THOUGHT ABOUT SELF-HATE?

THOUGHT ABOUT SELF-HATE?
I love to research and explore points of view outside of my own thinking. I was exposed to a Dr. Allen Berger who is a psychotherapist and a person in life long recovery. A very interesting combination. If you want to learn and read more, Dr. Berger’s web site is www.abphd.com.
I listened to him on the topic of self-hate (amongst other things) and quite honestly had never thought about this “specific” topic. I certainly understand a loss of self-respect and self-love from first hand experience. I had never considered hate in the equation.
My take from this exercise.
Self-hate is a strong feeling you have and probably won’t recognize the intensity when you look at yourself. I certainly didn’t. It manifests with thoughts like If I am who I really am, you won’t like me and I know I’m not really who you think I should be.
Hate comes from not being able to live up to false ideals. It comes from a failure to be perfect. It makes you feel unworthy of love and success.
Man could I relate, can you?

Life recovery is a journey to be human, not perfect. It is a journey of learning to truly care for our self and recognize our individual strengths and cherish the authentic person you really are. We can be in a recovery mode from things like addictions (ie-abstinance from certain behaviours or actions) for extended time frames without ever doing the work needed to address self-hate.
Funny, as I started the process of life recovery, I instinctively recognized this, and got the trained help I needed to address the issue. It wasn’t a part of the other traditional things I was doing.
Upon reflection, I see truth in points Berger makes.
Self hate is likely a major cause of behavioural relapse, even in those who have been in recovery for long periods of time.
Ever wonder why that 10 year plus person went back out, abandoned a positive progression? I think for many, untreated self-hate finally convinces them they are not worthy!
So something to think about. Do you harbour feelings of self-hate? Are you prepared to address them? Self-hate, if present, will undermine your recovery and have you in negative head space- a constant cynic! Not a place I want to be.
Thanks Dr. Berger for sharing thought provoking wisdom.