Relapse Is Part of Recovery | Hufsa Ahmad | TEDxRanneySchool

[@MentallyChill]

It's me, Hufsa. Thank you everyone for all of your comments! It really means a lot to me that my talk has touched so many people! For everyone struggling with addiction (or any challenge), know that you too can get through it. Just don't give up. And yes, the crowd was very dry lol but I heard they got better later. Take care

[@nathancantino5669]

We played this video here at GRIT a dual diagnosis program. we loved it.

[@nycdre]

I just relapsed after being sober 5.5 years. I’m on day 1. Thank you, Hufsa.

[@maijennasis]

@@nycdre You got this! Sending you love

[@kareemaafteraddiction8965]

Mentally Chill hufsa I enjoyed your talk. I would love to interview you on my channel. It is a small channel but my subscribers would really benefit from this message.

[@LilMatrixBeats]

very powerful speech Hufsa. I love the way you talk and express. Thank you.

[@meghanservidio8961]

I’ve spoken at funerals less dry than this crowd. Don’t let it get to you Hufsa you are the bomb. You did great babe. 👍🏽❤️

[@lvl3472]

Most are college students taking notes

[@brittanyberryman7484]

I literally could not believe how they didn't clap.. I even wanted to and that came natural to me, like damn people

[@beetsbydwightschrute1770]

Yep

[@Cracktune]

i was thinking the exact same thing. Way to push through with the talk

[@VokeVideo]

You are destined for greatness, if you are reading this right now.

[@StaySassyStyles]

You are destined for greatness also. Thank you.

[@rowanfrancis9011]

Ya right

[@dontrunbutreload3052]

I needed this today thank you sir you are a great person

[@freddieobregon6351]

Thanks, and you too

[@nonasuffix4829]

The crowd was so dry, but you were amazing Hufsa! Thank you for sharing your journey.

[@inspectorbudget]

Maybe if she wasn't such a braggart 😒

[@kylemos1088]

People need to realise how strong you have to be to get through something like this... needed this

[@brettcordes3602]

You don’t need strength. You need humility.

[@RanThaMan]

I’ve been sober for 13 months, tonight is a bad night for my alcohol addiction, anyone else here with me?

[@lifesaninsidegame7751]

RanThaMan Hang in there, brother. You are doing great! Proud of you for making it 13 mos. That is pretty freaking awesome.

[@RanThaMan]

Shaun Brooks thanks, I’m still 13 months sober

[@lifesaninsidegame7751]

That’s what I’m talking about!!!! Keep it up! 👊🏻❤️

[@angiemcgee6797]

RanThaMan hang in there so proud of you. I’m watching video after video to train my brain to get clean. I can’t wait for my 13 months and beyond. I can currently only make it 2 days. I started outpatient counseling today and hopefully I will get as strong as you.

[@RanThaMan]

Angie McGee You can do it. I am proud of you also. And, beware of negative thoughts and find reasons not to drink. Thanks for the positivity. I’ll be 14 months sober tomorrow and I’ve never felt better. Let me know how you’re doing. All the best to you

[@oluchukwuchibeze9227]

This was beautiful. She was open and encouraged me to be too. Thank you Hufsa, I needed to hear this.

[@ElizabethLopez-om2ks]

What Hufsa discussed is so true! Relapse is a part of recovery and discovery about one's self at the same time. This crowd was very dry!!!! She had to force them to clap and say Stimga Smash. This crowd should of been applauding when she said she had a relapse and then spoke about how she picked herself up through support. This crowd of people not supporting. I would of been clapping and cheering this lady!! Great speech Hufsa and thank you!!!

[@pulakification]

What does stimga smash mean?

[@abdulrezal5203]

the 1st time i succumbed to a relapse, it was my 5th week post rehab. I came across this video and sobbed taking the message that this is a process and that I am to remain adamant to be abstinent. Forward 7 months, teared-up and languished by my incompetence once again leaves me desperate to hightail recovery again because prolonged slips hits where it hurts. Pray a lot to Allah Hufsa, prostate to him and ask him to protect and guide all that you do. Am thankful having come across your talk on TED. Asalamuwalaikum.

