Life gets overwhelming. Behaviors and thoughts take hold – often before we even realize that they’re happening. Reaching for and holding on to recovery means taking action and focusing on change. It’s just that sometimes the shame that we feel seems to win.

Not talking about the feelings and behavior only allows that shame to grow.

By talking about our experiences, sharing what we are going through, and letting others in, it’s like turning on a nightlight. We don’t necessarily brighten the whole room – especially right away – bit we help to hide the shadows, gain some perspective, and start to see what’s really going on. And it’s not until we’re able to really see where we are that we can take action and make some changes.

Whether you call a friend, write publicly for a blog, or write privately in a journal, don’t keep what you’re feeling a secret. That only gives it strength.