Running for recovery: a powerful tool for a better life

By Thai PBS World Feature Desk

One of the most popular forms of physical activity, running offers both physical and mental health benefits, from keeping the body fit to improving sleep as well as helping to reduce stress and lift the mood. On top of that, it can also support long-term addiction recovery.

With this in mind, the Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB), together with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), the Raks Thai Foundation (RTF) and a nationwide community network recently organized a ‘Recovery Run’. Held at Suan Luang Rama IX in Bangkok’s Prawet District on June 14, the event was designed to encourage individuals who are abusing drugs and substances and those who are recovering from that abuse to engage in physical activity and exercise, which can help them get back on track with their health, relationships and goals in life.

The activity also aimed to create an understanding of addiction to help build a healthy social environment for individuals in recovery and end the social stigma around addiction, while promoting physical activity among the public.

With two types of races – 5 kilometres and 10 km – the fixture saw more than 1,200 individuals participating in the event including runners, sports enthusiasts and individuals who have maintained their sobriety.

“Healing the mind is very important for recovery. We have always supported all individuals who are recovering from misusing drugs and substances and who are also committed to kicking their addiction. Stay optimistic and keep persevering. Better times are ahead,” said the ONCB’s secretary general Pol Maj Suriya Singhakamol, urging the family and the public to give them full support throughout their recovery journey.

He was speaking while presiding over the race’s opening ceremony and also took part in the run.

Proceeds from the event go to the RTF and communities that have arranged activities that support individuals with drug and substance use, as well as those in recovery, to help them re-enter society.

Stopping the stigma

The journey of individuals facing substance abuse towards a new future can be tough, even after getting treatment. One of the biggest barriers to addiction recovery is social stigma.

“Many individuals who just got out of a rehab program are facing it. We have been working hard to raise awareness and educate the public about drug addiction through events. We hope that the Recovery Run would help keep them physically, mentally and emotionally, while rebuilding the confidence and improving self-esteem during their recovery from addiction,” said Pol Maj Suriya, adding that successful recovery stems from balance of mind, body and spirit.

Benedikt Hofmann, the UNODC’s deputy regional representative for Southeast Asia and the Pacific, said it’s important to give individuals in recovery a chance and support what they need to become effective and productive members of society.

The ONCB’s deputy secretary general Areepak Ngoenbumrung noted that social stigma can seriously impact the lives of people with addiction and individuals in recovery and can make the road to recovery much harder.

“Everyone fails. Those with a history of addiction can always get back up after a fall. We need to support them to make them both mentally and emotionally strong and let them rise again,” she said.

Areepak urged the family and the public to learn more about addiction and understand what individuals in recovery are going through, which can help break down the stigma and create a more supportive environment to help individuals in recovery feel safe and accepted.

“Many people have negative thoughts about addiction simply because they don’t understand it. We hope that this event can create a welcoming environment for someone who is recovering and make recovery possible for them,” she said.

Recovery specialist Kanda Chuaymuang noted that individuals who have received treatment for drug and substance abuse only to relapse have faced strong social stigma.

“Quitting drugs is a bit like addicts are walking across a hot desert, with no water to drink. It makes them feel exhausted and weak. Let us be an oasis of support and healing that enables them to rebuild self-esteem and shine again,” she said.

Creating a supportive environment

Social support affects addiction recovery. Connecting with others at social events, for instance, in sports or games allows individuals in recovery to develop new relationships and have an opportunity to receive emotional support, which helps boost mental health and makes them feel less stigmatized.

Dr. Sarayuth Boonchaipanitwattana, director of the Princess Mother National Institute on Drug Abuse Treatment, noted that people who have completed a drug or alcohol rehab programme can start their recovery journey and rebuild their life in order to return to society.

“Support, especially from the family throughout the treatment process and during recovery matters. Also, we are always ready to give them a helping hand, support and the resources they may need,” he said.

Recovery Run participant Chanapat Maneedul strongly supports the event, saying exercise, particularly running, doesn’t just help keep people healthy, but also helps individuals in recovery beat the addiction.

“It’s a great event that allows organisations, agencies and the community to work together to support individuals in recovery. They can meet new people and make friends. It can make them feel connected, less isolated and maintain a strong outlook so they don’t return to drugs or substances,” she said.

Suchaya Mokasean, who also took part in the event, echoes Chanapat’s remarks, saying the event benefits all participants, especially those in recovery.

“We are all running in the same lane even though we don’t know each other. We all have the same opportunity to take part in this event. There is no discrimination,” she said, urging the public to support individuals in their sobriety.

Thaworn Champasorn also backs those who are recovering. He believes that people who have misused drugs are able to bounce back from failures.

“Let’s give them a chance,” he said.