Addiction Recovery: Processes, Mechanisms, and Models with Dr. John Kelly
- 4 hours ago
- 1 min read
Recovery from substance use disorders is a long-term process that extends beyond the initial stages of treatment. Clinical interventions can play an important role in helping individuals begin recovery, but the risk of recurrence may remain elevated for years. Sustained recovery also depends on continued support and environments that help people build healthy, stable, and meaningful lives.
In this Ask the Expert video, Dr. John Kelly, Professor of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School and Director of the Recovery Research Institute, explores the science of recovery and the growing evidence supporting recovery-oriented services. He discusses the concept of recovery capital: the internal and external resources that help individuals establish and sustain recovery. These resources can include supportive relationships, safe housing, employment, coping skills, access to care, and opportunities to develop purpose and connection.
Dr. Kelly also examines the roles of mutual-help organizations, recovery coaches, recovery residences, and recovery community centers. He reviews research on Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and other mutual-help programs, including evidence showing that clinical linkage to these programs can improve remission outcomes and reduce healthcare costs for people with alcohol use disorder. At the same time, he emphasizes that recovery is not one-size-fits-all. People benefit from having multiple pathways and support options that reflect their individual needs, preferences, and circumstances.
