Our purpose
Recovery from substance use is a journey. It’s part of a dynamic process that includes not only treatment, medication and therapy, but also a holistic approach that includes wellness, resilience and hope. Extension supports recovery by strengthening protective factors, building recovery capital and promoting long-term wellbeing for individuals, families and communities.
Through a team-based, community-partnered approach, Healthy Living Sustainable Recovery (HLSR) provides an evidence-informed connection between substance use, physical health and emotional wellbeing. Studies show that the ability to regulate mood, improve recovery and prevent relapse are directly influenced by common nutritional and physiological disturbances such as nutrient deficiencies, cravings, physical inactivity, insomnia, low energy and fatigue, disrupted eating patterns, weight and metabolism imbalances, dieting, blood sugar instability, and gut problems.
Since 2007, HLSR has complemented existing treatment and recovery services with practical, strength-based programming. This includes community education; professional development for clinical and correctional providers; and actionable tools, strategies, interventions and resources to help improve treatment outcomes and reduce relapse vulnerability. Our programming efforts support adults and adolescents across diverse recovery settings including prisons, jails, community treatment centers, schools, detention centers and specialty courts. Recognizing the growing trend in drug use among women and young girls, HLSR also incorporates unique programming efforts related to weight and body image concerns and eating pathology — areas often overlooked but essential to long-term recovery.
We are dedicated to fostering the success and well-being of our community through healthier lifestyles, stronger family support, financial education, improved nutrition and health, food security, and building resilience.