[@Hangloose-ee2me]

I’m sick 🤕 of relapse lost a career relationship etc..but I’m sick & tired 😑 of being sick..now I’ve just moved in with very supportive family 🙏🏽Hope & prayers daily..thanks

[@Wakesix12]

Keep pushing, do not give up on your sobriety. I've only been 5 days clean myself. I feel your pain of loss but I can feel your determination to keep going. It gives me hope too.

[@Hangloose-ee2me]

bob digity I got introduced to AA when I was in the Navy,My last relapse was Australia Day 27 January 2020..it’s 4 months now clean & sober one day at a time through Covid-19 has helped cause I just go to work exercise in the morning do my daily meditation & readings been good with saving money 💰 clear head etc ..one day at a time doing the next right thing 🙏🏽☮️🔥grateful hope you get better one day at a time

[@kathylgoedert]

27 years sober, and struggled with mental illness for many years. DBT helps. After 4o years feeling suicidal every single day, the miracle happened and that constant thought is gone. Please keep helping younger people who suffer. College was when it got bad for me also.

[@LaurawithaB]

Just came across your comment and I must agree, college was it for me, too! I hope you're doing well today.

[@leesober3798]

Stigmas a terrible thing for mental illness.. I had serve depression it was the worst thing ever,, led to suicide attempts.. Thank god I'm threw it.. Your a inspiration,, thanks

[@misatchi]

I'm crying. I needed to hear this. Currently dealing with the relapse of my anxiety disorder at its worst. This time is a little different though because I recognized I was struggling right away and saw my psychiatrist asap. She adjusted my meds but as usual it will take some time to see results and I need to work on what caused my emotions to fill up in order to truly heal.

[@fishermanextrordinaire]

You can never fail until you stop trying.... Thanks Beautiful Being..

[@poeticnation6251]

Grant Daly Well said - Respect!

[@kool7862]

Nice!!!! 👌👌

[@metalfuture1982]

In failing you learn more and become stronger. The same applies to business.

[@sprayscience]

I'm proud of you Hufsa. Wish I could give you a hug.

[@KD4274ok]

I'm so confused since past one week. I relapsed on alcohol again after 8 months. My last drink was at 7AM this morning. I have a huge responsibility to perform and I am experiencing withdrawal as I write this comment. I'm determined to overcome this relapse. I know its going to be painful for me but like you said, relapse is journey to recovery. Please pray for all of us. 🙏🙏🙏

[@lindi7168]

My story is the same. I was sober for 7 months last year. I relapsed for 2 months I just couldn’t stop drinking, I’m 26 days sober now and the lesson I learned is that I was trying to stay sober for everything and everyone but myself. I wish you all the best.

[@gavinwesterlind7643]

I relate so much, except I’m not cocky enough to think my responsibility is to show people how pretty I am. I owe God (not myself performing to show myself off.) You will never succeed think your truth is performing. This coming from an ex actor a current recovering alcoholic and a service working now. I only one other people kindness and love. I don’t deserve praise even if I want it or you want it. Humble yourself babe.

[@EllencyOfficial]

Well, Hufsa, looks like you have achieved greatness. And you're a hero!!!

[@easternsunguitarist5791]

Thanks Hufsa. Second time I'm watching your Ted x lecture. I'm 29 yrs and have struggles with progressive alcoholism for the past 4 years. I'm not trying to look excuses with your point on relapse is a part of recovery but Its been exhausting relapsing again and again. Thanks again. This has touched me.

[@dulcemorales6688]

I needed to hear this today after starting another period of relapses, thank you :)

[@limitlessss2493]

R u ok

[@d-elf5313]

Your transparency and authenticity and vulnerability are stunning. I also have had anxiety and depression, and was hospitalized once for suicidal ideation. The stuff you're talking about here is no cake walk. I'm so glad you are prevailing over your challenges, and 6 years sober is just great! What you're doing by sharing your story so bravely is making such a difference in the world. You will never know the full impact of your life on others, but rest assured that the world needs you and we're so glad you're still with us. All the hugs!!

