In the early
years of living with bipolar disorder I had the experience of being
hospitalized twice on Christmas Day. On one of these particular days I was
given a day pass to come home to spend the holiday with my parents. This was
particularly difficult (and even more so for my Mom and Dad, I suspect).
This same
scenario has been played out countless times over the years for many individuals.
The simple act of going home for the day only to have to return to the hospital
can be demoralizing. In many cases, those who are in an inpatient program don’t
have the supports available to help them get a coveted day pass. For others,
their condition is so severe that getting out for the day wouldn’t be advisable
due to their lack of stability.
Regardless, the
holiday season is difficult for many people who live with a mental health
condition. The feelings of isolation and disconnection make an already hard
time of year even harder.
And then there
are those who live with substance use disorders. The family gatherings that
often times are alcohol-focused can be tremendously hard for the person in
recovery who is trying to remain abstinent. And with so many living with
co-occurring disorders, it’s like the classic “double whammy” that makes this
time of year one of the hardest to manage. Finding others who are supportive is
crucial in getting through these days.
For me, over
time as I progressed in my recovery, things got better. Once I got clean and
stopped using, I experienced a newfound freedom; one that I had never
previously had. This didn’t happen overnight, but as time passed things
improved. Being released from the bondage of drug and alcohol use that kept me
incapacitated for so many years was an incredible gift.
In my personal
recovery journey, I attribute this freedom to several things. First, a sincere
belief in a Power greater than myself. Second, family and friends who have been
supportive in so many ways. And finally, a degree of persistence and
perseverance that has created in me an indomitable spirit that has proven to
help me overcome so many adverse situations in my life that would have
otherwise broken my spirit.
The main thing
that I have come to realize is that recovery is a process that has taken both
time and hard work. Yes, I believe in miracles and I consider the life that I
and so many others in recovery have is nothing short of a gift from God. And
yes, trust me, I have been the beneficiary of God’s grace, in more ways than I
can count. But as I say in my mantram, “RECOVERY IS POSSIBLE!”
If you find
yourself in a difficult place this year, know that there is a Presence that
loves you. Unfortunately, our society places so much value on the holiday season.
And yes, there is the belief that it should be a happy time for everyone. But true
happiness comes from within. With this understanding, you can realize that you
are never truly alone.
However, if you
know someone who finds themselves without anyone to spend the holiday, let them
know that you care. Whether it be a visit or even a phone call, reaching out
can make a difference. This is a gift that cannot be wrapped in a bow and
paper. It is the gift of love. This is what the Christmas season is about. God’s
love becoming manifest in a baby that would transform the world. And by
following his example, we can make the world a less lonely place.
Wishing you
hope, peace, joy and love in this wondrous season.
Be well!