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