May 16, 2023
We need to stop stigmatized relapses in recovery. We need to stop shaming those who have or are currently relapsed. It is a normal part of recovery to go back to the behaviour at times, and I'm sick of the idea that "relapse means you aren't recovering."
Relapsing can reinforce somebody's will to recovery. Relapsing can teach a person what they want from recovery. It can be a vital tool, and honestly, shaming somebody who is already down is fucking cruel and disgusting. The last thing they need is other people shaming them and being cruel - they might already be beating themself up over a relapse. Be kind to them. They are a person, they are worthy of kindness.
#mental health#mental health advocacy#recovery#relapse#relapse tw#this goes for any type of relapse because they often can look and behave similarly#the behaviour may look different but the consequences and whatnot can look very similar#to all those recovering or relapsing: i want you to know you are worthy#you are worthy of recovery no matter how many times you have or will relapse#relapse is normal#relapse is morally neutral at worst#relapse doesn't mean you're bad
