Choosing recovery – meaning, choosing to do the things that make you feel better day after day – can be as rewarding as it is difficult.  And, as much as we want it to be, recovery is almost never a straight line, but instead a winding path with a few detours along the way.

Even so, full recovery can and does happen every day.  Some people return very quickly and get back to their life and responsibilities soon after an episode, and others need a few weeks, months or even a year or two to recover more gradually.

For some, long-term medication is necessary, and for others, it can be temporary or even avoided altogether. We’re all a bit different. All experiences are valid.

Most first episode treatment programs are two years in length, allowing time to create new, healthy routines and slowly take on more school or work responsibilities. Some people find that staying in therapy or extending a treatment program beyond two years is helpful.

The recovery process is different for everyone. Bring a whole lot of patience, courage and determination with you, and you will totally rock it. Stick with it. You’re worth it.