Recovery happens one moment at a time. The sooner we realize this, the easier it is to recover and start to learn to live life on life’s terms.

From going to support groups to yoga and meditation, one can wonder, “why don’t I feel any better?” The answer is that recovery is a process and it takes time. Working to navigate a sober life isn’t easy. If it was, no one would have an addiction problem.

­Unfortunately, there is no instant fix to solving problems that have built up over a long period of time, sometimes a lifetime. That’s why it’s important to be gentle with oneself in early recovery. Perception is not always reality. Focusing on positivity and gratitude helps alleviate some of the feelings that can seem overwhelming.

Give yourself time to process, and be sure to stick close to your recovery network.