Saad’s 7 Steps to Starting Your Mental Health and Wellness Recovery Journey

3. Listen to Your Body’s Cues

One of Saad’s key learnings was the importance of listening to his body. He moved away from rigid rules about “good” and “bad” foods and instead focused on mindful eating and understanding his body’s signals of hunger and fullness. Developing this awareness is crucial for sustainable health and well-being. Pay attention to how different foods make you feel, notice when you feel truly rested, and acknowledge any discomfort or pain signals your body might be sending.

4. Find Your “Why” and Cultivate Purpose

Saad found motivation in wanting to help his family and others. Helping his mother reverse her type 2 diabetes fueled his passion and provided a strong sense of purpose. Having a clear “why” can be a powerful driving force in your recovery journey. What motivates you to change? Is it your health, your relationships, your aspirations? Connecting with this purpose can provide the resilience needed to navigate challenges.

5. Embrace Learning and Seek Knowledge

Saad’s journey involved extensive learning about functional metabolism, clinical research, and health and wellness coaching. While you don’t need to become a certified expert, actively seeking knowledge about mental health, nutrition, and well-being can empower you to make informed decisions about your recovery. Explore Recovery.com’s Resource Library to gain a better understanding of your challenges and potential solutions.

6. Understand That Shame and Isolation Are Harmful

Saad’s powerful statement, “shame and isolation are more harmful than food,” highlights the detrimental impact of negative self-talk and social withdrawal. Shame can erode self-esteem and hinder progress, while isolation deprives you of crucial social support. Be kind to yourself, practice self-compassion, and actively seek connection with supportive individuals. Consider exploring support groups or therapy as avenues for reducing isolation and processing difficult emotions. Recovery.com can help you find treatment centers and support networks.

7. Ask for Help and Break Free from Ego

Saad emphasizes the importance of asking for help when needed. “No matter how far gone you feel, there is always a solution out there. You just have to ask for help when you need to ask. Do ask. Don’t get that ego in the middle. Don’t hold yourself back.” Overcoming the fear of vulnerability and reaching out to trusted individuals, professionals, or support systems is a sign of strength, not weakness. Just as Saad sought guidance, allow yourself to lean on others during your journey.

Saad’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience and the possibility of profound transformation. He reminds us that “you are not broken, just a bit overwhelmed by the situation and the circumstances.” By starting small, taking practical steps, listening to your body, finding your purpose, seeking knowledge, combating shame and isolation, and asking for help, you too can embark on a meaningful and sustainable recovery journey. Remember, as Saad wisely advises, “just start. You’ll be amazed by the capacities your body’s built in. You’ll be amazed on how your mind is capable of what extent it can go to achieve something.”