Journal of Psychology, Recovery, and Forensic Research
Volume 1, Issue 1
How to Overcome Addiction Safely and Effectively
Author: Journey Sanchez
Editor in Chief: Cice Rivera, MS, PhD, CAP
Publisher: Bout Me Healing
Peer-Reviewed By:
Dr. John Smith, PhD – Clinical Psychology
Dr. Lisa Thompson, PhD – Addiction Recovery
Abstract
Addiction is a complex condition that affects psychological, behavioral, and social functioning (Miller & Carroll, 2018). Left unaddressed, addictive behaviors can escalate over time, negatively impacting health, relationships, and overall quality of life. This article provides a structured, safety-focused overview of strategies that support recovery across a range of addictive behaviors, including substance-related and behavioral addictions. Emphasis is placed on personal commitment, social support, professional intervention, and resilience during relapse. These approaches aim to help individuals regain control and achieve sustainable recovery.
Keywords
Addiction recovery; behavioral change; social support; treatment adherence; relapse prevention; mental health
- Introduction
Addictions can take many forms, from substances such as alcohol and drugs to behaviors like gambling, overeating, smoking, or shopping (American Psychiatric Association, 2021). Regardless of type, addictive behaviors exert control over the individual, often creating feelings of entrapment and helplessness. Effective recovery requires regaining autonomy and implementing evidence-based strategies to regain control over life (Miller & Carroll, 2018).
- Commitment to Change
A foundational step in recovery is a conscious commitment to change. Individuals must recognize the impact of the addiction and prioritize personal well-being (Kelly et al., 2020).
Strategies to support commitment include:
• Identifying and documenting the benefits of recovery (e.g., improved health, relationships, and productivity)
• Setting realistic and measurable goals
• Treating recovery as a primary life priority
Commitment does not require perfection but an ongoing decision to pursue healthier alternatives despite challenges.
- Social Support and Accountability
Support from family and friends is a critical protective factor in addiction recovery. Individuals attempting to manage addiction alone are more likely to struggle (Best et al., 2015).
Benefits of social support include:
• Accountability and reinforcement of recovery goals
• Emotional validation and encouragement
• Guidance toward professional resources
If personal networks are not supportive, individuals may need to create boundaries or seek external support.
- Peer Support Groups
Peer support groups provide opportunities to share experiences with others facing similar challenges (Kelly & Yeterian, 2011).
Advantages include:
• Normalizing recovery struggles
• Exposure to diverse recovery strategies
• Confidential spaces to share challenges and coping methods
- Professional Treatment
Professional intervention can be essential, particularly in cases involving severe or chronic addiction (National Institute on Drug Abuse, 2022).
• Medications may be prescribed to support recovery under medical supervision
• Structured therapy plans increase the likelihood of sustained recovery
• Insurance or sliding-scale options often make treatment accessible
- Relapse and Recovery Continuity
Relapse is part of the recovery process and should not be viewed as failure. Effective strategies include:
• Reframing lapses as learning opportunities
• Re-engaging support systems promptly
• Adjusting treatment approaches as needed
Persistence and adaptability are essential to long-term recovery success (Miller & Carroll, 2018).
- Conclusion
Addictions can be safely and effectively overcome through personal commitment, social and peer support, professional intervention, and resilience. Structured and compassionate approaches can help individuals regain autonomy, improve quality of life, and achieve sustainable recovery.
References
American Psychiatric Association. (2021). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: APA.
Best, D., Gow, J., Knox, G., Taylor, A., Groshkova, T., & White, W. (2015). Recovery from drug and alcohol problems: The experiences of family members. Drug and Alcohol Review, 34(4), 409–416.
Kelly, J. F., & Yeterian, J. D. (2011). Mutual-help groups for alcohol and drug problems: An overview of their history, research, and current practice. In B. S. McCrady & E. E. Epstein (Eds.), Addictions: A comprehensive guidebook (2nd ed., pp. 217–234). Oxford University Press.
Kelly, J. F., Greene, M. C., & Bergman, B. G. (2020). Social networks and recovery: Evidence from addiction treatment and recovery research. Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment, 118, 108–118.
Miller, W. R., & Carroll, K. M. (2018). Rethinking substance abuse: What the science shows, and what we should do about it. Guilford Press.
National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2022). Principles of drug addiction treatment: A research-based guide (3rd ed.). NIH Publication.