Just as everything else in our lives has been monumentally changed due to the rise of the technology era, so has the world of recovery. New tools are steadily becoming a solid implementation of many recovery programs around the world.
Technology has clearly changed the way doctors and patients interact in every realm of medicine, and addiction recovery is no exception to the shift. Not only do addicts now have a slew of recovery tools at their fingertips, but mental health professionals now have new and improved ways to better evaluate a patient’s mental well-being.
Take a moment to read through this short summary of a few of the most effective ways that technology can help those struggling from addiction to get and stay clean.
Mobile apps for our handheld devices
There are a wide array of mobile applications available to accompany addicts on their road to recovery. Here are a few of the most popular suggestions:
Twelve Steps – The Companion – One of the very first recovery apps that actually gained momentum, The Companion contains a copy of the Big Book and several other tools. Meditation buddies, a sobriety calculator, and a meeting finder make this app an all-around useful tech tool for those seeking a sober lifestyle.
Mindfulness Meditation – Mindfulness is a large part of the behavioral therapy used by many treatment facilities, and this application will help users consciously set aside time each day for scheduled mediation.
Sober Grid – Social networking for the recovery community is finally here. Sober Grid is the addict’s equivalent to Facebook. Find sober supporters closeby, and meet for coffee.
Find and join a supportive sober community
Technology and the internet, in particular, have revolutionized the way in which the sober community communicates with one another. AA, NA, or CA participants can set up virtual meetings online through the support of Skype and other mobile communication programs.
There is no longer an exception to miss a meeting when someone is not feeling well, because there is no longer a mandate to leave the comfort of home. Just set up the computer, and find a virtual meeting. If nothing more, sit and listen to the encouragement of others.
Set passwords to reinforce sobriety
The true nature of technology is passwords galore. Try letting technology be a reminder of the progress that has been made. Set important passwords to something that will boost morale. For example, “sobersincemay” or “serenitycouragewisdom” are phrases that will consistently be a reminder of sobriety and progress.
Smartphone breathalyzers are a thing
Not that a person who is truly sober would need a tool such as this, but it is entirely possible to transform a regular old smartphone into a high tech breathalyzer. A small device that reads alcohol content levels in our breath is plugged into the phone’s headphone jack. Take a deep breath, and blow!