Tag Archives: well-being

Addiction, Health, Learning, Recovery

Dangers of Fentanyl and Substance Use in the Digital Age

Children with computers, tablets, cell phones and head phones
We are the digital age.

Fentanyl and substance abuse impacts every community in some way. There are increased dangers for young people in the digital age.

Risks of Internet Use

Ease of access has made it possible for anyone young or old to purchase the drugs. It is easily accessible through online platforms because drug dealers bypass dark web restrictions and sell drugs online. The internet has transformed how substances are bought and sold because it can be anonymous and convenient for buyers and sellers.

Risks of Social Media

Social media platforms are gateways for young people to access illegal drugs like fentanyl. Drug traffickers advertise on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, Twitter, and YouTube. Typically, the advertising disappears in 24 hours via stories and posts, accompanied by code words and emojis. Prospective buyers contact the dealers through the post, and the conversations move to encrypted apps like Signal or Telegram. Payment is made via Venmo, Zelle, Cash App, and Remity.

Challenges for Parents or Guardians

Sadly, online drug dealing leads to substance use among youth, causing addiction and overdose. That is why the organization, SUPE, Substance Use Prevention Education, was founded to combat this dangerous trend.  Fortunately, SUPE has reliable information and resources and even a video to help young people make informed choices and to help protect them from online drug dealers. It also has vital information for parents to protect their children from  fentanyl.

Risks of Living in a Drug Culture

We live in a culture that glamorizes drug use. And young people are easily influenced. The consequences of fentanyl use among our youth are devastating. Its potency increases the risk of overdose, which can be fatal even with minimal exposure. Many young people experimenting with drugs may not be aware that fentanyl can be present in substances such as counterfeit pills. This lack of awareness and education about the dangers of fentanyl further compounds the problem, which is why SUPE provides free resources to empower families.

Moving from Addiction to Recovery

When young people become addicted to drugs, the people around them suffer, struggle to cope, and find support. If you are struggling and need help, there are practical resources and tips to help with addiction and coping that can be found on healthvista.net.

  • Educate yourself and learn about the signs and symptoms of drug use and addiction. This helps you understand what the person is going through.
  • Communicate as calmly as possible. Express concerns without confronting others. Avoid casting judgment, arguing, and pointing the finger. Listen actively and allow the person to talk while showing empathy and understanding.
  • Offer support, but also encourage professional help. Seek guidance from a healthcare professional, counselor, or addiction specialist. Let the person know you are there to help them on their recovery journey.
  • Find more treatment options through SAMHSA‘s treatment locator or Addicted.org‘s extensive directory listings of treatment centers. Other local resources may also be offered by local healthcare providers.

Both parents and young people who are going through have a lot of stress, anger, sadness, and resentment. Supporting someone with a substance use disorder is emotionally challenging, but your care and concern can make a significant difference.

  • Learn ways to cope and prepare for the challenges ahead.
  • Seek support for yourself; for example, attend support groups or speak with a counselor.
  • Take care of yourself and prioritize your mental and physical health.

Now you know more about the significant dangers in the digital age and can be more watchful. Easy access to fentanyl impacts communities in a big way.  Prevention of fentanyl addiction and ready access to treatment (if needed) are vital for your family and community’s health!

 

Blog # 31 posted August 5, 2024 by Guest Contributor Marcel Gemme, the CEO/Founder of SUPE

Health, Recovery

Wave Goodbye to Worry: Practical Tips for Peace

Beautiful woman smiling and lounging
Photo from Freepik https://www.freepik.com/free-photo/tender-beautiful-african-woman-sleepwear-smiling-sitting-chair-resting-relaxing-home_8813151

Stress is an inevitable part of life, shaping our experiences and reactions to various situations. Understanding how to manage stress effectively is essential for maintaining mental health and overall well-being. You can take practical steps toward less worry and more peace. At healthvista.net, you may find resources to help you identify the sources of your stress and adopt strategies to manage it effectively, ensuring you can navigate life’s challenges with resilience.

Unveiling the Sources of Stress

To manage stress effectively, you must first identify its roots. Work pressures, financial worries, relationship dynamics, and health concerns are everyday stressors. Work often seems to demand more than it rewards us, while economic issues may stem from unexpected expenses or limited income. Relationship stress might arise from misunderstandings or differing expectations among partners, family, or friends, while chronic health problems can create a constant source of anxiety. Recognizing these sources is the first step toward managing your stress.

