New research shows ‘one day at a time approach’ is effective for addicts

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Each day can be a battle for those struggling with alcoholism. But Rajita Sinha, PhD and professor of psychiatry at Yale School of Medicine, wants people to understand taking things one day at a time–as cliché as it may sound–is perhaps one of the best approaches to substance abuse recovery. 

“Our study carefully monitored how many days individuals were abstinent when they entered treatment to initiate recovery,” Sinha told News 8. “And we know that high levels of chronic, heavy alcohol use impacts the brain, changes functionality and structure.”

Sinha discussed what’s called the “challenged brain,” why rewiring our neural circuitry is critical for sobriety and how just one day of abstinence can put a person on a successful path towards recovery. 

To see the full interview, click the video above.

News 8’s medical reporter, Dr. Mary Elizabeth Gillis, D.Ed., is a classically trained medical physiologist and biobehavioral research scientist. She has been a health, medical and science reporter for over 5 years. Her work has been featured in national media outlets. You can follow her on Instagram @reportergillis and Facebook @DrMaryGillis.