September is Recovery Month, a time dedicated to acknowledging and celebrating those in recovery. National Recovery Month was first observed in 1989 and aims to increase awareness and decrease stigma surrounding substance use disorder. For many, recovery is a continual process people work to achieve every day, regardless of how long they have been in recovery.
This Recovery Month, Horizon wants to highlight the “Faces of Recovery” and focus on celebrating the hard work our patients, their loved ones, community members, and Horizon staff do every day to support recovery. Read some testimonials below from those on their recovery journeys, and those supporting others in recovery.
What does “Recovery” mean to you?
“To me, recovery means several things. First, recovery is freedom and something that I strive for every day. It’s not a linear process and there’s no ‘finish line.’ Recovery can be challenging but it can also be rewarding. I consider myself to be in long-term recovery, not cured, because it’s something that I must work on every day.”
-Karl, Community Member
“Recovery to me means acceptance and rebirth. I have accepted that the situations I have gone through since childhood were not all my fault. Sometimes bad things happen. My rebirth happened when I learned that even though I cannot control every situation, I get to choose how I will handle what is being thrown my way.”
-Debbie, Horizon Patient
“Recovery means stepping back, learning about addiction, falling down… getting back up, realizing true gratefulness. Recovery means everything.”
-Jacki, Community Member
““Recovery means to rebuild to me. Rebuild your past, present, and even goals that you might have/had for the future. Recovery means rebuild relationships with friends and family who are willing to do the same for you. Recovery is about giving yourself a chance.”
-Kurtis, Horizon Patient
If you or a loved one are struggling, Horizon is here to help. Call our team today at 716-831-1800 to learn more and to schedule an appointment with our trained professionals.