Supporting a loved one through substance abuse recovery or therapy for a mental health disorder is no easy feat. It can be just as difficult for you as it is for the individual struggling, which is why it is as equally important for you to practice self-love and self-care. Without it, the relationship can become resentful and/or co-dependent.
While it is important to remain a support system in your loved one's journey to health and happiness, it shouldn’t consume who you are and the things you love. This usually means recognizing when you need to take a step back, setting clear boundaries, and allowing your loved one to gain some independence with respect to their own care. Remember, you are their support system, but you are not responsible for them at all times.
Here are some things you can do to remain grounded, in control of your own life, and focused on your health and happiness just as much as theirs:
Maintain an active lifestyle. Whether you love your Zumba class, doing yoga in the park with your dog, or taking a bike ride along the shore with the sunrise, keep doing them. Don’t stop for fear of your loved one needing you.
Find a hobby and dedicate an hour per day to it. Do you love to knit or craft? Find something you love doing outside of work and your regular responsibilities and just do something for you–something that brings you peace or comfort.
You should go to therapy, too. Believe it or not, everybody on this planet can benefit from some form of therapy. As a person who has dedicated themselves as a support person to their loved one’s recovery, it is just as important to prioritize your own mental health. At AFHS, we prioritize you as well.
Contact us to learn more about our Family Support Group: https://www.afhsnj.org/contact-us
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