Transforming Stress at Work

Work-related stress is a prevalent challenge that can significantly sap your energy and deteriorate your mental health. If your current role no longer brings satisfaction or the stress has become overwhelming, it might be time to think about changing careers. Transitioning into a field that better matches your interests can breathe new life into your professional endeavors. Pursuing an online doctoral program in education would enable you to complete your EdD degree while still managing your existing job and family responsibilities. A program such as this provides a feasible route to a career that offers new challenges and makes a substantial impact in the education sector.

Simplify and Prioritize Your Tasks

One of the most effective ways to reduce stress is by breaking down your tasks into manageable steps. Begin by prioritizing tasks based on urgency and importance. This method helps you focus on what needs to be done without becoming overwhelmed. By simplifying tasks, you allow yourself to approach each one with a clearer mind and a more focused intention, reducing the chaotic feeling of having too much on your plate.

Cultivate Your Support Network

Surrounding yourself with supportive relationships can be a significant stress reliever. Whether it’s friends, family, or support groups, having people to talk to and share your burdens with can lighten your emotional load. This network provides an outlet for your frustrations and different perspectives that might help you see solutions you hadn’t considered. Expressing your feelings and thoughts is therapeutic and can be incredibly relieving.

Set Boundaries to Protect Your Time

Learning to say no is an essential skill in managing stress. Overcommitting yourself can lead to a buildup of tension and, eventually, burnout. By setting clear boundaries, you teach others about your limits and protect your time and energy. This practice helps ensure you are not taking on more than you can handle, allowing you to give your best to each task without the pressure of an unmanageable schedule.

Engage in Enjoyable Activities

Investing time in hobbies and activities you love can significantly reduce stress. Whether reading, gardening, painting, or any other activity, doing what you enjoy can divert your mind from stressors and bring joy and satisfaction. These activities provide a break from routine and allow you to recharge, which is crucial for long-term stress management.

Focus on What You Can Control

A key aspect of stress reduction is focusing on what you can control and releasing things beyond your influence. Worrying about uncontrollable factors drains energy and increases anxiety. Concentrating on your actions and responses can empower you and reduce feelings of helplessness, minimizing stress.

By understanding the sources of your stress and implementing these strategies, you can create a more balanced and fulfilling life. Managing stress is not about eliminating it but learning to navigate it effectively. You can maintain your mental well-being and enjoy a richer, more rewarding life through proactive steps and a supportive environment. Take some practical steps toward less worry and more peace. Remember, every step you take in addressing your stressors is a move towards a healthier, happier you.

Blog #30 added July 30, 2024 by Guest Contributer Gwen Payne of invisiblemoms.com

Health

Caring for an Elderly Parent or Loved One: Knowing When to Move Home

Elderly man sitting by his house

Caring for an aging senior can be a struggle, even if you live nearby. Caring for an elderly parent or loved one from a distance can seem nearly impossible. If your family member needs more care than you can give on occasional visits, it could be time to consider moving closer, or moving home so that you can provide the level of care they need.

Knowing When It’s Time to Move Closer

If you are making several drives lasting longer than an hour multiple times each week to check in on or provide care to an aging family member, it may be time to think about moving. Long drives are taxing and can also be costly when tolls and fuel prices are factored in. Rather than spending hours behind the wheel of a car or on some other form of transportation, you could be passing that time with your loved one either providing much-needed care or just spending quality time together. Research shows that spending time with senior family members helps their overall well-being.

Living near an aging relative allows you to spend more time with that person and could also allow you to save some money. Recurring travel expenses can really add up. But, so can paying caregivers to help them while you are away. If you live a long distance from your senior loved one in need of care, you may be paying others to provide the care you would prefer to do yourself (if you didn’t have to travel).

Knowing When to Review a Senior’s Living Options

For some people with disabilities, it can become dangerous to remain in their current home. Stairs are one of the main obstacles to older people maintaining their independence in their own houses. Even when someone lives with them, it can be difficult or even impossible to deal with going up and down stairs safely. There are options to make steps easier for aging people, but they don’t always work for every home.

Stairs are not the only factor to consider when evaluating whether it’s time to move your older loved one from their current house. Other factors include bathroom accessibility and the cost of repairs that would be needed to make the home accessible for people with disabilities if and when that is needed.