[@melissaeacersall5050]

This made me cry but I absolutely loved it! Thank you so so much! I'm around two months sober, have struggled with depression, anxiety and alcohol issues for years. I'd love to use my experience to help others like you! ❤️

[@shyaaammeneen63]

Melissa, ​Reduce negative thoughts and feel much bettter. Your breath is directly related to your mind [brain] causing negative thoughts-anxiety. For a relaxed life sit on a chair, back erect, eyes closed, be still and observe the sensations of your incoming--outgoing breath at the entrance of the nostrils for around 5-10-15 minutes or more. Don’t fight with your thoughts. Slowly they will reduce and relax the mind. No deep inhalation-exhalation needed. Anytime of the day or night before sleep sit or lie down on your back and observe your breath. Be as still as possible as it reduces negative thoughts. Make this a lifetime daily habit to have a good life. Best wishes Shyaaam Sir. -Counsellor

[@pjj.5649]

All blessings to you, Hufsa. This audience is disconnected from themselves and you. The fact that stood before this vacant audience, says you are in a powerful recovery - no relapse before this audience just standing tall, moving forward! All the best to you.

[@kc8181]

“It is never too late to be what you might have been” (Frances Bacon). One of the things I struggled with in life before and also during recovery were delusions of grandeur. Yes I had untapped ability, yes I had to work to bring those abilities out. But the reality in my case was that I had to accept I was actually quite average. In intelligence and life skills. I was probably not heading for greatness but it was great to accept my averageness and be ok with that. It made life right sized so I could grow up. I am 56 and still not completely sure what I want to do when I grow up, but that’s ok. I pay my way and stay completely sober. I attempt to be as present as possible for those around me. Growing up emotionally is being able to accept my abilities and limitations. As Frances Bacon means in the quote above in my opinion, it never too late to grow up, accept and be grateful for your blessings and limitations. Great talk. Thank you.

[@sandipsays1210]

Such a beautiful insight ! Thanks

[@Juxtapose76]

I enjoy your passion and humility but most of all your honesty, thanks for your encouragement. God bless..🙏💖🕊️

[@rorytambores]

Wow, that was indeed a dry crowd. Thank you so much for the insight on relapse. It’s so much easier to beat yourself up than to recognize that relapses are learning moments, especially when coupled with a mindset towards recovery.

[@10RBREEZY]

I'm only 7 minutes in and tears are falling down my face. People go through so much. We need to be kind to others and have compassion.

[@Lenonymous]

You made me tear-up multiple times. I love this video. Thank you!!!

[@jaradonwigington1936]

Standing ovation and much more,this woman has a beautiful soul and personality you can just Sense it through this video she knows how to speak to the heart.

[@adampayman]

Oh man! I am literaly crying even after the vedio finished. I really really loved your speech and thanks very much for sharing your personal story. I have learned a lot. I absolutely love your picked up *quotes*. Everybody please pray for me to not relapse again. Anxiety and depression is a severe pain you will inshallah never feel it, unless you have it. All the supports we get from the people we know is incredibale helpfull that I can not express in words. Keep on rocking Hufsa.

[@LaurawithaB]

Hope you're doing well Adam. I fought with Anxiety and depression for decades until I bravely took on the root of what was actually causing those ailments for me. If I didn't have my circle of support people, I don't know if I would be here today! Take care.

[@melissaeacersall5050]

Crying too lol! I just loved it.

[@light3940]

I am also a Pakistani-American Muslim woman with Schizoaffective disorder :)

[@systemoperator7792]

Thanks for sharing your story. Mental illness is never talked about in Pakistani culture and am happy that people like you are not afraid to speak out about it. Thank you so much for speaking out. Hope others can learn from your talk and not be afraid.

[@michellelillo1297]

So proud of you Hufsa. Glad to have the privilege to know you and work with you. You are an inspiration!

[@tutinn_]

Hi. Super old video but due to my relapse, I’ve decided to write a comment here as someone who is looking for help… I was doing AMAZING. Not even a hiccup, not thinking about drugs and then one day last week I messed up and thank the lord it has not become a spiral motion down where it took everything from me the first time around when I was addicted bad. However, anyone who knows about addiction knows that overnight, you can lose everything that you’ve worked so hard to get..thankfully this relapse of mine has not taken everything and I have been able to acknowledge it, look it in the face and now I am working towards slapping it across the face and beating this relapse. I welcome all advice.

