National Recovery Month: a comprehensive path to recovery for high-profile individuals
27th September 2024 / Written by Harbor London
“Recovery is not a linear process but an ongoing journey that requires comprehensive, whole-person care.”
National Recovery Month plays a vital role in raising awareness about the realities of recovery from addiction and substance use disorders. Established in 1989, this observance promotes and supports evidence-based treatment practices and celebrates the strength and resilience of those in long-term recovery. And, for healthcare professionals and families, it serves as a reminder of the importance of comprehensive support for individuals living with addiction.
High-profile individuals and professionals in high-pressure environments face unique challenges during this time. Certain industries – particularly those that are mentally or emotionally demanding1 – see higher rates of substance use disorders as an attempt to cope, or self-medicate. For instance, a 2016 study by the American Bar Association revealed that 1 in 5 lawyers were addicted to alcohol; twice the rate of other similarly educated professionals1. Moreover, 12.1% of surveyed management professionals – including CEOs – reported using illegal drugs in the past month, and 11.4% had experienced a substance use disorder within the past year1.
These statistics underscore the need for personalised, discreet care that not only addresses substance use but also the underlying psychological causes. At Harbor, our utterly curated, whole-person approach to residential rehabilitation ensures that every aspect of a client’s wellbeing is meticulously addressed, paving the way for lasting, sustainable recovery.
The multifaceted journey of recovery
The addiction recovery process extends far beyond the cessation of substance use. For many, it involves navigating a complex web of underlying issues and the need for profound lifestyle changes. These challenges are compounded by the fact that the co-occurrence of severe mental health conditions with substance use disorders is remarkably common3, making accurate diagnosis and management essential for effective treatment.
High-profile individuals face unique obstacles on their path to recovery. Public scrutiny, privacy concerns, and the pressure to maintain a certain image can create additional layers of complexity. The need for discreet care is paramount, requiring a treatment approach that not only respects their privacy but also addresses the deeply rooted issues that contribute to addiction.
At Harbor, we adopt a whole-person approach that is meticulously tailored to each individual’s needs, setting us apart from traditional rehabilitation clinics. This approach considers and addresses multiple dimensions of patient wellbeing – physical, mental, social, and cognitive – emphasising the interconnectedness4 and importance of each. For example, research5 has highlighted that strong community and social health can enhance patient survival by up to 50%.
By integrating personalised care plans with continuous support mechanisms, patient engagement and adherence to treatment are enhanced, which are crucial for long-term recovery. Cognitive behavioural therapy and dialectical behaviour therapy, for instance, play pivotal roles in managing the emotional and psychological aspects of dual disorders, while exposure therapies and motivational incentives provide additional layers of support6. This comprehensive, tailored approach ensures that clients receive the care they need to sustain recovery, addressing not just the symptoms but the root causes of their addiction.
Mental health and addiction: a complex interplay
The relationship between mental health and addiction is intricate and deeply intertwined, with trauma, anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions often driving addictive behaviours. It’s a connection that extends beyond simple cause and effect, rooted in a complex web of neurobiological and psychological factors that can make treatment particularly challenging.
Substance use disorders frequently develop as secondary behaviours that serve as coping mechanisms for underlying mental health conditions7-8. However, the relationship between these co-occurring disorders is not linear. For example, the high prevalence of co-occurring mental health conditions does not necessarily mean that one directly causes the other, even if one appeared first9. Instead, shared risk factors such as genetic vulnerabilities, the neurological impact of addictive substances on the brain, and environmental influences like stress or trauma can play a significant role9.
Genetic and epigenetic factors: studies suggest that 40–60% of susceptibility to substance use disorders is genetically determined10. The complex interaction between genes and environmental factors11 is evident in cases where, for instance, frequent marijuana use during adolescence is associated with an increased risk of psychosis in adulthood12. This genetic predisposition underscores the importance of addressing both genetic and environmental factors in treatment.
Neurological impact: both addictive substances and mental health conditions affect similar brain circuits involved in reward, decision-making, and emotional regulation. These areas of the brain are disrupted through the use of addictive substances and in conditions such as depression and schizophrenia9. This overlap in brain circuitry highlights the need for an integrated approach to treatment that addresses both the mental health condition, and the substance use disorder simultaneously.
Stress and trauma: exposure to stress and trauma is a significant risk factor for the development of substance use disorders and relapse after periods of recovery9. The link between trauma and addiction is particularly strong, with trauma survivors often turning to substances as a means of coping with the emotional pain and distress caused by traumatic memories13. The HPA axis, which mediates our ‘fight or flight’ response, can become chronically activated in this demographic, leading to changes in brain circuits that control motivation and reinforcing the use of substances as a ‘calming’ mechanism14-15.
Given the prevalence of co-morbid conditions – with rates as high as 54% among younger populations16 – it is crucial to address these underlying mental health issues during addiction recovery. Treating only the symptoms of addiction without addressing the root causes significantly increases the likelihood of relapse, and the consequences of living with dual diagnoses can be profound17. However, this challenge is compounded by the organisational failure to sustain integrated care models that address both mental health and addiction18. Many healthcare providers feel unprepared to manage co-occurring disorders, highlighting the need for equipped clinicians that have the skills necessary to provide empathetic and informed care.
