is possible
“ Sadly a lot of treatments for Borderline have long waiting lists , but this doesn ’ t mean you can ’ t do some work on it yourself . “ I had to wait for over a year to get the right treatment , but as soon as I realised I needed DBT , I got books about it , found resources online etc , because I felt I couldn ’ t wait that long .”
LEAVING A LEGACY
Beth has used these experiences to turn around both her mental illness and alcohol addiction . Now she teaches privately those skills that were so crucial to her . Beth continues : “ There are also people who teach it privately , which is something I do now , and clearly it ’ s beneficial to be guided through the lessons by someone with experience ; but if you can ’ t afford that , there is still lots you can find online for free that can help you get started .
“ Just make a start on treatment , the sooner the better . And don ’ t beat yourself up if it ’ s one step forward , two back sometimes . It takes some time and effort to change your life ! “ It ’ s OK to make mistakes or to feel bad – just concentrate on making progress .”
The therapy Beth has had leaves a legacy of hope for her future and hopes that she can continue to prosper . A strong positive attitude is a key message that she wishes to convey on her website . She continues : “ If you are willing to put the work in , your life can get better . “ Your emotions , your behaviours , your ways of thinking can all be changed so that you ’ re happier . “ Don ’ t think you are any different than me , that you can ’ t be cured , or it won ’ t work for you . “ I thought that and I was wrong . “ And I ’ m so glad that even though I wanted to at times , I never gave up . Just be willing , be committed to treatment and you can get better , too .”
USEFUL NUMBERS
Alcoholics Anonymous
0845 769 7555
Gamblers Anonymous
0370 050 8881
Narcotics Anonymous
0300 999 1212
Samaritans
08457 90 90 90 jo @ samaritans . org 07725 90 90 90 ( Text service )
Breathing Space
0800 83 85 87
SAMH
0141 530 1000
Scottish Recovery Network
0141 240 7790
NHS 24
08454 24 24 24
More information available : www . bethburgess . co . uk