Technology is a major source of our information, tracking and communication efforts as we know it today. Millions of apps have been created through iPhones and other brands, which have allowed us to learn more about ourselves, connect with others and monitor the way we do things. It’s quite interesting to discover just how much of an impact technology has had on our lives – according to The Washington Post in 2016, a study conducted by the United Nations agency revealed that 47% of people in the world now use the Internet. With all of this information readily available to us, should it be applied to addiction recovery?
Many sources say, “yes”. Those in intensive outpatient treatment programs, for instance, are working diligently towards their recovery while also beginning to strengthen their independence. They return home each night while spending most of their days at individual and group therapy sessions, but they nonetheless have much more “personal time” than they would in a residential treatment program, which many in outpatient programs first start their journey to recovery in.
A 2018 study published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research conducted a survey involving 259 participants; and 70% stated they would prefer to use a relapse prevention app on their phone or even to receive relapse prevention text messages. From this research, it seems there are a lot of people who may be interested in doing this. Alongside the famously successful 12-Step program, relapse prevention apps may help those in outpatient treatment programs monitor their experiences outside of therapy. In doing this, they may be able to better identify recurring themes needed for extra attention, or even areas of their recovery that have strengthened over time. Could technology become more involved with addiction recovery? It seems it already has – and many people are finding benefit from it.
If you’re ready to begin your journey to recovery, speak with a professional from Cumberland Heights today. It is never too late.
Cumberland Heights in Nashville, Tennessee on Music Row is a 12-Step based alcohol & drug rehab program. Cumberland Heights’ Intensive Outpatient Program is designed for individuals 18 and above who may be in the early stages of dependency or are experiencing problems with alcohol or drug use. We offer personalized assessments and treatment plans, as well as convenient evening hours to accommodate your workday schedule. To get started on your recovery journey today, call us at 615-356-2700.
