What Is Recovery?

Recovery is a process of change through which individuals improve their health and wellness, live self-directed lives, and strive to reach their full potential.

This definition does not describe recovery as an end state, but rather as a process. Complete symptom remission is neither a prerequisite of recovery nor a necessary outcome of the process. Recovery can have many pathways that may include professional clinical treatment; use of medications; support from families and in schools; faith-based approaches; peer support; and other approaches. There are four major dimensions that support a life in recovery:

Health: Learning to overcome, manage, or more successfully live with symptoms and making healthy choices that support one’s physical and emotional wellbeing.

Home: A stable and safe place to live.

Purpose: Meaningful daily activities, such as a job, school, volunteer work, or creative endeavors; increased ability to lead a self-directed life; and meaningful engagement in society.

Community: Relationships and social networks that provide support, friendship, love, and hope.