14 Jul 2025

Recovery is not a straight line—whether you’re brand new to sobriety or years into your journey, it's normal to hit difficult patches. If you’re feeling like things are slipping, know this: you are not alone, and there are practical, compassionate steps you can take to get back on track.

In this blog, we’ll explore what you can do if you’re struggling in recovery and the available options that can offer a timely, affordable, and transformative space to recalibrate, reconnect, and recharge.

Why Recovery Feels Hard Sometimes

According to the UK’s Office for National Statistics (2024), more than 310,863 adults in contact with drug and alcohol services in England are seeking help to maintain or regain sobriety. The reality? Many face relapse—not because they’re weak, but because recovery is a process that requires ongoing care, support, and structure.

As Ricky Bolden, General Manager at Harmony House who is in recovery himself, explains:

“Early recovery often brings a sense of emotional and psychological vulnerability. This is why a structured, nurturing, and professionally guided setting is critical.”

Common Struggles in Early and Ongoing Recovery:

  • Emotional overwhelm and unresolved trauma
  • Loss of routine, purpose, or structure
  • Feelings of isolation or disconnection
  • Relationship stress or guilt
  • Unrealistic expectations of immediate success

Signs That You Might Need a Reboot

Recovery doesn’t always mean moving forward without setbacks. It’s about recognising when you need to pause and reset. Look out for signs like:

  • Skipping meetings or disengaging with aftercare
  • Withdrawing from friends or family
  • Losing interest in hobbies or goals
  • Craving or fantasising about using
  • Feeling hopeless or overwhelmed

These signs are not failures—they're signals. And responding early can prevent a full relapse.

Practical Steps You Can Take Now

If you're feeling unsteady in recovery, here are some immediate actions to help stabilise:

1. Reach Out for Help

Isolation can be a major trigger. Call a trusted friend, reach out to peer support such as a sponsor, or professional. Recovery thrives in connection.

2. Revisit the Basics

Attend a fellowship meeting such as Alcoholics Anonymous, write in your journal, practise mindfulness, or revisit your personal recovery plan.

3. Get Honest with Yourself

As Ricky Bolden notes:

“Recovery requires more than just abstaining from substances; it involves confronting deeply buried truths, emotional pain, and past wounds.”

Acknowledging these truths is the first step to healing them.

4. Reset Your Environment

If your surroundings are contributing to stress or temptation, consider a change. This could mean stepping back from certain social circles or even temporarily relocating to a supportive space.

Why Harmony House Might Be the Answer

Sometimes the most powerful move you can make in recovery is stepping into a nurturing environment that offers both structure and empathy. Harmony House, a partner of Rehabs UK, is a recovery retreat that may be suitable for those who need a little help or guidance to stay on track.

Recovery retreats do not provide detox services; however, detox can be arranged either at home or through another treatment centre prior to transferring to Harmony House.

Ricky Bolden General Manager describes it as:

“A cost-effective, supportive retreat where recovery is grounded in compassion, professional care, and real-life experience.”

What Harmony House Offers:

Safe, Trauma-Informed Support

The team understands how deeply trauma impacts addiction—and recovery. Their trauma-informed care meets you where you are, with dignity and empathy.

A Bespoke, Holistic Programme

Harmony House integrates:

  • Life coaching
  • 12-step facilitation
  • Personal development groups focused on neuroscience, emotional intelligence, and behavioural change
  • One-on-one life coaching sessions

These elements foster resilience, self-awareness, and lasting recovery capital—internal and external resources proven to support long-term sobriety.

Peer-Led and Professionally Guided

With both trained professionals and mentors with lived experience, the support at Harmony House is grounded in genuine understanding.

“We’ve walked the early, uncertain steps of recovery and have crossed the bridge into stable, fulfilling lives,” says Bolden.

Freedom and Flexibility

Unlike many traditional institutions, clients at Harmony House can use laptops and phones, helping them maintain business or family connections while healing. This modern approach supports individuals in adjusting to life after treatment, making reintegration smoother and more realistic.

A Community That Gets It

Whether it’s beach walks, shared meals, or group sessions, the retreat encourages connection over isolation.

“We aim to create a collective spirit of ‘we are in this together,’” says Bolden.

Real Recovery, Real Results

Bolden shares a powerful example of one client's transformation:

“One gentleman who had struggled with alcohol for nearly 40 years came to us after a traumatic childhood. With our support, he finally found clarity and healing. Now six months sober, he’s reconnecting with family, attending meetings, and thriving.”

This is the kind of change that happens when you find the right environment for recovery.

Final Thoughts: You Don’t Have to Go It Alone

Recovery can be overwhelming—but you’re never beyond help. Whether you’re newly sober or just feel like you’re losing your grip, take it as a sign: it’s time to recalibrate, not give up.

Harmony House is here to help you do just that—with compassion, structure, community, and tools that last.

“We don’t just tell you recovery is possible—we show you,” says Bolden.

Learn More About Harmony House

If you’re feeling lost or just need time and space to get back on track, Harmony House might be the perfect place to start again with confidence and care.

Get in touch with our Treatment Advisors to learn more about the benefits of a recovery retreat compared to rehab, and find out whether Harmony House is the right choice for you or your loved one.

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