Addiction Recovery, Aging, and Emotional Regulation with Kelly
Episode Overview
Kelly's journey through addiction and recovery over nearly 12 years. The impact of menopause on emotional regulation and mental health. Navigating the healthcare system with a BPD diagnosis. The importance of self-advocacy in mental health treatment. Challenges and benefits of Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT).
I had to be completely transparent. That was not my doing; this was my opportunity to finally get a hold of things
Get ready to dive into an engaging conversation with Kelly, a critical care nurse who has been in recovery from substance misuse for nearly 12 years. In this episode of Bold Beautiful Borderline, hosts Laurie Edmundson and Sara Amundson explore the intersections of addiction recovery, aging, and emotional regulation. Kelly opens up about her journey through addiction, receiving a diagnosis of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), and how menopause has impacted her mental health and emotional stability.
Her candidness provides a raw look into the challenges and triumphs she has faced along the way. With humour and honesty, Kelly shares her experiences of navigating the healthcare system, the stigma surrounding BPD, and the importance of self-advocacy. She talks about her initial reluctance to take medication and her quest for alternative coping mechanisms, which led her to Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT). Kelly's story is not just about struggle; it's also about resilience and finding hope in unexpected places.
She discusses the complexities of managing BPD alongside menopause and how these two factors intertwine to affect her daily life. The episode also touches on broader themes like the underrepresentation of women's health issues and the need for holistic approaches in medical treatment. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone dealing with similar issues or looking for an honest portrayal of life with BPD and addiction recovery.
Tune in to hear Kelly's inspiring journey and gain insights into the often-overlooked aspects of mental health and aging. Don't miss out on this heartfelt episode that blends personal stories with broader societal issues.