Sober, in the addiction recovery context, refers to abstaining from alcohol, narcotic substances and behaviors that cause harm. This state of not being under the influence is fundamental for actively maintaining a substance-free lifestyle.
Being sober historically meant being “brought to a quiet condition,” a concept that resonates with today’s understanding of sobriety through “recovery”. This approach aims to calm internal struggles, enabling honesty with oneself a challenge for many facing addiction. Sobriety marks a transition from battling addiction to full recovery, allowing individuals to manage life’s emotions without alcohol and support others in their journey.
The concept of sobriety, central in various recovery movements since the late 19th and early 20th centuries, points to the importance of abstinence in overcoming addiction.
At its core, being sober means not being under the influence of alcohol, whether you’ve never started drinking, have waited to sober up after your last drink, or have chosen to abstain from alcohol entirely. This choice might stem from previous substance abuse issues or a desire to lead a healthier lifestyle, possibly after exploring a sober curious approach. The term “sober” has evolved from its origins in Middle English and Latin, traditionally meaning “in possession of one’s faculties” or “without drunkenness,” to now encompass a broader commitment to avoiding alcohol and other substances. For many, this process towards sobriety includes avoiding all intoxicants, striving for a ‘clean’ living that emphasises total abstinence for personal health and recovery from addiction.
Clean and Sober
Being “clean” refers to a state where an individual, previously addicted to drugs or alcohol, is no longer using these substances. This status can result from various circumstances, such as financial constraints, legal issues, or attempts to quit. However, being clean does not necessarily address the deeper issues underlying addiction and without tackling these root causes, the risk of relapse remains high. Individuals who are clean may still struggle with emotional and behavioural issues, like depression, anxiety, or aggression and might turn to other substances as a form of replacement.
Being “sober” involves a conscious, deliberate choice to abstain from drugs and alcohol, often following recovery or treatment. Sobriety is seen as a step beyond merely being clean, embodying a commitment to a lifestyle free from substance use. Sober individuals actively engage in strategies to maintain their sobriety, utilising support systems such as therapy, support groups, or mentors. They understand the challenges of early sobriety and the importance of making decisions that support their recovery, avoiding triggers and cultivating healthier habits and relationships. This distinction highlights a more holistic approach to recovery, focusing on long-term wellness and the active pursuit of a substance-free life.
Beyond mere abstinence, emotional sobriety involves achieving and maintaining the mental and emotional discipline required to avoid alcohol long-term. This concept, crucial in addiction support circles and programs like Alcoholics Anonymous, involves recognising and managing the emotional triggers of substance use, such as stress or sadness, through coping skills other than drinking. It’s about confronting rather than ignoring emotions to prevent relapse. Conversely, individuals in recovery who haven’t fully addressed their underlying issues might be considered “dry drunk,” exhibiting symptoms like mood swings, anxiety about remaining sober and compulsive behaviors, which highlight the complexity of recovery beyond simply not drinking.
What Happens When you Become “Sober”
Embracing sobriety brings a multitude of health benefits that extend far beyond the avoidance of liver damage, heart disease and compromised immune systems often linked with substance abuse. The shift to sobriety means more than just cutting out harmful substances; it’s about nurturing your body with a balanced diet and allowing it the opportunity to recover and thrive. This lifestyle change also promises better sleep patterns. The cycle of using substances to combat sleep issues like insomnia creates a detrimental loop that fuels addiction. Sobriety breaks this cycle, resetting your natural sleep rhythms and paving the way for restorative rest and an overall improvement in well-being.
Sobriety clears the fog of substance abuse, enhancing mental clarity, decision-making abilities and emotional stability. This newfound clarity significantly improves personal relationships, which often suffer under the strain of addiction through trust issues and emotional disconnection. Recovery allows for the rebuilding of these relationships, promoting trust, communication and deeper connections. Further to that sobriety elevates your mental state, enabling you to acknowledge mistakes and foster a healthier lifestyle through self-care and stress management. The benefits extend into increased productivity and financial stability, as you regain focus and control over your life. Ultimately, choosing sobriety ushers in a more fulfilling, energetic and happier life, free from the constraints of addiction and open to deeper, more meaningful experiences and relationships.
Recovery programs and rehabs often focus on achieving sobriety as a primary goal, facilitating clarity and positive life changes. Sobriety extends beyond just abstaining from alcohol or drugs, including other addictive behaviors like gambling or compulsive eating. Mutual support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous emphasise sobriety in their approach offering a supportive environment for sharing experiences and encouragement towards sustained abstinence.
Founded in 2008, WeDoRecover has evolved from an advisory service for addiction treatment into a comprehensive provider of care, following its 2019 merger with Changes Addiction Rehab in Johannesburg. Specialising in connecting patients to top-tier addiction treatment centers in the UK, South Africa and Thailand, WeDoRecover supports individuals globally, including those from the United Arab Emirates and Europe. Accepting both South African medical aid and international health insurance our organisation facilitates access to high-quality treatment for substance and alcohol use disorders, offering individualised care that addresses the physical, mental and social needs of patients.
Our team, led by Gareth Carter, offers empathetic and professional support, guiding you through every step of the treatment process. Whether you're in South Africa or abroad, our acceptance of various insurance plans makes quality care accessible, providing a platform for lasting recovery and a healthier future.
Inpatient Rehab
Rehab care is a good option if you are at risk of experiencing strong withdrawal symptoms when you try stop a substance. This option would also be recommended if you have experienced recurrent relapses or if you have tried a less-intensive treatment without success.
Outpatient
If you're committed to your sobriety but cannot take a break from your daily duties for an inpatient program. Outpatient rehab treatment might suit you well if you are looking for a less restricted format for addiction treatment or simply need help with mental health.
Therapy
Therapy can be good step towards healing and self-discovery. If you need support without disrupting your routine, therapy offers a flexible solution for anyone wishing to enhance their mental well-being or work through personal issues in a supportive, confidential environment.
Mental Health
Are you having persistent feelings of being swamped, sad or have sudden surges of anger or intense emotional outbursts? These are warning signs of unresolved trauma mental health. A simple assesment by a mental health expert could provide valuable insights into your recovery.
Finding the right rehab close to you is simple with WeDoRecover. Our network includes the finest rehab centers, ensuring personalised, quality care for your recovery needs. Let Gareth Carter and our empathetic team help guide you to a center that feels right for you, offering expert care and support. Start your healing today by choosing a rehab that's not just close to you, but also that truly cares about your loved ones recovery.