September is National Recovery Month. One of the biggest obstacles to recovery, however, is the stigma of “once an addict, always an addict.” Who would want to admit to struggling with any sort of addiction if it means a lifelong label of “addict?” I applaud the courage of those who do... but I also empathize with the countless others who struggle with feelings of inadequacy, pain, discomfort, emptiness, heartbreak or trauma, and try to find relief however they can. The shame of the label “addict” causes many to suffer silently or try to navigate their life challenges without additional support, whether from loved ones or skilled professionals. That’s why I’m a big fan of the #fshame movement my friend @dradijaffe and his team over at @igntd.me have created to remove shame from the recovery process. By participating in the #onceanaddict campaign they’ve launched, you can help relieve the stigma of addiction and help people realize that once an addict does not mean always an addict. What we think separates us from others is far too often simply an illusion, and labels are not only misleading by they often fail to show that the difference between people is not in nature, but simply by degree. Very often there is no difference at all. We are all human. Divine in nature, illimitable in worth. Our struggles do not need to define us, but instead can serve to refine us. Want to change a life? Share a struggle - openly and vulnerably - or open up about what stirs feelings of shame for you, and notice not only how much lighter you feel, but the door that opens for true connection when the person you’ve shared with feels safe enough to reciprocate. Let’s let go of shame, and release the false belief that #onceanaddictalwaysanaddict. If inspired, make your own poster and share with the #onceanaddict hastag. You can find a poster template on @igntd.me page. I challenge five friends to join: @earthandhide @coachninja @brycegonorth @kristi.a.watson @christina.henley.2019 IF you’d rather opt-out, you’re welcome to donate $5 to @namicommunicate #addiction #addictionrecovery #recoverymonth #recoverymonth2020 #addictionawareness #addictionquotes #shame https://www.instagram.com/p/CFxVPyKAMGB/?igshid=ox4cl2tamgtw












