You’ve already taken the biggest step. You’ve acknowledged there is a problem, and living under the influence is no longer sustainable. You have made the choice to get sober. It took courage and is the first step towards a better life. So now what? Not all roads to recovery are the same. In fact, the path to sobriety can look very different from person to person. Some choose to go it alone, while others seek professional assistance. Both have proven instances of success, but the journey and outcomes are worlds of their own.
Many people with substance use disorder (SUD) attempt to get sober on their own because it’s more appealing. It’s cheaper, it’s private, and they don’t have to deal with the stigmas of being “someone in rehab.” There is also the belief that outside help isn’t necessary. They’re not necessarily wrong — it’s not impossible to get through withdrawal and cravings solo. The problem is that it often doesn’t last because the underlying psychological, emotional, and behavioral patterns that fueled the addiction haven’t been addressed.
Obviously, this depends on the severity of the addiction, but opting to navigate sobriety alone can be dangerous. Depending on the substance and duration of use, quitting cold turkey can be fatal. Seizures and cardiac complications can occur without monitored medical supervision. Some substances may even provoke suicidal thoughts or behaviors. For these reasons, detox should be overseen by medical professionals who can provide the proper medications and interventions to minimize discomfort and protect patients.
Without relapse prevention tools, it’s easier to fall back into the same patterns that led to using in the first place. The goal is to stay stopped and not settle for a temporary break. Many facilities offer individual and group therapy sessions to help people really dig into the root causes of their addiction to create healthier coping strategies and rebuild their self-esteem. When treatment is over, recovery programs will help design aftercare plans that involve activities such as outpatient therapy, sober housing, 12-step programs, or alumni programs to promote and improve long-term success.
Almost always, there are co-occurring mental health conditions with those who are coping with SUD. Depression, anxiety, and trauma are very common. Without therapy or professional support, these conditions may worsen. Recovery programs teach people how to manage stress, set boundaries, handle triggers, and build healthy routines. These skills are crucial in long-term recovery.
Tackling a major life shift alone can be isolating and lonely. Dealing with all of the emotional fallout that comes with recovery can feel overwhelming. Not having an anchor or someone to connect with can threaten sobriety and trigger a relapse. If you are determined to recover without formal treatment, finding a therapist or online community might be beneficial for support. One of the most alluring features of recovery is the communal aspect. Being around others who understand what you’re going through — because they’re going through it too — minimizes feelings of shame and helps people realize they aren’t alone. Shared feelings and experiences enable connection, accountability, and hope.
Rehabilitation and recovery centers’ sole purpose is to heal those who need it in a comprehensive, structured environment based on evidence-based practices. It’s a level of care that’s difficult, if not impossible, to duplicate at home. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), individuals who engage in long-term treatment programs of 90 days or more have significantly higher rates of sustained recovery. A 2023 SAMHSA study found that people who completed an inpatient rehab program were 60% more likely to maintain sobriety after one year compared to those who attempted recovery without support.
If finances are a concern, many private insurance plans cover substance use treatment, including detox and inpatient rehab. Medicaid and Medicare also offer coverage for qualifying individuals. Some facilities may offer sliding scale fees, scholarships, or payment plans to make treatment more accessible. There are options. The cost of not seeking treatment — health, damaged relationships, lost jobs, legal trouble — can ultimately surpass the financial cost of rehab.
Independent sobriety is possible — but it comes with risks, some of them long-term. Professional help comes with safety, structure, and a community of people who want to see you succeed. They will give you the tools you need to rebuild your life, not just abstain from substances.
Help is available 24/7 at the Hickory Recovery Network at 800-604-2117. Whether you’re just starting to explore sobriety or are ready to start your journey to recovery, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. You don’t have to walk the path alone.
