Education in Recovery
Typically, the main goal of treatment and recovery programs is to treat the substance use disorder (SUD) itself. While SUD is an intricate part of the struggle people face moving toward recovery, there are co-occurring mental health conditions that should be accounted for in the recovery process as well.
Research has shown that a majority of issues with SUD are interconnected with trauma. Therefore, Grace Recovery TX provides clients with resources and services that go beyond the treatment of SUD alone, as we believe the best approach is caring for the whole person.
This process involves incorporating larger life goals and passions into individual treatment to assist with moving toward self-reliance. Seeking educational opportunities as one begins a sober life can be essential to recovery. Education-based support services can be beneficial to building a full life.
Fulfilling educational goals further supports physical, emotional, social, and spiritual wellness. As a result, education can help with development of life skills necessary to support the sustainability of their long-term recovery.
How Can Education Support Me in Recovery?
Providing support services in conjunction with treatment can promote healing of the body, mind, and spirit. The eight dimensions of wellness are a representation of the whole person being treated and supported through recovery.
8 Dimensions of Wellness:
- Financial
- Social
- Physical
- Intellectual
- Emotional
- Spiritual
- Environmental
- Occupational
Education-based support services can fulfill several areas of the eight dimensions of wellness such as the intellectual, social, occupational, and financial areas. Each dimension of wellness creates, intersects, and supports the other dimensions.
With educational support, clients gain knowledge, improve work opportunities, and increase financial security. Moreover, they can expand their sense of happiness, fulfillment, and purpose in your life. Whether returning to school for a GED, attending community college, or seeking higher education, the path toward long-term recovery is strengthened by a commitment to life goals and creating purpose beyond SUD.
To learn more about educational support services, visit our Educational Groups page.
How SUD Impacts Employment in Recovery
Traditionally, treatment and recovery programs have focused on how SUD can negatively impact a person’s employment. For many people, treatment and recovery can be daunting not only on a mental and emotional level but also on a financial level.
Furthermore, individuals with SUD often face the all-too-common stigma in the workplace. These unhelpful stigmas can create shame associated with asking an employer for time off to seek treatment for substance use and/or co-occurring mental health disorders. People may fear losing their job and sacrificing financial security if they share their struggles or ask for accommodations. These work environments tend to lack the necessary knowledge and education to de-stigmatize ideas and belief systems that come from unsupported generalizations and assumptions.
Ultimately, maintaining employment is essential for basic needs, survival, and self-determination. However, it’s important to acknowledge that the rewarding aspects of seeking employment can play a bigger role in your progress toward recovery.
How Can Employment Support Me in Recovery?
Employment, much like education and therapy, can support sustainable long-term recovery. According to a guide from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), employed clients are more likely to show:
- Lower chance of relapse
- Higher rate of abstinence from substance use
- Less likelihood of engaging in criminal activity
- Higher quality of life
- Easier time transitioning from clinical support to independent living
Research has shown that the benefits of employment in recovery go beyond a job’s ability to give clients financial stability and a higher quality of life. When both unemployed and employed clients are supported in finding more meaningful work, their chances for lifelong recovery and well-being increase. One of the factors that leads to SUD is the need to fill or distract yourself from trauma. However, when you can find meaning and purpose in the work you do, you move closer to finding purpose in your life.
Academic and Career Advising at Grace Recovery TX
A fundamental part of our work at Grace Recovery TX is helping women find what they need to live a fulfilling life in long-term recovery. We want to offer support as our clients build skills to be autonomous and live a life they can fall in love with. Through individualized treatment, we assist our clients as they work toward the goals they previously believed they were unattainable.
As fear and mistakes are a part of life, we are here to remind our clients that setbacks do not amount to worthlessness. With a structured support system, our women can build a life that they are thrilled about. Whether they push themselves to pursue knowledge in school or build a career that feeds the soul, finding purpose in life happens when we ourselves to do the things that might intimidate us at first. Ultimately, committing to healing and long-term happiness is what lifelong recovery looks like.
What Support Services Does Grace Recovery TX Offer?
At Grace Recovery TX, clients receive support in the following areas:
- Case management
- Recovery coaching
- Academic advising
- Career advising
To learn more about Grace Recovery TX and our vision, please visit our Home page.
Pursuing your education and career goals can support you on your journey to long-term recovery. At Grace Recovery TX in Austin, Texas, we support our clients in building short and long-term goals with the help of our academic and career advisors. Call us today at (737) 237-9663 to learn how you can start pursuing your goals for long-term recovery.