Previous post
A Disclaimer: The Importance of Professional Help in Mental Health Recovery
Before diving into the life lessons from my personal story, I want to emphasize that this blog is not encouraging anyone to voluntarily admit themselves into a psych ward for “the experience.” Mental illness is a serious matter and should never be trivialized or glamorized, as seen in movies or media portrayals like Girl, Interrupted or Harley Quinn.
Mental health struggles, like addiction, should be approached with care, professional guidance, and compassion. This post aims to share what I learned from personal experience to help others who may be struggling with similar issues, not to glorify or sensationalize mental health challenges.
The first lesson I learned in the psych ward was the profound truth that anyone is capable of good or bad actions, shaped by the choices we make. Every decision molds who we become, from the thoughts we entertain to the people we surround ourselves with.
Neuroscience supports this idea with the concept of neuroplasticity, which shows that our brains can change throughout life. By making conscious decisions, we can rewire our brain chemistry and reshape our futures. This was a huge realization for me in my recovery journey.
One of the most unexpected lessons was the freedom from the “Fear of Missing Out” (FoMO). During my time in the psych ward, I was cut off from constant digital distractions and learned the importance of disconnecting from the noise of modern life.
We live in a time where instant validation through social media often triggers anxiety and overthinking. In the psych ward, I learned to appreciate the stillness of being away from it all, and it brought me a sense of peace and clarity. If you struggle with addiction or mental health challenges, reducing screen time could also be a way to improve your mental well-being.
Here’s a video from a licensed doctor talking about the side effects of prolonged screen time.
Cold showers were another unexpected yet beneficial lesson I learned in the psych ward. Research supports the idea that cold exposure can have profound benefits on both mental and physical health, from improving mood and energy levels to reducing symptoms of depression.
Incorporating a cold shower routine into my life not only helped me feel more energized but also allowed me to reset my mindset, which was especially helpful during my recovery from addiction.
Watch this about the benefits of cold showers.
One of the most surprising realizations I had during my time in the psych ward was that happiness doesn’t come from material possessions or constant upgrades. In fact, living with less helped me focus on what truly mattered.
This lesson is especially important in the context of addiction recovery. Often, addiction is fueled by a need to fill an emotional void. Learning to embrace minimalism can help you find peace and satisfaction in the essentials, breaking free from the cycle of consumerism and desire for more.
One powerful life lesson I learned in the psych ward was recognizing and understanding manipulation, both from others and within myself. In an environment where emotions run high, I learned to identify manipulative behaviors, helping me avoid being taken advantage of.
This ability to spot manipulation has been incredibly valuable in my journey to recovery. Whether in relationships or in battling addiction, learning to set boundaries and spot unhealthy patterns is key to maintaining mental wellness.
One of the most profound insights I gained was the realization that time, as we understand it, is not the same for God. The Bible verse 2 Peter 3:8 reminds us that with God, one day is like a thousand years. Understanding this allowed me to detach from the pressures of time and live in harmony with a higher purpose.
By freeing myself from the anxiety of deadlines and expectations, I found more creativity and peace. In addiction recovery, this understanding can help alleviate the pressure we often feel and allow us to embrace the process of healing.
Click HERE to read about 10 brutal life lessons no one’s taught you.
The lessons I learned in the psych ward were life-changing, but they didn’t happen overnight. Healing takes time, effort, and the willingness to face discomfort. If you’re struggling with addiction or mental health challenges, know that you are not alone. Embrace your journey of recovery with patience and faith.
If you’re looking for more guidance or support on your healing journey, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for faith-based recovery resources. Together, we can overcome the mountains in front of us.