Sometimes, it makes sense for an elderly loved one to move into your home, or the home of another relative. Or, you could consider the assisted living facilities in your area.

Knowing What Tasks to Hire Out

If your loved one is able to stay at home, keep in mind that there are only so many tasks one caregiver can complete. You should enlist help when it comes to taking on the maintenance of your family member’s home. Connecting with local contractors is a smart idea so that you have a go-to contact when something needs fixing. One chore that most people are happy to delegate is yard work. You can search for online lists of service providers or online directories like Yelp, Google My Business. Or use a review site like Angi.

Sometimes there are community program for neighbors helping neighbors that could be used. You can ask some neighbors who does their lawn care. If they do a good job, get the contact information you would need to arrange the help. Or, ask if some young people in your neighborhood are looking to do yard work. That may cost less than a lawn service would charge.

Making changes to your life and in the life of your senior loved one can be overwhelming. Coping and Relaxation techniques can help deal with the transitions needed for safety and health of your loved one Take time to carefully consider what options will work best for you and your family before making important decisions about when to move. Remember that it may take time and patience for everyone involved to adjust to their loss of independence and transition into their new living situation.

For more informative articles like this one, be sure to check out other posts from Health Vista.

 

Blog Post #29 added 1-17-22 by guest contributor Millie Jones of seniorwellness.info

Edited by Mary Knutson of Health Vista, Inc.

 

Health, Recovery, Uncategorized

Improve Your Mental Health: Tips for Sleeping Better

Man sleeping

Photo via Rawpixel

Sleep Better for Your Health

Sleep is very important to improve our mental health and well-being. Try some tips to sleep better and make a difference in your quality of life. Sleep disorders are common among people with mental health conditions. Depression and anxiety are also common with many sleep problems like insomnia or sleep apnea.

Although insomnia can be a symptom of some mental health disorders, the relationship between sleep problems and mental illness is complex. Research suggests that poor quality sleep can contribute to mental conditions. Treating sleep problems can be one way to relieve some symptoms you may be struggling with.

Improve Your Sleeping Environment

The bedroom sleep environments have a much greater impact on our quality of sleep than most people think. Common things that disrupt sleep include noise, clutter, heat, and even small amounts of light filtering in from outside or inside your home.

Using your bedroom for stressful activities like work or studying can also contribute to sleeplessness. Consider giving your bedroom an upgrade to promote better sleep. Hang some blackout curtains, get a white noise machine, and move electronics into another room.

This is also a good time to check your bed and make sure it is comfortable. If your mattress has visible sagging, lumps, or tears, it’s time for an upgrade. A good-quality mattress is essential to provide the comfort and support your body needs to fall asleep quickly and stay asleep during the night.

Before going shopping, take some time to learn about different mattress types and materials so you can choose the best option for your needs. For example, memory foam mattresses can be great for many different body types and sleeping styles since they’re available in numerous firmness levels. If you like a little bounce to your bed, you can even get hybrid memory foam mattresses that contain both coils and foam.

Stick to a Sleep Schedule

Sleeping on an inconsistent schedule can also cause sleep-related issues. Your body runs on a kind of internal clock called the circadian rhythm. This regulates your sleep-wake cycle, helping you feel awake during the day and tired at night. However, fighting against this natural process can leave you feeling tired and groggy in the mornings and wakeful at bedtime. Try to go to bed and wake up at the about same time every day to avoid disrupting your circadian rhythm.

Care for Your Body

What you do during your waking hours will also affect your sleep. For example, studies have found that moderate aerobic exercise can increase the amount of rejuvenating deep sleep that you get, according to John Hopkins Medicine. At the same time, eating a balanced diet focused on fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help your body regulate your sleep cycles. Try to limit your consumption of caffeine since it is closely tied to sleep problems.

If you want some extra help to learn how to treat your body right, you may want to work with a nutritionist, dietitian, or fitness professional. Fortunately, you can find these wellness specialists through online freelancing platforms. Simply, search for the service you are looking for, read the reviews and talent details. Then, choose a specialist that fits your needs and budget.

