by Sam Lockard | Apr 29, 2025 | 12-Step, Recovery
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is one of the most influential and widely recognized recovery programs in the world. Since its founding in the 1930s, it has helped millions of people struggling with alcohol addiction find a path to sobriety. The history of Alcoholics Anonymous is a remarkable story of hope, perseverance, and community, rooted in the belief that mutual support and spiritual growth can help individuals overcome alcoholism.
The Origin Story of Alcoholics Anonymous
The story of AA begins in the early 20th century, a time when alcoholism was largely misunderstood, and effective treatments were nearly nonexistent. People struggling with alcohol dependency were often seen as weak-willed or morally deficient rather than as individuals suffering from a disease.
AA’s foundation was laid in 1935 when two men—Bill Wilson (known as Bill W.) and Dr. Robert Smith (Dr. Bob)—met in Akron, Ohio. Bill W. was a New York stockbroker who had battled alcoholism for years, often falling into destructive drinking patterns despite multiple attempts to quit. He had found some relief through a spiritual approach introduced to him by the Oxford Group, a Christian fellowship that emphasized personal transformation through honesty, confession, and reliance on a higher power.
While on a business trip to Akron, Bill W. found himself struggling with the urge to drink. Desperate for support, he reached out to a local minister, who connected him with Dr. Bob, an Akron surgeon also struggling with alcohol dependency. The two men met and had a profound conversation about their experiences with alcoholism. They discovered that sharing their struggles and offering mutual support gave them newfound strength in their sobriety.
This pivotal meeting marked the beginning of Alcoholics Anonymous. Bill and Bob realized that a key element in maintaining their sobriety was helping others who suffered from the same affliction. They soon began working with other alcoholics, refining their approach, and developing what would later become the foundational principles of AA.
The Development of the 12 Steps
As Bill and Bob worked with more alcoholics, they began to develop a structured approach to recovery. In 1939, they published the book Alcoholics Anonymous, commonly referred to as “The Big Book.” This book outlined the now-famous Twelve Steps, a set of spiritual and practical principles designed to help individuals achieve and maintain sobriety.
The Twelve Steps were inspired by the principles of the Oxford Group but were adapted to focus specifically on alcoholism. They emphasize admitting one’s powerlessness over alcohol, seeking the guidance of a higher power, making amends for past wrongs, and carrying the message of recovery to others. These steps have since been adapted by numerous other recovery programs addressing various forms of addiction and compulsive behaviors.
The Growth and Expansion of AA
By the early 1940s, AA had gained momentum, spreading beyond Akron and New York. The publication of “The Big Book” and an article in The Saturday Evening Post in 1941 brought national attention to the program. As more people learned about AA, local groups began forming across the United States and beyond.
One of the key reasons for AA’s success was its emphasis on anonymity, allowing members to seek help without fear of social stigma. Meetings provided a safe space for individuals to share their struggles, support one another, and work through the Twelve Steps without judgment.
Throughout the 20th century, AA continued to expand globally, with groups forming in countries around the world. Today, there are millions of AA members, with meetings held in almost every major city and town worldwide.
The Impact of AA on Modern Recovery Programs
Alcoholics Anonymous has had a profound influence on the way addiction is understood and treated. Before AA, alcoholism was often seen as a moral failing rather than a disease. AA helped shift this perception, advocating for the idea that alcoholism is a chronic, progressive illness that requires ongoing support and treatment.
The success of AA also inspired the development of other 12-step programs, such as Narcotics Anonymous (NA), Gamblers Anonymous (GA), and Al-Anon, a support group for family members of alcoholics. These programs follow the same principles as AA, demonstrating the versatility and effectiveness of the 12-step approach in various contexts.
AA in the 21st Century
In the modern era, AA continues to play a vital role in addiction recovery. While new treatments, such as medication-assisted therapy and cognitive-behavioral approaches, have emerged, AA remains a cornerstone of recovery for many individuals. Its community-driven model, accessibility, and emphasis on peer support make it a unique and valuable resource.
In response to changing times, AA has also adapted, offering online meetings and digital resources to reach a broader audience. This flexibility has ensured that people struggling with alcoholism can access support no matter where they are.
