Move In A Healing Direction
Release the judgment mindset; practice growth, education, and support for those in need
If I ever find myself judging someone or something, I use that as an opportunity to look within myself and question why I had that thought rather than act on it.
A negative judgment implies that I think I am better than that person, action, or thing. But maybe the underlying issue is that, in that moment, I need to feel like I am better than them.
A false sense of superiority is a fleeting feeling, but our actions leave lasting impacts.
Judgment is an ancient human instinct that originated to help us discern a fight or flight response. Today, those survival instincts are less common in our day-to-day life, but judgment is still critical in much of our decision-making. However, societal dynamics have driven us to misuse our judgment skills negatively.
So how can we unlearn the negative side of this behavior we are instinctually tied to?
Negative judgment is often a result of inherent and environmental biases we hold. In the moment we can ask ourselves: “What in my own life am I insecure about or need to attend to in order to resolve my negative outlook?”
As we address and heal ourselves, we practice the release of judgment. It’s a practice that takes effort. People have often asked me, “How did you reach …?”—fill in the blank. The reality is that I haven’t. I, too, am still practicing, and that is what life is. It’s a journey not a destination, as most experiences and lessons in life are.
Everyone in life is fighting a battle or challenge no one knows about. Those struggles are always different. Recently, I have witnessed, in many circles of acquaintances, friends, and even family, individuals who are struggling with substance use disorder (SUD).
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, SUD is a treatable mental disorder that affects a person’s brain and behavior, leading to their inability to control their use of substances like legal or illegal drugs, alcohol, or medications.
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, 46.3 million people in the United States suffered from SUD in 2021. Many of those people may not realize that something is wrong, as substance use becomes a part of daily life, and they are unable to see the impact on themselves and their loved ones.
I have painfully witnessed individuals suffering from this disorder and the consequences that result from behavior while under the influence or going through active addiction.
The reality is this medical disorder is deadly if not treated—risks range from poor decision-making, driving while intoxicated, and hurtful behavior toward loved ones to overdose, hospitalization, and harming oneself or others.
If you find yourself or someone you love struggling with substance abuse, do not judge that person. Judgment does not make you superior, and it will not help with their recovery. Instead, be a support system where you can, educate yourself, and be aware of resources for mental health and addiction.
Where there are resources, there is hope. You don’t have to navigate this journey blind or alone.
Many local organizations, centers, and programs are available throughout the Emerald Coast, including Journey Pure in Panama City, Lakeview Center of Walton County, Project Hope Recover Center in Crestview, Bridgeway Center in Fort Walton Beach, Twelve Oaks Recovery Center in Navarre, and many others. For help identifying resources available to you, go to USA.gov/substance-abuse or call 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
My hope is that this letter will reach even just one person in need.
The past is in the past. All that matters in life is where we are going next. There is a possibility of a happy, healthy life, and it takes one choice. Ask for help. You are not alone, and we are all cheering for you for a brighter future. May we all support one another, release judgment, and provide a path forward for those needing direction.
Much love,
McKenzie Burleigh,
Publisher
mburleigh@palmbeachmedia.com
