Getting Sober vs. Being in RecoveryGetting Sober vs. Being in Recovery
Addiction Unlimited
Everything you need to know about why sobriety alone isn’t enough – and what real recovery actually looks like. Listen, I see this pattern ALL the time with the people I work with. They quit drinking, they think they’ve done the hard part,
27:39•21 Jan 2026
Sobriety vs. Recovery: The Real Work Begins
Episode Overview
- Sobriety is just the beginning; recovery is about healing.
- Confronting emotions is a crucial part of the recovery journey.
- Support systems are essential for successful recovery.
- Recovery involves developing new coping skills.
- Building a compassionate inner voice is key to healing.
“"The good news about recovery is you get your feelings back. The bad news about recovery is you get your feelings back."”
What does it really mean to be in recovery rather than just sober? In this episode of Addiction Unlimited, Angela Pugh, a professional coach and recovering alcoholic, unpacks the crucial distinction between getting sober and truly embracing recovery. With a no-nonsense approach, Angela highlights that sobriety is just the beginning—a prerequisite for the deeper work of healing. Drawing on her conversation with Michael Z, an experienced AA advocate, she reveals the common misconception that quitting alcohol is the hard part.
Instead, the real challenge lies in confronting the emotions and life issues that resurface once the numbing effects of alcohol are removed. Angela discusses how many fall into the trap of expecting life to improve instantly after quitting drinking, only to be met with overwhelming feelings and unresolved problems. Michael Z's personal stories bring authenticity to the episode, illustrating that recovery is a transformative journey requiring new coping mechanisms and community support.
He shares his experience of hearing the voice of self-loathing even after years of sobriety and how building a new, compassionate voice was key to his healing. This episode is a call to action for anyone who feels stuck in the gap between sobriety and recovery. Angela encourages listeners to embrace the hard work of recovery, which involves developing new skills and finding support systems that resonate with their unique needs.
It's not about picking sides between different recovery paths but about finding what truly works for you. So, if you're ready to move beyond just quitting and into genuine healing, this episode offers invaluable insights and encouragement.
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