Depression and Sobriety: Navigating the Emotional Maze
When you admit it and you talk about it, then you can actually get into the solution, which is not what I did. And I learned a very big lesson about the importance of really validating my feelings, even if there was someone else out there suffering more than I was, or someone more depressed, or with a better reason to be depressed, or whatever, because it was really uncomfortable to have to deal with that at Years sober.
What happens when the weight of depression starts to pull you back into old habits? In this thought-provoking episode of 'The Courage to Change: A Recovery Podcast,' host Ashley Loeb Blassingame takes on a listener's heartfelt question: 'Depression is threatening my sobriety.' With 16 years of sobriety and a wealth of experience as a drug and alcohol counselor, Ashley offers a compassionate and insightful discussion on this delicate topic.
Ashley doesn't just share her professional expertise; she opens up about her personal battles with depression. She emphasizes the importance of validating your feelings, even when they seem overwhelming or unjustified. According to Ashley, acknowledging these emotions is the first step toward finding a solution and maintaining sobriety. This episode dives deep into why it's crucial to talk about your feelings and seek support, whether through therapy or trusted friends.
Ashley underscores that admitting your struggles isn't a sign of weakness but a courageous step towards healing. Therapy, she notes, can be an invaluable tool in organizing your thoughts and shedding the burdens that hinder your progress. If you're grappling with depression while trying to stay sober, this episode offers a beacon of hope and practical advice. Ashley's blend of personal anecdotes and professional guidance makes for an engaging and relatable listen.
Tune in to discover how validating your feelings can be a powerful act of self-care on your journey to recovery.