Two people talking about staying sober

What Is the Success Rate of Staying Sober?

Staying sober is a lifelong journey that takes dedication, effort, and support—but you don’t have to do it alone. At Promises Brazos Valley in College Station, TX, we offer compassionate, evidence-based addiction treatment programs designed to help you achieve and maintain lasting recovery. Our experienced team understands the challenges of addiction and is here to guide you every step of the way with care and understanding. Whether you’re just beginning your sobriety journey or seeking continued support, we’re committed to your success. Contact our team online or call 979.426.0086 today to learn more about how our options for outpatient drug rehab treatment and alcohol addiction treatment can help you build a brighter, healthier future.

Understanding addiction recovery

Recovery from addiction is a personal and transformative journey unique to each person struggling. Here are some key aspects to consider as you or a loved one works toward sobriety:

  • Addiction is a treatable disease: Addiction isn’t a moral failing, but a chronic condition that requires compassion and professional care to address its root causes.
  • Recovery is an ongoing process: Sobriety is a lifelong commitment, not a one-time achievement. Every small step forward contributes to sobriety success rates, showing the progress made along the way.
  • Support makes a difference: Having a strong network of family, friends, or a recovery community plays a vital role in maintaining sobriety and fostering resilience.

Success in recovery looks different for everyone, and sobriety success rates improve with the right support, evidence-based treatment, and a commitment to growth.

What is the success rate of staying sober?  

The journey to sobriety is deeply personal, and its success depends on several important factors, including the individual’s commitment to recovery, the quality of support they receive, and their dedication to a relapse prevention plan.

It’s important to remember:

  • Success isn’t solely defined by abstinence—it’s also about improvements in your health, relationships, and overall quality of life.
  • Relapse doesn’t mean failure. It’s often a part of the process. Each setback is an opportunity to reassess and strengthen your recovery plan.
  • Long-term sobriety is absolutely achievable. Many people build fulfilling, sober lives for years—even decades.

Research shows that about one-third of people who maintain abstinence from alcohol for less than a year remain sober. For those who reach a full year of sobriety, the chances of relapse drop significantly, and for those who achieve five years, the relapse rate falls to under 15%.1 For those struggling with drug addiction recovery, the numbers are similar. While everyone’s journey is unique, it’s important to remember that recovery is a lifelong process, and each day presents new opportunities for growth and healing.

At Promises Brazos Valley, we are dedicated to helping you maximize these odds. Our approach combines proven therapeutic techniques with a supportive and compassionate environment, ensuring you have the tools and care you need to thrive on your recovery journey.

How can a relapse prevention plan help?

A relapse prevention plan is a vital resource for achieving long-term sobriety and avoiding setbacks in recovery. It helps individuals identify potential triggers, understand the root causes of their substance use, and develop personalized strategies to cope with challenges. This process includes adopting healthier alternatives, building emotional resilience, and creating a dependable support network of loved ones, therapists, and support groups. These tools provide a foundation of strength and guidance during times of vulnerability or crisis.

By addressing challenges proactively and equipping oneself with effective strategies and support, individuals can approach recovery with confidence and hope for lasting success.

If you’re worried about a loved one’s journey in addiction recovery, Promises Brazos Valley offers compassionate, evidence-based care that focuses on treating the whole person, not just the symptoms of addiction. Our team is here to support you every step of the way.

Tips to maintain long-term sobriety

Recovery from addiction is a lifelong journey, and maintaining long-term sobriety requires ongoing effort and dedication. While every person’s journey to sobriety may be different, there are some common tips that can help anyone in recovery stay on track. These include:

  • Seek support: Surround yourself with people who understand and can offer encouragement and accountability, like friends, family, support groups, or a therapist.
  • Practice self-care: Take care of yourself physically, mentally, and emotionally. This includes regular exercise, healthy eating, enough sleep, relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga, new hobbies, and setting healthy boundaries.
  • Identify triggers: Recognize situations, people, or emotions that may tempt you to drink or use drugs. Knowing your triggers helps you develop coping strategies and avoid relapse.
  • Create a relapse prevention plan: Work with a therapist or counselor to manage cravings and prevent relapse. This may include healthier coping methods, building a support system, and having a plan for cravings.
  • Address mental health issues: Many people with addiction also face mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, or trauma. Treating these issues is key to managing them and preventing relapse.

By implementing these strategies, you can build a strong foundation for long-term recovery. Taking proactive steps to address both addiction and underlying mental health issues fosters resilience and reduces the risk of relapse.

Maintain sobriety with Promises Brazos Valley in Texas

Overcoming addiction and maintaining sobriety is a deeply personal journey, and success rates can vary based on individual circumstances. However, with the right support and resources, long-term recovery is absolutely achievable. At Promises Brazos Valley, we are committed to walking alongside you every step of the way, offering the tools and compassionate care you need to build a sober, fulfilling life.

Our experienced team provides evidence-based treatment tailored to address the unique challenges of addiction. Whether you or someone you love is struggling, know that help is available. Connect with Promises Brazos Valley online or call us directly at 979.426.0086.

Footnote:

  1. PubMed Central. “Rates and predictors of relapse after natural and treated remission from alcohol use disorders.” Accessed April 15 2025.

Scroll to Top
CHAT WITH US
GET HELP NOW