The Legacy of Alcoholics Anonymous
Alcoholics Anonymous has stood the test of time as a beacon of hope for those struggling with alcoholism. Its enduring success is rooted in its simplicity, its emphasis on community, and its ability to offer a structured yet flexible approach to recovery.
While AA may not be the right fit for everyone, its impact on the field of addiction recovery is undeniable. It has helped millions find sobriety, build meaningful relationships, and reclaim their lives from the grip of alcoholism. For those seeking recovery, AA remains a powerful and time-tested option.
Northstar and AA
At Northstar Recovery Center, we know that the path to recovery isn’t a one-size-fits-all. That’s why we offer a multitude of treatment tracks that clients, in partnership with their clinicians, can pursue. Some of these recovery modalities include holistic and trauma-informed therapies, family therapy, individual and group therapy, yoga, Dharma, SMART Recovery, and beyond.
Additionally, every day we offer a Big Book meeting where clients are introduced to the principles and history of Alcoholics Anonymous. Attendees can begin working on the twelve steps while in day treatment for alcoholism or addiction, and we encourage them to attend AA meetings, find a sponsor, attend our alumni meetings, and grow their sober support network.
If you or a loved one are struggling with alcohol or drugs, we are here to help you with a best-fit recovery plan tailored to your circumstances. Give us a call at 888-339-5756 to stop the chaos and find relief.
by Ben Keylor | Apr 24, 2025 | Addiction Recovery, Early Sobriety
Recovery from substance use disorder (SUD) is one of life’s most challenging journeys for those afflicted by addiction. The path is rarely straight, often marked by setbacks and struggles—but also by profound growth and transformation. During the darkest moments of addiction recovery, inspirational words can provide the spark of hope needed to keep moving forward. Here are 15 of the most powerful recovery quotes that have helped countless people find strength and perseverance in their journey toward sobriety.
1. “Rock bottom became the solid foundation on which I rebuilt my life.” —J.K. Rowling
For many in recovery, hitting rock bottom feels like the end. Yet Rowling’s words remind us that our lowest point can become the sturdy ground upon which we build something new and beautiful. When substances have stripped everything away, we’re left with the clarity to see what truly matters and the motivation to fight for it. This quote reframes our darkest moment into the beginning of our redemption story.
2. “The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.” —Nelson Mandela
Relapse is often part of recovery, and the shame that follows can be devastating. Mandela, who endured 27 years of imprisonment, understood that true strength is not found in perfection but in persistence. This quote resonates with those in recovery because it honors the courage it takes to get back up after a setback, reminding us that each time we choose sobriety again, we demonstrate remarkable strength.
3. “I got sober. I stopped killing myself with alcohol. I began to think: ‘Wait a minute – if I can stop doing this, what are the possibilities?’ And slowly it dawned on me that it was maybe worth the risk.” —Craig Ferguson
This quote from comedian, actor, and talk show host Craig Ferguson speaks to the transformative potential that recovery offers. What makes it particularly inspiring is how it captures the gradual awakening that occurs in sobriety—the realization that life without substances isn’t just about avoiding harm but about discovering new possibilities. Ferguson’s words resonate with many in recovery because they reflect the progression from simply stopping destructive behavior to actively embracing a new way of life. The quote also acknowledges the courage required to choose recovery, framing sobriety as a risk worth taking despite the uncertainties involved. This perspective is especially powerful for those who may fear what life without substances will look like.
4. “Sometimes you don’t realize your own strength until you come face to face with your greatest weakness.” —Susan Gale
Addiction forces us to confront our vulnerabilities in ways few other challenges do. This quote speaks to the paradoxical gift of recovery: through acknowledging our powerlessness over substances, we discover inner resources we never knew existed. Many in recovery find they develop resilience, empathy, and wisdom that wouldn’t have been possible without facing their addiction head-on.
