Get it out the mud, refers to someone who only had themselves to rely on, to become stable, financially, physically and mentally. They drug themselves out the mud, with no help from family and friends.
To work hard towards success helplessly and endure hardship, thrift, starvation and/or sleepless days and nights; to achieve one’s goals through unconventional, often illicit methods
After selling water bottles and loose cigarettes for months, the homeless ex-con saved up for his new apartment and found employment soon after. He really had to get it out the mud.