CBH Physician Advisor Dr. Mattila-Evenden Shares Emotional Wellness Strategies to Support Recovery
In recognition of National Recovery Month, Marja Mattila-Evenden, MD, PhD, Physician Advisor at CBH, shares strategies for emotional wellness and resilience to support recovery.
September is National Recovery Month, a time to recognize the strength of individuals in recovery, celebrate progress, and reinforce that recovery is possible. As we move into the fall season, it can also be a helpful time to reflect on routines, supports, and habits that contribute to overall physical, emotional, and behavioral health.
Substance use disorder (SUD) is a treatable health condition that affects individuals, families, and communities. Seeking support or treatment is an important step toward health and well-being. Recovery looks different for everyone, and treatment should be based on each person’s individual needs, preferences, and circumstances. Services may include individual counseling, group-based treatment, medication, peer support, and other evidence-based approaches.
For people in recovery, periods of change or transition can sometimes bring additional stress. Practices that support emotional well-being and resilience may be useful alongside treatment and other recovery supports. Some strategies may include:
- Practice gratitude. Writing down positive moments or things you are grateful for can help reinforce a sense of hope and well-being.
- Engage in activities that support wellness. Hobbies, physical activity, time with supportive people, and other meaningful activities can help promote balance and connection.
- Practice mindfulness. Meditation, breathing exercises, and other mindfulness techniques may help increase self-awareness and support stress management.
- Approach setbacks with self-compassion. Recovery is not always a straight path. Challenges can be opportunities to reassess needs, strengthen supports, and continue moving forward.
Maintaining routines around sleep, meals, physical activity, treatment, and other supportive activities can also provide stability during times of change. It may be helpful to identify situations that could increase stress or the risk of returning to substance use and to develop a plan with a treatment provider, recovery support professional, peer specialist, or trusted support person.
Most importantly, no one has to navigate SUD or recovery alone. Effective treatment and recovery supports are available, and reaching out for help is a positive step toward improved health and quality of life.
National Recovery Month is an opportunity to recognize recovery in all its forms, reduce stigma surrounding SUD, and remind individuals and families that support is available.
The information provided in this blog post is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute professional medical advice or treatment for a medical condition. Please consult your healthcare provider about any questions or concerns you may have regarding a medical condition.
