The definition of sobriety is a state of complete abstinence from all substances by an addicted individual, in combination with a satisfactory quality of life. As you can see by the definition, sobriety is not just abstinence from drugs and alcohol, but it also entails enjoying your life without the use of substances. This may seem unachievable to the addict who still suffers, but it is possible. WE DO RECOVER. Abstinence is the first step to addiction recovery because the person needs a clear mind. Once the addict has become abstinent for a period of time, many emotions that have been numbed for so long return. This can be a scary process because it is not what you are used to, but through help from others, addicts and alcoholics learn how to live again. They learn how to change their behaviors they may have developed during their use, which helps them begin to live a normal life again in our society.