It's important to understand the distinction between sobriety and recovery. Sobriety is the initial step in the journey of addiction recovery, but it is not the same as recovery. Joseph Skrajewski, a Wall Street educator turned addiction educator, explains the difference between sobriety and recovery to host William C. Moyers.
Sobriety is the process of abstaining from alcohol or other drugs. It is a necessary first step in addiction recovery, but it is not enough to sustain long-term recovery. Sobriety is a state of being free from alcohol or other drugs, but it does not necessarily mean that an individual has achieved a healthy lifestyle. Recovery, on the other hand, is an ongoing process of personal transformation.
It involves developing healthy habits and behaviors that will help an individual maintain sobriety and lead a fulfilling life. Recovery requires more than just abstaining from alcohol or other drugs; it involves developing healthy coping skills, building strong relationships, and finding purpose in life. Addiction treatment can help individuals achieve sobriety and begin their journey of recovery. Treatment can provide individuals with the tools they need to make positive changes in their lives and develop healthy habits that will support their recovery.
However, it is important to remember that addiction treatment is only the beginning of the recovery process. Relapse is a common part of the recovery process and should not be seen as a failure. Relapse can be an opportunity to learn more about yourself and your triggers for using alcohol or other drugs. It is important to have a strong support system in place to help you get back on track if you do relapse. Support is essential for long-term recovery from addiction.
Having a strong support system can provide individuals with the encouragement they need to stay on track with their recovery goals. Support can come from family members, friends, peers in recovery, or professionals such as therapists or counselors. Sobriety and recovery are two different things, but they are both essential for long-term addiction recovery. Sobriety is the first step in the journey of recovery, but it is not enough to sustain long-term recovery. Recovery requires ongoing personal transformation and a strong support system.