5. “You were never created to live depressed, defeated, guilty, condemned, ashamed, or unworthy. You were created to be victorious.” —Joel Osteen
Substance use disorder usually comes with crushing shame and self-loathing. Osteen’s words cut through these negative emotions to remind those in recovery that they deserve happiness and fulfillment. This quote inspires by affirming that addiction doesn’t define a person’s worth or potential—it’s merely an obstacle on the path to the life they were meant to live.
6. “Every worthy act is difficult. Ascent is always difficult. Descent is easy and often slippery.” —Mahatma Gandhi
Gandhi’s wisdom perfectly captures the nature of addiction and recovery. The path to sobriety is uphill, requiring constant effort and vigilance, while relapse can happen with terrifying ease. This quote is powerful because it acknowledges the difficulty of recovery while also framing it as “worthy”—a noble pursuit deserving of respect and admiration.
7. “What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.” —Ralph Waldo Emerson
This profound observation from Emerson speaks directly to the heart of addiction recovery. Those struggling with substance use disorder often carry immense shame about their past actions and anxiety about future challenges. Emerson’s words gently redirect focus to an often-overlooked truth: our internal resources are far more powerful than either our history or our worries.
8. “Recovery is something that you have to work on every single day, and it’s something that doesn’t get a day off.” —Demi Lovato
As someone who has publicly shared her own struggles with addiction, Lovato speaks from experience about the vigilance recovery requires. This quote resonates because it acknowledges the relentless nature of addiction while also suggesting that daily practice creates strength. It’s inspiring because it normalizes the ongoing effort recovery requires while implying that this daily work builds a sustainable foundation for lasting sobriety.
9. “Though no one can go back and make a brand new start, anyone can start from now and make a brand new ending.” —Carl Bard
Addiction leaves a trail of regrets, broken relationships, and missed opportunities. This quote offers hope by redirecting focus from an unchangeable past to a future still being written. It’s particularly meaningful for those in recovery who may feel defined by their mistakes, reminding them that each day in sobriety is an opportunity to create a different outcome.
10. “The only journey is the one within.” —Rainer Maria Rilke
Recovery involves much more than simply abstaining from substances—it requires deep self-exploration and personal growth. Rilke’s words capture the essence of this inner work. This quote inspires because it honors the inner transformation that happens in recovery, reminding us that the most important changes aren’t always visible to others.
This quote from C.S. Lewis speaks directly to those in addiction recovery who have endured tremendous suffering. What makes this quote particularly inspiring is how it reframes the pain of addiction not as meaningless suffering but as preparation for something greater. Many in recovery eventually discover that their darkest experiences become the foundation for their greatest contributions—whether through helping others find sobriety, developing deeper compassion, or living with heightened appreciation for life’s simple pleasures. Lewis’s words validate the difficulty of the recovery journey while suggesting that these struggles aren’t random or purposeless but may be forging something remarkable within us. This perspective offers hope that the hardships of addiction and recovery aren’t just obstacles to overcome but transformative experiences that may lead to an unexpectedly beautiful destiny.
12. “Believe you can and you’re halfway there.” —Theodore Roosevelt
Self-doubt is a major obstacle in recovery. After repeated attempts and possible relapses, many begin to question whether sobriety is even possible for them. Roosevelt’s words highlight the power of self-belief, which is often unlocked through therapy. This quote is powerful because it suggests that regaining faith in oneself is not just a preliminary step but constitutes half the battle in recovery.
13. “We are all broken, that’s how the light gets in.” —Ernest Hemingway
Recovery begins with acknowledging brokenness—the damage addiction has caused. Hemingway’s quote transforms this painful recognition into something beautiful. It suggests that our wounds and vulnerabilities aren’t just defects to be hidden but openings through which healing can enter. This perspective is deeply inspiring because it reframes weakness as the potential beginning of strength.
14. “I understood myself only after I destroyed myself. And only in the process of fixing myself, did I know who I really was.” —Sade Andria Zabala
For those in recovery, facing life sober stripped away their false selves, leaving them to rebuild an identity based on authenticity rather than escape. Zabala’s words capture this meaningful transformation. This quote resonates deeply because it suggests that the painful process of addiction and recovery can lead to self-knowledge impossible to gain any other way—a silver lining to even the darkest cloud.
