Relapse doesn't always begin with a drink or a drug. Sometimes it starts with a thought: “Maybe I can just have one.” Or a change in behavior, like avoiding phone calls, canceling plans, or telling everyone you're fine when you're not.

In this episode of AAC Thrive: Doing Life in Recovery, we're joined by Maddie, Alumni Coordinator at Desert Hope Treatment Center, to talk about recognizing the relapse mindset before it leads back to substance use.

Maddie shares warning signs she's experienced in her own recovery, how to tell the difference between a bad day and a concerning pattern, and practical ways to interrupt those patterns before they escalate.

From recognizing the excuses we tell ourselves to reaching out when isolation feels easier, this conversation is about catching the warning signs early and knowing what to do next.

Whether you're in recovery or supporting someone who is, this episode is worth a listen.

AAC Thrive: Doing Life in Recovery is a podcast from American Addiction Centers' Alumni Community, where we have honest conversations about what recovery really looks like after treatment. Subscribe for new episodes and share this one with someone who could use the reminder that recovery doesn't take a vacation.

Rebuilding trust after addiction isn’t only about earning back the trust of family and friends. It can also mean learning to trust yourself again.

In this episode of AAC Thrive: Doing Life in Recovery, Melina talks about what happens to self-trust during addiction and how it can be rebuilt through small, consistent actions in recovery. She also gets into the harder side of rebuilding relationships: what to do when loved ones still don’t trust you, why communication matters, how healthy boundaries can create a sense of safety, and why trust can’t be rushed.

If you’re working to rebuild trust in recovery—or you love someone who is—this conversation offers a practical look at what that process can actually take.

AAC Thrive: Doing Life in Recovery is a podcast from American Addiction Centers' Alumni Community, where we have honest conversations about what recovery really looks like after treatment. Subscribe for new episodes and share this one with someone who could use the reminder that recovery doesn't take a vacation.

Can you enjoy summer without putting your recovery at risk?

In this episode of AAC Thrive, we talk about navigating vacations, barbecues, weddings, and other summer events without losing sight of your recovery. Melina, one of our alumni coordinators who is in long-term recovery herself, shares practical advice for planning, setting boundaries, handling social pressure, and remembering that protecting your recovery is never something you have to apologize for.

AAC Thrive: Doing Life in Recovery is a podcast from American Addiction Centers' Alumni Community, where we have honest conversations about what recovery really looks like after treatment. Subscribe for new episodes and share this one with someone who could use the reminder that recovery doesn't take a vacation.

In this episode of AAC Thrive, Mike Diamond explores the role of gratitude, resilience, and intentional action in recovery. He challenges the idea of “luck” and explains why lasting growth comes from consistent daily choices, self-awareness, and connection with others.

Listeners will learn practical strategies for cultivating emotional resilience, celebrating small wins, and using gratitude to stay grounded while navigating life’s challenges. Whether you’re new to recovery or have years of sobriety, this episode offers insights for building a strong, sustainable, and fulfilling life.

AAC Thrive: Doing Life in Recovery is a podcast from American Addiction Centers' Alumni Community, where we have honest conversations about what recovery really looks like after treatment. Subscribe for new episodes and share this one with someone who could use the reminder that recovery doesn't take a vacation.

What does self-love really mean in recovery? In this episode, we explore the differences among self-love, selfishness, and self-sabotage, and why caring for yourself is essential to protecting your sobriety.

We discuss the honesty and accountability recovery requires, the discomfort many people feel when they hear the word "self-love," and how setting healthy boundaries can help you break patterns such as people-pleasing and negative self-talk. From small daily acts of self-care to choosing your healing one decision at a time, this conversation is a reminder that recovery isn’t about perfection; it’s about learning to value yourself and your future.

If you’ve ever struggled to believe you’re worthy of recovery, this episode is for you.

AAC Thrive: Doing Life in Recovery is a podcast from American Addiction Centers' Alumni Community, where we have honest conversations about what recovery really looks like after treatment. Subscribe for new episodes and share this one with someone who could use the reminder that recovery doesn't take a vacation.

Resolutions can feel exciting… until they fail. In this episode of AAC Thrive, Mike Diamond explains why setting intentions—rather than resolutions—can transform your recovery journey.

Discover how to:

• Set purpose-driven intentions that guide your actions every day.
• Navigate obstacles without shame or guilt.
• Avoid the “destination disease” of chasing results instead of growth.
• Align daily actions with your values and why.

Recovery isn’t about starting over; it helps you move forward with direction, flexibility, and self-compassion. Learn how to create meaningful, lasting change in your life and your recovery.

Download, listen, and find a new way to approach your goals this year because intentions empower progress, not pressure.

AAC Thrive: Doing Life in Recovery is a podcast from American Addiction Centers' Alumni Community, where we have honest conversations about what recovery really looks like after treatment. Subscribe for new episodes and share this one with someone who could use the reminder that recovery doesn't take a vacation.

The holidays can be joyful but also stressful, emotional, and full of triggers. In this episode of AAC Thrive, Mike Diamond shares practical tips for staying grounded, protecting your peace, and maintaining sobriety through the season. From setting boundaries and planning to leaning on your support system, this episode helps you navigate the holidays with intention, gratitude, and connection.

AAC Thrive: Doing Life in Recovery is a podcast from American Addiction Centers' Alumni Community, where we have honest conversations about what recovery really looks like after treatment. Subscribe for new episodes and share this one with someone who could use the reminder that recovery doesn't take a vacation.

Mike Diamond dives into why recovery can’t happen alone. Addiction isolates, but connection rebuilds. Community gives you support, accountability, and people who truly understand your journey. One bad meeting doesn’t mean the whole system is broken. It means you haven’t found your people yet.

He highlights the power of mentors (both direct and indirect), reminding us that “success leaves clues” and that modeling healthy behavior creates a roadmap for growth. He also shares how unexpected moments—even online connections—can become lifelines.

Keep showing up, stay open, and let community carry you when you can’t carry yourself. Recovery is built one day at a time, and the right people make the path possible.

AAC Thrive: Doing Life in Recovery is a podcast from American Addiction Centers' Alumni Community, where we have honest conversations about what recovery really looks like after treatment. Subscribe for new episodes and share this one with someone who could use the reminder that recovery doesn't take a vacation.