Those of us who live in one day at a time recovery realize the importance of returning to work when we had to miss time because of our disorders. In reality the stigma still surrounds those of us who live with mental illness. If addiction was present, the stigma could be worse. This is a reality of life. We need courage, but when complicated with anxiety, it is a heroic effort just to walk in the door and try to resume some form of normal for ourselves. Thus the need for education. Some of our co-workers do have an understanding of our situation. Some of them will be supportive. This too is a reality. We need not discourage this support. Nonetheless if we don’t feel the need for their support we don’t have to rely on it. This can be welcomed if we had, and still have a good relationship with these people. Another reality is some people have had bad experiences with people who live with our disorders. We need to keep our conversations appropriate with our work environment. This will help us get back into the swing of things. One day at a time we can be ok. It can be worth it. Your efforts are amazing. That’s why I call you heroes.
