One Size Doesn’t Fit All

What does recovery mean?

Recovery is often pictured as total abstinence from drugs or alcohol — but that’s just one version. At its core, recovery means building a healthier, more stable life where substances no longer have control. For one person, that might mean complete abstinence. For another, it might mean safer use combined with therapy and community support.

Different approaches people take

12-Step Programs: Groups like Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous provide structure, accountability, and fellowship. For many, they’re life-changing.
Medication-Assisted Treatment: Options like methadone or Suboxone help manage cravings and withdrawal, giving people stability.
Therapy and Counseling: Addressing underlying trauma, mental health, or relationship challenges is often essential for long-term change.
Cultural and Spiritual Healing: For Indigenous communities, land-based healing, ceremonies, and reconnecting with tradition can be central to recovery.
Peer Support: Sometimes the most powerful thing is talking to someone who’s been there. Peer workers bridge the gap between lived experience and professional care.

Why flexibility matters

Expecting one path to work for everyone doesn’t reflect the reality of addiction. The best recovery systems are the ones that meet people where they’re at and offer options. Just like there isn’t one diet or one workout routine that works for every body, there isn’t one recovery model that works for every person.

Moving past judgment

Recovery is often framed as linear: you hit rock bottom, go to treatment, and come out “fixed.” The truth is messier. Relapse can happen, progress looks different for everyone, and success isn’t about perfection — it’s about improvement and support.

Why this matters in BC

With overdose deaths still at crisis levels, it’s important that recovery supports in BC are as diverse as the people who need them. Creating choice — from safe supply to abstinence-based programs — saves lives and gives people more than one door to walk through.

If you’re looking for support, we can help connect you with counselors and community resources. Reach out through our Contact page.