Alcohol and Drug Use — The Road to Recovery

Many of us have trouble balancing work and home lives, managing stress, or working through feelings of anxiety or depression. This can be especially true for those who are struggling with drug and alcohol use.

According to the 2022 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), more than 1 in 6 people in the U.S. who were 12 or older struggle with a substance use disorder (SUD). An SUD means using drugs or alcohol to the point where it starts causing problems in your life. This includes getting sick, not being able to do things you used to, and having trouble with duties at work, school or home.

The harm of overusing drugs or alcohol is something many of us know all too well. And the pain of addiction is very real. But there is hope for recovery and better days ahead. Learning more about recovery can be a helpful first step toward change.

What is recovery?

Built on hope, recovery is based on continual growth, occasional setbacks and learning from experience. It is a process of change — with the motivation of having a better future.

Recovery helps you improve your health and wellness, live a life you control, and reach your full potential. The recovery process is especially important for people living with mental health and substance use concerns. But it can help almost anyone.

That’s because it shows that you can, and do, overcome obstacles. It recognizes individual strengths, needs and preferences. And it values experiences and cultural backgrounds.

Recovery’s four dimensions of life

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), there are four dimensions of life that can support resilience and recovery:

Health. Healing from or managing conditions, diseases, and symptoms. And making informed, healthy choices that support your overall well-being.

Home. Having a stable and safe place to live.

Purpose. Engaging in meaningful daily activities. And having the independence and resources to be part of society.

Community. Building relationships and social networks that provide support.

Taking a step toward recovery

If you are struggling with substance use, there is hope for better days ahead. Remember, there are many trained, caring people who are ready to help you. Consider reaching out to someone today.

The following list can be a good place to start. It includes resources for crisis hotlines, as well as virtual and in-person support.

Need help right now?

If you or someone you know is thinking about suicide, get help right away. For a mental health or substance use crisis, call or text 988 to connect with the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. If you have an immediate, life-threatening emergency, call 911.

Finding health care providers and treatment options

SAMHSA’s National Helpline Opens in a new window — call 1-800-662-HELP (4357) or TTY 1-800-487-4889 for confidential support, 24/7. They can help find local facilities and support groups.

FindTreatment.gov Opens in a new window — online resource to find treatment facilities.

Optum SUD Helpline – call 855-780-5955 - call 24/7 to speak with a licensed clinician, 24/7 and anonymously, if you prefer.

Finding meetings and online resources

Alcoholics Anonymous Opens in a new window — in-person and online support groups and member chat

Cocaine Anonymous Opens in a new window — in-person and online support groups and email meetings

LifeRing Secular Recovery Opens in a new window — in-person and online support groups and focus meetings without a religious perspective

In The Rooms Opens in a new window — online recovery meetings and discussion groups with multiple pathways to recovery

Narcotics Anonymous Opens in a new window — in-person and online support groups

Refuge Recovery Opens in a new window — in-person and online support groups with a Buddhist perspective

Self-Management and Recovery Training (SMART) Opens in a new window — global mutual-support groups and forums, including a chat room and message board

Al-Anon Opens in a new window — online and in-person support for anyone affected by alcoholism in a friend or family member

Nar-Anon Opens in a new window — online and in-person support for anyone affected by addiction in a friend or family member

Sources:

SAMHSA. HHS, SAMHSA release 2022 National Survey on Drug Use and Health data. Opens in a new window Nov. 13, 2023.

SAMHSA. Recovery and recovery support. Opens in a new window Mar. 26, 2024.

SAMHSA. Results from the 2022 National Survey on Drug Use and Health: a companion infographic (pdf). Opens in a new window Nov. 13, 2023.

Last updated: July 23, 2024

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