Finding consistent and reliable continuing care after leaving rehab can be a challenge. Once you leave treatment, you may feel that finding helpful resources are a challenge. However, addiction recovery apps may be the answer to relapse prevention. With an overwhelming number of Americans having access to smartphones, finding the best app to help with your substance use disorder is easier than ever.
Why addiction recovery apps help
Over 20 million Americans are struggling with addiction, but only 1 in 10 will receive treatment due to “significant holes in America’s health care system.” This epidemic spawned the 2016 report “Facing Addiction in America: The Surgeon General’s Report on Alcohol, Drugs and Health.” The report specifically advocated for the need to “capitalize on current technologies” in addiction recovery.
In 2017, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration promoted the smartphone app Reset. This tool was created as an “example of how innovative digital technologies can help provide patients access to additional tools during their treatment.”
Having access to more resources such as mobile apps means having more tools to fight substance use and abuse. It also means having another layer of support for recovery from addiction.
Let’s look at how they help:
They are low-cost
Although some apps include additional features you must pay for, many are are inexpensive or even free. Most have reasonably affordable subscription options.
While you shouldn’t rely on smartphone apps to spearhead your recovery, you might find that they offset the cost of more expensive treatment options.
They are available around the clock
Perhaps you have a busy schedule and can’t make weekly therapist visits. Or maybe your meeting at work ran long and now you can’t make it to AA on time.
Using an app can provide vital support when you find yourself too busy. You can also talk to other people in recovery nearby, read The Big Book or even connect to a therapist online.
They offer privacy
If you’re at a stage of recovery where you’re uncomfortable getting help in person, many apps are designed to keep you anonymous. You can connect with others without having to reveal any identifying information.
Best addiction recovery apps
Apps can be a valuable complement to your drug and alcohol addiction treatment. Or they may be the kickstart you need to begin your treatment journey.
When you’re ready for digital support, check out one (or more!) of our top 5 addiction recovery apps:
#1: Sober Grid
Price: free to download; in-app purchases range from $0.99 – $40.00
Rating: 4.7
Available on iPhone and Android
Sober Grid describes itself as the “world’s most popular mobile sober community.” The foundation of Sober Grid is its newsfeed. You can report on your status with a check-in or send out a notification that alerts others you need support.
You can also track and share your progress, perform daily quests and earn badges. Sober Grid uses location sharing as well. This allows you to immediately find other sober people near you.
However, you can stay private if you wish. The app also has features including a sobriety counter and 24/7 peer recovery coaching.
#2: I Am Sober
Price: free to download; in-app purchases range from $4.99 – $49.99
Rating: 4.8
Available on iPhone and Android
I Am Sober claims to not only help track your sober days but also to support you build new, healthier habits. They help connect you to “people all striving for the same goal: staying sober one day at a time.”
You can also track how much money and time you’ve saved by not using, make daily pledges and motivations, share your journey and create actionable milestones. The app also partners with BetterHelp, an online counseling resource.
#3: Nomo
Price: free
Rating: 4.6
Available on iPhone and Android
Say “no more” to addiction with Nomo. Perhaps its most tantalizing feature is that it was designed by a recovering addict who understands the struggle.
The main component is the sobriety clock. This allows you to see your progress and share it with friends and family. Nomo tracks your streaks, money and time saved and milestones earned. You can also connect with an accountability partner and engage with an encouragement wall.
Nomo also includes an “activities refocus” feature to help keep your mind off cravings.
#4: AA Speakers + NA Speakers
Price: $0.99
Rating: 4.7
Available on iPhone (AA Speakers) and Android (AA Speakers and NA Speakers)
If you’re in Narcotics Anonymous or Alcoholics Anonymous, these apps can be helpful, especially when you can’t make a meeting. They give you access to recovery speakers, workshops and audiobooks.
You can also choose from over 300 worldwide speakers and listen to The Big Book to refocus on the 12 steps as well.
#5: rTribe
Price: free to download, in-app purchases ranging from $5.99 – $100.00
Rating: 4.6
Available on iPhone and Android
rTribe hopes to improve your mental health and stop addiction by connecting you to licensed therapists and certified coaches “combined with world-class peer support, accountability and analytic insights.”
You are matched with a therapist and can share progress with friends if you want. The app also includes daily meditations, daily motivational messages, private groups chats, courses, and blog posts.
We can help you
At The Blackberry Center, you will have the opportunity to begin the journey to lifelong recovery in our state-of-the-art facilities.
If you or one of your loved ones are struggling with addiction, we can help. We use a personalized approach to addiction treatment. Our focus is on treating the disease, not the symptoms. We put our patients first every step of the way.
Our substance abuse-only treatment programs include detox, residential and partial hospitalization program (PHP). Our on-site rehab programs focus on a comprehensive recovery approach. They address your physical, mental and spiritual needs for optimal wellness.
Your needs are unique. We treat you as such.
Reach out for help today
You may be struggling with long-term addiction. Or you may be fighting strong temptations. We can meet you where you are in your fight for sobriety.
We welcome you to our treatment center. From support groups to individual therapy treatment options, we are here to fight the battle with you.
Reach out to us online today. You can also call us at (813) 908-4199.