20 Ways That You Can Work a Program of Recovery

Recovery is an ongoing journey that requires dedication, effort, and commitment. It’s not just about getting sober – it’s about building a new way of living that allows you to thrive without the use of substances. One of this journey’s key components is working a program of recovery.

If you are in recovery from drugs or alcohol, you may be wondering how you can work a recovery program to best support your sobriety. Find out more about the process of working a program of recovery, as well as how to take advantage of the tools, resources, and support available to help you stay on track and live a fulfilling, sober life.

What Does Working a Recovery Program Mean?

So, what exactly does “working a program” mean? In simple terms, it involves actively participating in a structured plan designed to promote sobriety and overall well-being. While different programs may have varying elements or approaches, they all aim to provide individuals with the tools and support necessary for sustained recovery.

For instance, a 12-step recovery program, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), is based on a series of spiritual principles and practices that help individuals overcome addiction by addressing underlying emotional and psychological issues. These programs often involve attending meetings, working with a sponsor, completing steps, and developing a personal plan for maintaining sobriety.

Other recovery programs may focus more on therapy and counseling to address the root causes of addiction. This can include individual or group therapy sessions, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), or other evidence-based techniques.

Regardless of the specific recovery program chosen, working a recovery program involves actively engaging in the process and putting in effort to make positive changes. It also requires honesty, open-mindedness, and a willingness to take suggestions from others who have successfully navigated their recovery journey.

Working a 12-Step Program of Recovery

A program of recovery can refer to 12-step programs or efforts to improve yourself in sobriety, no matter where you are in the process. The 12 steps provide a framework for recovering from alcohol, drugs, food, sex, gambling, and other addictions. Originally developed by Alcoholics Anonymous, the 12-step approach helps people maintain sobriety and grow as individuals, whether inside or outside a treatment setting. The 12 steps include:

1. We admitted we were powerless over alcohol— that our lives had become unmanageable
2. Came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity
3. Made a decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God as we understood Him
4. Made a searching and fearless moral inventory of ourselves
5. Admitted to God, to ourselves, and to others the exact nature of our wrongs
6. Were ready to have God remove all these defects of character
7. Humbly asked Him to remove our shortcomings
8. Made a list of those we had harmed, and became willing to make amends
9. Made direct amends when possible, except when to do so would injure them or others
10. Continued to take personal inventory, and promptly admitted we were wrong
11. Sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God, praying only for the knowledge of His will for us and the power to carry that out
12. Having had a spiritual awakening from the steps, we carry this message to other alcoholics, and to practice these principles always

Participants in 12-step groups practice these steps to achieve the Promises of AA and maintain sobriety. Programs like AA, NA, and CoDA hold support meetings worldwide, available almost any time of day. With their wide availability, joining a 12-step program is highly recommended.

Working a Program of Recovery In Addiction Treatment

Living a program of recovery is more than just abstinence from drugs and alcohol, it’s a complete lifestyle change. It involves addressing the underlying issues that led to addiction, developing healthy coping mechanisms, and building a strong support system.

• A professional program of recovery often begins with detox, where individuals can safely withdraw from substances under the supervision of medical professionals. Medical detox facilities provide medication-assisted treatment and 24/7 supervision from medical professionals.
• Once detox is complete, the next step in a professional recovery program is often residential inpatient treatment. This type of program offers intensive therapy and support in a structured environment, usually lasting 30-90 days. It allows individuals to fully focus on their recovery without distractions or triggers from the outside world.
• Partial hospitalization programs (PHPs) are another option for those who do not require 24/7 care but still need intensive treatment. In this setting, individuals attend therapy and programming during the day and return home at night.
• Intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) offer more flexibility than PHPs as they typically meet for several hours a few times a week. This type of program is often used as a step-down from residential treatment or as a standalone option for those who need more support than traditional outpatient therapy.
• An outpatient program (OP), also known as standard outpatient care, involves meeting with a therapist regularly for individual or group sessions. This approach is suitable for individuals who are stable in their recovery and can function well without the intensity of higher levels of care.

Whichever program of recovery is chosen, the goal remains the same: to provide individuals with the tools and support they need to achieve and maintain sobriety. Different treatment modalities may be utilized during these programs depending on each person’s specific needs and preferences.

20 Tips For Working A Program of Recovery

If you are looking for tips on how to work a program of recovery to support your sobriety, here are 20 simple tips:

1. Get a sponsor
2. Build a sober support network that you can reach out to for support
3. Go to meetings
4. Get a home group (a meeting of AA or NA that you become a declared member of)
5. Set up regular appointments with a therapist
6. Schedule regular check-ups with a doctor to manage your mental health
7. Stay self-aware and right your wrongs continuously
8. Attend alumni events after completing treatment
9. Help others who are struggling with addiction
10. Offer to speak at addiction recovery meetings to inspire strength and hope
11. Participate in community service
12. Reach out when you need help
13. Work with your case manager to set up aftercare options
14. Join an outpatient program
15. Continuously make healthy choices
16. Discover your hobbies and practice healthy habit-making
17. Become willing to set boundaries with people, places, and things that are harmful to your sobriety
18. Join a support group for addiction or any co-occurring disorders
19. Practice activities that provide spiritual growth
20. Continue to grow your relationship with your higher power