The process of recovery from an individual perspective: An exploration of the experiences of individuals in recovery

The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of individuals who have engaged in the process of recovery from alcohol and/or ot her drug addiction. While there has been a great deal of research on processes of substance abuse and addiction, the body of literature addressing recovery is much smaller, and much of this literature is program or intervention specific. Currently, there is a dearth of research in regard to recovery processes, in general, and the experiences and meanings of recovery from the individual‟s perspective, in particular. This study has the potential to contribute to the literature on the processes of recovery, including individual meanings and perceptions ascribed to the recovery process, maintenance of recovery, and processes and experiences related to relapse. It also has potential to contribute to the development of more effective intervention or treatment initiatives. This study involved in

depth interviews with 6 men and women between the ages of 26 and 60. All individuals had previously participated in a university

based recovery program for alcohol and drug addiction during their undergraduate colleg e education. In semi

structured interviews, these individuals were encouraged to talk about their experiences in regard to their recovery process, including how they came to be in recovery, as well as how they developed, maintained and strengthened their recovery. Qualitative analyses of the interviews revealed that the individuals‟ experiences in recovery were extensive and multi

faceted, intertwining with both recovery

related and non

recovery

related aspects of their lives. These individuals ident ified their progression toward recovery, discussing their substance use as well as the consequences associated with their use that ultimately helped them to recognize the problem. The process of entering and familiarizing oneself with recovery was also ad dressed, as individuals discussed the many changes, adaptations, and learning opportunities they experienced, including beginning to recognize one‟s own needs within recovery. Stabilization of individual recovery processes also emerged as individuals disc ussed recovery becoming part of themselves, as well as citing elements they considered important in maintaining their recovery. All of these experiences were expressed by most of the individuals in the study. Implications for research, intervention, and treatment are discussed.