15. “The best way out is always through.” —Robert Frost
There are no shortcuts in recovery. Frost’s simple but profound statement acknowledges that healing requires moving through pain rather than around it. This quote inspires because it validates the difficulty of the recovery journey while promising that continuing forward—despite the discomfort—leads to freedom. It’s a reminder that facing our demons directly is ultimately less painful than trying to outrun them.
Recovery from substance use disorder requires tremendous courage, persistence, and hope. These motivational quotes serve as reminders that countless others have walked this path before, finding not just sobriety but wisdom, strength, and purpose along the way. The journey may be difficult, but it can lead to a life more authentic and fulfilling than previously imagined.
If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out some of our real recovery success stories. These video testimonials show what’s possible on the other side of addiction.
by Sam Lockard | Apr 22, 2025 | Addiction, MA Programs
The opioid epidemic has gripped the nation for decades, and Massachusetts has been one of the hardest-hit states. What started as an increase in prescription opioid use has spiraled into a devastating public health crisis, affecting individuals, families, and communities in profound ways. The impact of this epidemic continues to be felt, leaving behind a trail of addiction, economic strain, and loss.
The Rise of the Opioid Crisis in Massachusetts
The opioid crisis in Massachusetts can be traced back to the late 1990s and early 2000s when prescription painkillers such as OxyContin became widely available. Physicians, influenced by aggressive pharmaceutical marketing and reassured by misleading claims about the non-addictive nature of these drugs, prescribed opioids at unprecedented rates. As dependence on these medications grew, so did the rates of misuse and addiction.
When regulatory measures were introduced to limit opioid prescriptions, many individuals turned to heroin as a cheaper and more accessible alternative. This shift marked a turning point, as the crisis took on a deadlier form with the introduction of fentanyl, a synthetic opioid far more potent than heroin. Fentanyl-laced substances have contributed to a dramatic rise in overdose deaths, making it one of the leading causes of fatalities in Massachusetts today.
The Human and Economic Toll
The opioid epidemic has left a deep and lasting impact on the lives of Massachusetts residents. Families have been torn apart by addiction, and communities have suffered the devastating consequences of lost lives. Overdose deaths continue to rise, despite public health efforts to curb the crisis. In many cases, children are left in foster care as parents battle addiction, leading to generational cycles of trauma and instability.
The economic burden is equally severe. The state has allocated billions of dollars toward addressing the crisis through treatment programs, law enforcement, and public health initiatives. Emergency rooms are overwhelmed with opioid-related cases, and the criminal justice system has struggled to manage the influx of drug-related offenses. Employers also face workforce challenges, as addiction and overdose deaths have contributed to labor shortages and decreased productivity.
The Role of Treatment and Recovery Programs
Despite the grim statistics, Massachusetts has been a leader in implementing comprehensive treatment and recovery strategies for opioid addiction. The state has invested heavily in expanding access to medication-assisted treatment (MAT), which includes drugs like methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone that help manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings. Many recovery centers offer holistic approaches, integrating counseling, behavioral therapy, and peer support to address the root causes of addiction.
Community-based initiatives have also played a critical role in harm reduction. Needle exchange programs, overdose prevention sites, and the widespread availability of naloxone (Narcan) have helped save lives and prevent the spread of infectious diseases. Public awareness campaigns continue to challenge the stigma surrounding addiction, encouraging individuals to seek help without fear of judgment.
Legal and Policy Measures
Massachusetts has enacted several policies aimed at tackling the opioid epidemic head-on. The state was among the first to impose strict regulations on opioid prescriptions, limiting the number of pills doctors can prescribe and requiring education for both prescribers and patients about the risks of opioid use. Laws have also been passed to increase funding for recovery programs and support law enforcement efforts to crack down on illegal opioid distribution.
One of the most significant legal battles has been against pharmaceutical companies that played a role in fueling the epidemic. Massachusetts has pursued lawsuits against major opioid manufacturers and distributors, securing settlements that will provide funding for addiction treatment and prevention efforts.
