Isolation

Tis the season that brings unwanted isolation to people in and out of recovery. Many of our clients and referred patients from care providers seem to struggle with isolation. It is important for self to be able to recognize isolation behaviors, before they get out of control. Remember isolation behavior starts as a thought. Self can control the thought if aware of the pattern. When you become less interested in things that you normally do on your daily routine can be a warning sign. Slowly you may begin to sleep longer throughout the day and stop doing your daily hygiene is another early sign that isolation behavior is lingering. Self begins to break off all communication with others. Family is usually first, followed by friends, and then peers. Self stops going to meetings, and all other mental health appointments. Your daily routine becomes more of a isolation routine. Being by yourself is not healthy during this time of the year. Reach out when you begin to feel any of these warning signs, do not let yourself get back into this unhealthy cycle. Relapse is right around the corner when self is stuck isolating. Remember, it's ok to have a urge or craving, but it's how much energy you are going to put into that urge or craving. Let it go, it's just a thought. Isolating behavior will only make things worse, learn to recognize the warning signs and talk about it. If you keep to your healthy routine, isolation behavior is cut off. Use your common sense, be active, and willing to work through the behavior. Stay in your health, stay in the moment.