Connecting with others and belonging to a community can improve a number of areas of mental health. In fact, those who feel closely connected to friends, family and peers tend to have lower rates of depression, suicide and addiction. Additionally, feeling connected gives us a sense of belonging, support and purpose throughout our lives.
Recovery is one way to find connection with others who are working to live healthier, more balanced lives.
What is recovery?
In some alcohol and drug treatment settings, the term ‘recovery’ is often used to describe those who are participating in abstinence-based treatment programs or groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous.
However, recovery can look different for everyone. At the Collegiate Recovery Center (CUCRC), recovery is defined as a process of change through which people strive to improve their health, live a self-directed life and reach their full potential. This broader definition allows the CUCRC to support multiple paths to recovery, including sobriety, abstinence and moderation.
It’s also important to know that recovery isn’t exclusive to drug and alcohol use.
In fact, recovery covers a broad range of behaviors like:
While some of these behaviors may be normal to engage in, they can also be harmful or addictive. In addiction, many people feel compelled to repeat patterns that cause or result in harm or unwanted experiences.
Evaluate your current habits
There are many reasons why people seek out recovery. If you’re not sure if recovery is the right path for you, here are some questions to help you determine if recovery may be something to consider.
If you answered yes to any of the questions above, recovery is one pathway for change in your life. Remember that recovery is unique to everyone, and the CUCRC is available to help you find the path that works best for you.
Paths of recovery
Recovery is dynamic, and doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all approach. In fact, recovery can look different for everyone depending on personal goals and habits. Here are a few examples of what recovery can look like:
Moderation
Moderate, reduce or change your relationship with one or more substances and/or behaviors that cause harm.
Partial abstinence
Discontinue use of a particular substance and/or behavior while bringing awareness to other behaviors or substances that cause harm.
Sobriety or abstinence
Discontinue use of all substances and/or behaviors that cause harm.
It’s also important to remember that recovery is an individual experience. Keep in mind that your path in recovery can change over time. Regardless of the path you choose, the CUCRC is here to provide community, connection and support to help you navigate recovery options on your own terms.
Recovery resources
Note: CU Boulder recovery resources do not provide detox or inpatient treatment services. These resources are not affiliated with law enforcement or other disciplinary groups, such as Student Conduct at CU Boulder. Students who are interested in additional treatment options can be referred out into the community through CAPS or the CUCRC.
Sober housing
The CUCRC offers dedicated sober housing for students on the north side of campus. CORE Housing is open to full-time students and graduate-level CU students who have been accepted as CORE Members and have a preferred six months continuous abstinence from all drugs and alcohol.
Collegiate Recovery Center (CUCRC)
The Collegiate Recovery Center (CUCRC) provides meetings and support groups, recovery-focused housing, events and activities, peer support and more for students in recovery or interested in pursuing recovery from drugs, alcohol, eating disorders, self-harm, other addictions and unwanted behaviors.
The CUCRC is also open for studying, socializing and drop-in support. If you’re interested in participating at the Recovery Center, be sure to check out the weekly meeting schedule or sign up to receive notifications about events and other activities.
Office of Victim Assistance (OVA)
The Office of Victim Assistance (OVA) provides free, confidential counseling, advocacy, information and referrals for all CU community members, including undergrad and graduate students, staff and faculty. They specialize in addressing current and past life-disruptive events, including but not limited to, crime, trauma, gender-based violence, experiences of bias, harassment, discrimination, abuse and violence.
For 24/7 support, same-day appointments and consultation services, please call 303-492-8855. OVA also provides free and confidential drop-in services virtually through their e-Ask an Advocate program.
Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS)
Counseling and Psychiatric Services provides a number of services related to substance use, including assessments, brief individual therapy, support for concerned friends and family members, referrals to recovery and other community resources and suboxone treatment. Learn more about substance use services from CAPS.
Exploring Substance Use Workshop
Join Health Promotion for a free Exploring Substance Use Workshop. This workshop provides a safe, non-judgmental space to explore your relationship with substance use with a trained professional staff member at Health Promotion. This free 50-minute virtual workshop is available to students of all levels of use or non-use. Call 303-492-2937 to register.
SoberBuffs student group
SoberBuffs is a student organization that celebrates sober and healthy living. They host a number of substance-free events for students to meet fellow buffs and other community members. Get connected by emailing soberbuffs@colorado.edu.
Nicotine cessation
Health Promotion provides free quit kits, nicotine cessation coaching and tips for overcoming cravings. Call 303-492-2937 to schedule an appointment. The Apothecary Pharmacy at Wardenburg also has nicotine patches and gum available for sale over the counter.
Additional resources
Learn more about local and national resources online: colorado.edu/aod/get-help