Try Relaxation Techniques

Many people with mental health conditions can benefit from learning a few relaxation techniques to quiet the mind before bed. The National Sleep Foundation recommends breathing exercises and guided imagery to promote sleep, but you may also want to try progressive muscle relaxation and mindfulness meditation. Find relaxation exercises that work for you and then start a habit of practicing them every evening to help your mind and body wind down.

Get Mental Health Help

For anyone with an underlying mental health issue that is getting in the way of quality, restful sleep, professional help is worth it. For example, if you have depression and experience difficulty sleeping, consider seeking treatment for depression. Mental health counseling can be effective at relieving the symptoms of depression.

Learn More about Sleep and Recovery

Health Vista has many resources for health and well-being.  You can find a How to Sleep Better handout on the Recovery Education page, with a few more tips for you. Browse the website to find ways to improve your quality of life whether or not mental illness is a problem for you or a family member. A Coping and Relaxation Workbook is also available to download and print free. Using coping techniques can help you to fall asleep faster, and to avoid over-reacting with anxiety when you wake up during the night.

Remember How Important Sleep Is

Sleep plays an essential—yet often overlooked—role in our physical health and mental wellbeing. Don’t settle for poor-quality sleep. Try improving your bedroom. Upgrade your mattress, if needed. Pick up some healthy habits and routines. Start taking steps to sleep better today, so you can wake up to a happier and healthier tomorrow.

Blog Post # 25  added 2-25-21 by Guest Contributer Sheila Olson of fitsheila.com.  Edited by Mary Knutson.

Health, Recovery

Trauma Can Affect You: Ways to Help Yourself to Recover

Past or current trauma can affect you, your thoughts, and your behavior. Having past trauma, as a child or as an adult is common in our society.

Trauma affects some people more than others

Some people are more resilient and have more support. Ongoing anxiety issues may be something you need to learn to cope with.  If you have post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), more distressing symptoms may continue to affect your life.

Some health care settings are embracing Trauma- informed Care (TIC)

TIC assumes that people have had past traumas and attempts to avoid “triggers”. They want to prevent people feeling re-traumatized while they are receiving health care, and help them feel more safe and secure.

TIC Resources and Education are needed

I developed a Trauma Recovery Webquest  to share important information about TIC concepts including both childhood and adult scenarios.  It was designed to be used for health professionals as well as for anyone else.

Please realize that the linked video of childhood trauma in the first Powerpoint. Living with Trauma-Finding Recovery can be quite upsetting.  Feel free to skip that part if you don’t think you should watch it.

The webpages have many valuable links. The Trauma Webquest Process page includes a Resilience website and many handouts to help people cope with their symptoms of anxiety, flashbacks, dissociation, or thoughts of self-harm.

I have included (for free) links to some of the Recovery Workbooks that I have had for sale on my website, including Managing Anger, Managing Addiction, Depression, and a Coping & Relaxation Workbook.

Most importantly, you can use the Finding Your Way to Cope with Trauma Workbook !

I sincerely hope that you will find this information to be helpful and useful.

Believe that recovery  is possible.

You might enjoy the following video to inspire you:

 

Blog post #21  8-27-20 by Mary Knutson Health Vista, Inc.

Recovery

The Power of Self-Expression: Art and Music Therapy in Recovery

Woman expressing herself through painting

If you are someone you know is recovering from addiction, you may need a way to stop the cycle of negative thoughts and self-destructive behaviors. Music and art therapy  can be part of successful treatment plan.  Creative expression has been used for years in either individual or group counseling. Art therapy is used in rehab centers, hospitals, schools, and other settings for recovery. Many people who do not respond well to more traditional treatments have success with music and art therapy.

Self-expression

Communication and self-expression issues are common among people with substance abuse problems. Creative communication can help people in recovery process their thoughts and feelings in a positive way. Often, those who suffer from addiction have trouble making sense of their emotions. And,  they struggle with how people respond to them. Creativity opens new avenues of understanding and helps people learn new thoughts, responses, and behavior patterns.

Art benefits for recovery

People often deny the need for help and may resist treatment.  Art therapy can help overcome this because art therapy can motivate people. They may want to achieve a healthier lifestyle, gain more self-confidence, and improve communication skills. Music is often used to help overcome depression, stress, anxiety and anger or rage issues. Those emotional responses often produce unhealthy thoughts and behaviors.

