RUN- Recovered Users Network

07/05/2026

This is a powerful reminder that recovery isn’t just about quitting substances—it’s about finding connection, purpose, and community

https://www.deseret.com/opinion/2026/05/06/addiction-recovery-the-phoenix-sober-documentary/

By offering free fitness classes, The Phoenix is helping people change how they think about themselves.

06/05/2026

This ISSUP article flips the script on how we think about recovery—showing that it’s not just about individuals, it’s about entire communities.

https://www.issup.net/knowledge-share/resources/2026-04/inclusive-recovery-cities-creating-thriving-recovery-ecosystem

Inclusive Recovery Cities was developed by Professor David Best and Professor Charlotte Colman, based on the idea that recovery from substance use and alcohol is not limited to the individual or to clinical treatment, but is about commun

04/05/2026

In environments where party culture is the norm, peer support becomes a lifeline, helping students redefine who they are beyond their past.

It’s a reminder that connection isn’t optional in recovery—it’s foundational. When people with lived experience show up for each other, it creates space for belonging, purpose, and real, lasting change.

https://www.psucollegian.com/features/pssmn/despite-penn-state-s-party-culture-peer-support-helps-students-in-recovery-redefine-their-identities/article_d3ed1123-8cbf-4626-8380-56adaa33ae11.html

Editor’s Note: Two of the names in this story have been changed to protect the identity of the individuals involved. The Daily Collegian has verified through fact-checking that these individuals

30/04/2026

Recovery isn’t just about stopping substance use—it’s about building a life that makes staying well possible.

This ISSUP article on recovery capital highlights the real drivers behind long-term recovery: things like stable housing, supportive relationships, purpose, and access to resources. In other words, recovery isn’t just personal—it’s environmental.

https://www.issup.net/knowledge-share/resources/2026-04/recovery-capital

Recovery capital includes all the internal and external resources that a person has at their disposal to help them get engaged in and subsequently build and strengthen their recovery.

29/04/2026

Stopping in the middle of hard things doesn’t make them easier, it just keeps you stuck there longer.

24/04/2026

Lived experience isn’t just “nice to have”—it’s essential to real change. Using Lived Experience to inspire change highlights how people who’ve actually navigated addiction and mental health challenges bring insight that policies and programs often miss.

https://www.thenationalcouncil.org/using-lived-experience-to-inspire-change/

The Peer Specialist of the Year Award recognizes individuals who use their lived experience to support others on their recovery journeys.

23/04/2026

Whispers From the Heart is the kind of writing that isn't trying to impress you—it will tell the truth. Raw, honest reflections on addiction, recovery, and the messy reality of being woman and human in recovery, with a consistent reminder that none of us are as alone as we think. It’s the kind of content that quietly challenges stigma and replaces it with something a lot more useful: connection.

https://haveawordwithyourself.co.uk/whispers-from-the-heart/

Whispers from the Heart is a forthcoming book created by and for women in recovery from substance use, and YOU have the opportunity to contribute. It is designed as a companion and guide for those embarking on journeys of self-discovery, healing, and empowerment. Written by women who have walked sim...

17/04/2026

Recovery can be about learning to hear the quieter parts of yourself. Whispers from the heart is a collection of writing rooted in lived experience, using reflection, storytelling, and honesty to help women reconnect with themselves and navigate recovery in a more personal way.

https://haveawordwithyourself.co.uk/whispers-from-the-heart/

Whispers from the Heart is a forthcoming book created by and for women in recovery from substance use, and YOU have the opportunity to contribute. It is designed as a companion and guide for those embarking on journeys of self-discovery, healing, and empowerment. Written by women who have walked sim...

17/04/2026

Recovery isn’t built through services alone—it’s built through connection.

Peer support brings something no system or program can replicate: lived experience, trust, and real understanding. It helps people feel seen, rebuild confidence, and stay engaged in their own recovery journey.

https://www.thenationalcouncil.org/power-of-peer-support-recovery/

I became a peer recovery specialist because of my journey through homelessness, substance use and struggles with my mental health.

13/04/2026

Recovery isn’t always found in traditional spaces. It’s often built through connection, creativity, and expression. This story highlights how art and music are helping people in recovery find their voice, process their experiences, and reconnect with themselves and others.

https://www.liherald.com/rockvillecentre/stories/at-the-east-meadow-library-finding-hope-after-addiction-through-art-and-music,221550

Feelings of joy, strength and resilience radiated throughout the East Meadow Public Library, as Serene and Grateful Entertainment, or SAGE, hosted a creative showcase, highlighting the talents of musicians, poets, artists and more.

08/04/2026

Recovery isn’t a straight line—but connection can change everything. When we invest in people, relationships, and long-term support, recovery becomes more than an outcome—it becomes a path forward https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cpqxldqgldvo

Participant Alex Mac says he now started uploading mixes to Instagram.