My 12 Steps Closer to God

A Letter From the Author

I am not a licensed therapist or mental health professional. I did not study at a seminary or have any formal education about the Bible.

This is a true story and was initially written to help me heal from PTSD; in the process, I discovered God's calling and purpose for my life.

Mental illnesses and life's traumatic events lead me to write my book. It was with the Trinity that I was able to overcome many health issues.

Never in a million years did I think my book would get published, but I know with God, everything is possible. He wanted me to share my story in hopes that it could help other people like me who suffered from these afflictions.

Today, I am happy, healthy, and continually healing, all by the grace of God and with His healing powers.

This book was written with love, and I pray that anyone who reads it can also heal.

With love and gratitude.

Destiny

What Is the 12 Steps of Co-Dependent Anonymous?

Codependency is recognized as an illness similar to alcoholism. There are programs, groups, and mental health professionals that can help you overcome this health issue.

The 12 Steps of Co-Dependents Anonymous

The website and organization that has the twelve steps listed is CoDA:

http://12step.org/references/12-step-versions/coda/

These steps are used for the 12 Step Program to help me overcome codependency.

The program and organization has saved lives and helped with codependency recovery.

LEARN MORE- WHAT IS CODEPENDENCY?

From My Experiences

The following statements are made from my personal experience, feelings, and what I suffered and went through in my life.

My recommendation for anyone that is suffering or in pain, is to seek professional help. If you feel that you may be suffering from depression, anxiety, abuse, addiction, or codependency there is help available.

Depression & Anxiety

These are some of the signs that I experienced with these afflictions. With the help of a professional you can overcome these health issues.

Signs of Depression & Anxiety

Hopelessness

Extreme Mood Swings

"I can't get up, I don't want to get up, I don't want to do this anymore."

People respond to depression differently, for me, it was tough getting up every day. Some days, staying in my PJs was more appealing than getting out and putting on a smile.

Extreme Mood Swings

"Who is controlling my mind right now? Who is controlling my body right now? Oh, no, it's not me, I can't stop this crazy."

Sometimes we react or respond in a way that is not typical of how we would handle the situation, this may be an indicator of depression.

Anger

Extreme Mood Swings

Anger

"Why is this happening? I am so pissed off right now, I just want to punch them."

When feeling out of control, many people respond with anger. Sometimes it is a defense mechanism to ignore what we are truly feeling inside.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disoder (PTSD)

These are some of the signs and symptoms I have experiened with PTSD. With the help of a professional, you can overcome this affliction.

Signs of PTSD

Isolation

Ruminating

"I don't want to see anyone, I don't want anyone to know that I'm hurting. I'll just stay in and not bother anyone."

Sometimes being alone is more harmful than helpful. There are times when we need to reach out to others when we are suffering.

Ruminating

"I can't stop thinking about this over and over and over. Why can't I just stop thinking about this?"

Not letting go of certain memories, especially traumatic ones can burn into someone's memories. When that happens, it is like a recording that keeps looping.

Addictions

Ruminating

Addictions

" It doesn't hurt, I'll just have another one. Then maybe, I'll forget why I was hurting in the first place."

Sometimes, we don't want to deal with the feelings and emotions, and there are many ways we can dull our pain, not always in the healthiest ways.

Narcisstic Personality Disorder

These are just some of the signs of someone with Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD), We all have narcissism in us, this disorder can be diagnosed by a mental health professional. These are some common traits found with this condition.

Narcissistic Personality Disorder Signs

Lack of Empathy

The definition is "the ability to understand and share the feelings of another. "

What does the person display or express? Can they "feel" for you? Do they put themselves in your shoes?

Narcissistic Rage

"Okay so the waiter messed up on the order. Do you have to belittle him in front of everyone in the restaurant?"

We all get angry or upset, but does the anger or burst of anger fit the situation? Is everything always someone else's fault?

Gaslighting

"Did I say that? Did I really do that? Why did he say I did that or said that? I'm not sure if it happened, did it happen?

If you start to question you, your mind, thoughts, and feelings, you may have been gaslighted.

Romans 8:28

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

My 12 Steps Closer to God