This is a long post, but I feel like I owe everyone an update.
First and foremost; I’m ok.
I have been having a difficult time for a while and wanted to keep quiet about it because I thought I could do it on my own, but I finally broke. It was hard to admit to myself that I needed more help, but I did finally get the courage to reach out and get the help I need. I’m currently in an intensive outpatient program at an addiction hospital, I have been receiving extensive therapy, and working hard to get through my issues. I’m incredibly thankful I got into a place I actually like and feel cared about. I feel like the program is really working for me, it’s only been a few weeks, and I already feel so much better. I feel like I’m learning a lot about myself and gaining helpful coping mechanisms. I have had a few “incidents,” but I got through them. A lot is changing for me, and I feel so much happier, even my friends and family say that I seem so much better since entering treatment and that makes me feel so good. I’ll be in the program for a few more months at least and can’t wait to see how far I can progress.
I’m also making a lot of healthy lifestyle changes. I’ve been going swimming, working out in the fitness center, doing yoga, meditating, creating and sticking to a daily schedule, practicing gratitude, journaling, and more. I want to live an all-around healthy and happy life and these things are really helping me.
I can’t thank my friends and family enough for their support through this challenging time and dealing with the ups and downs I’ve been through. Even if all you could do was send me some positive words, thank you. Your kind words helped motivate me to get help, and I honestly believe if I hadn’t reached out I might not be here right now. So thank you so much.
I’m writing this partly as an update for those who were concerned about me, but also because I was inspired by some people I’m close to. Recently a few people who I’m close with have admitted their struggles to me and asked me about treatment. Two of them told me I should be more open about what I’ve been through because someone might feel more comfortable reaching out to someone who’s been through a similar situation and I could really help somebody.
So if you’re struggling with something, consider me your designated non-judgemental crazy friend. I’ve been in almost every kind of treatment program out there for a variety of different reasons, I’ve been through so much and seen so much you would be hard-pressed to shock me or scare me off. Even if you don’t know me that well, don’t be scared to talk to me. I care.
Once again, thank you so much to everyone who’s been so supportive. I know I can get better. I will get better. It’s just going to take a lot of work, and I’m finally ready to do it.
