Recovery

Recovery is a process of growth and adaptation in response to a challenge like addiction or a mental illness. However, recovery isn't a one-size-fits-all process. Recovery may vary from person to person and could require unique approaches based on the findings of a healthcare professional. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMSHA), there are four major dimensions that support a life in recovery, including the following: 

• Health: Health refers to the practice of overcoming or managing one’s disease(s), condition(s), or symptom(s) or living in a physically and emotionally healthy way.  
• Home: A stable and safe place to live is considered a primary factor influencing overall health and well-being. 
• Purpose: Purpose refers to conducting meaningful daily activities and having the independence, income, and resources to participate meaningfully in society.  
• Community: Community refers to having relationships and social networks that provide support, friendship, love, and hope.

SAMHSA also emphasizes that the road to recovery is built on access to effective clinical treatment and recovery support services for individuals with mental health and substance use disorders. As such, meaningful recovery strategies may require a holistic approach that treats symptoms or specific behaviors and considers all aspects of a person's life.

Recovery from mental illness may not be a destination but a continuous journey, often marked by challenges and triumphs. Some may consider recovery an absence of symptoms. However, it might be more productive to focus on experiencing an overall improvement in quality of life and ability to confidently cope with life’s challenges, which can continue to occur despite changes. 

Mental illness recovery is personal and unique to everyone. Recovery may involve therapy, medication, self-care practices, or a combination of these treatment approaches. In addition, recovery doesn't mean symptoms have gone away or that the mental illness is “cured.” The recovery process centers around learning to manage symptoms, building resilience, and creating a fulfilling life despite challenges.

It's normal and healthy to seek help and take time for yourself during recovery. Reaching out when you would benefit from support can be a key part of recovery. You're not alone in this recovery journey; resources and people are ready to help. Try to take one step at a time, be patient with yourself, and constantly celebrate each step you take toward your recovery goals.  

For those struggling with substance use, contact the SAMHSA National Helpline at (800) 662-4357 to receive support and resources. Support is available 24/7.

The journey of recovery, as outlined by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), is guided by principles that underscore its holistic, person-centered, and empowering nature.

Recovery is seen as a process of change through which individuals improve their health and wellness, live self-directed lives, and strive to reach their full potential. Recovery is highly personalized and acknowledges that each person may require individualized attention.

Secondly, experts emphasize the individual's active role in managing their mental health and making informed decisions about their treatment. Through guidance, adaptation, introspection, and learning, individuals may benefit from gaining independence and self-confidence. 

Recovery exists on a continuum of improved health and wellness, recognizing that it is not linear but often involves setbacks and continuous learning. Recovery is holistic, recognizing that mental health is connected to physical, emotional, and spiritual wellness. Recovery focuses on alleviating symptoms, building resilience, fostering relationships, and creating a sense of purpose.

Recovery is often a lifelong journey that benefits from continuous nurturing and support. This process can acknowledge progress in all forms and empower individuals to reclaim their autonomy amidst adversity.

As individuals navigate their paths to recovery, they might experience various physical and emotional effects. 

On a physical level, recovery often leads to improved health and vitality as individuals overcome the harmful impacts of substance use or mental health disorders. As individuals recover from these challenges, they may start to acknowledge the role of maintaining physical health, which may lead to improved energy, reduced risk of chronic disease, and a more profound sense of purpose. 

Mentally and emotionally, recovery often fosters a greater sense of self-awareness, emotional resilience, and improved cognitive function. The journey may also nurture stronger relationships as individuals learn to communicate more effectively, build trust, and establish healthier boundaries.

However, the road to recovery may be marked by setbacks and difficulties. Recovery is a non-linear process that often benefits from patience, compassion, and professional guidance. To reap the lasting effects of recovery, embrace the process, acknowledge the struggles, and celebrate every step forward.

Below are several statistics on recovery and finding recovery support: 

• According to SAMSHA, two out of three individuals who have ever had a mental health challenge consider themselves to be recovering or in recovery.  
• 50% of individuals who live with a mental health condition or substance use disorder seek treatment. 
• Nearly 75% of individuals who seek addiction treatment achieve recovery. 
• Over half of individuals who engage in therapy find improvement in their condition(s).

Finding effective therapy or treatment for recovery can be a life-changing step. Seeking assistance in recovery is not a sign of weakness; recovery can be a step toward regaining control of maladaptive behaviors and thoughts and improving overall quality of life. 

Finding adequate therapy resources for recovery can be a unique and personal process, and there are several factors to consider. Individuals might start by identifying the type of support they seek. For example, they might benefit from therapy, a support group, or psychiatric advice. If unsure, it may be worthwhile to consider seeking the assistance of professionals. Resources like SAMSHA and The National Alliance On Mental Illness (NAMI) provide directories that may connect prospective clients with mental health services based on insurance, location, and other factors. 

Compatibility can also play a role in the recovery process. Recovery can be vital to be comfortable and safe discussing one’s feelings and thoughts with a therapist⁴ with whom one plans to work. This relationship may last for years, so setting up an initial interview may be valuable in considering whether it will be compatible. 

In substance use recovery, several modalities are frequently recommended to support individuals, including but not limited to the following: 

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): CBT can help clients target underlying beliefs or thought patterns that may contribute to desires to use substances. In addition, the therapist can help the client implement coping strategies that may reduce the risk of using. 
• Motivational interviewing: Motivational interviewing is a process in which a therapist asks open-ended and motivational questions to help clients come to conclusions about their situation. 
• Group therapy: Group therapy may be helpful for people living with substance use disorders, as it connects them with others who have lived with similar challenges and provides a support network that they may not have outside of sessions. Socialization can be a significant factor in reducing one’s risk of using substances.