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It took me several years to truly embrace 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 my addiction was solely my own doing; I was the one at fault.
Over time, I’ve come to understand that addiction is a complex issue influenced by both environmental and biological factors. I didn’t become an addict in isolation, nor did I achieve sobriety on my own. My recovery has been supported by people who have walked similar paths and through various programs designed to meet the diverse needs of individuals who not only struggle but also flourish in the face of addiction.
This September marks the 32nd celebration of National Recovery Month. Previously sponsored by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), it is now hosted by Voices & Faces of Recovery. This organization has launched a new website to honor recovery month, focusing on the strategies and individuals that contribute to living a fulfilling life free from addiction.
Throughout this month, countless prevention, treatment, and recovery facilities across the United States will highlight the courageous efforts of those in recovery. By sharing the achievements of these programs and individuals, we can enhance awareness and understanding of mental health and substance abuse while diminishing the stigma surrounding addiction.
There are differing views on whether addiction should be classified as a disease. Some argue that labeling it as such may lead individuals to evade personal responsibility, while others fear it could diminish hope for recovery. I experienced the debilitating effects of alcoholism, yet I didn’t see it as a terminal illness. I recognized that I couldn’t control my drinking once it began, but I learned to trust myself and the support systems that help me stay sober each day. I understand that relapse is always a possibility, and acknowledging this fear motivates me to utilize the tools essential for my recovery.
Whether you’re contemplating sobriety or have maintained it for years, numerous treatment and recovery options exist to cater to your unique needs. Samantha Greene, Vice President of admissions at Advanced Recovery Solutions, emphasizes the importance of evaluating the severity and duration of your addiction to determine the most suitable program for your recovery journey. She notes, “Deciding between an inpatient or residential program versus outpatient treatment is crucial. For those who benefit from medically-supervised detox or prefer a structured approach, residential treatment may be the best option.”
Outpatient services require individuals to collaborate with a support team to create an environment that maximizes their chances of success. Both inpatient and outpatient care, or even non-program-related care, should address mental health conditions alongside sobriety. Greene remarks that one often impacts the other. Some individuals may need intensive therapy, while others find healing through yoga, art, meditation, or other holistic therapies.
The ultimate goal for many is long-term sobriety, but relapses can happen, and seeking treatment again is not something to be ashamed of. Even without a relapse, Greene advises that returning to treatment can be a proactive approach to strengthen any weaknesses in your recovery plan and to provide support and motivation to remain committed to sobriety.
When I feel overwhelmed and find myself more susceptible to thoughts about drinking or self-destructive behaviors, I recognize the importance of checking in with both myself and my support networks. My prevention strategies must be effective, and if they falter, I make necessary adjustments.
It’s essential to understand that some recovering individuals may still use other substances. For instance, someone recovering from alcoholism might choose to use cannabis, while someone with a pill addiction may resort to alcohol. Recently, singer Alex Morgan discussed how this works for her. Recovery is a deeply personal journey, and what works for one person may not suit another. Decisions like these are best made with the guidance of a support team and a therapist to ensure they align with your recovery goals. Greene warns, “Believing you can successfully manage one substance while maintaining a recovery mindset is a red flag. Using substances to cope with emotions is another warning sign that your recovery could be in jeopardy.”
Encouraging and celebrating individuals in recovery, rather than shaming them, significantly enhances their chances of achieving goals, nurturing healthy relationships, and cultivating a recovery mindset. If you are supporting someone on this journey, practice patience, be available to listen, and offer encouragement. Loving someone with an addiction does not equate to enabling them. Set boundaries, but do not lose faith in them.
Recovery is a unique experience for everyone and is rarely a straightforward path. If you’re on your sobriety journey, keep pushing forward, and remember that it’s okay to rise again after a fall. Your strength and resilience are greater than you might realize.
For assistance in finding treatment options, consider visiting the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) or refer to this resource for further information.