Almost everyone has a version of this thought after getting through early recovery: I wish someone had told me this sooner. For this Wisdom Wednesday, let’s get some advice from our WisHope Peer Recovery Coaches.
The WisHope Peer Recovery Coach Advice
Honestly, I wish that I knew that recovery wasn’t a one size fits all situation. I spent a lot of time doing what I thought I was expected to do instead of finding a recovery path that worked specifically for me! Recovery is a non-linear, individualistic process! –Claud K.
The most important thing to remember at the start of rehabilitation is that healing is seldom a straight line. There are turbulent highs and lows, plateaus, and challenging days when you feel like you’re falling back. These challenging moments are a normal part of the process rather than a sign of failure. –Anthony M.
You don’t have to fix your whole life at once. Just keep making the next best step. –Peter V.
One day at a time can feel like a lot, so just focus on one minute at a time. –Liz L.
I wish I would have known that the disease was going to show up in ways I wasn’t used to once the drugs were gone. In active addiction, it was obvious – it showed up through using. In recovery, I’ve learned it can disguise itself as an uncomfortable emotion, show up in how I respond to stress, creep into quiet moments, or hide underneath fear. I wish I would have known to be more curious about that transformation – to pay attention to what was happening inside of me instead of assuming that because I wasn’t using, the disease wasn’t still finding ways to show up. –Brea V.
One thing I wish I knew in early recovery would be, “I would find my tribe”. (I spent my first 18 months of recovery isolated.) –Morgan G
The Summary
Early recovery is not easy. Hearing it from people who’ve been there can make it a bit disorienting though. If you’re in early recovery right now, know that the struggles you’re facing are normal. You’re not doing it wrong. This is just part of this stage, and it looks like this for almost everyone. Including the peer recovery coach you reach out to.
Want to talk to someone who’s been where you are? Our Recovery Community Centers connect you with peer recovery coaches, no appointment needed. And if you’re curious what training goes into that role, SAMHSA’s Core Competencies for Peer Workers lays it out in full.
Do you have a “wish I knew” moment? Share your story with us — it might be the thing someone needs to read today.
