It took me several years to truly take pride in my recovery journey. While I was grateful for my sobriety and recognized the effort I put into resisting the urge to drink daily, feelings of shame and embarrassment lingered. I believed that my addiction was entirely my fault.
Now, I understand that this perspective is misguided. Addiction is a complex condition influenced by a mix of environmental and biological factors. I didn’t become an addict on my own, nor did I achieve sobriety by myself. My recovery was supported by others who had walked the same path and through various programs designed to meet the diverse needs of individuals facing addiction.
This September marks the 32nd observation of National Recovery Month. Previously sponsored by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), this year it’s hosted by Voices & Faces of Recovery, which has launched a new website to celebrate recovery stories and the strategies that help individuals break free from addiction.
During this month, countless prevention, treatment, and recovery organizations across the United States will highlight the bravery and dedication of those in recovery. By sharing successes, we foster greater awareness and understanding of mental health and substance abuse, helping to reduce the stigma surrounding addiction.
There’s an ongoing debate about whether addiction should be classified as a disease. Some worry that labeling it as such might lead individuals to evade personal responsibility or feel hopeless about recovery. While my alcoholism made me feel ill, I never viewed it as a terminal condition. I recognized that I could not control my drinking once I started, but I learned to trust myself and the systems that support my sobriety. I’m aware that relapse is a possibility, and that awareness drives me to utilize the tools I’ve found essential in my recovery.
For anyone contemplating sobriety or who has been sober for a while, treatment and recovery options vary significantly to cater to individual needs. According to Alex Parker, Vice President of Admissions at Advanced Recovery Solutions, it’s crucial to consider the severity and duration of addiction when selecting a recovery program.
Parker explains, “One key decision is choosing between an inpatient or residential program versus an outpatient treatment plan. Inpatient care is ideal for those who require medically-supervised detox or prefer a highly structured environment to initiate life changes.” Outpatient options depend on collaboration with a support team to create a conducive environment for success. Regardless of the program type, addressing mental health alongside sobriety is critical, as both aspects often interconnect. Some might require intensive therapy, while others find solace in yoga, art, meditation, or alternative therapies.
The ultimate goal for many is sustained sobriety, yet relapses can happen, and returning to treatment is not something to be ashamed of at any stage. Parker emphasizes, “Re-entering treatment, even if it’s not inpatient, is a proactive method to reinforce any weaknesses in your recovery plan and rejuvenate your commitment to sobriety.”
When I feel overwhelmed or more easily triggered to drink, I realize the importance of checking in with myself and my support networks. If my prevention plan is faltering, I make necessary adjustments.
It’s also vital to acknowledge that some individuals in recovery may still use other substances. For example, a person recovering from alcohol addiction might find comfort in edibles, or someone with a pill addiction may resort to drinking. This nuanced approach was recently discussed by singer Mia Roberts, highlighting the personal nature of recovery and the significance of making decisions in consultation with one’s support team and therapist. Parker warns, “Thinking you can successfully use one substance while maintaining a recovery mindset is a red flag.”
Promoting compassion toward those struggling with addiction instead of shame enhances our ability to achieve goals, nurture healthy relationships, and cultivate a recovery-focused mindset. If you’re supporting someone in recovery, practice patience, be an active listener, and encourage them. Loving someone with an addiction doesn’t mean enabling them; it’s about setting boundaries while maintaining faith in their journey.
Recovery varies for everyone and is rarely a straight path. If you’re navigating your sobriety journey, keep pushing forward, and remember that resilience is within you.
If you seek assistance in finding treatment, resources are available, including those from SAMHSA.
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In summary, recovery from addiction is a highly individual experience, marked by unique challenges and triumphs. It’s essential for those on this journey to seek appropriate support and remain adaptable in their recovery strategies.
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