Passive versus Active Recovery

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What’s the Difference?

Embarking on the journey to lasting sobriety is a unique and personal experience! This means, it is essential to recognize that there are many paths to recovery. Understanding the stages of change and your own motivation can shed light on the approaches individuals may take in their pursuit of a sober life! To better understand where you are in your journey, we will explore the differences between passive versus active recovery and the stages of change. Additionally, we will provide practical tips on transitioning from a passive to an active recovery style!

Understanding the Stages of Change

The process of change is never truly linear and often involves distinct stages that people will ebb and flow through. The Transtheoretical Model of Change identifies five stages that people often cycle between when working to change behavior. These stages are pre-contemplation, contemplation, preparation, action, and maintenance. Generally, recognizing where one stands in these stages can provide insight into their readiness for change and guide the development of a tailored recovery plan based on their needs and level of motivation. 

Stage One: Pre-contemplation

Individuals in this stage are not yet considering change. They may be unaware of the need for recovery or may be in denial about the impact of their substance use on their lives.

Stage Two: Contemplation

In this stage, individuals acknowledge the need for change but may feel ambivalent. They weigh the pros and cons of recovery and may be uncertain about taking the next steps.

Stage Three: Preparation

Those in the preparation stage are actively planning for change. This involves setting goals, seeking information, and preparing oneself mentally and emotionally for the challenges ahead.

Stage Four: Action

The action stage marks the implementation of the plan. Individuals take concrete steps towards sobriety, such as attending therapy, joining support groups, or engaging in other recovery-oriented activities.

Stage Five: Maintenance

Once individuals achieve their initial goals, the focus shifts to maintaining sobriety. This stage involves consolidating gains, preventing relapse, and building a sustainable, sober lifestyle.

Passive vs. Active Recovery

Passive recovery often involves waiting for change to happen, relying solely on external factors, or expecting sobriety to be achieved without active participation. On the other hand, an active recovery approach emphasizes personal agency, self-reflection, and proactive engagement in the recovery process.

Passive recovery may manifest as attending meetings without active participation, hoping for change without taking intentional steps, or relying solely on willpower. Some people may consider this approach as white-knuckling through life. Active recovery, on the other hand, involves seeking therapy, engaging in self-help activities, developing coping skills, and actively participating in support groups.

Tips for Transitioning to Active Recovery

  • Self-reflection: Assess where you are in the stages of change. Be honest about your readiness for recovery.
  • Set realistic goals: Break down your recovery journey into manageable steps. Set achievable goals that align with your current stage.
  • Seek professional help: Consider therapy or counseling to explore the root causes of your substance use and develop coping strategies.
  • Active engagement in support groups: Actively participate in support groups, share your experiences, and seek guidance from others who have successfully navigated recovery.
  • Build a sober support network: Surround yourself with individuals who support your sobriety and share common goals.

Additional Resources for Help

  • Therapy and Counseling: Professional guidance can provide valuable insights and coping strategies.
  • Support Groups: Joining groups such as SMART Recovery can offer a sense of community and understanding. We even offer SMART Recovery in our Roswell facility here at Centered Recovery!
  • Educational Resources: Equip yourself with knowledge about addiction, recovery, and mental health through books, articles, and online resources.
  • Apps and Online Platforms: Explore apps designed to support recovery, offering tools like daily affirmations, progress tracking, and virtual meetings.

Finding lasting sobriety is a deeply personal journey, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach. By understanding the stages of change and recognizing passive versus active recovery, individuals can make informed choices about their recovery paths. Transitioning from a passive to an active recovery style requires self-reflection, setting realistic goals, seeking professional help, and being mindfully present in the moment. With the right resources and mindset, individuals can navigate the challenges of recovery and build a fulfilling, sober life!

Are you ready to take the first step toward recovery? Visit Centered Recovery Programs today and embark on your journey towards sobriety. Call us today at 800-556-2966 to speak with an admissions counselor!

Written by Jennifer Lopes, BS Psy