Shedding Light on the Spiritual Component of Recovery by Dr. Kimberly Dennis/Psychiatrist: at DailyStrength Doctors and Advisors

Dr. Kimberly Dennis is the Medical Director at Timberline Knolls Residential Treatment Center. She maintains a holistic perspective in the practice of psychiatry, incorporating biological, psycho-social and spiritual approaches…

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Shedding Light on the Spiritual Component of Recovery

Posted in Eating Disorder... by Dr. Kimberly Dennis on Nov 01, 2011

Today, millions of people throughout our country are focused on recovery. They think about it, work toward it, they try desperately to hold on to it. Many are eventually able to live it each day with ease, freedom, and joy. Their experiences are diverse: an adolescent girl knows she must stop cutting herself; a mother of two recognizes that a single drink will inevitably lead to a dozen; a college student feels such a strong desire to binge and purge, she can think of nothing else. No matter how dissimilar the experience, they all know one absolute: recovery is the most difficult, challenging thing they will ever do in their entire lives.

Then, why do it alone?

Humans are multi-dimensional beings; comprised of a body, soul, and spirit. Each aspect is unique, separate and of equal importance. At Timberline Knolls, addressing a patient’s spirit is as important as attending to their body and soul. Their spirit is the most potently healing part of them; it also has been hurt, damaged or wounded by a disorder or addiction. It too needs and deserves to be restored. And we know without a single doubt that there is a powerful force immediately available to provide that healing. Call it God, a Higher Power, or the universe – the label is not the issue. What is the issue is the love, grace, mercy, and support that truly is right there, simply waiting to be tapped into.

We want every resident to recognize that they have incredible value and worth; doesn’t have to earn or work for it, has it simply because they exist, an equal member of the human race, another one of God’s kids. A higher power exists and will extend everything needed for complete healing, and will do so in great abundance for those willing to seek it.

Do you see yourself in the adolescent, mother, or college student mentioned above? If you are seeking recovery or trying to maintain it, you have probably consulted a physician to support your physical body; undoubtedly, you have sought professional counseling to heal your thoughts and emotions. Please consider offering similar support to your spirit. Recovering all parts of you – your mind, soul, and spirit – offers the best chance for complete and lasting recovery.

- Dr. Kim Dennis

Now, I realize that this is a miracle of recovery that is dependent on my spiritual condition, but the important thing here is that IT IS A MIRACLE. It is nothing I did or didn't do. It is not something I could work up on my own. It is not MY will at all. Posted on 05/13/11 01:39:32 pm

I am college educated, smart, social, very spiritual, but suffer every day because I cannot afford to attend church regularly every Sunday. I help all of my husband's friends, but then in my time of hell and need they do return the favor. I am smart, givi Posted on 05/06/11 03:04:14 am

you are not selfish. you-and the rest of us-have a messed up coping mechinism. eating disorders are called mental illness for a reason. we are sick. we have tricked ourselves into thinking that our ED's are the only way any of us can deal with life and fu Posted on 07/23/11 08:27:20 pm

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Previous: Making the Connection Between Trauma and Resulting Eating Disorders

: Getting Treatment: The Necessity of Family Involvment

CATEGORIES: Overview

CONDITIONS AND COMMUNITIES: Alcoholism • Anxiety Disorders in Children • Bipolar Disorder • Bipolar Disorder - Teen • Cocaine Addiction & Recovery • Eating Disorders • Families & Friends Of Addicts • Family & Friends of Bipolar • Family Issues • Food Addiction • Gambling Addiction & Recovery • Heroin Addiction & Recovery • Internet Addiction • Marijuana Addiction & Recovery • Meth Addiction & Recovery • Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) • Personality Disorders • Post Partum Depression • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) • Self-Injury • Sex / Pornography Addiction • Shopping Addiction • Smoking Addiction & Recovery • Video Game Addiction • Diets & Weight Maintenance • Fitness Goals

TAGS: Therapies

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I was diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder in 1989. I've had a lot to deal with in my life. That's why I say the following: It IS important who that higher power is: God. If it weren't for Him, I wouldn't be here right now. Yes, I go to a doctor and yes, I takes medication. But God helps to remind me that this journey is not complete without His love and guidance. When you pray for His help, He may not answer the way you want it all the time, but God does answer prayer. I asked God repeatedly "why me?" and guess what I found out? I'm in a unique position to help people. When someone suffering with some form of depression or Bipolar Disorder, I can "empathize", not just sympathize. I know exactly how they feel and I've been exactly where they are. What a blessing to be able to help someone! So, God is important!! Pray and ask for guidance. You may be surprised at what you find.

By AnnabelleL Nov 10, 2011

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