Make the Big Breakthrough

Recovery for me has been a journey of self-discovery. When I put down drugs and alcohol, I had no idea who I was. I was still on a mission to reach outside of myself to replace a void – shopping, relationships, food, whatever would give me some sort of instant gratification. I didn’t know what I was feeling or what I needed. I was seeking myself, chasing after surface things.

Throughout my recovery journey there have been some big (and mostly small) realizations that have helped keep me on a path worth living for. Here are some of those breakthroughs:

1. The first day I realized that I hadn’t thought about a drink or drug.
2. I began asking for help and stopped living in the lie that I could do this thing all alone.
3. That in order to stay sober I needed to rid myself of all of those things that put my recovery at risk.
4. I came to understand the true meaning of “Never Alone, Never Again,” when I realized that “those people” in 12 Step were my friends.
5. That my problem was much deeper; that it required work and willingness.
6. That I needed to start doing things that made me uncomfortable and vulnerable.
7. That fear is normal, and that walking through it is how we gain a greater understanding of ourselves.
8. To continue to stay on my recovery journey, I need to extend my hands to others in this process.
9. Life is not always rainbows and gumdrops; there will be difficult times, but it always passes.
10. That I am loved, and I am worthy of love.

Every day is an opportunity to learn something new – to recognize my breakthroughs. There are lessons in all things, great and small. I must face each life with an open heart and know that these are instances to learn, grow, and challenge myself to be a better person.

Ask The Experts

Getting to the Big Breakthrough

Breakthroughs take time. So how do you prepare for the long haul? Clinician Emily Robinson helps you understand what to look for along the road to the big breakthroughs.

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Alumni Spotlight

Finding Success in Recovery: Q&A with Michael H.

Michael tried to get sober on his own several times before coming to Mountainside. Now, he knows that community not only helped him take those first steps in recovery but helps keep him going. Community and spirituality are key to his success in recovery. In this month's Alumni Spotlight, Michael shares with us his biggest successes, the best part of recovery, and the advice he would give to his younger self.

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Health And Wellness

How to Trick Your Body into Working Out

It can be difficult to keep healthy when you're overwhelmed and overworked. You might be more inclined to eat a few slices of pizza instead of grabbing your usual salad. You might start skipping your gym routine to get to work earlier. These small lifestyle changes can lead to larger health problems in the long run and maybe even relapse. Get some tips on how to stay healthy when life gets hectic.

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Campaign

Living Sober: Q&A with Christopher R.

Alumni Christopher R. shared with us his favorite television shows (hint: one of them is pictured here), the one dish he will order at a restaurant every time, and how he likes to unwind after a long day.

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Share Night Volunteers & Family Wellness Speakers

Caitlin M. Falls Village, MA 2491 days Collin W. Great Barrington, CT 2212 days Matthew G. Ludlow, MA 1482 days Emily O. Milford, CT 608 days Guy R. Woodbrigde, CT 546 days Mark F. Hamden, CT 512 days Raymond C. Oxford, CT 468 days Michael H. Canaan, CT 429 days Timothy C. Canaan, CT 415 days Maureen J. Middletown, CT 238 days

Please email us if you are an alumni with 6 months of sobriety and are interested in sharing your story at a Share Night or if you are an alumni with 1 year and would like to speak at our Family Wellness Workshop.

May Milestones

Click here to see all of the May recovery birthdays! If you have a milestone coming up next month, email us your first name, last initial, city, state, and how long you’ve been in recovery.