Understanding the Battle
One of my biggest sources of frustration stems from the attitudes of others towards addiction and mental health. My favorite author, Brene Brown, really hits the point home with her comment above. Comments such as 'why don't you just quit' or 'snap out of it' or even 'suck it up' all suggest that recovery and coping are simple and that I should just stop being lazy and do it. For anyone that has ever struggled with addictions or mental health issues, know full well that the battle is long and difficult. It is a battle that will only be abated with shear determination, love and support, a lot of hard work and self examination and of course encouragement and understanding from loved ones when you are vulnerable. Although it is difficult to block out the comments of these people that simply do not understand, it is necessary as it simply builds up a resentment and is counterproductive. We cannot expect everyone to comprehend the battle we are facing, as they will not. We can however keep fighting, in spite of those that do not take the time to understand, and there will be many.