[@superflysquirrel]

I don't have advice for you. I found this video because I was looking for help and hope. My husband struggles with alcohol addiction and he's been doing so well for 5 months. He's going through a hard time with family at the moment which is a trigger for him and he's staring relapse in the face. I don't know if I have the strength to go through it all again. But I have hope that he will make it. Just know, it may seem hopeless sometimes. I feel it as a person who loves another with addiction. I know there are people who love you too. You are loved.

[@annabella9039]

You got this. Keep going ✨

[@SwedBaben]

Hi friend, how is it going now a year later?

[@SaraWashio]

Omg, you made me cry when you started crying. Words can be life jackets that people for some reason tend to rarely to use in productive and helpful ways. So glad you received them and that you’re giving them out to those in much need of them. Thank you for sharing your love and compassion and heartfelt testimony ❤❤❤

[@arabshaheel3236]

What a confidence 👌 , why TEDx audience are dead ? I really enjoyed her all humour and motivation

[@LuckyLadyZee]

Girl, that crowd sucks. You. You are awesome. I struggle with an SUD, PTSD, heck a myriad of co-occurring mental health issues. I'm going to school for substance abuse counselor and I'm on academic probation because of my mental illness. I am on the uptick, but close to the end of the term, the decision looms above my head. I wanted to throw in the towel so many times. I'm glad I didn't. This motivated me to stay the course, not only is recovery possible, but so is greatness found in helping others. 💗

[@monadewitt3953]

God Bless you Lauren, keep going!

[@earthloveskin375]

Great talk, relapse just like any other failure serves as data. It's the power to decide in that moment to keep moving, keep showing up, keep improving that shows our character. Anybody who misinterpreted this talk missed her point. You can't recover without any relapse. The ideal is to LESSEN the times of occurence of relapse over time. As mental health strugglers, it's not our fault to have or experience this fall. BUT it is our responsibility to choose recovery and incline towards it. Just like a wound is natural, whether it is or is not your fault, your body will recognise that hurt. But if you let it fester and get infected, then it's your fault not to seek help. I'm Bipolar and I can tell you, I've blamed myself for YEARS thinking relapsing is failure. It never did me any good. When I chose recovery, acknowledging that I relapse was okay and that I will keep trying until I get better... everything changed. TAKE RESPONSIBILITY. :) Wishing you all well! Thank you for this talk, Hufsa! Bookmarked Sing for my to-see. Sending you so much love!

[@LaurawithaB]

I totally agree! I had to fail forward till I really understood my purpose and once the ball got rolling, it took off like wildfire. We're lucky to be here!

[@melissaeacersall5050]

I don't see relapse as a failure. I think this talk demonstrates this really.

[@arvindk4813]

True to say only people in solitude and suffering something badly know how much this means to them your speech is gem hufsa ❣️

[@languagelolli]

I hope she's now doing well. What a beautiful soul! Thank you for fighting the struggle we all share.

[@edwardsmith2578]

I just saw this, I'm going through so soo much right now. This video has helped me realize that i just need to keep going. I'm learning to except myself its so hard because i I don't have anyone, I'm so lonely I'm trying to find myself. My past decisions have destroyed any future to have. But I'm trying to dedicate myself to finding some happiness. Thsnk you

[@mrgratitutude]

Me too bro

[@stevenclarke2559]

you not alone buddy you got life with you walk with it x

[@victorlima570]

It gets better. Make sure you’re there to see it. I used to struggle so much with my mental health due to so so much bullying and social isolation and self-esteem issues. I attempted twice. I went through so many antidepressants, two 72 hour holds, therapists, support groups, and hours of meditation before I finally found a counselor who I vibed with, an antidepressant and dose that work for me, support groups that lift me up and make me feel supported! I learned to love myself, stop giving a damn about what other people think, chase my goals and dreams instead of other people and their fickle validations. My heart goes out to you, and I applauded you when you said you graduated! I almost didn’t graduate myself because a breakup and betrayal drove me to the depths of insanity. Seriously, for anyone in the struggle, keep trying, and you will be amazed at how eventually things click and things won’t get to you anymore- and the things that do won’t hit as hard. It gets better. You don’t want to die, you want things to get better.

[@Lucashsh]

You should not of had to ask for "some love". Your talk was amazing.

