It might be hard to see the benefits of our chronic online engagement, but rapidly evolving technology and high-speed connection can support people entering residential treatment in Bayard for substance use disorder (SUD). Now more than ever, recovery apps can provide solutions for everyday challenges in recovery with accessible tools that motivate healthier habits.
Whether you’re working on reducing your marijuana use, addressing alcohol concerns, navigating cocaine recovery, or managing any other substance dependence, mobile apps might help you stay on track. In the meantime, contact us today to learn more about our evidence-backed SUD treatment services:
- Detox services, complete with round-the-clock care for individuals needing severe withdrawal management, medication management, and psychological care.
- Our Intensive outpatient program (IOP) in West Des Moines keeps clients educated, supported, and connected to their professional and recovery communities.
- Iowa-based equine therapy helps clients build self-esteem, sensitivity, and responsibility through the care of horses.
Why Use Recovery Apps?
When you use them responsibly, recovery apps can fill care gaps that many people in treatment face, such as a lack of support, sustainable reward systems for avoiding substances, and bite-sized educational resources. Another added advantage? Apps are generally available 24/7, customizable, and affordable. Here are some other benefits of recovery apps:
- Anonymous support
- Goal setting and tracking
- Daily affirmations and motivational content
- Access to peer communities
- Tools for managing triggers and cravings
- Educational resources for building coping skills
If these aspects feel helpful for your journey, keep reading to learn about popular substance-specific and general recovery apps.
Top 5 Free Recovery Apps
Below are five of the most accessible free recovery apps, their benefits and drawbacks, and who they may best support.
- The Only FDA-Approved Pear reSET-O App for Opioids: Pear reSET-O stands out as the only FDA-approved recovery app designed for opioid use disorder treatment. With a 12-week cognitive-behavioral therapy program, an integrated IOP, and a prescription requirement, the app is highly effective for those in professional care. Pear reSET-O may work best if you want a structured program with medical oversight and scientific backing.
- The I Am Sober App With Affirmations: I Am Sober provides powerful tools for tracking sobriety milestones and showing users exactly how much time has passed since they quit using substances. The app also lets you know how much you’ve saved in recovery to visualize the financial reward of treatment. It’s also a tool that assists people struggling with withdrawal symptoms, helping you to anticipate and prepare for symptoms you might experience during each detox phase.
- The Sober Grid Social Support App: Sober Grid offers a unique social networking experience just for people in recovery. You can connect with a community, share progress, and engage with peers 24/7. The app also provides live certified peer coaching for those needing extra guidance at an additional cost. This platform is ideal for people who thrive in social settings and seek immediate support during difficult moments.
- The Quitzilla Habit-Tracking App: Quitzilla helps users track progress across multiple habits, combining recovery milestones with motivational messages. Although not strictly designed for substance use, its focus on habit-building makes it a helpful tool for anyone looking to improve overall lifestyle habits as well as people supporting others in recovery. With its broad focus, Quitzilla may be best suited for those in our family program.
- The SoberTool Craving Management App: SoberTool provides real-time, interactive support for managing cravings and offers advice for emotional balance and coping skills tailored to your mood. The app’s targeted advice helps you navigate your bad days with immediate strategies. This app is great if you need practical coping techniques on demand.
Key Features to Look for in a Recovery App
When choosing a recovery app, consider features that you feel complement what you’re doing in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or motivate healthy habit-building. Here are some examples:
- Customizable goals and reminders
- Peer support communities
- Emergency contact integration for crisis situations
- Meditation or mindfulness resources
- Journaling and self-reflection tools
- Educational content for building healthy habits
Even if you’re not ready to enter treatment, these apps can be a step in the right direction. Remember, any form of treatment can be beneficial for you or your loved one battling substance dependence, especially in the case of alcohol use disorder (AUD).
Recovery apps can supplement treatment and help you manage your substance use disorder. Selecting the right app depends on personal preferences, goals, and comfort level with digital tools, so start exploring apps today to find the best fit for your recovery path.
St. Gregory also offers the CaredFor app for all clients. This is our secure, online platform that allows our alumni to connect, engage, and support one another, while also staying in touch with St. Gregory Recovery Center. Inside CaredFor, alumni use a personalized dashboard that tracks sobriety time, provides articles and resource material, and provides support from recovery experts, including those at St. Gregory Recovery Center.
