Overall recovery in addiction means lifelong sobriety. However, while this is the root of recovery, no two definitions of personal recovery will ever be the same. It’s important to develop your own definition when trying to achieve and maintain sobriety. What does recovery mean in addiction for others? How can you create your own recovery journey? Here’s an in-depth look of the definition of recovery, how it may differ from person to person, and how it can be achieved.
Definition of Recovery
Recovery is a process of change through which individuals improve their health and wellness as they work towards living a fulfilling life without substance abuse. According to SAMHSA, or the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, recovery also means striving to reach one’s full potential.
Can I Have My Own Definition of Recovery?
Absolutely! While the root of recovery in addiction is lifelong abstinence from substances, this process can look different for each individual. That being said, during recovery you and your treatment team will work together to create different goals. While these goals are ever changing, the ultimate goal is to improve your overall well-being and maintain a healthy, sober life.
Recovery in Addiction Has Many Pathways
One of the 10 guiding principles of recovery, according to SAMHSA, is that recovery has many pathways. During your recovery journey, your pathway will include:
- Achieving small goals
- Achieving big goals
- Continued growth
- Occasional setbacks
Think of the recovery process as a non-linear path, complete with its own set of obstacles, peaks, and valleys. Recovery is not simply quitting using substances, although this is a crucial first step. Recovery includes the ability to maintain your sobriety, gain the skills necessary to live life fully without them, and gaining the strength to overcome any challenges that come your way.
Overcoming Relapses
Relapse rate for addiction is as high as 70% 90 days after treatment. This high relapse rate means that it’s critical for your definition of recovery to include not just the cessation of substance use, but also the ability to bounce back from relapses.
If you do experience a relapse, it’s important to remember that it doesn’t mean you’ve failed or that your recovery is over. Relapses are normal and can be seen as valuable learning opportunities. It’s important to reach out for support and talk about what led to the relapse so that you can identify triggers and develop strategies for success in the future.
Your recovery process can include relapse prevention strategies like:
- Using coping skills to manage cravings or triggers
- Creating a support network of friends, family, and professionals who can provide encouragement and accountability
- Practicing mindfulness techniques to stay present in the moment and recognize when you are feeling vulnerable
- Engaging in activities that bring you joy and help reduce stress levels
- Setting realistic goals and celebrating small victories along the way
Recovery From Co-Occurring Disorders
Around 21.5 million adults in the United States live with both a mental illness and substance use disorder. For these people, it’s important to also incorporate mental health treatment in addiction recovery through dual diagnosis treatment.
Like addiction, recovery from mental health disorders can also look different for each individual. Recovery from mental health disorders can include:
- Taking medication as prescribed and having a consistent treatment plan
- Participating in therapy and counseling, such as cognitive behavioral therapy or group therapy
- Not having recent hospitalizations due to mental health concerns
- Being able to function in daily life without being heavily impacted by symptoms
Whether recovery means dealing with underlying PTSD and trauma, taking medications for both your mental health and substance use disorder, or balancing sobriety and mental health, the most important thing is to have a personalized and comprehensive treatment plan that works for you.
Find a Recovery Plan that Works For You
Recovery from addiction takes time, effort, and a willingness to live outside of your comfort zone. But, at the end of the road, recovery brings you closer to achieving your best self and living a fulfilling life.
At Encino Detox, we believe everyone is strong enough to overcome addiction and mental health challenges with the right tools, resources, and support system. That’s why we offer everything from residential detox to inpatient treatment, dual diagnosis for mental health disorders, CBT, individual therapy, and more. Our goal is to create a holistic, personalized treatment plan that meets your unique needs and helps you on your journey to recovery.
Recovery might have a different definition for everyone. But, we’ll be here with you to help you start, no matter what stage of your journey you’re in. Call us today to explore addiction treatment in Encino and begin on the path towards a healthier, happier life.