No matter who is embarking on the journey through addiction recovery, the same principle applies: each person’s story – and journey – is different. On the surface, there are so many differences we could describe that would make sense for why these differences exist. Our genetic makeup, personality, medical history, health, upbringing, social environment and so much more affect our lived experiences, which ultimately impacts our recovery. As you continue learning more about how addiction affects the mind, body and spirit, you’ll learn that drugs can affect people differently – which means their recovery time is unique to them, too.
There is truly no “one-size-fits-all” when it comes to treatment. The core basics of mind, body and spirit are there (because they make up our experience as humans), but there are variations within and between these aspects and they matter. A 2018 study published in The Canadian Journal of Addiction emphasized the notion of “risk” factors for addiction, which can certainly influence a person’s recovery (and relapse vulnerability, too). Being aware of these factors can help you ensure that you’re taking appropriate steps towards meeting your recovery goals, along with what to avoid:
Risk Factors
- Long delays in seeking treatment
- Not having stable housing
- Having a lack of supportive networks
- Insufficient amount of resources
- And more
How can we combat some of these risk factors? A lot of this effort comes into play when we build ourselves up and become advocates for our own recovery. When we do this, we utilize “protective factors”, we are:
Protective Factors
- Having faith-based resources
- Parental involvement
- Supportive friends and family members
- Stable home environment
- And more
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) notes that both “protective” and “risk” factors can exist in multiple contexts. Certain situations can bring about both risk factors and protective factors, but that’s what recovery is all about: learning how to navigate them day by day, one step at a time.
Cumberland Heights is a nonprofit alcohol and drug-addiction treatment center located on the banks of the Cumberland river in Nashville, Tennessee. On a sprawling 177-acre campus, we are made up of 2 12-Step immersion campuses, 12 outpatient recovery centers and 4 sober living homes. We believe that each person has a unique story to tell – and that’s why we always put the patient first.
Call us today at 1-800-646-9998 to take the next step towards your happiness and health.
