Understanding recovery in addiction: A thematic analysis of individuals' perspectives in treatment

Abstract

Objective: The primary objective of this study was to examine how individuals undergoing active addiction treatment conceptualize the meaning of recovery and to identify key recovery indicators through a holistic perspective based on their subjective experiences. Methods: A qualitative research design was employed with 67 male participants enrolled in a residential treatment program through written responses to two open-ended questions. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis to identify core themes and codes related to the meaning of recovery and its reflections across various life domains. Results: The study findings are organized under two main themes, "The Meaning of Treatment" and "Indicators of Recovery," comprising a total of 30 sub-themes. The results demonstrate that recovery is a multidimensional process of "reconstruction" occurring across six primary domains: physical, cognitive, affective, behavioral, social, and moral. Within the physical domain, regaining health and improvements in physical appearance emerged as key indicators; in the cognitive domain, developing insight into understanding addiction and self-awareness were identified. The affective domain highlighted emotion regulation skills and self-compassion, while the behavioral domain emphasized the establishment of a structured life routine and avoidance of risky environments. In the social domain, the restoration of familial bonds and establishing healthy communication were central, whereas the moral domain defined honesty and taking responsibility as fundamental components of the effort to "become a better person." Ultimately, these findings illustrate that the recovery journey represents an integrative maturation process, shifting the focus from clinical symptom management toward the reclamation of a meaningful and virtuous identity within society. Conclusion: This study reveals that recovery in addiction is not merely the cessation of substance use but a multidimensional process of reconstruction. The findings indicate that recovery possesses a broad and inclusive framework extending from the physical to the moral domain. It is suggested that future academic studies and clinical practices should take this diversity and multidimensional structure into account to better meet the holistic needs of individuals.