Coping with Pain in Recovery

Hey there,

Recovery’s a tough road, and dealing with pain along the way? That’s even tougher. When you’re hurting, every fiber of your being wants to go back to those old habits because that was your go-to for so long. But deep down, you know that’s not the way forward.

It’s normal to feel this way, and honestly, it’s a big part of the recovery journey. Here’s what’s helped me and many of us stay on track:

Acknowledge What You’re Feeling: First off, it’s okay to admit you’re in pain. Ignoring it won’t make it disappear. Facing it head-on is step one.

Your Support Crew is Key: Talking things out with friends, family, or your support group can make a huge difference. It’s not about carrying the weight alone but letting those who care help lighten the load.

Mindfulness: It’s about staying in the moment and not letting the pain from the past or worry about the future take over. Simple breathing exercises or meditation can help center your thoughts.

Keep Up with Therapy: If you’re working with a therapist or counselor, keep them in the loop. They’re there to help you get through it.

Find What Makes You Tick: Whether it’s painting, running, or playing music, having an outlet where you can channel your energy positively is crucial.

Dealing with pain without falling back on old habits is tough but totally doable. It’s about finding new, healthy ways to cope. And remember, it’s perfectly fine to reach out for help when things get too heavy.

You’re not on this journey alone. We’re all here, rooting for you every step of the way.

Best,

Ben Randolph

503-901-1836