Managing Substance Use in the New Year

Behavioral health experts say this is often when people benefit most from realistic goal setting, self-compassion, and support. That need for support is more widespread than many people realize. According to the 2024 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, about 48.4 million Americans age 12 and older, or roughly one in six people, experienced a substance use disorder in the past year. 

For people navigating substance use and recovery, those numbers represent real individuals trying to make meaningful change, often during moments of transition like the start of a new year. 

According to Tanya Hoy, Clinical Substance Use Disorder Coordinator with Aspirus Health, the New Year often represents a symbolic reset. However, unrealistic expectations can make long-term change harder to maintain. 

“People are looking for a calendar day to reset, and that’s where we sometimes see trouble,” Hoy said. “Big goals are great, but it’s important that they’re realistic and obtainable. That’s what helps people actually succeed.” 

Hoy works with individuals across all stages of recovery and emphasizes that progress rarely follows a straight line. Many people move back and forth through different stages of change as they learn more about themselves and their relationship with substances. 

“Before you address the ‘how,’ you really have to address the ‘why,’” Hoy said. “Once someone understands their relationship with addiction, they’re better able to manage triggers and continue making progress in a sustainable way.” 

As the weeks go on, stressors can resurface, and setbacks may occur. This is a common and expected part of recovery. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, relapse rates for people in recovery from a substance use disorder are generally estimated to be between forty and sixty percent, similar to relapse rates for other chronic health conditions. Hoy emphasizes that a lapse does not mean failure or erase progress. 

“When there’s a lapse or a slip, it’s not starting over,” she said. “It’s picking back up, figuring out what you learned, and moving forward. Recovery may feel heavy and hard, but it is obtainable. You’re worth it, and you can do it.” 

Reframing recovery to focus on what becomes possible, rather than only on what someone is giving up, can also help reduce pressure and support long-term progress. 

Hoy notes that if someone is questioning their substance use, feeling stuck, or noticing old patterns returning, it may be time to reach out for help. Recovery does not have to be navigated alone, and early support can make a meaningful difference. 

To learn more about Aspirus Behavioral Health services, visit aspirus.org/mental-health-treatment-counseling or talk with your primary care provider about behavioral health support.