There Are Different Addiction Recovery Options That Help You Get Sober

In a previous article, the problems associated with recoveryism and stigma were discussed. We delved into how these phenomena can foster a feeling that a certain pathway of recovery is superior to others. While a particular recovery philosophy may be favored by some people because it helped them recover, every addict has unique needs. This article will explore the different addiction recovery options that will help you or a loved one get sober.

The most common and well-known addiction recovery option that people can explore are sober support groups. These groups are also known as mutual support groups or mutual aid groups. These groups are comprised of people who are dealing with substance abuse issues and addiction. These groups provide a safe and supportive environment for people to share their stories, discuss the challenges of getting clean and sober and to share their successes.

The most well-known of these groups are the 12-step support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) among others. These groups provide a set of guiding principles that are moral and spiritual at their base. These programs operate under the premise that people are powerless in the face of addiction and can only find sobriety through the help of a Higher Power. The steps of these programs provide a blueprint to help people move away from the perils of substance abuse and towards the salvation found in sobriety.

While 12-step groups are widespread throughout the globe and effective, there are many who are turned off by the Higher Power concept posited in these groups. Over the past few decades, there have been alternative sober support groups that may be a better fit. Examples of these include SMART Recovery and LifeRing. Additionally, there are group that focus on harm reduction and those such as Moderation Management who believe that moderation is a more viable option over abstinence.

An emerging addiction recovery pathway that has been gaining traction is medication-assisted therapy (MAT). This recovery pathway utilizes medications in combination with behavioral therapy and counseling to help addicts recover. For decades, methadone was the medication of choice—especially for those struggling with opioid abuse. Methadone blocks the euphoric effects felt with opioids. While methadone is effective, it is an extremely powerful medication with a high addiction potential.

As a result, other medications such as Suboxone and Naltrexone have been developed which perform the same functions as methadone, but at a much-reduced rate for addiction. For those struggling with alcohol abuse, medications such as Acamprosate and Disulfiram helps restore chemical balance in the brain. Additionally, emerging therapies such as amino acid therapy and diet may also help.

Another addiction recovery option that addicts can pursue is recovery coaching. Also known as peer-based recovery support services, recovery coaching is provided by individuals who had suffered from substance abuse and have found significant recovery time. Unlike 12-step programs, recovery coaching empowers individuals to find the recovery program that best fits their needs. Recovery coaches are empathetic who shows caring and concern for those struggling with addiction. These people also help addict find the community resources they need such as social services and health care. Recovery coaches can be found in sober living homes, community and mental health centers, high school and collegiate programs, criminal justice programs and homeless agencies among others.

If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction, there are many options you can choose from to get the help you need. While there are many quality options to choose from, you may feel overwhelmed on what option or options will work the best for you or your loved one. It is important to carefully weigh all choices before making a commitment. Your recovery is a significant commitment of both time and money.

It is very important to seek the help and guidance of health professionals in choosing the addiction recovery program that best fits your or your loved one’s needs. Do you due diligence in research and ask questions! Once you weigh all options, the choice in recovery options will become more apparent.