The Four Dimensions of Recovery and How You Can Support Them

Addiction is complicated, and recovery from it is a challenge that millions of people in the United States face every day. Although stigma and misinformation persist, millions of Americans are living in recovery – a daily challenge to choose long term health and wellbeing. Carrie K., a woman in long-term recovery, describes her journey, on the Faces and Voices of Recovery website:

“In less than two weeks, I will celebrate eight years of recovery, and my life is forever changed for the better because of my disease and the lessons I have learned in recovery. I am truly grateful to be in long-term recovery and continue to be amazed at all the blessings.

“My use of opioids began with my own prescribed medication, but quickly engulfed my life, when I crossed my morals and boundaries to feed my addiction. I attempted recovery in 2001 and achieved several years clean through treatment, and ongoing support … I relapsed in 2009, experiencing significant consequences/losses which could have derailed my success, but through willingness to do everything to recover, I surrounded myself with those who loved and supported me. I did everything those in recovery and my treating professionals urged me to do, including talking about the secrets I held deep and was afraid to let anyone hear. It was the salve to soothe the wounds, begin to heal, and mostly to finally accept myself.”

Recovery is a process through which people are able to live, work and participate fully in their communities. It’s a personal journey with the goals of hope, empowerment and autonomy. Recovery happens following a mental health or substance use challenge and goes hand-in-hand with the overall concept of wellbeing (a person’s physical, mental, professional and social health). As a First Aider, your actions can be a first step in someone’s recovery journey.