how do I import/retrieve my contacts, messages, folders from the backup

I had to reload MAC OS and Office, I have a backup of the previous system, how do I import/retrieve my contacts, messages, folders from the backup. I thought everything was stored in Microsoft User data and then identies, I can see allot of information there but when I try to restore that, Office rebuilds the identity and office does not show my folders, messages, and contacts... Have I lost all of it?