We’re all recovering from something, from the effects of life, in some way shape or form. From an endless list of stuff that I am unable to mention all here;  inter-generational trauma, childhood and developmental trauma, sexual trauma, domestic violence, physical, emotional, psychological, spiritual & financial abuse, traumatic grief/separation, vicarious trauma, refugee trauma, medical trauma, traumatic accidents, physical injuries and illness, bullying, natural disasters, global pandemics, war, terrorism, physical violence, community violence, and little T traumas such as moving, losing a job, getting kicked out of school or a profession, etc etc etc…

Experiences that put us into a chronic chaotic state can often manifest into unhealthy coping mechanisms and harmful behaviours such as drug and alcohol abuse/addiction, sexual addiction, codependency, gambling, shopping addiction, eating disorders, self-harm, suicidal ideation, and many other compulsions and addictions, and even suicide, which seems to be on the rise today. In addition, from a fearful state we can attract situations and people who can be harmful to our emotional and psychological health if they too are not fully aware and recovering. All of the above can lead to crises, complications and death when not recognized and confronted.

In this process of seeking answers to our pain and struggles can come mental health diagnoses, according to western medicine, such as PTSD, ADHD, ADD, OCD, bi-polar, depression, anxiety, multiple personality disorder, schizophrenia, physical illnesses and chronic pain, to name a few.

Sometimes the recovery is unbearable and seems impossible, sometimes it’s smooth. We’re all wired a little differently, and we all have unique circumstances when it comes to support and access to resources which can sometimes not be enough.

The goal is to recognize those in the process of recovery and to make it known that you are seen, heard, loved and that the door is open to heal and create a life of safety and peace. To honour the process and what some may experience as a lifelong journey of recovery. To remove the stigma and shame associated with being human and to encourage connection, community, and compassion for yourself and others. To honour and embrace the truth, no matter how scary it may be to face.

It’s all connected, and there are multiple ways to overcome the effects of the human experience. The more we understand why we are the way we are, the easier it is, not to victimize ourselves, but to empower oneself to accept and heal, and to embark on the journey of healing, so that our pain and suffering no longer has a hold of our lives. To take responsibility as the creators of our world so we can create a better one, for ourselves, our families, and our communities. Because it starts with you and I.

You don’t have to be an ‘addict’ or have a ‘mental Illness’ to be here. You just have to be a beautiful imperfect human, as you are, in this moment. Because when it all comes down to it, we’re all the same, just different. ?

Only love,

Erin