It’s time to celebrate your recovery!

Establishing a support system in my early recovery was an important – if not the most important – component of my long-term commitment to recovery. I remember being resistant to this piece of the puzzle time and time again. I thought I was different, that I did not need anyone to help me. What I eventually figured out was that everyone needs help in life.

Planting my roots was not easy. I had a difficult time opening up to people. I was shy, quiet, angry, and uncomfortable. It took practice, going out after meetings, sitting through my uneasiness. Eventually, I found a sponsor and friends who provided me guidance and support.

Today, I have many branches to my support system. I keep myself connected to a 12 Step fellowship. I do this so that I don’t lose touch with where I came from. When I do have a major life event happening, I can walk into that room and not feel like I am “new” all over again. I have also recently started connecting with a life coach, going to a women’s circle, and building a community around my fitness. The more leaves on my tree, the better. Keep it green!

Today, I constantly challenge myself. I put myself in uncomfortable situations on purpose. That uneasy feeling is what helps me grow. It is what pushes me to go beyond my fears and stay rooted in recovery.*

Alumni Spotlight

Recovery Transformation: Q&A with Carly F.

Carly overdosed and found herself in the hospital, wanting to use again. It was in that moment that she realized that something had to change. Now, almost 3 years sober, Carly is taking life day-by-day and working to help others get sober. **Q.** What has been the best part of recovery for you? Why? **A.** Repairing my relationships with my family and meeting new people who also struggle with the disease of addiction. Today, I have amazing relationships with my parents and my sisters. They trust me again. The people that I have met along the way while on my recovery journey have had such an impact on me. These women have helped me tremendously.

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Headlines

Celebrating Recovery Month

Recovery Month is finally here! It is time to celebrate everything you have accomplished throughout your recovery journey and show some extra appreciation to everyone who supported you along the way. Designed to create awareness and reduce stigma surrounding mental and substance abuse disorders, Recovery Month is recognized nationwide and sponsored by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). This year’s theme is “Strengthen Families and Communities,” which highlights the importance of family and community throughout the recovery process. We have gathered some great ideas on how you can celebrate recovery month with your loved ones and your community.

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Health And Wellness

What Dogs Can Teach You About Recovery

Dogs are more than just cute and cuddly: they can also teach us a lot about life. Here are four life lessons from our furry friends that you can apply to your journey of recovery.

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Mountainside Launches Women's Only Extended Care Program

We are proud to announce that Mountainside has recently launched an Extended Care program for women. Our women-only Extended Care program is designed to address the specific challenges women face in early recovery and help them successfully transition to real-world settings. The program offers a combination of four components that support sobriety: Community Living, Outpatient Services, Work Therapy, and sober Trips and Adventures.

With an intimate home setting, our program is designed to provide a warm, safe environment for women to practice self-care as well as connect with each other to build a support network. The beautiful, modern home also boasts an on-site gym, single bedrooms, a full-kitchen, and a large outdoor patio perfect for enjoying the upcoming fall weather.

Want to Share your Recovery Birthday?

We are building a list of sobriety birthdays. If you’d like to have your recovery birthday featured in our newsletter please contact [Jessica Dolan](mailto:jessica.dolan@mountainside.com).