Describe the term "relational recovery."

Relational recovery refers to the concept that recovery from substance use disorder or mental health issues is significantly enhanced through the development and maintenance of relationships and social interactions. This approach recognizes that individuals are not isolated in their recovery journey and that their connections with others, such as peers, family members, and support networks, play a vital role in fostering resilience and healing.

By focusing on relationships, relational recovery promotes the idea that engaging with others can provide emotional support, motivation, and accountability, which are essential components for sustained recovery. Social interactions can help individuals feel understood, less alone, and more connected, all of which contribute positively to their recovery process.

This perspective contrasts with approaches that prioritize individual efforts or therapeutic techniques in isolation, as well as those that ignore the social contexts that influence recovery. In relational recovery, the emphasis is on building and nurturing connections that reinforce a person's commitment to their recovery journey.