The Reality of Addiction and the Victim Mentality
Embrace Your Role as Captain in Recovery
In a recent call with a client, we chatted about his aftercare plan and daily disciplines. We discussed how SUPER IMPORTANT it is to adopt the mindset that everything in his life is his responsibility!
After over 30 days in inpatient treatment, it’s now time to execute in every area of life. It can be hard in new skin and recently through the fog of addiction. AND THERE ARE A LOT OF MOVING PARTS!
Looking back, he shared that he now realizes that during his addiction, he often felt like a victim. This hit home for me because I've been through something similar so -ZERO judgment over here... now or ever.
At Holding Doors, we take a very hands-on approach. In our 1-on-1 aftercare plans, we talk to our clients every day. We do a lot of work behind the scenes to make things easier for them, helping them be active and productive, and live the life they desire. We keep this up for 90 days to make sure our clients can take back control of their lives.
Leaving the Victim Mentality Behind
A key component of successful aftercare is leaving the victim mentality at the treatment center TOO.
Addiction can make people feel like victims like they don’t have any control and that everything bad happening is someone else's fault. Feeling this way is a common part of dealing with addiction. It's a symptom!!!!
... BUT holding onto this mentality can hinder recovery and your aftercare success. Those who transition from victimhood to empowerment have the greatest chance of long-term success. It’s about taking ownership of one’s life and decisions.
The Reality of Addiction and the Victim Mentality
Addiction rewires the brain, making individuals feel like victims of their circumstances. It’s a harsh reality, but acknowledging this is the first step towards change. To help my clients understand this, I use the analogy of being the captain of a ship....
OK, I say yacht now and I imagine Tiger Woods's $90 million yacht because I saw it one time and was impressed and still jealous... haha -
"Imagine you are the captain of a Tiger's yacht (or yours), traveling the ocean," I begin. "When the sea is calm, steering your ship is a joy. You feel in control, confident, and free to explore any direction you choose. But then, a massive storm rolls in... The waves grow tall and fierce, the wind is palpable, and rain lashes against your face. It feels like the ocean is trying to swallow you whole, your auto-pilot does not work, and your ship is tossed around like a toy. In those moments, it seems like you have no control at all."
"Addiction is like that storm," I continue. "It makes you feel powerless and trapped, like you’re at the mercy of the elements, unable to steer your course. But here’s the truth: even in the storm, you are still the captain of your ship (Fuck auto-pilot and take that wheel - navigate as you see the situations and dangers). You hold the wheel, and you have the power to steer your ship to safety, but only if you believe you can."
I know this sounds a bit corny, but that's just how I am—I have my corny moments! But really, I picture it like a captain steering a ship/yacht. They see the dangers, take control, address them at the moment, and navigate safely because they have the skills, knowledge, and experience to do so.
Embracing the Role of Captain
"At the end of your life, when you look back on your journey, will you be proud of how you navigated through the storm, or will you be on some random island ALONE eating coconuts as your only source of food?"
"It's time to leave the victim mentality at the door of your treatment center with your addiction," I urge. "Being a victim means giving up your power. Taking responsibility, even for things that feel out of your control, gives you the strength to change your life. You might not have caused the storm, but you can decide how to face it."
Every wave and every challenge can be an opportunity to become stronger and more skilled at navigating life. The storm doesn’t define you; your response to it does.
The Journey Ahead
Focus on daily disciplines (YOU GUYS KNOW... NOT GOALS!!!) and MOVE. THE commitment to daily GROWTH and proactive steps is designed to help take control of life once again.
The core message remains: be the captain of your ship.
Leaving behind the victim mentality and embracing the role of captain transforms how one navigates life’s challenges. It empowers individuals to take control and steer their course with confidence and purpose.
Leaving the victim mentality behind is a must for aftercare success!
You hold the power to steer your course. Embrace this role and take responsibility for your journey. Every challenge is an opportunity to grow stronger. Remember, the storm doesn’t define you; your response to it does. Take the wheel, believe in your ability to navigate, and sail towards a brighter, addiction-free future.
A huge thank you for everything you do! The Liver Brand I've looked into it, and I know your nutritional ingredients help. Even if it's just a placebo effect, I still feel better. (I have my next blood test on the 26th and I will share the new number again) It's not like you can feel your liver soaking up nutrients! But I really do enjoy "Focus," especially on days when I'm writing. haha - The Liver Brand
*This is a recovery/health coaching education service only. It is not, and is not intended to be, medical treatment or recommendations for medical treatment. Actual medical treatment must come from your physician. Telephone or video consultations do not replace the need for seeing a doctor in person. Holding Doors recovery educators and coaches cannot diagnose or prescribe medications, treatment, or testing procedures. Holding Doors recovery educators and coaches can provide general information that may need to be reviewed and approved by that person’s own physician. Consultations are not considered to be medical advice or diagnosis. Payments are refundable; if you reschedule with 24 hours' notice, your payment will be transferred in full to your new appointment. The cost of Holding Doors recovery education and coaching services is not covered by health insurance or Medicare.
