My third week here, I could not grasp the concept of Building a Life Worth Living. Now, in my 15th week, I know that I have a Life Worth Living! During a recent DBT group, I considered the changes during that time. The most significant being that I like myself now. It's a concept I've heard for years, but didn't know how to get there. Some turning points for me include being told, processing, and then acknowledging that I was angry and defensive. I don't have to live in constant fear filled with anxiety as there is generally no real danger. During Equine, I learned that i had a distorted expectation that others should sense how I'm feeling and act accordingly. Through a ropes assignment, I also learned that self talk significantly affects my life. I had no idea how ridiculously mean I talked to myself. Another turning point was when I learned that my hyper-vigilance and constant reflex to protect stemmed from my own perception that the world is not safe. I was constantly looking out for others, but at the end of the day, I was really trying to protect myself. With the help of my therapist and core, I have learned to decrease that unhealthy reflex and become more calm and relaxed. My most recent turning point has come with reading the Poncho® book, "Calming the Emotional Storm." I realized that emotions aren't bad or good. They all have a purpose. I am learning the purpose of each one so that I can act appropriately.
Thank you for your intense commitment to be a team in my comprehensive care!
Love & Respect
