What Is the Meaning of Sobriety?
When you hear the word “sobriety,” a few different things might come to mind. The most common idea people have about sobriety is abstinence from illicit drug use or, sober living. perspective is partially correct, it doesn’t fully capture the concept. In this article, we will go over what sobriety means in detail to help you get a better understanding of the word and its many uses, especially in relation to addiction counseling in Omaha.
What Is the Meaning of Sobriety?
The Simple Meaning
At its core, sobriety means a person not being intoxicated. Any time a person is under the influence of drugs or alcohol, they are not sober. Once the effects wear off, they are considered sober. This simple definition, however, is just the starting point in understanding what sobriety entails in the context of addiction recovery.
Goals In Addiction Treatment
Sobriety is the end goal for those who are seeking treatment for various addictions. For example, someone struggling with alcohol or drug addiction aims to achieve sobriety through detox. These programs often focus on helping individuals achieve long-term sobriety and maintain it as part of their recovery journey.
The goal of an addiction treatment program is remission and teaching a person to continue with their lives in a way that allows them to function without depending on drugs or alcohol as an escape. Through education, addiction counseling in Omaha aims to help people in recovery remain sober, prevent relapse, and create a sustainable treatment plan for long-term health.
The Misunderstanding
Too many people ranging from therapists to addiction specialists equate sobriety with abstinence. If anyone takes the time to examine the DSM psychiatric manual, experts never state that abstinence and sobriety are linked to each other.
Many people use sobriety in place of the word remission when referring to alcoholism and substance abuse cessation. Therefore, being sober simply means not being intoxicated. Conversely, remission is the absence of using a particular substance that causes addiction.
Concept vs. Textbook
The mainstream concept of sobriety teaches those in alcohol or drug addiction treatment centers and society to refrain from certain behaviors. The idea behind the premise is noble. However, there is a big difference between abstaining and being sober. The textbook meaning of sobriety simply stands for lack of intoxication.
Like everything in life, communication and words will always be subjective. This is true even when words have clear definitions. There are many words and phrases that are used so often, that their original meaning is lost.
Much of these subjective uses are cultural in nature which means the same word can mean different things to people from different places. Sobriety is a prime example of subjectivity in action.
The Modern Meaning & Understanding
Today, sobriety often encompasses more than just abstaining from substances. It represents a broader mindset of recovery and personal growth. Many individuals achieve sobriety through 12-step programs, peer support groups, and other evidence-based strategies. These approaches provide the tools needed to navigate the challenges of addiction recovery while fostering a sense of community and accountability.
Sobriety also involves acknowledging that addiction has no cure but can be managed through a lifelong journey. This requires consistent effort, self-awareness, and a commitment to sobriety. For many, the recovery journey is an ongoing process of healing, self-discovery, and resilience.
Why Is the Definition Important?
The definition of sobriety is important because there is a lack of respect for what it means to be a recovering addict. Becoming sober is a short-term accomplishment that only takes a few hours to a couple of days. One of the most difficult parts is coping with withdrawal symptoms. However, being able to break free from the compulsion of substance or alcohol abuse is much different.
In addition to resisting the urge to imbibe on a person’s substance of choice, a person who is truly recovering will also have to identify and address what led to their addiction problem to begin with.
Moving Forward With a Sober Life
With a better understanding of sobriety and its importance, individuals and families can work together to support a healthier lifestyle. Sobriety is more than abstinence; it involves tackling underlying issues, developing sustainable habits, and fostering meaningful connections. Addiction counseling in Omaha provides the tools and guidance needed to navigate the complexities of recovery and achieve a fulfilling, sober life.
Sobriety is an ongoing process and a commitment to personal growth. Through determination and support, individuals can embrace the journey of lifelong recovery, building a brighter and healthier future.
Additional Reading: Staying Sober: Alcoholism Relapse Prevention Tools
Blue Sky Counseling Omaha – Alcohol Counseling Omaha, NE
I, Carly Spring, M.S., LIMHP, LADC, CPC, offer my specialized expertise to assist in the healing process to anyone who may be experiencing and suffering from a vast spectrum of mental health issues. Such mental health issues include behavioral problems, anxiety, depression, grief, loss, trauma, addiction issues, and life transitions. I believe strongly in applying a holistic perspective addressing your whole person not just the bits and pieces of you. Contact us with any questions or to discuss alcohol counseling in Omaha today.
