Recovery is a journey that takes time. Short-term programs can help you reach your goals, but long-term treatments often result in lasting success. Long-term treatment and support can greatly reduce the chances of returning to use and help improve outcomes.
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the return-to-use rates for opioid use disorder (OUD) are about 65%-70%. However, research shows that members who participate in a long-term recovery program for substance use or support for at least 18 months have a 23.9% higher likelihood of stopping or cutting back on substance use than those who had a shorter treatment. That’s why having long-term support is so important if the goal is to quit drugs altogether.
At Groups, we’ve personally seen the incredible difference long-term treatment can make. Taking one step at a time adds up, and our caring and knowledgeable staff can support you along the way.
Let’s explore seven reasons a long-term recovery program can improve success rates. Find out how it could make a difference for you, too.
7 reasons a long-term recovery program can improve success
While recovery takes time and effort, improving your health and well-being is worth it. Over time, you can see steady growth and positive change that can brighten your future. A long-term program with expert support can help you make lasting progress.
Here are seven reasons long-term programs often lead to better outcomes:
1. Ongoing support can help build resilience.
Recovery is not a linear process. It’s common to face setbacks, stress, and triggers. But no matter what challenges you go through, recovery is possible. You also don’t have to do it alone. Having access to experienced counselors, peer support, and valuable resources can help you make it through the tough times.
Along the way, you can build resilience as you learn and apply coping skills. Recovery isn’t just a one-time intervention. Steady guidance can help you overcome the ups and downs of life. Having long-term support can help you reduce the chances of returning to use.
2. Return-to-use prevention skills are learned over time.
It takes time to learn and master the skills that can help prevent a return to use. During recovery, you can learn how to:
- Recognize triggers
When you can identify what causes you to want to return to use, you can deal with it effectively. These triggers can be situations, people, or emotions that lead to substance use. You can learn how to regulate your feelings and overcome more difficult situations.
- Manage cravings
Practicing mindfulness can shift your thoughts away from a craving. You can learn how to focus on the present moment and accept your thoughts without judging them.
- Use coping strategies
Coping skills can help you recognize negative thoughts and feelings and handle stressful situations. Journaling, talking to a trusted friend, or practicing stress management are effective ways to cope.
- Solve problems
During a recovery program, you can learn how to face challenges without returning to substance use. As you identify the underlying causes of your addiction, you can work on addressing them. In the process, you can work toward repairing relationships and applying coping skills.
- Build a support system
You can talk to friends, family, peers, and counselors. Support groups can give you the opportunity to share your feelings openly and be heard without judgment. You can also get the encouragement you need to keep making progress during your recovery.
A long-term recovery program can help give you the time to build these important skills. Counselors can share helpful feedback and guidance along the way. Additionally, your peers can share what has worked for them.
3. Lifestyle changes can become a habit.
Recovery is more than using or not using drugs. Long-term programs provide the time to practice a healthier routine. In the process, you can develop habits and set goals that can improve your well-being. As you focus on making positive changes, focusing on positive changes can make cravings easier to manage.
Some healthier habits you can include in your routine are:
- Regular exercise
- Eating balanced, nutritious meals
- Getting at least seven hours of sleep
While recovery is rarely predictable, a routine can give you some stability. It can also help reduce stress and foster self-discipline.
4. Community building can provide accountability.
Many members find it helpful to have support during recovery. Long-term recovery programs can connect you with peers who understand what you are going through. They offer the time and the environment to build meaningful relationships and share experiences.
Support groups also provide you with the opportunity to give and receive encouragement along your road to recovery. Your mentors and counselors can guide you through the ups and downs to help you stay on track. These relationships can help you feel heard, understood, and supported.
5. Integrated care can help with addiction and mental health conditions.
Treating OUD isn’t always enough. Many members with opioid use disorder also have a mental health condition, such as:
- Depression (affects about 36%)
- Anxiety (affects about 29%)
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) (affects about 18%)
Long-term recovery programs can provide integrated care to address these conditions. Additionally, they provide more time for treatment than short-term alternatives. Taking the time to provide a comprehensive treatment usually leads to better outcomes and personal growth.
6. More time can allow for greater progress.
Everyone’s recovery timeline is different. Longer programs provide more time and opportunities for counseling, peer support, and skill building. It also gives your counselor time to monitor your progress and adjust treatment as needed to help you have the best outcome. Members can take time identifying the deeper reasons that led to OUD and learn how to cope.
Step by step, you can rebuild your confidence during recovery. When you ensure that you have time for treatment, you won’t have to feel rushed on this journey. You can go at the pace that works best for you to get used to a life beyond drugs.
7. Personal growth can strengthen over time.
Recovery is a process that goes beyond overcoming drug addiction. Over time, long-term programs can help you rebuild your confidence and sense of identity. As you make progress on your road to recovery, you may learn a lot about yourself. The same tools that help you cope with triggers may also help you achieve personal growth. As you continue your treatment, you can discover new strengths and a new direction for your life.
Along the way, you can reach many recovery milestones, including:
- Developing self-awareness and emotional regulation
- Rebuilding trust and relationships
- Gaining a stronger sense of purpose or life goals
- Building confidence with each win
- Learning how to manage stressful situations
Personal growth takes time, but when you put in the effort, you can make progress. The longer you continue your recovery program and seek support, the more opportunities you have to move forward on your journey. In the process, you can create a healthier future for yourself.
Find a long-term recovery program near you at Groups
A long-term recovery program can do so much more than help you stop substance use. It can give you the time, strategies, and support to build a healthier life. With ongoing guidance from counselors and your support network, you can get the encouragement you need as you make strides toward lasting recovery. Each step you take can help you move forward, and we’re here to help you along the way.
At Groups, we understand that recovery isn’t a one-size-fits-all treatment. We can provide you with long-term care and ongoing support personalized to your needs. We can meet you right where you are and help you grow toward a brighter future. Whether you’re just getting started or need continued support, we’re here for you.
Give our Recovery Support Specialists a call today at 888-858-1723 for more information or to begin your recovery. We provide treatment across the country — and we’re always expanding. See if we offer care in your state, either online or at one of our 130+ local offices. If Groups doesn’t offer treatment in your area, you can locate other treatment options here.
