Backwards Or Two Steps Forward And One Step Backward

Video Transcript

I’m early on in my recovery, but I’ve seen some good progress thanks to working with one of your recommended therapists. However, yesterday, I had a return of some symptoms and felt “adrenalized” that I haven’t had in a few weeks. Does this mean I’ve gone backward, or is this just part of the “two steps forward and one step backward” part of the recovery process you often talk about?

Without knowing more about your situation, I can’t be certain. However, if you haven’t had an increase in anxious behavior and your stress hasn’t increased, the return of some symptoms and feeling adrenalized is likely the “two steps forward and one step backward” part of the recovery process.

We call those “recovery bumps” – when we’ve had an unexplained increase in symptoms after they have subsided for a while. “Recovery bumps” are super common for recovery, especially in the early days of recovery.

If you’ve had a “recovery bump,” passively-accept them and continue to work on your recovery strategies. You should see “recovery bumps” subside as your body continues to recover.

In the short-term, view “recovery bumps” as temporary nuisances on the road to lasting recovery.

Discussing sudden symptom increases with your therapist can bring more clarity.

Recovery Support members can read the article, “What are recovery bumps?” for more information about them. The link is in the description.