What is the working definition of recovery?

The definition that identifies recovery as a "process of change through which individuals improve their health and wellness" is particularly accurate because it emphasizes recovery as a dynamic and ongoing journey rather than a finite destination. This approach acknowledges the multifaceted nature of recovery, which includes not only the alleviation of symptoms but also the enhancement of overall well-being, personal growth, and the acquisition of a fulfilling life.

This definition reflects current understanding in the field of mental health and substance use recovery, where the focus is on individual empowerment, resilience, and self-directed change. It allows for a broad interpretation that can encompass various pathways to recovery, recognizing that individuals may experience setbacks and progress differently over time, thereby fostering a holistic understanding of health.

In contrast, other definitions may limit recovery's interpretation. For instance, describing recovery merely as a "state of permanent healing" suggests an unrealistic and binary view of health, overlooking the fact that recovery can be non-linear and may involve ongoing challenges. Additionally, defining recovery strictly as a "method for managing mental illness with medication" reduces it to a singular approach, ignoring the diverse strategies and supports that can aid in the recovery process. Lastly, framing recovery as "a program for people who have completed treatment" implies exclusivity and overlooks the