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I told crowd today that while I appreciate the applause when I said I was in recovery, that they shouldn’t be clapping. I’m not special or a modern medical marvel. I’m a product of having access to evidence-based medical care, robust community supports, & a lot of privilege (1/n)
There was a lot of head nods as I asked them not to put me or my recovery on a pedastool, and more than a few shocked faces.
It is true, however, and more of us need to challenge social norms that may occur when we state our identity. (2/n)
It is true, however, and more of us need to challenge social norms that may occur when we state our identity. (2/n)
Clapping for recovery status insinuates that I somehow had the moral fortitude to overcome, or the persistence to triumph...all concepts that reinforce a faulty perception of what causes substance use disorder in the first place. (3/n)
In reality, I got treated for my condition and engaged in a network of aftercare just like I would for a broken leg or pneumonia (neither of which anyone would clap for me getting well from). (4/n)
Clap for my accomplishments, clap for my daughter or amazing wife, clap for that which deserves to be clapped for. As for my recovery, I clap for the therapists, doctors, family members, peers, & recovery house managers that provided me with the care and support I needed. (5/n)
I celebrate #recoverymonth because I want to celebrate the lives of those in my community and those who support us, not because I achieved some miraculous feat. Sometimes that perspective is lost, but it is critical for our continued growth. (6/6)
