Natural Recovery

The concept of natural recovery is not a new one in the addictions field and is synonymous with terms such as self-change, spontaneous remission, maturing out, and natural remission. Collectively, these terms refer to the resolution of addiction without formal treatment. There has been continued debate among addictions experts about the utility of promoting natural recovery as an alternative to formal treatment or support groups. Traditionally, the disease model approach dominated the field and proponents asserted that in the absence of treatment, addictions were progressive and irreversible. Advocates of natural recovery argue that many people quit addictions without seeking help. Moreover, they argue that abstinence-based philosophies deter many people from seeking treatment and promote a false belief [Page 627]that moderation is not possible. In the ...