Soberversary – The Trend Helping Destigmatize Addiction and Recovery

In recent years, there have been many strides taken to help destigmatize addiction and recovery. The Americans with Disabilities Act was extended to include substance use disorders and terminology within the industry has shifted from terms like “substance abuse” to “substance misuse.” Another meaningful way people are helping to destigmatize substance use is by honoring sobriety anniversaries and milestones in recovery.

What Is a Soberversary?

An emerging trend with a growing social media presence is the concept of the “soberversary,” or sobriety anniversary. While the concept of a sober anniversary is nothing new, celebration of this sobriety milestone is not something those in recovery have wanted to publicly share due to shame and ongoing discrimination.

The decision to pursue recovery is one with a shot clock attached. It can be influenced by prevalent barriers to treatment access and thoughts like, “one more time before I enter treatment” often leading to fatalities. To not only successfully enter recovery but also maintain sobriety despite the many stressors that accompany life in the present day is a feat of commitment that deserves recognition.

Soberversaries lend dignity and respect to those in recovery. The stigma that has long followed addiction recovery is being actively shed by younger generations accustomed to sharing everything about themselves, both good and complicated. The anonymity that many used to seek no longer serves many individuals in addiction treatment and recovery.

Celebration of Sobriety Milestones

Younger generations are driving this shift to public celebration of addiction recovery milestones and destigmatization. Celebrities are also leveraging their platforms to promote authenticity and celebrate sobriety. Examples include:

• Singer Miley Cyrus has been open about her own journey, revealing her decision to get sober was influenced by her vocal cord surgery in 2020.
• Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps has been open about his struggles with depression and substance use, and has become an outspoken advocate for mental health and addiction recovery.
• Recently, actor Tom Holland has been publicly discussing his decision to become sober, launching a premium non-alcoholic beer brand in 2024.

For many people, keeping track of how long they have been in recovery is both a cause for celebration and a solemn occasion. It can bring feelings of accomplishment, regret, and past traumas. Soberversaries are evidence of how far a person has come and can be a complicated and emotional process.

How to Celebrate Sobriety

The way to celebrate one’s soberversary is deeply personal, and there is no one way to do so. For some, it may look like treating yourself to something, for others it might be spending time with loved ones. For others still, it might be a more solitary occasion for reflection or meditation. Soberversary options across this range include:

• Host a Sober Celebration: Gather friends and family for a fun, substance-free event that honors your recovery journey.
• Give Back to Others: Volunteer, mentor someone in recovery, or share your story to inspire and support your community.
• Try Something New: Mark the occasion by exploring a new hobby, creative project, or travel adventure.
• Prioritize Self-Care: Reconnect with your well-being by setting new health goals, whether through exercise, meditation, or better sleep.

However you chose to recognize the achievements that accompany entering and maintaining recovery, know they are valid.

If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, call the New England Recovery Center today at 1-877-MyRehab, or contact us here.