A Message of Gratitude

I want to express my gratitude for all the opportunities and blessings that I have had the privilege to be able to experience in 2022, especially as your Executive Director of the North Carolina Caring Dental Professionals. First of all I want to thank all those associated with the NCCDP, including the participants, advocates, Peer Support Volunteers and our Board of Directors for their support and love I have felt during my first year. Your encouragement and help have personally been a source of inspiration and support to me. I love to spread the message that the NCCDP continues to be a resource for those individuals and their families in need of help, not only from alcohol and drugs but those suffering from associated mental health disorders, such as burnout and depression. I encourage you that if you or a family member are experiencing any of these conditions that there is hope! Living proof of that is the participants who have experienced life-saving care from treatment providers and then the advocacy and monitoring the NCCDP can provide.

During this holiday season if you are suffering with substances or associated mental health disorders, please know that help is available and that you don’t have to go on living the current lifestyle you find yourself in. There is hope; believe there can be a new way of life ahead!

Many people that have received help look at life differently now. They oftentimes look at challenges as opportunities for growth and change. In the past they often looked at these same challenges and conditions as people were out to harm them. Consequently, some began using substances or became depressed to cope with the pain and discomfort.

Change and growth can be painful and uncomfortable. I remember as a 6th grade child growing 6 inches in height one summer and how painful my joints felt. Along with this growth in my stature came a time of awkwardness because my coordination was so abruptly changed. It took several months for me to get readjusted to a new posture, gait, and height. Eventually, my growth leveled off and I became “the new me”! I encourage you to become “the new you”!

In recent years, you have probably heard the popular phrase “living your best life.” For some this can mean being set free from the yoke and grip substance use disorder (addiction) and associated mental health disorders can have in one’s life. I encourage you to seek your “best life” and enjoy the freedom and hope being in recovery can bring.

NC Caring Dental Professionals: (Office) 980-295-2055

Happy Thanksgiving, Merry Christmas, and Happy New Year!!!

Bill Claytor