Music as therapy

Listening to and playing music creates a certain response in the brain. It stimulates the neurotransmitter dopamine which causes an overall sense of well-being. Music can help people be more likely to seek treatment, and more likely to continue toward recovery. Also, music therapy can increase positive feelings and self-awareness. Then, people can cope better with temptations and frustrations that come from addictions.

When listening to their favorite music, people experience a stimulation of the auditory cortex in anticipation of their favorite musical passages. And then, the feeling of exultation at its peak has a powerfully healing impact. Sometimes our brain helps us experience music even when we’re not actually listening to it or performing it.

Self-discovery

Art and music therapy help you get in touch with your feelings. They also help you learn to accept yourself, and decrease feelings of guilt and shame. The goal is to create a sense of happiness and hope through painting, sculpting, coloring, drawing, collages, or other artwork. Be very creative as you express every aspect of your emotions, both positive and negative.

Art in recovery

For the best results, continue art and music therapy even after formal treatment is done.  As they help to relieve stress, they can help you cope with depression, and fend off the temptation to use again.

At your home, choose art and music that expresses your emotions and helps your mood. According to HomeAdvisor, “Everyone deserves to have their own space for their passion project, be it a crafting station or simply a place to journal. Look around your home with a creative eye, and you’ll realize that much of what you need to create your ideal hobby workshop is already nearby and can be easily converted.” Staying sober or free of addictions is an ongoing struggle. It’s important to find a way to cope with the emotional chaos and pressures that make recovery so difficult.

Guest article by Kim Thomas of US Health Corps posted 8-12-18.

Updated for readability 5-25-20 by Mary Knutson

Suggested links:  https://healthvista.net/inspirational-music/
or https://healthvista.net/inspirational-music-for-teens/

Photo Courtesy of Pixabay.com

Recovery

Inspirational Music for Teens

Musical notes for song written on paper

Music can help with coping:

I developed a list of old and new songs  for teenagers from many different kinds of music. Some of these songs and their lyrics could be helpful inspirational music for teens who need.  Music can help with coping and healing during recovery.

Sometimes the music that teen choose to listen too can be edgy or dark and brooding because it matches their mood.  It may feel like the music “understands” their anxiety, depression, or anger. But, music with a positive message would be more effective in the long run.  The following songs on YouTube.com were chosen by other teens.

Getting started with inspirational music:

First, try to find all of these songs from the Inspirational Music for Teens on www.YouTube.com and chose the versions that have lyrics on the screen so you can follow the words. The songs are appropriate for adults, but avoid any that have upsetting images (if you watch the music videos). Play the ones you like as often as you want to, as one of your ways of coping.

Dare You to Move by Switchfoot

Breathe by He is We

Fix You by Coldplay

Never Let Go by David Chowder Band

There is a Way by Newworldson

Everything by Lifehouse

Behind These Hazel Eyes by Kelly Clarkson

You Are More by Tenth Avenue North

Blackbird by the Beatles

Stand by Rascal Flatts

I Won’t Let Go by Rascal Flatts

Beautiful by Christina Aguilera

Anyway by Martina McBride

Skyscraper by Demi Lovato

Safe and Sound by Taylor Swift

A River Flows in You by Yiruma

Vanilla Twilight by Owl City

I Won’t Give Up by Jason Mraz

K’Naan Wavin’ Flag (Celebration Mix)

Brand New Me by Alicia Keyes

Hall of Fame by The Script

Enjoy the music!

Reflection:

What other songs have been inspirational, healing, or comforting to you?

Are there some other songs that you think should be added to this list?

Feel free to contact Mary Knutson to recommend more songs.

Blog #4 written 10-28-15 by Mary Knutson RN, MSN of Health Vista, Inc.

Updated 5-26-20

Health

Videos to Help You Cope

cat in windowsill

How to help you cope with stress:

Stress and anxiety are common emotions for everyone. Sometimes what you need to distract yourself from what is bothering you.   The  following  list of Youtube.com videos is meant to help you cope with stress in a positive way.

