When someone says they are “in recovery,” they are usually referring to being treated for their drug or alcohol addiction. This term covers a wide range of territory, and many people use “recovery” as a synonym for “in remission.” After completing treatment, whether it be inpatient or outpatient, the hope is that life will return to normal. Recovery may be synonymous with total abstinence, but not always. From conversations with families, this is what recovery means to them.
The names have been changed, but the stories are real. Being in recovery is an active process of taking the necessary steps to stay sober and improve your quality of life. Being in recovery means making a conscious decision every day to engage in behaviors that promote your physical and mental well-being. Recovery begins with seeking help for your addiction, continues with following your treatment plan, and extends through maintaining a sober lifestyle.
In the past, recovery was mainly associated with 12-step programs such as Alcoholics Anonymous, and it simply meant abstinence. As the need for addiction treatment has grown, the concept of what recovery is has expanded. Now it applies more to a way of life. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) defines recovery as “a process of change through which people improve their health and well-being, lead self-directed lives, and strive to achieve their full potential.” Citizenship refers to giving back to community and society.
In recovery, you take all the tools and skills you have learned during addiction treatment to become a healthier person, a better spouse and parent, a productive member of society, and a good neighbor and citizen. If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use or addiction, contact the SAMHSA National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357 for information on support and treatment facilities in your area. For more mental health resources, check out our national helpline database.
