FaceThyFear Blog: The Importance of Routine and Health in Recovery

By Malcolm Pannell | FaceThyFear Official Blog

Website: www.Facethyfear.com (https://www.Facethyfear.com)

Falling Out of Routine: A Hard Lesson

Over the weekend, I learned a tough lesson about the importance of staying on top of my medication, no matter how good life feels. I take Cymbalta and Trazodone, which help me manage both my mental health and sleep. But in the middle of enjoying myself, I fell out of my routine—fell asleep on the couch two nights in a row—and forgot to take my meds.

I was feeling so normal that it slipped my mind.

But those two days without my meds hit me like a brick wall. Suddenly, I was nauseous, dizzy, and feeling like my body was out of sync. My recovery taught me to recognize that physical health and mental health go hand-in-hand. Ignoring either can have serious consequences.

This was a wake-up call.

The Routine That Keeps Me Strong

One thing I’ve learned from my recovery journey is that having a routine isn’t just a suggestion—it’s a necessity. The Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous talks about being “willing to go to any length” to maintain sobriety.

For me, that means:

✅ Taking my medication consistently

✅ Getting enough rest and not skipping sleep

✅ Addressing physical health issues, including my chronic back pain

I’ve seen what happens when I don’t take my health seriously. I used to ignore small signs of burnout—thinking I could push through—until I hit a breaking point. I won’t let that happen again.

Pain, Pride, and Learning to Ask for Help

I’ve struggled with Segmental and Somatic Dysfunction of the Cervical, Thoracic, and Lumbar regions for years. It’s a condition that causes ongoing pain and stiffness throughout my back, affecting my daily life. I used to ignore it, pushing through the pain like it was a badge of honor.

I’d tell myself:

“It’s nothing.”

“I’ll deal with it later.”

“Real men don’t complain about pain.”

But I’ve learned that taking care of my body is just as important as taking care of my mind.

Sometimes pride and stubbornness can keep us from seeking help, but I’ve realized that it’s a strength, not a weakness, to go to the doctor and address pain head-on.

In the Big Book, it says:

“We are not cured of alcoholism. What we really have is a daily reprieve contingent on the maintenance of our spiritual condition.”

I’d argue that maintaining physical health is just as crucial. If I’m in constant pain, it affects my mental state, which can lead to poor decisions. Neglecting my health is no different than neglecting my recovery.

Lessons Learned: Stay Vigilant

This weekend was a reminder that I can’t take my progress for granted. Feeling normal is a gift in recovery, but it’s not an excuse to forget the things that keep me on track.

Taking my medication, staying in my routine, and addressing my back issues are part of what gives me the strength to face each day.

If you’re reading this and you’re putting off seeing a doctor, or skipping meds because you’re feeling good, take it from me: Don’t let it slide.

Health is a foundation for everything else, and taking care of yourself is the ultimate act of self-love.

FaceThyFear: More Than a Brand—A Movement

This is why FaceThyFear exists. To inspire. To push through. To fight for a better life.

✔ Follow along at www.Facethyfear.com (https://www.Facethyfear.com)

✔ Read more stories of resilience and recovery

✔ Join the movement: Face your fear, live to love

Official Branding

© 2025 FaceThyFear® – All Rights Reserved

FaceThyFear is a registered trademark of Malcolm Pannell

Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only. If you are struggling with mental health or addiction, please seek professional help.