How to Rethink Recovery On Your Own Terms

Photo by Jon Flobrant on Unsplash.

Not everyone loves the word recovery. Often, being “in recovery” is seen as being on the path to a cure—whether for cancer, dysfunctional drinking, or any chronic health condition. Maybe it’s time to rethink recovery. 

If you view your drinking patterns as a set of behaviors rather than a medical issue, the concept of recovery might not resonate with you. 

One definition of recovery is “the action of regaining possession or control of something stolen or lost.” Unhealthy alcohol consumption can rob you of time, health, energy, and relationships. By moderating your drinking, what if you celebrate recovering what you value most?

Starting on this kind of recovery reveals a cycle: as you reclaim your quality of life through moderation, healthy drinking habits become easier. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism says, “Recovery is often marked by enhancements in social support, physical and mental health, and other dimensions of well-being.” These improvements can promote sustained recovery.

September is National Recovery Month, led by SAMHSA (the U.S. government agency focused on substance abuse and behavioral health). They highlight four major dimensions of recovery: health, home, purpose, and community. These are the foundations we all need for healthy, independent lives.

Health

Self-care plays a big role in supporting moderation. If exercise hasn’t been on your list for a while, now’s a good time to get moving again. Start small with a daily walk, or try something new: pickleball, dance, yoga. Physical activity not only de-stresses but can also fill the time once reserved for a drink.

A 2021 study showed that exercise (walking, running, yoga) significantly reduced weekly drinking and improved cardiovascular health.

Home

We all need a stable, safe place to call home. It’s where we can land after tough days. If you already have such a space, consider how you can support affordable housing for those struggling with mental health and substance use. Your state housing advocacy group is a great place to start.

A roof over your head doesn’t always guarantee a safe home. If you feel unsafe emotionally, mentally, or physically, reach out to a hotline or healthcare professional. Regaining control over your safety and peace of mind is a key part of recovery.

Purpose

That extra glass of wine may signal a lack of purpose in your life. Reclaiming a sense of meaningful direction can support a healthier relationship with alcohol.

Purpose doesn’t need to be grand. Meaningful daily activities, like a job, volunteering, caregiving, or creative work, all count. Spirituality can also provide purpose. Helping others fosters a sense of purpose and supports recovery.

Community

Recovery doesn’t happen in isolation. Social support is crucial. Regaining balance is easier when you have others to lean on. Community includes people who accept and encourage you: family, friends, peers. MM’s meetings and online communities offer support from people recovering what matters most to them.

You might not identify with being “in recovery.” But you might enjoy the idea of recovering what you’ve lost—like joy or energy—or recapturing what you value, like a clear mind. Start to rethink recovery today by building a foundation around health, home, purpose, and community.