Several months ago, I shared my recovery story with a young lady. She was struggling to overcome a devastating addiction that was beginning to wreak havoc on her health and life. Sitting in a chair across from me, her body crumpled in defeat with a mix of anguish and envy, she asked, “How did you do it? How did you quit?” I took a moment to breathe and think through my words. How could I answer such a complex question? It was then that I realized recovery is a community effort.
There was no short answer, but I knew she needed one, so I gave her the only one I knew: “I didn’t do it alone.” Her eyes looked up from her clenched fingers, and while tears stained her puffy cheeks, I saw a glimmer of hope. She didn’t have to do it alone, and that gave her power. Recovering from an addiction takes strength, but there were times when I lost my strength beneath my emotions. It was in my weakest moments that I felt arms of support lift me up and carry me when I no longer could. Support networks come in many forms, but having community support can be the helping hand to get you through the tough times.
Online Groups
When I began the recovery process, I felt alone and didn’t realize recovery is a community effort. My poor choices hurt many of the people I loved, and felt scared to ask for their help early on. Seeking out private groups through Facebook, Twitter, and other social networks is a way to meet people who are in a similar situation. You can feel comfortable talking to them with the knowledge that judgments and biases are set aside. Connecting with people online opens an entire pool of resources and information. An online friend might know about a group meeting in your area or can point you in the direction of positive blogs, stories, and forums.
AA, NA, and Non-Denominational Groups
One of the most popular and well-known recovery groups is AA. It is a place where you can begin the recovery process, feel inspired, and find support. There are many other community groups that are aimed at specific addictions, so you can find the group that fits your needs. Community groups can offer so much more than a listening ear; they offer support, bountiful resources, friendship, role models, and opportunities to serve.
The first time I attended a meeting, I was struck by the various stages of recovery. Everyone was in a different moment, and I couldn’t help but feel sincere awe at the few who had gone months or even years without a relapse. It motivated me. I wanted to be like them; I wanted to inspire. Soon, my days turned into weeks, then months, and eventually years. I had made it, and I now had the opportunity to use my experience to help others.
Family and Friends
It was hard for me to face my family and admit my wrongs, but it was also a healing experience for us all. At first, I could see the doubt in my friends’ and family’s eyes; they weren’t ready to trust me quite yet. With time, they grew excited about my changes, and they were eager to be there for me every minute of every day.
There were times when I was sure that a relapse was feared by them more than me. They wanted me back, and they would do what it took to get the old me. It was their positive attitudes that kept me straight, and I will always be in their debt. There is no doubt in my mind that recovery is a community effort.
Recovery Is a Community Effort At Morningside Recovery
At Morningside Recovery, everyone in the facility is part of a community with the goal of helping each other achieve recovery. Our addiction therapy services, addiction treatment services, and mental health rehab all reinforce the ideal that recovery is a community effort. To learn more about our facility and programs, call us today at 855-631-2135.