Posted by veriheal on 01/30/2024 in Alternative Medicine
In the addiction recovery community, a new idea known as “California sober” has been gaining attention. This concept is different from traditional views as it allows the use of cannabis and psychedelics while avoiding other drugs and alcohol. Many in recovery circles, like Alcoholics Anonymous, disagree with this method. They believe it’s unsafe and doesn’t count as real recovery since their culture focuses on avoiding all mind-altering substances.
This has led to much debate.
Some see “Cali sober” as a fresh approach that could prevent deadly relapses. Others view it as a step away from true sobriety. For example, The Cleveland Clinic, a major world-renowned medical center, does not support “Cali sober.” They prohibit their doctors from recommending cannabis to former addicts, even though it’s medically legal in Ohio and soon to be legal for recreational use. Their stance is clear: true sobriety means no drug use at all.
In this article, we’ll dive into the heart of this debate, exploring the pros and cons of “Cali sober” to give you a clearer picture of this new approach sweeping the addiction recovery community.
The truth is that 12-step programs work well for some people. They find support and strength in these groups. However, they’re not perfect for everyone. There is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all approach or one path to recovery for everyone, and every person requires a different treatment plan.
For example, those using methadone or Suboxone to treat heroin and opioid addiction face challenges in 12-step groups. They are often seen as not truly recovering because these groups usually advocate total abstinence, but methadone and Suboxone help many people regain their health after addiction. They reduce the risk of relapse and support recovery. It’s important to respect all paths to getting better.
Cannabis is gaining recognition as a valuable tool in recovering from alcohol and hard drug addiction. Its ability to alleviate withdrawal symptoms, reduce cravings, and ease stress makes it beneficial in addiction treatment. Likewise, psychedelics like psilocybin are showing promise in treating alcohol and tobacco dependencies. They offer deep psychological insights, aiding significantly in the recovery process.
Both cannabis and psychedelics offer a safer alternative to more harmful substances, serving as lower-risk options in harm reduction strategies. Responsible use under the medical supervision of an addiction specialist is key when incorporating these substances into recovery plans. They should be used with caution, especially among vulnerable groups.
In today’s world, advances in medicine and therapy offer new paths to recovery. Embracing these modern treatments is crucial. Recovery should not be a one-size-fits-all approach. It must be inclusive, recognizing that each person’s journey is unique. A humane approach to recovery means providing a range of options. This can include traditional methods as well as new medications and therapies.
Based on 2021 statistics, over 100,000 Americans lost their lives to drug overdoses, marking the highest toll in the country’s history. As a result, new scientific findings are challenging the traditional ‘abstinence only’ model. Research suggests that certain treatments that were previously overlooked can be effective in aiding recovery. This might involve using different medications or alternative therapies tailored to individual needs. These scientific insights are pivotal in reshaping our understanding of recovery as they highlight the importance of flexibility in treatment plans.
It’s becoming clear that recovery isn’t just about avoiding all substances. Instead, it’s about finding the most effective, personalized tools to support holistic healing and well-being. This shift in perspective is vital. It opens the door to more effective and compassionate recovery strategies that can benefit a broader range of individuals.
A healthy recovery has vital elements: insight, humility, connection, mindfulness, and gratitude. Cannabis and psychedelics can enhance these traits. They help users gain deeper self-awareness and understanding, which is necessary for insight. These substances can also encourage humility and a sense of connection with others. They promote mindfulness, helping people focus on the present. Gratitude towards life’s experiences often increases too.
Carl Sagan, a famous scientist, once said about cannabis: “The illegality of cannabis is outrageous, an impediment to full utilization of a drug which helps produce the serenity and insight, sensitivity and fellowship so desperately needed in this increasingly mad and dangerous world.” Simply put, the psychiatric benefits offered by responsible cannabis use directly align with long-term addiction recovery.
Each recovery journey is unique and requires a personalized approach. Recovery isn’t always about strict abstinence. We need to challenge traditional views and embrace new methods. This includes considering cannabis and psychedelics as part of the conversation as these substances show promise in aiding recovery and should be part of future strategies.
An empathetic, evidence-based approach is paramount. It should respect individual paths, whether they involve traditional therapies or “Cali sober” techniques that use cannabis and psychedelics. Let’s promote a more inclusive and effective recovery process by embracing these diverse paths. It’s essential to keep an open mind about the potential of these emerging treatments. They offer valuable options for those on their journey to a healthier life.
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