4 ms·
I think the identity of "recovering alcoholic" is quite harmful. One of the things we've learned is that success with behavior changes happen when you normaliz
by vorpalhex 5y ago
I think the identity of "recovering alcoholic" is quite harmful.
One of the things we've learned is that success with behavior changes happen when you normalize them. If someone is a "survivor of X" as their identity, X is still kind of controlling them. They are still defined in relation to that X. They are "James the rape survivor" and not "James the talented craftsman".
- rchaud 5y agoThere's a very good reason that the term "I'm in recovery" is commonly said by people with substance issues. Relapse is just around the corner, and most people don't know what will bring it on. It has happened to men and women stronger than you or me. Saying "I'm in recovery" is a way to remind yourself of that, and learn to be OK with taking things a day at a time. If a relapse happens, it's not the end. You're still taking it a day at a time, and tomorrow you'll make a plan to call your accountability partner, or structure your day to avoid those triggers. Telling yourself "I'm recovered" makes the relapse much more damaging.