Getting Past the Shame

One of the biggest hurdles to recovery is not just the question, “Can I do this” but “Am I worth it?” Addiction often leads people down a very dark path, and actions along the way lead to guilt and shame. Shame can be a very toxic emotion that has a strong relationship with addiction. But what really lies at the heart of shame is vulnerability. And for a long time, it has been seen as something bad, something to fear.

The overall message  in a post from Dr. Brene Brown — taken from the TED talk, A Hangover Free Life — is that vulnerability is not a weakness, it’s an act of courage. Dr. Brown has been studying vulnerability for more than a decade and often speaks on the subject. The courage to be vulnerable, take risks and allowing yourself to open up with others is the key to move you to the next chapter of your life. One of the best, courageous, and healing things people in recovery do is talking in groups and meetings about their past, their problems, and their fears. By opening up to others, you are often rewarded with not only compassion and understanding, but also the realization that other people are going through the exact same thing that you are. Being collectively brave makes everyone stronger. And strength will keep you on the path to a sober life.

So, we encourage you to take the time to listen to her talk and think about the areas of your life that could be improved by accessing the strength that comes through vulnerability.