The Long Road Ahead
While Massachusetts has made significant progress in addressing the opioid epidemic, challenges remain. The rise of fentanyl and other synthetic opioids continues to drive overdose rates, making it clear that more aggressive interventions are needed. There is an ongoing need for expanded access to mental health services, as many individuals struggling with opioid addiction also face co-occurring mental health disorders.
Long-term solutions must focus on prevention, education, and sustained support for those in recovery. Schools, healthcare providers, and community organizations must work together to provide early intervention programs that help individuals avoid the path of addiction before it begins. Employers and policymakers must also explore ways to integrate individuals in recovery back into the workforce, reducing the stigma and financial instability that often accompany addiction.
The opioid crisis in Massachusetts is far from over, but with continued commitment and innovative approaches, the state can build a future where fewer lives are lost, and more individuals find hope and healing. The battle against opioid addiction is not just a public health challenge—it is a call to action for all sectors of society to come together in pursuit of a lasting solution.
Northstar Recovery Center is committed to maximizing our impact on recovery from opioid addiction afflicting our communities. If you or someone you know is struggling, give us a call today at 888-339-5756 or email us at admissions@northstarrecovery.com.
by Sam Lockard | Apr 17, 2025 | Addiction Treatment
Deciding to seek help for a substance use disorder (SUD) is a brave and life-changing step. Part of that process may involve informing your employer about your need for treatment. This conversation can feel daunting, especially when there are concerns about job security, stigma, or privacy. However, being honest with your employer and understanding your rights can help you navigate this situation in the most positive way possible.
Here’s a guide to help you approach this conversation with confidence and clarity.
Understand Your Rights
Before speaking with your employer, it’s important to understand your legal rights. Under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), eligible employees are entitled to up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave for serious health conditions, which may include substance use disorder treatment. Additionally, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) protects employees from discrimination based on a substance use disorder, provided you are actively seeking treatment.
If your employer offers an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), this is another avenue where you can receive support, guidance, and resources for treatment.
Action Step: Review your company’s policies regarding medical leave and employee assistance programs. If you have access to an HR representative, they can be a helpful resource. Many employer-sponsored health insurance plans will cover addiction treatment in part or in full, so it’s worth contacting your insurance company as well.
Protect Your Privacy
It is entirely your choice how much or how little you disclose. You are not required to reveal the nature of your treatment unless you choose to do so. Simply stating that you need medical leave for health treatment is sufficient.
Additionally, your employer is legally required to keep your medical information confidential. If you are uncomfortable sharing directly with your manager, consider having the conversation with HR instead.
Plan the Conversation
Approaching your employer about your need for addiction treatment requires careful thought. Start by deciding who you feel most comfortable talking to—this could be your direct supervisor, an HR representative, or another trusted manager.
Prepare your message in advance. You do not need to disclose every detail of your substance use disorder, but you should clearly communicate that you need time off or accommodations for medical treatment.
Example Script:
“I’ve been dealing with some health issues and have decided to seek treatment to improve my well-being. I will need some time off to attend a treatment program, and I’d like to discuss the options available to me regarding leave or workplace accommodations.”
Remain professional, but do not feel obligated to divulge personal details.
Emphasize Your Commitment to Your Job
One common fear among employees seeking treatment is that they will be perceived as unreliable or replaceable. To counter this, make it clear that you are committed to your job and intend to return to work once you’ve received treatment.
Example Statement:
“I value my role here and am dedicated to continuing my work. I’m confident that addressing my health needs now will allow me to perform even better in the future.”
Reassuring your employer that your intention is to return can help mitigate any concerns they may have.
Discuss Practical Logistics
Once you’ve initiated the conversation, be prepared to discuss how your absence or treatment schedule may impact your work. Collaborate with your employer to create a plan that minimizes disruption while you are away.
Consider discussing:
- Whether you will take a formal leave of absence.
- Whether remote work or a reduced schedule is possible during treatment.
- Who will manage your workload in your absence.
Being proactive about solutions shows responsibility and foresight.