Check out the Ways of Coping Videos List to help you to relax, heal, or be more mindful. Try to watch them all and see how they make you feel.  Then, choose the best ones to watch as often as you want to:

Videos to watch:

Ten Tips for Stress Management                       2:14 min       http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xOpZU320v5E

Succeed with a Positive Attitude                       1:00 min       http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yvtUByxnrGU

42 Ways to Celebrate and Enjoy Life                5:10 min       http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xBqsWDaUdHM

Believe in Yourself                                                  3:42 min       http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YdpHaKkbmGk

K’NAAN Wavin’ Flag Celebration Mix               3:75 min       http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WTJSt4wP2ME

There is Hope (Meditation)                                 3:31 min       http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f7EuSeRBMnk

What is Mindfulness?                                           1:59 min       http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HCnB5i0ToUc

Stress – Let Go & Be in Flow of Life                   3:08 min       http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dMGOuHwfnFQ

Forgiveness & Freedom of Letting Go              4:02 min       http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3D4VMZb8wLY

I Am Grateful                                                           4:11 min       http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VtoGY6zMXGM

Inspirational Video: Don’t Quit Poem              2:02 min       http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VkCFeNeqyHk

Relax – Zen Garden Kokin Gumi                                    7:09 min       http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CR3dM-GlZK8

Eric Whitacre Virtual Choir – Lux Arumque     6:20 min       http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D7o7BrlbaDs

Yiruma – River Flows in You                                  3:08     https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XsTjI75uEUQ

Enjoy these videos!

 

Blog #2 10-28-15 by Mary Knutson RN, MSN  of Health Vista, Inc.

Updated 5-27-20

(Next  – Blog #3 will be inspirational videos for teens)

Health

Forgiveness and the Heart

This heart shaped potato was found in my garden.
This heart shaped potato was found in my garden!

A Heart-Shaped Surprise:

A surprise from my garden helped me reflect on forgiveness and the heart. I was divorced and lonely, not yet ready to forgive. Gardening was something I enjoyed.  It helped me to relax and heal. 

While digging up some potatoes in the Fall, I found a little heart-shaped potato ! I was planning to show it to my  daughter. But, then I forgot about it for several days.  There was plenty of “hustle and bustle” because my daughter’s wedding was coming up soon.

Attending a stressful event:

I was not looking forward to seeing my ex-husband and his second wife at the wedding and the reception. I had resented them for over 7 years because of their part in ending our marriage. But, during the time of the wedding celebration, I was finally able to forgive them and move on. After that, I had more peace in my heart even though there was no conversation about forgiveness with them.

Forgiveness and the heart:

The next day, I saw the heart-shaped potato again. It helped me to realize how much lighter my heart felt after forgiving them. I felt healthier and more at peace. The heart-shaped symbol of love is more that – It is also a symbol of healing. You can read more about forgiving and forgetting below:

What does “forgiving” mean?

  • Forgiving means understanding that making mistakes is part of being human. Remember that when you hear people say things that hurt your feelings, often they weren’t meant the way they sounded.
  • Accept an apology (If you get one) – Believe people if they say they’re “sorry.”
  • Forgiving is a way to reopen and heal the channels of communication.
  • It helps calm the fears of rejection, failure, or guilt.
  • Forgiveness can be an act of compassion, humanity, and gentleness – It can let someone know that she/he is valued as a person with potential for goodness.
  • But you don’t actually have to tell someone that they are forgiven. You can forgive someone in your heart (to make yourself feel better), without even telling them.
  • Forgiving can be done for your sake rather than for another person. But talking about it can be helpful to mend relationships.

What does “forgetting” mean?

  • You don’t really “forget” what happened, but you can put the issues behind you, and not bring them up again and again.
  • You “clear the air” and let go of anger, hurt, and pain over what happened.
  • Forgetting encourages and helps the other person to rebuild, reconnect, and re-establish caring, healthy relationships.
  • Forgetting doesn’t mean that you return to an abusive or unhealthy relationship. You can continue to avoid people who are toxic to you, while you wish them well in their future without you.
  • Understand that some people do not know how or are not able to love others enough to be in a healthy relationship with you. If you think of it that way, you may be able to feel sorry for them because “it’s their loss.”

What can happen if you don’t forgive?

  • Without forgiveness, the pain and hurt will stay with you.
  • Guilt and sadness continue, along with more problems in relationships.

Which of the following do you do?

  • Seek revenge and payback
  • Become angry and bitter
  • Feel defensive, self-protective, or distant
  • Blame each other
  • Have negative thinking or unhealthy behaviors
  • Feel lost or afraid – Avoid sharing or showing your feelings
  • Have fear of making mistakes, or low self-esteem
  • Fear failure, rejection, or conflict
  • Have high stress in relationships

What do people think when they refuse to forgive?

