The Difference Between Sobriety and Recovery
Medical Writer:
Reviewer:
Johnny Kim
Executive Psychotherapist
Medical Writer:
Reviewer:
Johnny Kim
Executive Psychotherapist
Medical conditions often have clear remission periods, like being disease-free for five years. Addiction, however, lacks precise definitions and timelines for recovery. Many people see addiction as a chronic illness, but they don’t clearly explain what it means to recover and be sober.
Addiction does not have a clear remission period like other medical conditions. Addiction is a chronic disease. You cannot define the condition of addiction by remaining disease-free for a period. However, the concepts of recovery and sobriety are not well-defined.
People often see recovery and sobriety as separate but related concepts. The distinction between the two is not always clear.
Sobriety and Recovery
Sobriety marks the initial step towards recovery. Although interrelated, the terms have distinct meanings. A person in recovery actively manages their sobriety daily. However, achieving sobriety does not imply that a person has conquered their addiction or begun the recovery process.
What Is Sobriety?
Sobriety entails avoiding all mood-altering substances and is crucial for reaping the benefits of recovery.
The American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) defines recovery as overcoming dependence on drugs, both mentally and physically, while staying sober. Yet, simply committing to sobriety is exactly that—a commitment; it does not, on its own, equate to recovery.
What Is Recovery?
Recovery is often understood as complete abstinence or control over alcohol and drug use. However, it encompasses much more than mere ongoing sobriety. Recovery is a rewarding journey that leads to discovering a meaningful and enriched new life.
Though challenging, recovery is a continuous commitment to personal growth, transformation, and reclaiming one’s sense of identity.
Those in recovery understand its personal significance, although it may not be clear to others. It involves restoring an identity that was compromised by a substance use disorder; it is a process, not a final goal.
Recovery matches the World Health Organization’s idea of health. They define health as having total physical, mental, and social wellness, not just being free from illness.
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), individuals often begin their recovery journey for various reasons, including:
- Dissatisfaction with the current direction of your life
- Fatigue from the lifestyle associated with drug use
- A motivation to improve your situation
- Worry about the impact of substance abuse on themselves and others
- Challenges in maintaining relationships
- Observing the adverse effects of addiction on others
It’s essential to recognize that everyone’s journey is unique. Nonetheless, maintaining abstinence from alcohol or other drugs is often a necessary aspect for many people in recovery.
The recovery process can incorporate various components, including:
- Taking part in behavior therapy
- Joining group therapy meetings, such as those offered by Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)
- Building and strengthening family ties
- Having fun outside or doing physical activities
- Maintaining sobriety and abstaining from drugs and alcohol
- Avoiding triggers such as specific people or places associated with substance use
- Setting boundaries with others
- Practicing daily self-care
- Connecting with the community
- Eating nutritious foods
- Practicing mindfulness or meditation
- Using distractions to cope with triggering memories or situations
- Seeking mentorship, support, and accountability from those further along in their healing journey
The Difference Between Abstinence and Recovery
Sobriety, or abstinence, involves to stop drinking or using drugs. Recovery includes acknowledging the problematic nature of alcohol or drug use and the importance of avoiding them.
People in long-term recovery see the process as healing for the whole person, not just treating symptoms of the disorder.
Substance Use Disorder Treatment at White Oak Recovery Center
The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) sees addiction as a treatable disorder, like asthma or heart disease. Treatment can manage these conditions, but they don’t have a cure. Recovery is a continuous process similar to maintaining a disease in remission.
At White Oak Recovery Center (WORC), we appreciate the importance of a resident’s motivation to maintain sobriety and pursue recovery— encouraging and reinforcing these sentiments.
Moreover, we understand residents must identify and avoid relapse triggers and develop coping strategies. Additionally, holistic healing, including emotional, spiritual, and social support, is crucial to the addiction recovery process.
We help you stay sober by offering support groups, empowerment, and teaching coping skills to avoid relapse.
Doctors supervise our medical detox program to ensure your safety and comfort, with help from nurses and therapists.
White Oak Recovery Center provides a healing environment and evidence-based treatment programs in a family-like setting. We are dedicated to assisting our residents through every stage of their recovery journey.
WORC creates customized treatment plans for each resident that cater to your individual needs. This plan covers all aspects of addiction, including co-occurring mental health conditions.
Each day offers new opportunities for growth and better decision-making. Our treatment specialists are ready to address any questions you may have. Let us guide you on your path to your new reclaimed life. Contact us today.
Medical Disclaimer:
