Search Btn
canvas health logo, Minnesota mental health clinics, ccbhc Minnesota

Canvas Health is hiring in all areas! Check out our career opportunities here.

art banner, Outpatient treatment, Psychological Evaluation, Outpatient Therapy, Substance Use Therapy

Progress not Perfection: A Letter to Those Beginning their Recovery Journey

September 4, 2024

My journey began in April 2020. Needless to say it hasn’t been a perfect journey, but with every lapse, there was a lesson. I’ve been waiting 4 1/2 years to say I have 1 year of continuous sobriety. Today is that day. Progress not perfection!

I’d get months together, but never hit a year. It’s been incredibly dark at times. It’s also been experiences that were incredible and I will cherish forever. It’s been close calls to death, countless hospital stays, detoxes, treatments… it’s also been vacations, retreats, spiritual moments, prayer, meditation & fellowship.

If you’re struggling, I feel you. When you’re in it, you’re IN IT. If you have just the tiniest bit of light, or are so fed up with yourself you feel frozen… take a deep breath and simply try to feel hope. I know that word may not even be in your vocabulary right now, but lean on your loved ones, lean on those that you might see on social media that have posted about their journey. Just mutter the word “help.” They want to hear from you, and I know your voice feels so small, but if you reach out to anyone, they WILL hear you. For me – Helping someone helps me too.

Life in RECOVERY has given me a life I cherish. It’s simple, beautiful, and I’ve never felt gratitude like I do today. I dream, I belly laugh, I ugly cry, I’m feeling more and more like a better version of myself every day. Some days are hard, most days are great. I’m clear. I respect myself. I know how to set boundaries. I am just so grateful I have a life to live. And I live it with intention.

If you are struggling, reach out for help… I want my story to help just one person if it can.

-M, One Year In Recovery

September is National Recovery Month. If you are ready to begin your substance use disorder recovery journey, contact Canvas Health’s Care Team at (651) 777-5222 or click here to schedule an assessment.


Explore More Articles