Very few of us need to be taught something new, most of us (including myself especially) simply needed to be reminded. We simply need a reliable map and markers to lead us to the summit.
It is always helpful to go back to the beginning, which I am choosing today to revisit SAMHSA's Guiding Principles of Recovery.
The guiding principles are as follows:
- There are many pathways to recovery.
- Recovery is self-directed and empowering.
- Recovery involves a personal recognition of the need for change and transformation.
- Recovery is holistic.
- Recovery has cultural dimensions.
- Recovery exists on a continuum of improved health and wellness.
- Recovery is supported by peers and allies.
- Recovery emerges from hope and gratitude.
- Recovery involves a process of healing and self-redefinition.
- Recovery involves addressing discrimination and transcending shame and stigma.
- Recovery involves (re)joining and (re)building a life in the community.
- Recovery is a reality. It can, will, and does happen.
There are many roads that lead to "the river of wellness". Each person must take it upon themselves to take to the open road whichever one they choose to take. Each individual must look within themselves and find that sacred place that they can finally say "YES" to the life that they want no matter the cost in achieving it.
We need our entire tribe to gather around and we need a backpack full of strategies to help us reach the mountain top of recovery and wellness. To reach the peak, it helpful to have guides who have been to the summit and can support us in reaching that place in our way and at our own pace. The hope and joy in reaching that summit exceeds the momentary pains and setbacks that have and also will come. Gratitude and patience are "helpful boots" to reach the peak.
This is not an event but a lifelong process towards wellness. Many times it's three steps forward and two steps back towards healing. Towards overcoming the fear and the stigma. Towards reintegrating ourselves within the communities of our choosing. Towards achieving a full and meaningful life.
It bears repeating. Recovery is a reality. It can, will, and does happen.
So moutaineer...with hope and determination, it will happen with you as well.
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