How do I let go and forgive and truly heal?

Hello there, 

Thank you for reaching out to get support with your question. Letting go of the past can be challenging depending on what happened. It's not always easy to forgive and move on as if nothing happened. It takes time to process things, accept them and begin the process of forgiving and healing.

One thing to remember about forgiveness is it doesn't mean you are accepting of what happened or you're forgetting what happened. Forgiveness helps you let go of the feelings that you feel because of what happened. When you forgive someone, it's for your own peace of mind, not to let them off the hook.

Forgiveness can start at any time, the process does not have a time limit. By facilitating this process, you allow yourself the opportunity to heal. Forgiveness can reduce some of the symptoms you mentioned such as low self esteem and feeling worthless. It can have a positive domino effect in your life. 

I would also suggest working with a licensed counselor to help explore ways to increase self-esteem and work on the other qualities you mentioned. There are many things you could do to help improve your overall mood. A licensed counselor can help you to gain skills and awareness that can improve your day to day life. 

You can start a feelings journal and write down when you feel the feelings you mentioned above. When you notice these feelings pay attention to what's going on. Where are you? What time of the day is it? What happened right before you noticed the feelings? This helps you to identify the triggers for these feelings. Once you know what triggers you, you can begin to find ways to cope and process the feelings. 

A licensed professional can help you to identify coping skills that can help you handle what you are feeling. Together you all can come up with a plan to begin your healing process. You are worthy and you can live your life in a way that honors God. I hope you are able to find your peace and improve your day to day life. I'm wishing you the best.

Warm Regards, 

Taneshia Carey LPC