[@jaimesteele4697]

Hafsa, I needed to hear this today. Alhamdulillah there are other Muslims struggling but overcome. As a convert the ummah is there through my crisis. That itself is an ounce of hope. This morning I was feeling like it was the end. Yet Muslims came to help me. It's such a blessing in this lifetime to part of a beautiful way of life - being indigenous and being Muslim. Both compliment each other in such a unique and holistic way to care for self, family and a broader community of people. Shukran!

[@rajindarsingh1417]

I look up to you. I can’t see myself moving up . I cry when you say that I can’t get better… I just can’t believe anyone anymore. I really was happy & now I’m really sad . I can’t get out of this .

[@ursulataylor5458]

Powerful testimony!!! So glad you shared your struggles and hope. You have no idea what impact you made on those whose journey through life resembles yours. Keep sharing your journey!

[@miaredding1554]

Brave Hufsa, Thank you for sharing your story and helping us understand. God bless you.

[@zoey3332]

shes so positive I love her energy💓💓

[@UncleDuTheWatchman]

I know that God led me to your video. I NEVER watch recovery videos (probably part of my problem!). This really encouraged me along my journey. I feel less of a failure now. THANK YOU!!! Oh and Way To Go overcoming the library-crowd. 💪

[@poeticnation6251]

Amazing job Hufsa Ahmad - "You are a champion" - And I do hear you ROOOOOOAAAR!!!

[@asmatorgal9484]

Healing.. Masha Allah..... Also feels amazing that people like Hufsa have come forward and shared such issue which maybe an sensitive topic for many others.

[@pohyokelo]

This inspired me so much! Will make note of it - definitely must apply it in my life

[@angiemcgee6797]

Hafsa keep sharing and speaking. You’re inspiring and amazing. Congratulations.

[@carissazachar1888]

I laughed, clapped and cheered for you at many points in your story! Thank you for sharing your story, SMASH STIGMA!

[@OpticNerv11]

This was so beautiful. Thank you so much for sharing and shining your light so bright . You give me hope 🙏🏽✨

[@joseph2marin]

Thank you for sharing your story!! Always great to hear real experiences to empower others!

[@davidm587]

You are amazing . People can get better - I believe you . Thank you for your speech .

[@denisemann8798]

Yay, Hafsa! Thank you for your share, your honesty, your fun and your advocacy!

[@chantoneasy-intuitivetools3916]

So so so uplifting and well spoken Hufsa, made my day!!! So awesome that you’re out there being amazing, warms my heart and gives me confidence and hope!!!

[@dorismayorga1769]

YOU ARE DESTINED FOR GREATNESS AND ABUNDANT BLESSINGS! THANK YOU FOR ALL THE HOPE YOU BRING TO THE PEOPLE SUFFERING FROM MENTAL ILLNESS AND FOR US THEIR PARENTS!🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻❤️❤️❤️💖💞💕

[@rickrossstagedive3490]

Happiness is always followed by a huge relapse back to rock bottom Starting to feel like it’s not worth it anymore

[@fullofjoy888]

Great talk, Hufsa! Happy to see you on stage spreading awareness, transparency, and support on this very important topic.

[@twinkeelfish]

Bravo for your transparency into your own life and advocating to smash the stigma of mental illness!

[@tywincannister]

Thank you so much Hufsa 🙏

[@battisegreene7928]

This woman is Absolutely Amazing!!!!!!!!$!🎉🎉🎉❤❤❤❤❤ ❤

[@skyw7448]

today was a really bad night wanting to relapse after being 6 months clean from self harm but this really helped me thankyou luv

[@purrfa1t]

this was a beautiful speech, it made me cry like a baby. i hope she knows how much this meant to me and so many people. you have to be very strong to get through all of that and get better and speak about it. i really needed to hear this right now, thank you hufsa

[@ohbruhtalk4106]

Thank you for being so honest. just rememner your a strong woman and you are gifted . Its day by day sometimes seconds by seconds.

[@andre_fajardo]

Thank you for this, Husfa!

[@MochiChuru]

Hufsa, you created your own greatness and for that you are an inspiration

[@LungaNN]

Thank you for your honest share and insights

[@jabulanichikondo1359]

Hi Hufsa. Thank you for sharing your story. It encourages me

[@rameshorlaitonjam7540]

Thanks from bottom of my heart.

