Unite with common proven solutions
Breaking the Cycle: Uniting Communities to Support Recovery and End the Stigma of Substance Use Disorder
Substance use, abuse, dependency, and substance use disorder should not be the crisis they have become in our nation. To address this, we must unite around common, proven solutions and work to end the stigma that prevents many people from seeking the help they need.
Peer support from individuals with lived experience is crucial to recovery. It is important to remember that recovery does not have to be complicated—it takes time. One significant barrier that keeps many people from seeking help is concern about the financial strain caused by missing work hours, particularly when rest is needed to safely detox from substances.
Proper nutrition, exercise, and sleep are essential for the body to heal and recover. People do recover from the effects of substance use. While a lifelong commitment to recovery may feel overwhelming, it is ultimately about learning to love oneself, learning from past experiences, and moving forward with the belief that life can improve when we commit to healthier choices.
I encourage everyone to attend meetings with other alcoholics and addicts to hear their stories. When a person hears another individual’s experience, an internal shift often occurs—helping them recognize that they are not alone. This connection can significantly reduce the shame and fear commonly associated with substance use.
Substance use is often described as a “spiritual disease,” meaning there is something internal that drives a person toward using substances. Many individuals use substances to change the way they feel. Removing the substance, identifying the underlying reasons for those feelings, and learning new ways of living can lead to meaningful and lasting recovery.
