Recovery is a Journey not a Destination
Recovery is a Journey not a Destination
Many people when they face a setback in their recovery may think, ‘Oh I’m not as far along as I thought I was.’ When in fact, its simply a bump on the road. Not an indication that they weren’t where they thought they were.
There will be many bumps, that’s natural. Just like how an athlete won’t run their best run every day, you too will have ups and downs on the road of recovery.
How do we stay strong when the journey feels so long? By simply taking note of small wins, we fuel ourselves for the longer journey.
One of the unique things about group therapy is newer members get the chance to meet people further along the road. It helps to trust the process, knowing that if you just keep walking, you’ll get to where you want to be.
Warm thoughts,
Belinda Seagram, Ph.D., R. Psych.
Executive Director, Landing Strong
What’s your Thanksgiving Back-up plan?
What’s your Thanksgiving Backup Plan?
It must be Friday, because once again there’s a potential storm forecast this Thanksgiving weekend.
I don’t know about you, but I’m taking special joy in finding hacks to dodge the weather. Turkey remains on the menu, but we don’t necessarily need electricity to make this meal a success. Slow-roasted turkey over a charcoal BBQ provides a heavenly smoky flavor that has spoiled me for life.
What work arounds do you have to ensure the potentially wet weather doesn’t dampen your spirits?
Although we all have our special ways of preparing this time honored meal, ultimately, we know that Thanksgiving is about so much more.
This weekend offers an opportunity to practice gratitude, for the richness of our lives, the people in it and the beautiful province and country that we live in.
Regardless of the weather I feel grateful!
Happy Thanksgiving to all!
Belinda Seagram, Ph.D., R. Psych.
Executive Director, Landing Strong
Do I stay or do I go?
Do I stay or do I go?
It’s not always an easy decision. You may not feel as though things are quite right, but those around you might not see it. At what point do you make the decision to take time off and prioritize your health?
You’ve been trained to push through the challenging times. If you’ve been “managing” well enough in your current role, how do you justify taking a step back, whether it be in your career, volunteer activities or even social life? In reality, the only person who truly knows the depths of what’s going on is you.
If you feel that you need some time to focus on your health and wellbeing, we’re here to help walk you through this process and get you to where you want to be. Luckily, this does not have to be an all or nothing decision. There is skill in knowing how to take snips of meaningful time for yourself, ensuring you are re-filling the well as you water the garden.
At work, we routinely assessed and prioritize situations. What would this look like if you applied the same concepts to your personal life? What tasks or commitments would you cut down on? Are there any areas that need attention?
How often are you carving out time to hand out with friends or do activities that you enjoy?
Is your bedtime allowing you enough time to rest?
Is your food and water consumption supporting your health and energy throughout the day?
Do you have activities that inspire you?
Warm thoughts,
Belinda Seagram, Ph.D., R. Psych.
Executive Director, Landing Strong
We’re all in the same storm.
We’re all in the same storm.
We’re all in the same storm, just different boats. It’s not what happens to us that’s important, it’s the meaning of it within the context of our lives.
Before Dorian, Fiona or our recent flooding, we may have been buying storm chips and dare we say even a bit excited about the possibility of a storm. This doesn’t seem to be the case anymore. Because we are so connected to one another and are aware of the hardships our friends and neighbours have experienced, these weather events take on new meaning.
If you’re looking for support, we’re only a call away. You don’t need to “earn” your spot in counselling or our programs. If you’re ready there is a seat waiting for you. There’s currently no wait list.
Warm thoughts,
Belinda Seagram, Ph.D., R. Psych.
Executive Director, Landing Strong
No storm lasts forever.
No storm lasts forever.
Nova Scotians love to talk about the weather. It’s a time-honored tradition, presumably linked to the fact that many residents of the province work in fishing and farming. Their safety and livelihood depended on good weather. We are also a unique province in the frequency with which we experience multiple seasons in the same day.
Over the past few months there has been a shift. Talking about the weather has been less a source of amusement, and more a source of anxiety or concern. There have been good reasons for it, for some of the greatest hardships we have faced recently have been connected to extreme weather.
It is in times when we are being tested that we truly witness the strength of community. Alone in a storm, no-one fares well. Together, we are stronger and better prepared to face what the elements might bring.
When we are connected with others, it is easier to remember that no storm lasts forever.
Find your strength within community.
We have a number of programs starting this fall. New members are always welcome. Fell free to give us a call.
Warm thoughts,
Belinda Seagram, Ph.D., R. Psych.
Executive Director, Landing Strong
