By Sarah Allen Benton, MS, LMHC, LPC, AADC
The Thanksgiving Holiday is upon us, and it can be a time to reflect on what we are grateful for and to express that to our friends and loved ones. Sobriety from Substance Use Disorders (SUDs) can be a confusing experience because it does not always begin with gratitude. Those who receive support and are fortunate enough to get sober from an SUD may initially feel a flood of painful emotions, mental health symptoms and even physical discomfort. Early sobriety can be a challenging and vulnerable time–which is why receiving appropriate addiction treatment is so crucial.
Individuals who are sober from SUDs have differing perspectives about when they became “thankful” for their recovery. For some, it was immediate, because they were aware of how many losses they had experienced and felt appreciation for an opportunity to restart their life. For others, early sobriety can be hard and they long for the days when they were able to use substances as an escape or reward. However, those with long-term recovery often report that as the years pass, the more thankful that they are for their sobriety. They may have gotten sober when they were younger and less able to appreciate what that early investment in their future would eventually bring. They also may observe the painful experiences of those around them who are still struggling with SUDs.
The In-Home Addiction Treatment (IHAT) model is able to support individuals with SUD care in their home environment. Maybe you are newly sober and realize that you need additional support during this time of year. The IHAT model could be helpful and allow you to continue working with your therapist and/or psychiatrist if you choose to. For those who do not know where to begin, or have unsuccessfully tried to get sober in the past, it can be life changing to have trained professionals who can effectively support them in getting sober in a familiar environment.
The In-Home Addiction Treatment (IHAT) Institute is training healthcare professionals to support individuals in the recovery process through this unique and innovative modality. As the New Year approaches, it may be time for healthcare professionals to try something different! The institute is training staff in CT, MA, RI, NH, ME, VA, FL, IN and Kentucky has just launched!
May this Thanksgiving bring you and your family a sense of gratitude and hope for healing!
Photo credit: Marcus Quigmire
