Survive 2 Thrive!

When life’s stresses and hardships become too much for us to handle, we go into survival mode and struggle to get by. It could seem like waking up with a sense of dread for the day ahead. You may hear yourself saying things like, “I just want to go to sleep, or I can’t wait for this day to be over.” Existing only for survival has no joy.

The symptoms to watch out for include extreme stress, despair, interpersonal issues, persistent exhaustion, violent outbreaks of rage, and difficulty finishing small chores. I would want to point out that when we are in survival mode, we are constantly hyper attentive. It is impossible to ignore the intrusive thoughts, the inexplicable physical symptoms, or the constant sense of being on alert no matter how hard you try.

I used to live in survival mode. I tried to run away from my relationships, work, and any other activities at times to avoid the suffering and internal conflict I was experiencing. I would try to eat as much junk food & indulge in unhealthy behaviors as I could to numb my pain. I got to the point where I was stuffing candy bars under my pillow, calling in to work and living destructive life patterns. This was a maladaptive coping strategy that did nothing but exacerbate depression, major health issues, and ongoing life dread. I realized at that moment that this was my breaking point.

All I wanted was to feel normal. Knowing who I was would give me the confidence I so desired. I was curious about what life was like when fear was absent. I just wanted to be happy with who I was. However, there was always a part of me that wished I could just disappear. Hope was drowned out by thoughts of worthlessness.

I could not stop saying to myself while I worked, “I need to find a church.” My colleague, who was seated behind me, became so annoyed with me that he let out a loud cry, “Oh my God, find a damn church already!” I can only laugh at how irritating I must have been today because I kept saying this aloud. That was the start of my journey to not just survive but also live a life of purpose, hope and joy. I did locate a church and went there right away. My spirit was pierced by the message. The prospect of hope materialized.

It requires effort, self-dedication, and a willingness to change to go from survival mode to thriving mode. You thrive when you are experiencing emotional, cognitive, physical and spiritual well-being. When you are thriving, you may get up every morning with a sense of passion and a purpose. It releases you from disbelief in both you and other people. Living a life of promise and hope is made possible by thriving.

Today, I want to encourage you that it is your time to THRIVE!” 

 If you would like to talk about your own inner child, childhood trauma or adult trauma, please contact me to set up an appointment.

Together we can Thrive!!!!
Consuelo Serbia, LPC, C-TP, C-DBT

765-665-6971