Long-term recovery from addiction is not only possible, it is a reality for thousands of individuals and families living and working in Massachusetts. Recovery is a process of stabilization and healing. Many individuals that have been negatively impacted by addiction have moved from a life challenged by the destructive effects of active addiction, to a fulfilling, productive life free from the compulsion of addiction.  It is difficult to find one “correct” definition of recovery, since it is such a personal and unique process to each individual. 

For many people recovery may include:

• Regaining a sense of self that had been “lost” or “stolen” by addiction; self-discovery;
• Returning physical health and ability to care for oneself;
• Returning sense of consciousness; an awakening, or re-awakening of spirituality;
• Regaining a greater sense of balance, or “normalcy” in day to day living;
• Hope for the future and new opportunities; 
• Returning to a greater sense of being connected with other people; decreasing isolation.

This is certainly not the entire list that describes recovery. Some people develop certain areas of their lives in recovery more quickly and some people more slowly.  It is important to try to be patient as this process is different for everyone depending on available resources, personal goals, emotional support and many other factors.

Relapse is often part of the process.

Even with a good treatment plan, a person trying to recover from addiction may feel a lack of control during their recovery and then start using alcohol, tobacco, drugs or gambling again.  This is called a relapse.  There are many factors that can lead to a relapse including emotional stress and the sights, sounds, smells and social situations that remind someone of where, how, and when they used.  Relapse is common during treatment and recovery from addiction.  In fact, many people who are addicted need to try multiple times to stop smoking, drinking, drugging or gambling.  If a person who is trying to recover from addiction relapses, this does not mean he or she has failed.  It is all part of learning to make healthier lifestyle choices and learning to care for yourself. For a person recovering from the disease of addiction relapse presents an opportunity to learn from the experience as part of the recovery process.

Tobacco and Recovery

Many people with histories of alcohol and drug use also smoke or chew tobacco. A study of people who had been in treatment for alcoholism in the past showed that more of them died from tobacco related disease than from alcohol related disease later in life. Smoking also affects people's recovery. Studies have shown that people who smoke in recovery have a higher relapse rate.  Some believe this is because using tobacco in recovery can remind people of using other substances and can trigger cravings for alcohol or drugs. It is recommended that people in recovery from alcohol and drug use also stop using tobacco.