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Hello! Welcome to another edition of the ABC of Mental Health, your partner in the journey to better mental health—one newsletter at a time. This week’s theme is Recovery, a process that is not always linear but filled with growth, resilience, and hope. We're bringing this to your inbox this Thursday to remind you that healing is possible, no matter where you’re starting from.
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One relevant recommendation:
In her TED Talk, Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith explains that many of us are tired not just because we lack sleep but because we lack different types of rest. She identifies seven kinds of rest, and how each type serves a distinct purpose in recharging our energy and well-being. Watch the video to learn more about some intentional strategies to restore well-being and prevent burnout.
Two quotes on Compassion and Recovery:
Michelle Obama, former First Lady, spoke on the importance of self-compassion in recovery:
"We need to do a better job of putting ourselves higher on our own ‘to do’ list."
Mary Oliver, an American poet, writes on compassionate spiritual recovery and reminds us to allow healing through self-acceptance and grace:
"You do not have to be good. You do not have to walk on your knees for a hundred miles through the desert, repenting. You only have to let the soft animal of your body love what it loves."
Three TherapyShorts from TST
The Path of Recovery is Different for Everyone: No two people heal in the exact same way. Your recovery may take longer or look different from someone else's—and that’s okay. For example, one person may find that talking through their struggles in therapy is key, while another might lean on exercise or creative outlets. Embrace your own unique journey, without comparing it to others.
The Valley of Disappointment (coined by: James Clear): The "Valley of Disappointment," as described by James Clear, is the phase in any long-term process where progress feels slow or invisible, leading to frustration. When we start working toward a goal, we often expect quick results, but real change takes time and consistency. For example, if you’re building a habit like exercising, visible changes might not happen right away, making it easy to feel discouraged. However, growth is happening beneath the surface, and those who persist through this period eventually see the rewards of their efforts.
Importance of the Right Recovery in the Right Amount: Recovery isn’t just about resting; it’s about intentional, balanced recovery. Too little can keep you stuck in burnout, while too much can lead to stagnation. For example, after a busy period at work, a few days of rest might be enough to recharge, but prolonged downtime could leave you feeling unmotivated. The key is finding the right balance that helps you bounce back stronger.
A QUESTION?
What do you do to recharge?
Enjoying quiet alone time
Moving your body
Connecting with loved ones
Pushing through the discomfort without rest
Love and light,
The Social Therapist
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