Mastering Emotional Sobriety: Leigh Belcher's Guide to Recovery
I think emotional sobriety is really being able to take off the water wings in recovery and know that, even though you might be treading water and even though emotions may come and they may be overwhelming, you're still okay and you're not going to drown with them, or, in other words, you're not going to relapse.
Ever wondered how to handle emotions without turning to substances? In this episode of the Bradford Alumni Podcast, Leigh Belcher from A Reprieve for Women sits down with host Mackenzie Dyer to talk about emotional sobriety and its pivotal role in addiction recovery. Leigh breaks down what emotional sobriety really means – it's about managing both the highs and lows in a healthy way.
Early in recovery, people often avoid their feelings, but emotional sobriety teaches them to face and process these emotions head-on. Imagine learning to swim without water wings; that's how Leigh describes gaining confidence in dealing with emotions without relying on substances. The discussion moves on to how the steps in recovery provide a roadmap for handling emotional hurdles. Leigh highlights the importance of taking stock of one's feelings and making amends where needed.
She also stresses that everyone's journey is unique, so personalized plans are crucial. Trauma-informed therapy is another key element Leigh touches on. Past traumas can make emotional regulation difficult, but with the right therapy, individuals can heal and find balance. By the end of the episode, you'll have a deeper understanding of why emotional sobriety is essential and how it can boost your confidence in navigating recovery.
Tune in to hear Leigh's insights and learn how to embrace your emotions in a healthier way.