Why might a person avoid taking responsibility for their recovery?

Receiving negative messages can significantly impact an individual's self-esteem and perception of their ability to take control of their recovery journey. When someone is subjected to consistent negative feedback—whether from peers, family, or even society—it can create a belief that they are incapable of changing or improving their situation. This external discouragement might lead to internalized feelings of inadequacy, making it difficult to embrace the responsibilities required for recovery.

When individuals feel that their efforts are futile or that they are undeserving of support, they may develop a mindset that prevents them from actively engaging in the recovery process. This avoidance can exacerbate feelings of helplessness and can reinforce a cycle where they continue to seek reassurance from their negative environment rather than taking initiative toward recovery. Building awareness and resilience against negative messaging is crucial in empowering individuals to take ownership of their recovery.