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Recovery is a Skill

    Recovery is a skill. It is the practice of exercising our self-care routines and participating in supportive environments such as therapy, treatment programs and other wellness-oriented rituals like church. It is a lifestyle of intentional habits geared towards maintaining a healthier wellbeing. Consistently, striving to cope and control symptoms to maintain personal wellbeing. 

    How can an individual get on the recovery track? In my experience it requires different supports including family, community, and those hand-picked choices to be a part of your network. Also, being mindful of my needs.

    My recovery requires constant self-analysis no matter how small or subtle. For me this self-awareness examines my sleeping habits or need for more sleep and recognizes the changes contributing to the shifts. Always mindful of whether I skipped a dose or not to explain changes. For example, lately, I've missed my doses of the mood stabilizer. I find myself more sluggish and requiring more rest. I acknowledge the medication adjustment and have a better understanding of the effects it has on my body. My self-evaluations are always in progress. I'm conscious of my environments, triggers, and needs. 

    The ideal system to sharpen one's recovery skills is to be around like-minded individuals in this wellness training. Together we create a solid unit that is a silent force that monitors and offers aids to support itself. A friend reached out to me last night. We talk often, our check-ins help us stay focused on our responsibilities and self-care. I encourage the newly diagnosed to get involved in a program or support group among people who have been in recovery for a longer time. That way we can strengthen each other.

    There are several ways to exercise our recovery skills. A lot of this involves relaxation techniques and habits that are uplifting. Examples might include volunteering, gardening, and organizing projects that will boost self-confidence.

    Recovery is more than taking a pill, visiting the doctor, or participating in counseling. It is the distinct charge to take ownership of oneself and stay the wellness course. 

    How are you sharpening your wellness skills?


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