipped to assess and address the root causes of addiction, including the often complex interplay of underlying mental health issues.

Build a Support System

In the journey of addiction recovery, building a robust support system is an invaluable asset. Building a support system involves connecting with loved ones and friends or engaging in support communities, like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA). The path to recovery is undeniably challenging, and having a network of individuals who understand and care can make a significant difference.

Sharing experiences and challenges with others who have faced similar struggles can provide a unique bond and a sense of belonging, reducing feelings of isolation and alienation that often accompany addiction. This shared journey toward recovery cultivates a sense of hope and resilience, proving to individuals that they are not alone in their pursuit of a healthier, addiction-free life.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)

Behavioral therapy (CBT) is a known and highly effective method used in addiction treatment. CBT zeroes in on identifying and transforming negative thought patterns and behaviors intricately linked to addiction. Through collaboration with a therapist, people gain the ability to explore the seated origins of their addiction, which are frequently connected to past events or instances of trauma.

This profound self-reflection is a crucial initial step toward recovery. CBT equips individuals with the tools to challenge and modify self-destructive habits and beliefs, empowering them to break free from the cycle of addiction and pursue a life of lasting sobriety. CBT is not merely a therapeutic intervention; it’s a transformative journey that enables individuals to regain control over their lives, nurturing emotional resilience and self-awareness as they navigate the path to recovery.

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)

Medication-assisted therapy (MAT) contributes to aiding individuals in their quest to conquer addiction. This comprehensive strategy combines counselling and behavioural therapies with specific medications designed to reduce cravings and alleviate withdrawal symptoms. Substances like methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone can be prescribed as part of MAT, tailored to an individual’s unique needs. MAT is a significant aid in addressing the physical aspects of addiction, facilitating a more comfortable and effective journey toward recovery. By helping to manage the intense cravings and symptoms of withdrawal, MAT can make the process more manageable and increase the chances of successful, long-term recovery.

Lifestyle Changes and Self-Care

In the pursuit of addiction recovery, the role of lifestyle changes and self-care cannot be overstated. A healthy lifestyle is a cornerstone for maintaining lasting recovery. Incorporating regular physical activity, adopting a balanced diet, and ensuring adequate sleep are fundamental steps in restoring both physical and emotional well-being. These changes not only promote physical health but also contribute to emotional stability, fostering a more robust foundation for recovery. Additionally, self-care practices such as mindfulness meditation, yoga, and stress management techniques play an instrumental role in reducing the risk of relapse.

By nurturing mental and emotional resilience, individuals can better cope with the challenges they may encounter on their journey toward a healthier, addiction-free life. These practices instill the necessary tools to manage stress, anxiety, and other emotional triggers, ultimately enhancing an individual’s ability to make healthy choices and maintain a life free from addiction.

Conclusion

Overcoming addiction is a demanding yet crucial path for individuals battling it and their families. Seeking professional help, building a support system, engaging in therapies like CBT, considering medication-assisted treatment, and adopting a healthy lifestyle can significantly improve the chances of recovery. It’s important to remember that addiction is a treatable condition, and with the right strategies and support, a fulfilling, addiction-free life is achievable.

This article was written by Lauren Perry.

Bipolar UK- Suicide Prevention Webinar Video.

Please watch with care.

It was an honour to record this alongside Bipolar UK CEO Simon Kitchen and expert police officer Ashley Brice, who helps people who are suicidal.

On average, 1 person a day every day with bipolar dies by suicide.

If you watch this, I hope you find it informative and helpful.

Eleanor x