"The
culture of recovery in America has deep historical
roots, is growing daily, and is becoming ever more
heterogeneous. The 'recovery community' today is made
up of diverse individuals and groups who, while differing
in their views on how best to initiate
and sustain sobriety, speak with a united voice about the
hope for permanent recovery from addiction."
William L. White,
Author, Slaying the Dragon: The History of Addiction
Treatment and Recovery in America
Recovery has many definitions.
RCSP project leaders are reluctant
to settle on a single definition of recovery.
Recovering from alcohol and drug use disorders is a highly individualized
experience, and everyone who goes through the experience has an individual
definition of recovery. In addition, recovery is achieved via many
different pathways.
Traditional and Evolving Definitions of Recovery
Recovery is commonly viewed as continuing abstinence from alcohol
and drugs. Many pathways to recovery exist and recovery can be assisted
by addiction treatment medications such as methadone and buprenorphine.
Within the RCSP projects, an emerging definition goes beyond abstinence
alone to include a full re-engagement—based on resilience,
health, and hope—with one’s family, friends, and community.
For many RCSP projects, bringing this new construct into common use
is a goal.
"People
in recovery want a higher level of wellness. They recognize
the power of community-based healing. Peer services
are about community."