  • “You don’t deserve any kindness, concern, or forgiveness for what you did.”
  • “It hurt so much that I’ll never be able to forgive you.”
  • “I’ll never let you forget what you did, no matter how sorry you are.”
  • “People who hurt other people deserve the worst that life has to offer.”
  • “I resent everyone who has hurt me – I will make sure I’m never hurt again.”

What can help us to forgive and forget?

  • Let go of past hurt and pain.
  • Letting go and letting [God or your other spiritual beliefs] leads you during hurtful times.
  • Let go of fears for the future and allow yourself to take a risk.
  • Letting go of anger, hostility and resentment can give you more peace.
  • Overlook slight relapses or steps backward.
  • Develop an openness to the belief that people can change (but only if they want to) and realize that we can’t make other people change. The only thing we can change is ourselves.
  • Be open and honest with others about how you have been hurt.
  • Seek professional help when necessary for unhealthy, distant or cold relationships.
  • Recognize your part in what happened because “It takes two to fight”.
  • Identify and replace irrational beliefs that make it harder to forgive.

Ask Yourself:  How do you forgive others?

List something that you have been unable to forgive someone for.

How much energy, is sapped from you when you think about the hurt you went through?

What do I gain from blaming others for my feelings?

How can you put the past behind you and learn to trust again?

 

Revised from Messina, J. & Messina, C. (2009). Handling forgiving and forgetting. Retrieved from http://www.jamesjmessina.com/improvingrelationships/forgivingforgetting.html

 

Blog # 1 by Mary Knutson RN, MSN for Health Vista, Inc. 10-26-15

Updated 5-27-20

Recovery

Resources for Recovery

Recovery Resources:

Many of the recovery resources were written while working with psychiatric patients. However, they were made to be helpful for recovery from other kinds of illness, or for general wellness or well-being.

Many presentations and learning activities are shared in Health Vista’s resources for recovery.  They are organized under the seven elements of recovery, the same framework used for Recovery Education lessons.

Elements of Recovery:

  • Hope
  • Security
  • Support/Managing Symptoms
  • Empowerment
  • Relationships
  • Coping
  • Finding Meaning

Find resources for recovery from Health Vista

When I was working in Inpatient Behavioral Health, I started developing and writing simple but engaging and effective patient education and learning activities.

Through the years, I also collected a wide variety of free resources for recovery include Powerpoints and many other links for health education and motivation. I wanted to make them available for others to use. Although not all of the Recovery Education lessons are posted online, many of them are.  More may be added in the future, so check back often. Here are some examples:

You can find the Hopelessness to Hope Lesson handout here.

Click to see the Finding Hope Pathfinder. That recovery lesson was made into a video YouTube to help you toward the first step to recovery.  You can also use the Positive Words Discussion Guide.

Finding Hope Pathfinder narrated video

Click the title to watch  Finding Your Way to Recovery

Recovery Workbooks:

I wrote many simple, clear, and short workbooks to share. I have donated some to community groups, but the cost of printing is too high to make them all free.  The workbooks have a cost, but they are on the healthvista.net website. Topics include Managing Pain,  Managing Long-term Pain, Managing Depression,  Managing Anger, Managing Addiction, Managing Illness, Managing Mental Illness, and Coping with Trauma.

Contact me by e-mail if you want to ask if some prices can be changed.  The following coping workbook is available free of charge:

Your Recovery Workbook: Coping and Relaxation  [.pdf] can be downloaded free and printed out. 

As you will see, my website contains many free, but very valuable resources,  Please browse and explore the lessons, handouts, learning activities, and links at https://healthvista.net/health-resources/recovery-resources/

I suggest that you start by Exploring Mindfulness . Then, begin  Taking Recovery Steps:

  • Ups and downs are to be expected – It is best to handle them as calmly as possible, using help and support to get back on track
  • Take small steps – You will get to where you are going (no matter how long it takes) if you go in the right direction
  • You feel more in control when you take the recovery steps at your own pace
  • In life, there is always hope, but sometimes you have to change what you are hoping for.
  • Be open to learning and change as you start your recovery journey

“I am not interested in the past. I am interested in the future, for that is where I expect to spend the rest of my life.”  – Charles F. Kettering

Updated 5-27-20 by Mary Knutson