[@theonemrham]

Excellent message!! Great way of communicating this point in an upbeat & positive manner! Thanks Hapka and continued success in your journey as a counselor!

[@travelmaker9405]

Amazing speech

[@hyacinthrajack9493]

You were absolutely fabulous! Go girl go!

[@AbstruseDaPoet]

This was amazing story and how you are helping remove the stigma of relapse opened my eyes as a former addict.

[@sammaelabaddon9993]

been sober since march 17th of 2021..rn it is October 28th 2021 so ive been sober 7-8 months..not sure how much longer i can hold on for. i cried because of how much i dont want to go back and lose everything i worked so hard on

[@scepticrat]

Love this! Great job Hufsa! From one NAMI peer to another, keep rocking!

[@jasoncurran2179]

Hufsa thank you for being so brave ❤

[@brownpadre]

Thank you. This really helped me

[@elijahdunmore7526]

HUFSA YOU ARE GOD SENT WE CAN LEARN FROM WHAT YOU WENT THROUGH I'M SO PROUD OF YOU HUFSA FOR BEING STRONG HUFSA IT SHOWS NO MATTER WHAT YOU GO THROUGH THERE IS AWAY OUT HUFSA YOU ARE MY HERO BY ME HEARING YOU TESTIMONY I CAN GO ON AND MAKE SOMETHING OUT OF MY LIFE THANKS AGAIN HUFSA KEEP SMILING 🙏🏾❤️🙏🏾

[@tracyhouser]

Such a beautiful person :) Thanks so much for sharing and being you

[@PipinhoSnow]

It's part but we have to be careful, because a relapse can be fatal. Without being too fussy with us, but always on the lookout. Step by step with love and determination.

[@funwithbrittanyofficial]

Omg Hufsa you are adorable, yes I agree tough crowd. Thanks for sharing your experience wow you’ve come so far what an inspiration you are.

[@mikesabz]

Thank you for this honest and amazing talk ❤

[@mesakpachuau6558]

I had to listen to this speech again after 3yrs

[@rajnigwalani4073]

Great job Hufsa. You are really strong

[@freemanzak8995]

Hufza thank you for sharing and you where amazing .your talk you are so comfortable with telling your storey I wish you the best for future

[@AmritDhillon]

Thank you ❤

[@adrianesparza1267]

You’re destined for greatness!

[@SwedBaben]

I am sitting here questioning myself super hard as to why I feel so disconnected from this speech even though she's speaking about really important things. I think when she starts out with talking about how smart she is, how gifted she is, how much achievements she had from a young age, people around her telling her she's so smart and she's surrounded by friends, capable of achieving awards and degrees, I don't feel any connection to her. I'm not at all saying she's not smart or deserving of all her accomplishments, and that she shouldn't be proud of what she has done, she should be! But I think for most people suffering mental illness and addiction, we can't relate to getting a degree, awards and nominations whilst suffering our illness. And I also think when speaking about wanting to commit suicide, but in a super upbeat smiling and cheerful way also disconnect me from her because I can't speak about the darkest moments in my life with the same affect as I speak about my collage degree. It's just friendly constructive criticism from a recovering addict and the reasons I believe the crowd wasn't responding to her speech

[@invinciblesun84]

What a terrible crowd! Good for you Hufsa. That took a lot of courage and heart to be in front of that audience

[@s11j02]

Great job, Hufsa! STIGMA SMASH!

[@pridepotterz6564]

you are beautiful and energetic; amazing story. You made us reflect on what relapse involves and what we can gain from pain and suffering. keep up the great work.

[@richardkarnes5286]

Thank you, Hufsa!

[@deborasilvaesouza1808]

Eu teria aplaudido tanto essa mulher. Fantástica!

[@Hannahpearce22222]

Wonderful speech!

[@lydiatesfagiorgis6859]

I really needed this.

[@getbygirl5745]

As a mental health professional and an individual who is in recovery, I was taught that relapse is not a part of recovery. It is a part of the disease.

[@harlem6365]

The aftermath of relapsing really sucks. But if you think about it, relapsing (not by will but by really not being able to continue clean / sober) is essential. It's like a car that requires a oil change to perform again. It might feel all is lost, but in reality you gain that knowledge and strength that prevents you from relapsing to the same trigger again, thus elevating you a step higher in your recovery.