What is Recovery?
At the 2005 National Summit on Recovery, SAMHSA/CSAT convened a diverse group of stakeholders to: 1) develop ideas to transform services, systems and policies toward recovery-oriented systems of care; 2) articulate guiding principles of recovery that can be used across programs and services; and 3) generate ideas to advance recovery-oriented systems of care across difference systems and for diverse populations (Unpublished, July 2007).
Definition of Recovery
The definition of recovery that emerged from this meeting is:
“Recovery from alcohol and drug problems is a process of change through which an individual achieves abstinence and improved health, wellness and quality of life.”
(SAMHSA 2006, p. 6)
Principles of Recovery
Participants at the meeting also articulated a set of Guiding Principles of Recovery (SAMHSA 2006, p. 7), which are:
- There are many pathways to recovery
- Recovery is self-directed and empowering
- Recovery involves a personal recognition of the need for change and transformation
- Recovery is holistic involving the body, mind, relationships and spirit
- Recovery has cultural dimensions
- Recovery exists on a continuum of improved health and wellness
- Recovery emerges from hope and gratitude
- Recovery is a process of healing and self-redefinition
- Recovery involves addressing discrimination and transcending shame and stigma
- Recovery is supported by peers and allies
- Recovery is (re)joining and (re)building a life in the community
- Recovery is a reality
View the entire National Summit on Recovery: Summit Report
View additional resources on recovery
