Understanding Sobriety and What It Means

The goal of all addiction recovery is sobriety. Yet this can look different for each person as every individual in recovery has to determine their own path towards healing. So what is the definition of sobriety? Many people think sobriety means total abstinence from using drugs or alcohol. Others believe in control and moderation. Because addiction is a chronic disease, no matter how an individual’s recovery occurs or what it looks like, sobriety will mean managing the condition.

At Beaches Recovery, our team of experienced and compassionate addiction experts can not only educate individuals and families on what living a sober life will entail but also provide the necessary support and drug and alcohol addiction treatment programs to achieve it.

Definition of Sobriety

In fact, the sobriety definition isn’t so easy to explain. That’s because there are numerous definitions of sobriety. Let’s start with the most obvious, which is “not drunk.” Of course, in this vein, the definition of sobriety would look more like “not drunk or using any mind-altering substances.”

But the word sobriety also means sensible, solemn, and serious. It means clearheaded and steady. Do these latter definitions line up with the initial definition of “not using any drugs whatsoever?” It all depends on how you look at it. By not using drugs, we can become more clearheaded and steady. As a result, sobriety in this sense means abiding by all and any laws that prohibit the use of drugs or alcohol.

Regardless of how you define sobriety, the end goal is always the same: to achieve long-term abstinence from drugs and alcohol. Indeed, sobriety is a lifestyle choice that results in improved physical, mental, and emotional health. Sobriety is not only an important element of overall well-being, but it can also be essential to success in relationships, work, and other areas of life.

The Definition of Sobriety in 12-Step Programs

If you are currently struggling with an alcohol or drug addiction, you need professional help. Once you get to a professional treatment center for these issues, you’ll face several treatment options. One of these options will be to go the 12-Step route.

The 12-Step recovery program relies on the overall format of Alcoholics Anonymous or AA. This organization helps individuals stop abusing alcohol as well as other illicit substances. To do so, they use a 12-Step self-improvement program, which literally includes 12 Steps toward sobriety.

Within the 12-Step organization, the definition of sobriety is clear. It means never using alcohol or any other mind-altering substance. There are no if’s, and’s, or but’s about this definition. If you are sober within the network of Alcoholics Anonymous, this means you never touch drugs or alcohol.

Is the 12-Step Definition of Sobriety Correct?

Many people who have never even been to an Alcoholics Anonymous meeting will consider the 12-Step definition correct. Yet, there’s another vein of thought concerning this word.

Many scholars and professional addiction specialists feel that defining sobriety as “never touching a drop” is foolish. They believe this sets people up for failure.

That’s because not everyone has the same experience with alcoholism or drug addiction. For example, someone can have a drinking problem but still have a family, a job, and a good life. They may be in control of their health, but they drink more than moderately regularly.

For this individual, “getting sober” may mean toning down their drinking and limiting it to up to three drinks per week. As stated, this approach is not for everyone. Some people cannot touch drugs or alcohol, or they will spiral out of control. But having a looser definition of the word sobriety may be helpful for some.

8 Ways to Maintain Your Sobriety

1. Make a plan

Create a daily routine that includes healthy activities such as exercise, meditation, spending time outdoors, and connecting with friends and family.

2. Have an accountability partner

Ask a trusted friend or family member to be your accountability partner and check in with them often.

3. Avoid triggers

Remind yourself of the harmful effects of drugs or alcohol and avoid any situations that may lead to relapse.

4. Seek help when needed

If you ever feel overwhelmed or as if your sobriety is in danger, reach out to a counselor or support group for help.

5. Celebrate milestones

Acknowledge how far you have come and take time to celebrate each milestone along the way.

6. Find healthy activities to replace drinking

Replace alcohol or drug use with healthier activities such as yoga, reading or taking a cooking class.

7. Take care of yourself

Practicing self-care is essential for maintaining sobriety. Make sure to prioritize healthy habits such as getting enough sleep and eating nutritious foods.

8. Seek professional help

If you need extra support on your journey to sobriety, seek out a therapist or addiction specialist for personalized guidance and advice.

By following these steps, you can work toward maintaining sobriety and a healthier lifestyle.

Navigating Your Own Way Toward Sobriety

No matter what substance abuse issues you face, professional help is the answer to achieving sobriety. If you’re looking for a treatment center in Florida, Beaches Recovery is the place for you. Our treatment options include:

• Men’s drug addiction rehab program
• Women’s drug addiction rehab program
• Student addiction treatment
• Anger management
• Medical detox
• Holistic treatment
• Group and family therapy

To get more information on our drug addiction programs, give Beaches Recovery a call at 866.605.0532, or contact us online. You can take your life back after a substance abuse problem. We can help guide you to sobriety. Call us today.