Utilize Support Systems
Taking this step can feel isolating, but you are not alone. Lean on support systems like:
Focus on Your Recovery
Remember, seeking help for a substance use disorder is a sign of strength, not weakness. Your health and recovery should remain your top priority. The workplace will continue to function, and once you return to work after addiction treatment, you’ll be in a much better position to perform at your highest capacity.
Take pride in the fact that you are choosing a healthier, more sustainable future.
If you or someone you know is struggling with a substance use disorder, Northstar Recovery Center is here to help. Reach out to us to learn more about our comprehensive treatment programs and support services. Call 888-339-5756 today and get your recovery journey started.
by Ben Keylor | Apr 16, 2025 | Addiction
Alcohol is the most popular drug on the planet, making it the universal “drug of choice” around the globe. Due to this fact, many people minimize the dangers of alcohol use. However, the reality is that alcohol use can be devastating. Even in small doses, it can cause physical, mental, and emotional harm over time. In larger doses, alcohol use can lead to addiction and extreme bodily, mental, emotional, and spiritual harm. It also often leads to a premature and uncomfortable death. So, when thinking about alcohol, should it be minimized? Absolutely not.
More About Alcohol: Better Understanding Alcohol Use
Millions of people around the world consume alcohol every day. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) and the 2023 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), “224.3 million people ages 12 and older (79.1% in this age group) reported that they drank alcohol at some point in their lifetime. This includes 111.1 million males ages 12 and older (80.1% in this age group).” Further, “113.2 million females ages 12 and older (78.1% in this age group).”
The issue is not that these individuals drank one or two times (though, as mentioned, this can ultimately be harmful). No, the issue is that a percentage of these people will end up addicted to alcohol and end up with alcohol use disorder (AUD).
It is also important to understand that even a single engagement with alcohol can lead to devastating results. For example, many younger people drink to excess the first time they try it. This can lead to alcohol poisoning and bad decision-making, like driving under the influence. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, “Every day, about 37 people in the United States die in drunk-driving crashes – that’s one person every 39 minutes. In 2022, 13,524 people died in alcohol-impaired driving traffic deaths. These deaths were all preventable.”
More About Alcohol: Better Understanding Alcohol Use Disorder
AUD is the most common addiction around the world, affecting millions of people. According to NIAAA and NSDUH, “28.9 million people ages 12 and older (10.2% in this age group) had AUD in the past year. This includes 16.8 million males ages 12 and older (12.1% in this age group).” Further, “12.0 million females ages 12 and older (8.3% in this age group).”
It is also critical to remember that AUD is a disease. Many people are under the misconception that AUD is some type of moral failing or “choice.” This is simply untrue; AUD has more in common with other chronic diseases like cancer, heart disease, and diabetes than it does with a choice.
AUD is also a family disease. But what does that mean exactly? It means that alcohol affects many more people than just the individual who is struggling. It is for this reason that many people refer to AUD as a tornado that destroys everyone and everything in its path (especially the family). However, while the family is the most affected, they also have the greatest opportunity to help their loved one. However, they have to be able to spot the signs and the symptoms first.
More About Alcohol: The Signs and Symptoms of Alcohol Use Disorder
Now, the signs and symptoms of AUD are always going to vary based on the individual. However, one can look out for many universal signs and symptoms of AUD. The following are just a few of those signs and symptoms:
- Losing interest in activities once enjoyed
- Experiencing physical ailments such as headaches, body aches, and gastrointestinal problems
- Feeling anxious, nervous, or overly “stressed out”
- Having trouble with sleep cycles, including sleeping too much and not sleeping enough (hypersomnia and insomnia)
- Having feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness, and helplessness
- Not being able to stop once starting drinking
- Loss of appetite and a lack of care regarding physical appearance and well-being
- Exhibiting excessive mood swings
- Isolating away from family and close friends
- Experiencing trouble at work or school
- Causing harm to oneself or others
- Having suicidal ideations
Now, many people can minimize AUD or falsely categorize it as that previously mentioned “choice.” However, as one can see, these signs and symptoms are significant and can be deadly. This is why reaching out for professional help as soon as possible is vital. Doing so could mean the difference between short-term side effects and long-term consequences. The good news is that many effective means, methods, and modalities can help one recover physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually from AUD.
