There are many layers to healing. Often, substance use disorder is the tip of the iceberg-especially if you experienced complex Childhood Trauma. I grew up with a parent who struggled with mental health issues and substance use disorder. For me, that meant my survial was lile my job. Every day. There were layers of consequences I endured as a result of her choices. It means that as I grew into an adult, I had a lot of area to cover. I needed to heal. I needed to admit that I needed to change and focus on inner-work.
I also needed to let go of the shame that came along with that.
Why was it so embarrassing for me to say, hey look. I have had a really rough life. One that is not healthy, common, or ideal.
And it wasn’t my fault.
But it is my duty to start healing from it. I needed to start the process for myself, and for the future of my family.
I wanted to.
So if you are in the midst of the chaos that post trauma induces- Just remember that we all start somewhere and we can’t heal it all at once.
And it’s okay if it takes time. That’s a normal part of healing. Because it’s a process.
It takes a long time to unlearn and relearn.
So be proud of yourself if you have chosen to take the first step of this journey.
And know that you are not alone!