COLUSA COUNTY RECOVERY
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Addiction
and Recovery
Researchers know more than ever about how drugs affect the brain and have found treatments that can help people recover from a substance use disorder (SUD) and lead productive lives. The most severe SUDs are often referred to as addictions.
Addiction is characterized by drug-seeking behavior and use that is compulsive, and almost impossible to control on willpower alone, despite repeated harmful consequences.
Many people don't understand why or how other people become addicted to drugs?
They may mistakenly think that those who use drugs lack moral principles or willpower and that they could stop their drug use simply by choosing to.
In reality, addiction is a complex disease, and quitting usually takes more than good intentions or a strong will.
Drugs change the brain in ways that make quitting hard, even for those who want to.
The great news is help is available!
Source: Psychiatry.org, SAMHSA
Addiction is a Chronic Health Condition That is Treatable
As with other chronic health conditions, the good news is that a substance use disorder is a treatable condition. Help and support can be found through, rehabs, counseling, peer-to-peer support, sober living and 12 step programs, such as NA or AA, and so much more.
Never in the history of - recovery - have addicts or alcoholics had so many recovery options available. You don't have to do this alone, help is available.
At Colusa County Recovery - We Understand Addiction - Because We've Been There.
If you are NEW TO RECOVERY?
We invite you to watch our short introductory video. It's designed to inspire and guide you as you embark on this transformative path of healing and self-discovery.
The Vital Role of Community in Recovery
Recovery is not just an individual journey, but also a collective one that involves the entire community. In fact, a strong and supportive community is essential for a successful recovery. By participating in community events, such as festivals, fairs, fund-raisers, holiday and cultural celebrations, individuals in recovery can connect with others, and experience new things through a sober lens.
Civic activities such as volunteering, advocacy, and political engagement can also be powerful tools for strengthening recovery. By getting involved in causes they care about, individuals can build a sense of purpose, develop new skills, and make a positive impact on their community. Volunteering, in particular, can be especially beneficial for recovery, as it provides an opportunity to connect with others, feel a sense of accomplishment, and build self-esteem.
Church and other faith-based communities can also play an important role in recovery. These communities can offer a sense of spiritual guidance, moral support, and fellowship that can be essential for individuals on their recovery journey.
By participating in one's community, recovering individuals can build a sense of belonging, reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness, and discover new interests and passions, and contribute to the greater good.
LAUREN'S STORY
“The first picture is of me when I was in full blown meth and heroin/fentanyl addiction. Yes, I know the picture is raw and gross but this is REAL ADDICTION. A look of me at my lowest. Recently I celebrate 6 months clean and sober! Today, I can wake up every morning and I don’t have to worry about how I’m going to make it through the day. Today, I don’t have to worry about if I’m going to end up in jail. Today, I’m holding down a full time job. Today, I’m living on my own for the first time in my life. Today, I’m beyond happy with my life and don’t want to die every day. Today, I don’t cry all day every day. HAPPY 6 MONTHS TO ME!”
Tips to improve your resilience in recovery
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Building strong, positive relationships with loved ones, friends and peers in your community can provide you with needed support, guidance and acceptance in good and bad times.
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Make every day meaningful.
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Learn from experience.
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Remain hopeful.
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Take care of yourself.
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Ask for help, when needed.
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Develop an attitude of gratitude.
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Connect with others in recovery through support meetings online or in-person.
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Tell yourself you are worthy of the gifts of recovery.
Brad Pitt's Sobriety: A Journey of Self-Discovery and Freedom
Brad Pitt is one of the most recognizable and successful actors in Hollywood, but his journey to sobriety has been a long and challenging one. In a recent interview with the New York Times, he opened up about his recovery practice, which includes regular attendance at 12 Step meetings.
12-Step Programs
The 12-step recovery model is a cornerstone in the treatment of drug and alcohol addiction. Evidence supports the effectiveness of peer-to-peer support mutual aid organizations such as AA and NA. A study, sponsored by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism examined the effectiveness of various treatment types in reducing overall drinking and drug use, and concluded that the 12-step model resulted in the most significant long-term impact.
Recovery Is A Process Of Change
Recovery is a process of change through which people improve their health and wellness, live self-directed lives, and strive to reach their full potential. Even people with severe and chronic substance use disorders can, with help, overcome their illness and regain health and social function. Being in recovery is when those positive changes and values become part of a voluntarily adopted lifestyle.
Learn About Our Peer-Supported RECOVERY COMMUNITY
Red-Flags: Know the Signs of Emotional and Mental Relapse
Being able to recognize the signs of relapse will enable you to ask for help quickly when it’s needed most. Common signs of emotional relapse often include mood swings, isolating oneself, being angry or defensive, and poor eating and sleeping habits. Signs of mental relapse include fantasizing or thinking about using drugs or alcohol -
glamorizing past use, lying about your feelings or behaviors, and hanging out with old drug-abusing friends. It is important to be aware of how you’re feeling, emotionally and physically. Feeling anxious, depressed, or angry is a normal part of life, but strong emotions like these can sometimes be detrimental to an addict in recovery. If you’re newly sober, it’s very important to be aware of your emotions and find healthy ways to cope with them, such as going for a walk with your dog, attending an online meeting, spending time with your sober friends, supportive relatives, or with your church family. Although you’ll have good days and bad days, maintaining a sense of self-awareness can help you tackle personal issues before they morph into a potential relapse. Bottom line - we use over nothing and share about everything that impacts our recovery.