Making Decisions in Recovery: From Surviving to Thriving-Recording

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The webinar, "Making Decisions in Recovery: From Surviving to Thriving," focuses on the impact of substance use on decision-making abilities and the critical role of rebuilding these skills in recovery. The workshop highlights the importance of prioritizing choices, creating plans, and setting personal goals, which are integral to empowerment and long-term recovery success. The presenter, Andrea Gatsko, explains how addiction impairs judgment due to changes in the brain, affecting reward systems and decision-making capabilities. The concept of neuroplasticity is introduced, emphasizing the brain's ability to adapt and reorganize itself, which is key to recovery. This adaptability implies that with intentional mental training and behavioral changes, the brain can rewire itself to support healthier decision-making processes.<br /><br />Discussion during the webinar also touched on the importance of creating interdisciplinary support teams, both professional and personal, and the concept of recovery capital, which includes resources that improve the quality of life in recovery. The session also addressed the concept of decision fatigue in recovery and strategies to manage it, highlighting the significance of visualizing success and practicing decision-making in ways that strengthen the brain further. Participants engaged with practical questions about balancing decision-making with self-advocacy and client autonomy. The overarching message was about hope, the potential for recovery, and the importance of connection and supportive environments in catalyzing long-term change.

Keywords

decision-making

substance use

recovery

neuroplasticity

addiction

brain

judgment

support teams

recovery capital

decision fatigue

self-advocacy

client autonomy

Andrea Gatsko