The role of physical health, exercise and nutrition in addiction recovery
Addiction takes a profound toll on both the mind and the body. Long-term substance abuse can lead to significant physical health deterioration, affecting various organ systems and leading to chronic health conditions that complicate the recovery process. The specific physiological effects vary depending on the substance, dosage, and length of use19, but the consequences can be severe20. For instance, alcohol abuse can lead to heart tissue damage, liver inflammation, and a weakened immune system, while cocaine and heroin use can result in infection of bowel tissue, nasal damage, and even heart infections19. Methamphetamines, similarly, are associated with increased risks of HIV, hepatitis, dental issues, and significant weight loss19.
For this reason, addressing all aspects of physical health in recovery is paramount. The approach to addiction recovery therefore must include comprehensive physical rehabilitation to restore and maintain physical health, which in turn supports mental wellbeing.
Physical activity
This plays a crucial role in this rehabilitation process. Research shows that individuals with substance use disorders face a higher mortality rate, partly due to chronic physical conditions21. Engaging in regular physical activity has been shown to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety22-23, improve abstinence rates23, and reduce cravings during treatment24. For example, one study found that participants in a fitness program, most of whom were living with opioid use disorder, reported reduced cravings, improved health, and a sense of accomplishment and belonging25. While the mechanisms underlying these benefits are not fully understood21, physical activity is thought to help by reducing boredom, counter conditioning the addictive process with a new, fun, more enjoyable activity26-27, as well as reducing the symptoms of anxiety and depression and improving mood28-29 through endorphin release30 and hormonal regulation31.
Nutrition
This is another critical component of recovery. The emerging field of nutritional psychiatry highlights the strong connection between diet and mental health. The gut microbiome plays a key role in regulating hormones, cognitive neurotransmitters and the vagus nerve; all essential for emotional stability and overall wellbeing32-34. Nutritional deficiencies can also contribute to alterations in mood, cognitive decline, and even reduce the efficacy of therapeutic or medicinal interventions. Thus, a balanced, nutrient-rich diet is fundamental in supporting mental health and enhancing recovery outcomes.
By focusing on physical health alongside mental health, rehabilitation facilities can create comprehensive strategies that address all aspects of a client’s wellbeing, ensuring a more sustainable recovery.
Navigating life after residential addiction rehabilitation in the heart of London
The transition from intensive addiction treatment back into one’s daily life presents significant challenges, especially for high-profile individuals. After leaving the structured environment of a residential program, these individuals often face stressors, social pressure, and triggers that can threaten their recovery. The re-entry into professional and social circles, where the demands and expectations are high, can be particularly daunting. The public scrutiny that accompanies their positions adds another layer of complexity, making privacy and discretion in ongoing care paramount.
Comprehensive aftercare programs are crucial for maintaining the progress made during treatment. Research shows that relapse rates are highest in the first few months after leaving rehab, with between 40% and 60% of people recovering from addiction experiencing a relapse at some point in time35. Aftercare is designed to support individuals during this vulnerable period, helping them solidify the gains made during treatment and providing continuous support to prevent relapse36. Continuous therapy, personalised check-ins, and access to ongoing resources are essential components of an effective aftercare plan, ensuring that clients remain engaged in their recovery journey long after they leave residential care.
At Harbor, we recognise the importance of ongoing support. Our aftercare programs are tailored to meet the unique needs of each client, offering continuous therapeutic support, regular follow-up sessions, and access to resources that help maintain the progress made during residential treatment. We believe that recovery is not a finite process but an ongoing journey that requires sustained effort and support. Our strategic placement of residential rehabilitation and mental health treatment in the heart of London is also a key element of our approach. By offering treatment in a real-world environment, we help clients develop resilience and coping strategies that are directly applicable to their daily lives. Unlike isolated retreats, our London-based rehabilitation residences allow clients to confront the stressors and triggers they will face once they reintegrate into their professional and social environments. This approach ensures that the therapeutic strategies and coping mechanisms developed during treatment are practical, effective, and sustainable in the context of their urban lives.
At Harbor, we are committed to helping our clients achieve lasting change and navigate the complexities of life after treatment with confidence and resilience.
Recovery: the continuous journey
Recovery is not a linear process but an ongoing journey that requires comprehensive, whole-person care. Addressing addiction involves more than just treating the symptoms; it requires a deep understanding of the underlying mental health conditions and the physical health challenges that often accompany substance use disorders. And we specialise in providing ongoing recovery support that is tailored to the unique needs of each individual.
We encourage healthcare professionals to consider Harbor’s comprehensive addiction recovery services for their patients.
For more information or to discuss referrals, please reach out to us at your convenience.
References
- https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/drug-addiction/professions-highest-rate-abuse/
- https://www.scirp.org/journal/paperinformation?paperid=75256
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16961418/
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- https://nida.nih.gov/publications/research-reports/common-comorbidities-substance-use-disorders/what-are-treatments-comorbid-substance-use-disorder-mental-health-conditions
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22449766/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22327950/
- https://nida.nih.gov/publications/research-reports/common-comorbidities-substance-use-disorders/why-there-comorbidity-between-substance-use-disorders-mental-illnesses
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22703173/
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- https://www.mymentor.uk.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Childhood-Disrupted.pdf
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9955022/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16961418/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4417038/#:~:text=Focus%20group%20participants%20identified%20three,and%20diagnostic%20and%20billing%20restrictions.
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/effects-of-drug-abuse
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- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1470658/
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/exercise-and-stress/art-20044469
- https://www.rupahealth.com/post/exercise-affects-on-womens-hormones
- https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/nutritional-psychiatry-your-brain-on-food-201511168626
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- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0889159110004216
- https://americanaddictioncenters.org/rehab-guide/aftercare
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7813220/