Defining Lengths of Sobriety

At the CR Model our participants enjoy celebrating various lengths of sobriety.   There are clear definitions of sobriety for Chemical Addiction, Sexual Addiction, Anger, Food Addiction, and Eating Disorders. There are many other areas of recovery that do not have a clear definition of sobriety; for example Co-dependency and Hurts, Hang-ups and Habits.  They all get to celebrate.

For co-dependency groups such as Adult Children of Alcoholic’s/Family Dysfunction, Co-Dependent in a Relationship with a Sexual Addicted Man, and Co-dependency; consider a definition of sobriety based on the solution.  For example:

The Solution:

Actively attended Large Group

Actively participated in Open Share Group 

Has a sponsor

Has accountability partner(s)

Actively participated in a Step Study Group (when available)

Active in CR Service

(Add additional items unique to your particular area of recovery. Be sure to keep it simple.)

These types of actions are evidence of recovery for those who struggle with co-dependency.  In addition, most people know in their hearts when they have lost their sobriety.  Often, it’s our very heart’s convictions that tell us when we need to change our sobriety date. I truly believe that individuals who are no longer in Denial, who are working an honest program, know in their hearts when they have relapsed.  Step 10 says, “We continued to take personal inventory and when we were wrong, promptly admitted it. “So if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t all? (1 Corinthians 10:12)

True sobriety starts at the beginning of your recovery journey.  If you’re not working a program you need to ask yourself are you really sober.  For example; an alcoholic or addict who stops drinking or using will continue in their symptomatic behavior if they’re not working a program. Real sobriety is evident by the steady progress that comes from working the principles one day at a time.

We don’t have to be experts on each area of recovery.  The bible clearly states “All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23).  Matthew 5:19 says, “Anyone who breaks one of the least of these commandments and teach others to do the same will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever practices and teaches these commands will be called great in the kingdom of heaven”  The good news is the gospel of Jesus Christ.  Surrendering our will and lives over to the care of Jesus on a daily basis is true lasting sobriety!

For a copy of our definitions of sobrieties, feel free to email me at, tinad@saddleback.com.

God Bless,

Tina Davis

National Training Coach