Yesterday in group we discussed symptoms that indicate things are breaking down. These are more serious than early warning signs of simply getting off track. They are signs of heading towards a crisis mode. For me, they include feeling oversensitive and fragile and wanting to be totally alone. It is important to recognize these symptoms, but at the same time, I know that it would be difficult to reach out for help if I were experiencing them. I do have resources in place now to help, so locating the help would be easier, but I'm not sure if the desire would be there.
I realize how fortunate I am to have someone who not only is concerned for me, but who is able to recognize early warning signs that indicate I am not on track. I can easily recognize the early warning signs now because I am so focused on recovery. But there might come a time in the future when I am not so focused, and I could miss the early warning signs.
Part of the recovery program is to develop a support system of at least 5 people who can be called upon when needed. Everyone in my support system might not recognize early warning signs, but I can develop a system of people who can be alert to things breaking down for me.
Knowing that I have support has been a huge part of my recovery. I don't feel alone any more, and I cannot express what a difference that makes. The world is a different place for me now.
We made it home before 5:00PM today. Traffic was not too bad although the wind did move us side to side a lot. From what we see of the weather forecast, our early return was the right thing to do. I am glad to be home. Checked out my garden this afternoon and tomorrow I will harvest beets, spinach and lettuce and then cover the plants for a few days of freezing temps at night.
ReplyDeleteYour progress continues to amaze me.
I am very proud of your accomplishments: the W-2s, organizing the mail, reapplying for unemployment, and talking to someone about a potential roommate. Having Lois, Lillian, Carla, Howard and kids at your house must have been frightening but I think you had a good time and got through it. Keep on with the lists, the blog, and the WRAP session. Call me if you need to. Between Facebook, e-mail and the blog, I see a lot. Just so you know.
Love
Marian
You said "But there might come a time in the future when I am not so focused, and I could miss the early warning signs."
ReplyDeleteI think part of the solution may be to not lose focus-