It doesn't matter if you have earned your AA Chip for being 10 years sober of if you're still in the first month of your recovery—we all need a little inspiration on our journeys with addiction. Maybe you want to congratulate someone on their sobriety by writing them a meaningful card, or perhaps you need some words of encouragement for sobriety because you're feeling vulnerable. 

AA sobriety chips signal an end and a beginning of sorts. It's the end of the chemically-dependent person. It's also the renewal of their hope.

Athletes who complete an event take home a ribbon or a medal. So do participants in other competitive events. But the millions of men and women in recovery aren't always recognized outside their community of fellow addicts and alcoholics for their sobriety.

Although mental health and addiction are a popular topic of public conversation today, there are still many people who treat those who suffer from these conditions differently. Despite the fact that addiction is accepted as a disease by the medical community, much of society still rejects this idea. Instead, many view addiction as a choice. After all, I chose to say yes when I was offered heroin for the first time, and I chose to do it a second time, right?

Would you believe that alcoholism is the third-leading cause of lifestyle-related deaths? If you're working hard to avoid being one of those statistics, your AA tokens will remind you of how far you've come. Are you looking for additional addiction recovery help? How does nutrition and addiction recovery relate to one another? Are there supplements to help with alcohol cravings that you can add to your alcohol recovery diet?

If you feel like you're struggling with your sobriety alone, get this: almost 21 million Americans have at least one addiction in their lifetime. Since only 10 percent receive treatment, you're already ahead of the curve. Asking for additional guidance can help you remain on track with your recovery, too. That way, you have the support you need to avoid a relapse.

Everyone's path to recovery looks different. For many people, getting away from the daily grind can be essential to recovery. Between 50 and 90 percent of those in recovery will relapse. But having a chance to get away and stay in a sober environment that helps reconnect you with your spirit can prevent that from happening.

In the United States, about 15 million people struggle with alcoholism. You may feel like you're alone in your recovery journey, but you're not. Healthy habits are key to your recovery. Read on for nine things to do instead of drinking when things get difficult in your life.