A term that is often used in recovery is acceptance. Describing acceptance means that you cannot achieve true peace of mind until you recognize that everything is precisely the way it is supposed to be. Trying to control everything around you to make you feel better only makes things more difficult.
Acceptance should be your goal every day, with a daily reprieve, of course. When you can focus on what needs to be changed within you and not in the world, things go much smoother. To take acceptance to another level is to discover the presence of radical acceptance.
The practice of Radical Acceptance was developed through the use of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). DBT was designed as a cognitive-behavioral therapy to treat borderline personality disorder and has also been found to successfully treat other mental health issues.
In the findings of DBT, radical acceptance was a concept that assists in combating the pain and suffering that typically led to drug and alcohol addiction. Through practicing radical acceptance, one can stay sober and start living again.
What Does It Mean to Have Radical Acceptance?
Accepting life on life’s terms is vital to come to terms with for your recovery. Understanding the reality of what is going on without blaming others, creating pushback based on pride and ego, or fighting everyone and everything due to self-centeredness will help you stay grounded and focused in recovery.
In basic terms, you have to stay in the present moment to advocate for your peace and serenity that is not dependent on anything else. Getting to this level of acceptance will change your outlook and assist in increasing your gratitude.
When Is Radical Acceptance Used?
Ultimately, your goal is to use radical acceptance in everything you do. Implementing radical acceptance usually comes after you’ve been in enough pain to want to change. Applying radical acceptance in situations that are beyond your control will serve you well.
Using this method for conditions that occur without you having a way to change them will help you take everything in stride and you can progressively move on from the past in growth. Rooting yourself right where you are without trying to be who you think others want you to be without judgment and comparison can get you into radical acceptance.
Therapy, journaling, and mindfulness are great tools to get you out of the past and into the present to focus on the here and now. Reflection can lead you to practice radical acceptance regularly instead of believing that you are doomed to having bad things happen to you.
Radical Acceptance could be instrumental in assisting you with long-term sobriety from drug and alcohol addiction. Through evidence-based therapy options and the endless adventure of Colorado, The Detox Center of Colorado fosters connection, encouraging clients to get connected to themselves, their peers, their families, and their higher power. Offering a full range of recovery and mental health services, The Detox Center of Colorado offers “Expanded Recovery” to enrich our clients’ lives in mind, body, and spirit. Call us today to get started with your treatment at (303) 536-5463.
