What it Means to be a Recovery Advocate

It seems like every family has been affected by substance abuse in some capacity. For many of us, it's a parent, spouse, child, or even a friend who has suffered from drug or alcohol addiction. Seeing firsthand the effects of addiction, though, often encourages us to help our loved ones be a guiding light for those lost in the darkness of addiction. This is where the role of a recovery advocate becomes essential.

Recovery advocates play a crucial role in providing hope, resources, and support to both individuals in recovery and their families. They raise awareness, fight stigma, and help bridge the gap between those struggling and the treatment options available. Their advocacy not only creates pathways to recovery but also reminds people that they are not alone, which can be the turning point for someone seeking help. The work of recovery advocates is critical in building supportive communities, empowering individuals, and inspiring long-term recovery.

So Why Recovery Advocacy?

Recovery advocacy is about being the voice for those who can't speak for themselves, which is precisely what led our guest to dedicate a lifetime to fighting for policies that ensure everyone has access to the proper treatment they need. Recovery advocates focus on changing systems—whether at a legislative level or within the community—so that people struggling with addiction have better access to resources, support, and understanding.

Through tireless efforts, recovery advocates influence policies, educate the public, and provide a necessary bridge between the treatment field and those who need it the most. In this conversation , Sherri Layton and George Joseph discuss the importance of advocacy in addiction recovery, including the impact of laws like the federal parity law, the value of building relationships with legislators, and bridging the gap for new advocates and counselors. They both offer actionable insights for those interested in becoming addiction counselors or getting involved in advocacy, ultimately aiming to inspire more professionals to join and support the cause.

Get to Know Our Guest

Sherri Layton , LCDC, CCS, AADC, began working in addiction treatment in 1977. Sherri didn't initially set out to pursue recovery advocacy as her lifetime passion. But when she landed her summer job at the Houston International Hospital working on the drugs and alcohol substance unit, she instantly knew she wanted to make a difference in people's lives.

In 1992, Sherri began working for La Hacienda Treatment Center. Now, she is semi-retired, acting as the coordinator for La Hacienda's advocacy efforts, and is a powerhouse regarding recovery advice. She serves both statewide and nationally as Director of Public Policy and is Co-Chair of NAADAC 's Public Policy Committee. She also serves on NAATP 's Public Policy Committee and is on the Board of Directors for Texas' Association of Substance Abuse Programs .

Encouraging Others to Become Recovery Advocates

Becoming a recovery advocate is a powerful way to make an impact in your community and beyond. By stepping up and lending your voice to the cause, you can help ensure that those battling addiction get the resources and support they need to recover. Recovery advocacy isn't limited to seasoned professionals; anyone with a passion for change can get involved. Whether it’s through educating others about the realities of addiction, working to reform policies, or simply being a supportive presence for someone in recovery, every effort counts.

Advocacy doesn’t just change the lives of those struggling with addiction—it reshapes communities and empowers future generations to live healthier, more fulfilling lives. As more individuals become involved in recovery advocacy, the movement continues to grow, breaking down barriers and erasing stigma.?

Current Issues and Legislative Efforts for Recovery Advocacy

Recovery advocacy is essential in addressing systemic barriers that limit access to effective treatment. One key issue advocates are working on is improving insurance coverage for addiction recovery, ensuring mental health and substance abuse treatments are equally covered. Legislative efforts focus on policies like the federal parity law, which aims to eliminate disparities in treatment accessibility. Recovery advocates also push for increased funding for addiction services and greater public awareness to break the stigma, ultimately helping to create a more inclusive, supportive environment for those in need of recovery.

Helping Restore Families from the Disease of Addiction

One of the most important things to remember about addiction is that it is not just an individual struggle—it is a family disease that affects every member. Just as a family will make lifestyle changes if an individual is diagnosed with physical ailments like cancer or diabetes, addiction requires similar adjustments. Recovery advocates play a vital role in guiding families through these changes, helping them support their loved one's sobriety while also healing themselves. Advocates can help rebuild the strong family foundation crucial for long-term success by fostering open communication and encouraging family involvement in recovery.

A proactive way to help restore families from the disease of addiction is by emphasizing family involvement within treatment programs. Through family workshops and group therapy, there are tools readily available to families to help heal strained relationships and foster understanding of the disease of addiction, as well as help the individual recover from their addiction.?

Recovery advocates support families by assisting them in recognizing addiction's impact and equipping them with strategies to rebuild trust, set boundaries, and support their loved ones in recovery. By restoring family connections, advocates help create a more stable and supportive environment for long-term sobriety.

Loved This Conversation? We've Got More Like This One!

If you loved this conversation and want to learn more about helping families heal from the disease of addiction or current issues and legislative efforts for recovery advocacy, you can listen to the full episode , or you can connect with Sherri Layton on LinkedIn !

Want access to more Positive Recovery MD podcasts ? Subscribe today wherever you listen to your favorite shows - simply tap this link to find your preferred channel!