There’s no question that life changes like stopping substance use is challenging. Returning to use is a common part of the recovery process. People recovering from opioid use disorder (OUD) are at an especially high risk of overdose when using again. However, the odds of using again change significantly as time goes on. To get a clear picture of what life in recovery really looks like, you need to step back and look at the long term.
Recovery is possible, and it gets easier with time. In this article, we’ll share seven key statistics that highlight what long-term addiction recovery looks like.
7 key statistics that highlight what long-term addiction recovery really looks like
No two paths to recovery are exactly the same. Your journey will depend on your personal recovery goals, your vision for the life you want, and your needs. Knowing what clinical studies have revealed about the most common experiences can help you make good decisions and achieve the outcomes you want.
The following statistics show what long-term addiction recovery really looks like:
-
Success rates with medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD)
Treatment with MOUD is associated with higher treatment engagement and longer duration. One study showed that 75% of people remained in treatment and tested negative on drug screens after a year on buprenorphine. Another trial ended early due to significantly better outcomes with buprenorphine compared to placebo. People taking medication had four times the rate of negative drug tests and fewer cravings. A follow-up study showed continuing benefit and no increase in negative events.
MOUD like buprenorphine work by reducing withdrawal symptoms and cravings. They’re safe and effective to take indefinitely.
-
Long-term recovery sustainability
Between 40% and 60% of people use again within their first year of recovery, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse. Most instances of using again happen within the first 90 days of treatment. After that, they become less and less likely. The risk of returning to use increases if a person discontinues MOUD, according to clinical studies. In one study, those who took buprenorphine were more likely to be sober, employed, and involved in 12-step groups after 18 months.
-
Family relationship restoration
Substance use can put strain on relationships via the destruction of trust and bonds as well as routines, communication, and finances. Families affected by parental substance use disorder often experience secrecy, conflict, role reversals, and emotional strain. SUD treatment can help reverse these effects. Family involvement in SUD treatment is also linked with higher rates of treatment, better engagement, and better long-term outcomes. For example, research shows that involving significant others in treatment results in 6% less substance use.
-
Mental health improvements
33% of adults in the United States who have a mental health condition also have SUD, according to the 2023 National Survey on Drug Use and Health. Comprehensive treatment — combining MOUD with counseling and peer support — supports the whole person. Medication and counseling together lead to better success rates than medication alone. When delivered with MOUD, therapy helps people stay on top of their medication. It also addresses aspects of SUD that medication can’t help with.
For instance, it helps people learn to manage their emotions and build up their resilience. Mental health symptoms can aggravate substance use and vice versa. Both are likely to decrease with time in recovery.
-
Overdose prevention with treatment
Long-term treatment with MOUD leads to big reductions in opioid use, overdoses, and hospitalization. With fewer cravings and withdrawal symptoms, people are less likely to use again when they’re stressed. Many patients report that MOUD helps them regain a sense of normalcy and stability.
A study of people on Medicaid who use MOUD had a 10% decreased rate of overdose risk every 60 days.
-
Quality of life measures
Some studies have measured health-related quality of life during SUD recovery. However, few look at overall quality of life. One study measured quality of life in several different areas. Areas measured included finances, leisure, housing, health, and relationships with children and partners. People showed significant improvements in the first 12 months of treatment. Achieving financial stability was especially impactful.
-
Virtual treatment options
Virtual recovery programs may be more accessible to some people, and they can help people receive more treatment than they would in person. Studies on virtual SUD treatment show that people stay in treatment longer. A study in Kentucky showed that 4% more people who started buprenorphine treatment online stayed for 90 days than those who started on a non-telehealth option.
One study on people receiving MOUD showed better retention than in-person treatment. Studies show virtual care improves treatment retention, partly because people are less likely to miss sessions due to transportation or scheduling issues.
Get started on the long road to recovery with Groups
It can be hard to imagine what your life might look like without substance use. You don’t have to have it all figured out right away, and you don’t have to measure up to somebody else’s standards. You just have to figure out what you want for yourself and how to achieve it. You should also know that recovery is possible and sustainable for most people.
At Groups, we do recovery a bit differently. We support the whole person. This means we help you find the resources to meet your basic needs. The two main parts of treatment at Groups are Suboxone and peer support.
Do you think personalized support might help you take your next steps toward recovery? It’s worth your time to start researching programs in your state. We provide treatment across the country. We’re always expanding, too. See if we offer care in your state. If Groups does not offer treatment in your area, you can locate other treatment options here.
Ready to start your recovery journey? Give our Recovery Support Specialists a call today.
