The End or a New Beginning

So…This is my last week of IOP. I have two WET (Written Exposure Therapy) writing sessions left, and I’m a little anxious about them. WET has been challenging, and knowing I still have two more sessions makes me nervous. At the same time, I feel bittersweet about leaving the program.

I’ve been in this program since May 5, and for the past three and a half months, it has provided some much-needed structure to my days. It has become part of my routine and, in many ways, part of my life. Now, that chapter is coming to an end.

I will miss Lindsey and the crew who have gone through this program with me. They tell you that you’re not supposed to make friends while you’re in treatment, but you do. How could you not? For three and a half months, we have sat together, shared difficult moments, supported one another, and worked through some incredibly hard things.

We all have our own traumas and our own stories, but there is something powerful about being around people who understand what it means to do this kind of work. Going through it together creates a connection, whether we intend for it to happen or not.

I am grateful for the people who have supported me throughout this program. Thank you for listening, encouraging me, laughing with me, and simply being there. You have been an important part of this chapter of my recovery, and I will miss you all.

Four days to go. I’m anxious. I’m excited. I’m sad to leave.

AND I’m ready to see what comes next.