The Reality About Alcohol as One’s ‘Drug of Choice’
The fact of the matter is that alcohol is a “gateway drug.” This means that many people use alcohol before they use other substances like methamphetamines, cocaine, and heroin.
According to the peer-reviewed journal Preventive Medicine Reports, “The concept of ‘gateway hypothesis‘ has been studied since the 1970s as the theory suggests that an adolescent’s early experimentation with alcohol or tobacco or cannabis escalates to more addictive illicit drugs later in adulthood. The most commonly used illicit substances include heroin/opioids, cocaine, and or amphetamines and their designer drug analogs, considered illegal by the criminal justice system in the United States and other jurisdictions.” This is also the reason why many people go back to alcohol time and time again.
Another reason why alcohol remains many people’s “drug of choice” is that it is the most accessible drug available. Anyone can simply go into a liquor store and buy it. There are also fewer consequences for possessing and using alcohol. These are just a few reasons why millions of people struggle with AUD. The good news is that there are many effective means, methods, and modalities when it comes to recovering from AUD.
Recovering From Alcohol Use Disorder
The recovery realm is now a multi-billion dollar industry. While this is positive in that there are more places for people to recover than ever before, there are also many recovery centers that are more focused on their financial bottom line than they are on helping their clients. These are often the same treatment centers that only offer “one-note” recovery plans that don’t take the individual into account.
Here at Northstar Recovery Center, we understand that overarching recovery plans rarely work. The key is to treat the individual and to do so comprehensively. One of the best ways to do this is to utilize day treatment.
Utilizing Day Treatment for Alcohol Use Disorder
Day treatment is a highly effective form of recovery. This is especially for those individuals who are able to keep one foot in their everyday lives. However, it is important to understand that day treatment is not a lesser form of recovery.
Many people think that day treatment may be “easier” and thus less effective than other forms of treatment, like residential addiction care. This is simply not the case. Day treatment often requires the individual to participate in their recovery eight hours a day, five days a week. Also, this often includes regular drug and alcohol testing and attendance at 12-Step recovery meetings.
Day treatment also utilizes all of the avenues of recovery available. This includes experiential therapies like nature immersion therapy and art therapy, holistic healing methods like yoga therapy and mindfulness meditation, and psychotherapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy, and group therapy.
Recovering With Psychotherapies
When thinking about alcohol and recovery, group therapy is often a highly effective choice for recovery. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), “The natural propensity of human beings to congregate makes group therapy a powerful therapeutic tool for treating substance abuse, one that is as helpful as individual therapy, and sometimes more successful. One reason for this efficacy is that groups intrinsically have many rewarding benefits – such as reducing isolation and enabling members to witness the recovery of others – and these qualities draw clients into a culture of recovery.”
There are also many other effective psychotherapies when it comes to treating AUD. CBT and DBT can be particularly effective because they can get to the underlying causes of addiction. These psychotherapies help the individual to see the negative way in which they have been viewing themselves and the world around them. When they see this, they can then begin to change the addictive behaviors that are associated with their underlying issues.
According to the peer-reviewed thesis “Cognitive Behavior Therapy,” by Doctors Chand, Kuckel, and Huecker, “Cognitive behavior therapy is a structured, didactic, and goal-oriented form of therapy. The approach is hands-on and practical, wherein the therapist and patient work in a collaborative manner with the goal of modifying patterns of thinking and behavior to bring about a beneficial change in the patient’s mood and way of living his/her life. It is used to help a wide range of problems, and appropriate treatment protocols are applied depending on the diagnosis and problems the patient is facing.” CBT and DBT also work well with other types of therapy, like art therapy.
Recovering With Experiential Therapies
Experiential therapies are much their namesake states. They are more about experiences than they are about discussion (though this can be a big part of it). There are many types of effective experiential therapies, and they generally fall into two categories. One is more creative, like art therapy, and the other is more nature-based, like nature immersion therapy.
