Deterioration

While many health issues are beyond our control, some are a direct result of our choices. Physical deterioration that results from weight gain, uncontrolled diabetes, alcohol or drug dependencies, eating disorders, inactivity, or exposure to harmful environmental factors are often preventable. In most cases, it is also possible to avoid abusive relationships, social isolation, or substance abuse which may lead to mental degradation. It’s really difficult to stand by and watch while a loved one deteriorates because of a preventable disease. Even though we would do anything in our power to stop the downward spiral, often there is very little we can do.

Those who suffer from preventable disorders usually have two ways of justifying their choices: It’s not a big deal, or, I can’t do anything about it. Both excuses fall under the category of denial.

Since there is a spectrum between wellness and illness, we might not notice the gradual downward slide. Most of us don’t have a person in our life who is objective, unbiased, caring, and also bold enough to get our attention when we are about to step into a sinkhole. And if we happen to have such a person, we might ignore her because she reminds us too much of our overly-controlling mom!

Fortunately, I have a few good friends who also happen to have good judgment. I routinely ask them to tell me when I’m slipping down that slippery slope towards self-destruction—and they have. I’m never really pleased to hear about it. I always feel a bit defensive. Yet, most of the time, they are just echoing what I already know to be true.

While the downhill slide was hardly noticeable, the climb back up takes so much effort and concentration. The progress is slow, and it’s easy to get discouraged. Yet, each arduous step up lifts us a little farther from the bottom of the dark pit. We are no longer deteriorating, but improving…no longer disintegrating, but rising.