Due to the current mandate of social distancing, many of us are finding ourselves stuck at home with lots and lots of time on our hands. That can be challenging for people in recovery who are looking to stave off boredom and the cravings that can sometimes arise when there isn’t anything else to capture our attention.
Finding Encouragement
A lot of folks use this free time to binge watch all those shows and movies they have been meaning to get around to. If you are in recovery and planning to plant yourself on the couch for some serious viewing time, you might consider checking out some great documentaries that can provide encouragement to maintain your sobriety in challenging times. You’ll still have plenty of time to watch every episode of your favorite sitcom…again.
Tony Robbins: I Am Not Your Guru
Tony Robbins is a master of affirmations and has been motivating millions for many years through his books and live events. In this documentary, viewers are invited to look in on the annual “Date With Destiny” event which is a centerpiece of Robbins’ efforts to inspire people. The film also details Robbins’ journey from suffering abuse as a child to becoming a go-to source for those seeking advice on personal development. Robbins’ story—and his insistence that our problems are an opportunity for growth—can provide motivation for those in recovery.
In 1980, Terry Fox ran all the way across Canada. Pretty amazing, right? What’s even more amazing is that he did it alone. And even more amazing than that? He did it after having lost a leg to cancer and learning to walk (and run!) with a prosthetic. Directed by NBA legend Steve Nash, Into the Wind asks us to forget our traditional ideas about what is possible and what is not. Someone is waiting to prove our notions wrong. And that can be a great reminder when staying sober seems impossibly difficult.
Maybe you remember the notion of “the hero’s journey” from your high school English class. Joseph Campbell was a scholar who first popularized the idea that many of the world’s myths and legends are built on the same structure, featuring a hero who overcomes an obstacle. This documentary, which features Avika Goldman, Deepak Chopra, and Rashida Jones among others, points out that we are the heroes of our own stories. And we’re all on a journey with obstacles to overcome along the way. If a substance use disorder is one of the obstacles on your path, you might need this reminder of your own potential for heroism—heroism that can include maintaining your sobriety even when it is hard.
Sometimes what we really need, especially in tough times, is to see a close friend. And for many, many people, Fred Rogers is one of the first friends we remember having. He would greet us each day as he changed his sweater and his shoes. And then he’d remind us of our value and help us through challenges we might encounter. This documentary, which predates the Tom Hanks feature film, takes us to Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood and reminds us why we loved Mr. Rogers—and why we were confident he loved us. Revisit (or meet for the first time) an old friend and reconnect with the kindness and gentle support this special man shared with everyone he encountered.
Your Story is Just Beginning
If you are struggling with a substance use disorder, you may feel as though the story of your life will never include a happy or heroic ending. But as these documentaries clearly demonstrate, everyone can accomplish things that seem difficult—or even impossible. The key is to take that first step toward the change you’d like to see in your life.
At Wooded Glen Recovery Center, we know your story is far from over. With personalized, compassionate care, we can help you write a new script for yourself—a script in which the hero (that’s you!) has overcome something difficult and built a new and inspiring life of lasting sobriety.