When talking about alcohol, nature immersion therapy can be highly effective. According to the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, “As a result of these stressful situations, nature therapy, a health-promotion method that uses medically proven effects, such as relaxation by exposure to natural stimuli from forests, urban green spaces, plants, and natural wooden materials, is receiving increasing attention. It is empirically known that exposure to stimuli from natural sources induces a state of hyperawareness and hyperactivity of the parasympathetic nervous system that renders a person in a state of relaxation. This state becomes progressively recognized as the normal state that a person should be in and feel comfortable.”
Art therapy has also been shown to be highly effective when thinking about alcohol (especially when it comes to alcohol and other mental health disorders). According to the peer-reviewed journal Cureus, “Art therapy is used most commonly to treat mental illnesses and can aid in controlling manifestations correlated with psychosocially challenging behaviours, slowing cognitive decline, and enhancing the quality of life. [It] can help people express themselves more freely, improve their mental health, and improve interpersonal relationships. The basis of art therapy is established on the idea that people can recover and feel better via artistic expression.” Art therapy also works well alongside holistic healing methods.
Recovering With Holistic Healing Methods
There are many ways to recover. The key is to find the right combination of modalities that work for the individual. This usually consists of a combination of “evidence-based” therapies and holistic healing methods like yoga therapy and mindfulness meditation.
According to the master yogi and spiritual leader B.K.S. Iyengar, “As animals, we walk the earth, and as bearers of divine essence, we are among the stars. As human beings, we are caught in the middle, seeking to reconcile the paradox of how to make our way upon earth while striving for something more permanent and more profound.” This is where yoga and meditation come in. These practices have been happening for thousands of years. Originally, they were solely used for religious or spiritual purposes, but they have since moved into the realm of recovery.
When thinking about alcohol, mindfulness meditation can be a highly effective tool of recovery. According to the International Quarterly Journal of Research in Ayurveda (AYU), “Research has confirmed a myriad of health benefits associated with the practice of meditation. These include stress reduction, decreased anxiety, decreased depression, reduction in pain (both physical and psychological), improved memory, and increased efficiency. Physiological benefits include reduced blood pressure, heart rate, lactate, cortisol, and epinephrine; decreased metabolism, breathing pattern, oxygen utilization, and carbon dioxide elimination; and increased melatonin, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S), skin resistance, and relative blood flow to the brain.” It is also important to work with others for AUD recovery.
More About Alcohol: Working With Others for Recovery
Working with other people in recovery is a critical component of long-term success. It is so important that the primary text of 12-Step recovery (often referred to as the Big Book) even has a chapter dedicated to it: “Working With Others.” The chapter states, “Practical experience shows that nothing will so much insure immunity from drinking as intensive work with other alcoholics. It works when other activities fail. You can help when no one else can.”
Yes, working with others can actually prevent a relapse. When thinking about alcohol, many people don’t realize just how common relapses can be. According to the peer-reviewed thesis Addiction Relapse Prevention, by Doctors Guenzel and McChargue, “One primary concern in addiction treatment is the high rate of relapses within a short period after even the most intensive treatment. Many studies have shown relapse rates of approximately 50% within the first 12 weeks after completion of intensive inpatient programs that often last 4 to 12 weeks or more and can cost tens of thousands of dollars.”
Working with others can also ensure that an individual attends 12-Step recovery meetings. These types of meetings can be critical for long-term recovery because they offer the individual a new and effective “design for living” a clean and sober life.
The Importance of Long-Term Success at Northstar Recovery Center
Here at Northstar Recovery Center, we believe in long-term success over short-term “fixes.” This is why all of our recovery plans are individualized and comprehensive, with a focus on the future.
Recovery is out there. It’s time to go out and get it! We can help.
Many people who struggle with substance use disorder (SUD) also struggle with alcohol use disorder (AUD). Many of these individuals have realized that the first step to using again is taking a drink. It is a slippery slope. The good news is there are many effective means, methods, and modalities that can help one recover from an addiction to drugs or alcohol. If you feel like you or a loved one is struggling with issues of addiction, mental illness, or both, we can help get you on the right road to long-term recovery right away. You don’t have to go through this process alone. For more information about AUD, please call Northstar Recovery Center at (888) 311-0911.
