Treatment & Recovery

Seeking help for substance use is a deeply personal decision. Treatment and recovery aren't a one-size-fits-all experience and is something that is unique and individualized to each person. Everyone's journey is different - and that's okay.

Wherever you, or your loved one, is on their journey, it is important to know that there are resources out there for you. If you or someone you care about is looking for resources and help with treatment and/or recovery, please consider checking out our resources here.

On this page you will see educational information on treatment and recovery for substance use.

Education Corner

What is Substance Use Disorder? - SAMHSA

Understanding Alcohol Use Disorder - NIAAA

Harm Reduction - SAMHSA

Treatment of Substance Use Disorder - CDC

Opioid Use Disorder - CDC

Treatment and Recovery: FAQs - NIDA

Moving Forward: Understanding the Stages of Change

Behavior change is a difficult process no matter what behavior you are trying to change, and this includes deciding to quit using substances or seek treatment for substance misuse. The transtheoretical model, otherwise known as the stages of change model, describes the several stages one goes through when deciding to make a change in their life, including the decision to change one's substance use behaviors.

Behavior change is a fluid and non-linear process, meaning that it doesn't look one way and that it is common to have ups and downs in the process. Below you will find the stages of change and what they may look like.

1. Pre-Contemplation

In this stage, a person is unaware of any problem or issue with their behavior, including substance use. Due to this lack of awareness, they may deny any concerns brought up to them, or they may feel frustrated by previous attempts at treatment, seeing more cons to stopping the behavior than pros. Any change that happens in this stage is motivated by outside pressure and will not last if that pressure is removed.

Example: "I don't think my substance use is an issue."

2. Contemplation

In the contemplation stage, the person is starting to recognize that their behavior (substance use) may be problematic or causing challenges in their life. They may start considering change, but they do not take any further action at this stage. However, they are often more receptive to receiving information and advice than they were in the pre-contemplation stage.

Example: "I know this isn't helping me, but I'm not sure I'm ready to stop."

The Four Dimensions of Recovery

Treatment and recovery are a unique and individualized process that looks different for each individual. Recovery is a process characterized by continuous and stable improvements in health and wellbeing while managing challenges and setbacks after a period of substance misuse or with a history of substance use disorder.

SAMHSA recognizes the importance and magnitude of recovery and has recognized four dimensions of recovery.

Health

Purpose

Home

Community

How to Support Loved Ones

Get Informed

Get informed on what substance use disorder is, and its impact on a person as a chronic, but treatable, medical condition. Understanding how substances affect the brain and behavior will help you respond with empathy instead of judgment.

Be Patient and Realistic

While it is normal to want to have your loved one feel better immediately, this often does not happen with chronic health conditions such as substance use disorder. There will be low periods of setbacks and then high periods with progress, it is important to remember through it all that change does not happen overnight and that treatment of health conditions are not linear experiences.