Mental Health
Overcoming the Challenges of Co-occurring Disorders in Addiction Recovery: My Perspective
Hello, fellow Recovered Life community members! I’m Michelle Rowley, and I recently had the privilege of appearing on The Recovered Life Show to discuss my personal journey in overcoming the challenges of co-occurring disorders in addiction recovery. In this article, I will recap the main points from my interview and offer practical advice based on my experience to help others on their path to recovery.
Understanding Co-occurring Disorders: My Personal Dual Diagnosis
During my appearance on The Recovered Life Show, I discussed my struggles with co-occurring disorders, which involved simultaneously grappling with a mental health issue and a substance use disorder. I shared my experiences to highlight the complexities of dual diagnoses and to emphasize the importance of addressing both disorders for a successful and lasting recovery.
Seeking Professional Help: A Turning Point in My Journey
As I navigated the challenges of co-occurring disorders, I realized the importance of seeking help from experienced mental health and addiction professionals. I shared on the show how turning to experts and receiving personalized guidance and support throughout my recovery process significantly impacted my overall progress and wellbeing.
A Holistic Approach to Recovery: My Integrated Path to Wellness
Throughout my interview on The Recovered Life Show, I emphasized the importance of embracing a holistic approach to recovery. By incorporating evidence-based therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), alongside complementary practices like meditation, yoga, and mindfulness, I was able to address not only my physical needs but also my mental and emotional wellbeing.
Building a Robust Support Network: The Importance of Connection
I also shared how connecting with friends, family members, and other individuals in recovery played a crucial role in overcoming my co-occurring disorders. Building a strong support network gave me understanding, empathy, and motivation to continue my recovery journey, even during challenging times.
The Power of Self-care: Nurturing My Body, Mind, and Soul
During my appearance on The Recovered Life Show, I emphasized the importance of self-care in overcoming co-occurring disorders. I shared how prioritizing activities that nourish my body, mind, and soul, such as exercise, proper nutrition, engaging in hobbies, and taking time for myself, contributed significantly to my overall well-being and recovery outcomes.
Personal Advice for Those Struggling with Co-occurring Disorders
If you find yourself battling co-occurring disorders, remember that you are not alone, and recovery is possible. Be patient with yourself, take each day as it comes, and surround yourself with supportive people. Most importantly, do not hesitate to seek professional help; it is a vital step toward lasting recovery.
Conclusion: Overcoming Co-occurring Disorders and Embracing a Recovered Life
In conclusion, my experience on The Recovered Life Show allowed me to share my journey in overcoming co-occurring disorders in addiction recovery. By understanding the complexities of dual diagnoses, seeking professional help, and embracing a holistic recovery plan, I have been able to conquer these obstacles and achieve a fulfilling, recovered life. I hope that by sharing my story, I can inspire and encourage others facing similar challenges to believe in their ability to overcome co-occurring disorders and reclaim their well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions: Insights from My Recovered Life Show Appearance
During my appearance on The Recovered Life Show, I had the opportunity to answer questions and share insights related to co-occurring disorders. Below are some of the most frequently asked questions and my responses, which I hope will help others on their journey to recovery.
Q: How did you first recognize that you were dealing with co-occurring disorders?
A: For me, recognizing that I was dealing with co-occurring disorders involved a combination of self-awareness and professional guidance. I noticed patterns of substance use that seemed to be connected to my mental health struggles, and upon seeking professional help, the dual diagnosis was confirmed.
Q: What types of professionals did you work with during your recovery process?
A: Throughout my recovery journey, I worked with various professionals, including addiction specialists, mental health counselors, and therapists who were experienced in treating co-occurring disorders. This multidisciplinary team played a vital role in developing and implementing a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to my unique needs.
Q: How can loved ones support someone dealing with co-occurring disorders?
A: Loved ones can support someone dealing with co-occurring disorders by educating themselves about the complexities of dual diagnoses, offering emotional support and understanding, and encouraging their loved one to seek professional help. Additionally, they can participate in family therapy sessions or attend support groups for friends and family members of individuals in recovery.
Q: What were some of your most significant challenges during your recovery journey?
A: Some of the most significant challenges I faced during my recovery journey included managing the symptoms of both my mental health disorder and substance use disorder, finding the right balance of therapies and treatments, and maintaining motivation and hope even during difficult times.
Q: What advice would you give to someone who has just been diagnosed with co-occurring disorders?
A: If you have just been diagnosed with co-occurring disorders, remember that recovery is possible and that you are not alone in this journey. Seek professional help, build a strong support network, and be patient with yourself as you work towards recovery. Embrace a holistic approach to healing that addresses your physical, mental, and emotional needs, and prioritize self-care as a vital component of your recovery process.
Michelle Rowley is a Substance Use Peer Recovery Specialist, Mental Health Peer Support Specialist, and Co-Occurring Disorders Advocate. She is a person in long-term recovery from alcohol addiction, bipolar II disorder, ADHD, PTSD, and dyslexia. Michelle coaches others with co-occurring disorders by utilizing her personal experience in co-occurring recovery and peer specialist tools. She helps individuals identify their recovery capital and build upon the investment they are making. In 2018, she completed a nationally accredited Peer Recovery Specialist training and mental health peer specialist training through the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) in 2021. She created the Co-Occurring Disorders Club online in 2021, which now has 1.2k members, and is bringing that successful program to Recovered Life. Michelle is passionate about raising awareness and advocating for others who have co-occurring disorders and is involved in various committees and teams related to mental health and drug prevention in her community.
