Throwing Down Those Crutches!

Many of us struggling with mental health issues--whether we're in treatment or not--are vulnerable to leaning on maladaptive crutches. Similar to when we hurt our legs or back, we lean on these crutches to help ease us through tough times rather than turning to friends, family or therapists to guide us through. I've done it too so I 'get' it.

These crutches can be anything from the usual alcohol or drugs to things like food, sex, spending, cleaning or any outside action that gives us temporary support and a 'high'. It's crucial that we acknowledge these crutches and also be aware of what our triggers are in turning to them. Once we do that, we can find more postive ways to deal with those triggers.

I've always been someone who internalizes when I'm overwhelmed or stressed then I end up leaning on things I shouldn't rather than on people and activities I should. I've turned to many of these crutches in my life, the most deadly of which was an eating disorder that almost killed me (I went down to a scary 78 pounds!).

I think it's vital to acknowledge the crutches you have in your life (chocolate is an okay crutch as long as you keep it under control! ;) ). If you are aware of them and know why you turn to them, they have less power over you. When you feel overwhelmed by anxiety, stress, depression or other moods, instead of turning to that crutch, you could:

• Journal
• Be creative - paint, sculpt, dance, sketch, sing
• Exercise
• Do yoga or Pilates
• Meditate
• Call a friend, pastor or therapist
• Go for a walk
• Go to the pet store (visiting animals always makes me feel good)
• Anything that distracts you from the stressor but in a positve way. 

One thing that is a 'must' is figuring out what those stressors are gravitating you to your crutch. Do this with a therapist or journalling then sharing it with him or her. Once you eliminate the stressors (or reduce them), you'll find the pull to the crutch will not be as strong until you can throw them aside and stand strong.

What is your crutch? When do you turn to them the most? When do you crave them? What are your stressors? How can you cope with those stressors in more effective ways?

Let's talk about it.