Also known as a “sobrietyIn 12-step programs, an individual is sober when they are no longer partaking in the behavior or substance to which they are addicted and living a better life following the program. Both are necessary to achieve sobriety. anniversary”, this marks the time elapsed since an addictAn individual with an unhealthy dependence on a substance or behavior. An individual remains an addict even years into recovery and must therefore remain active in recovery. Read more about drug & alcohol addiction & withdrawal at Withdrawal Info. last partook of a substance or engaged in the compulsive behavior they are prone to. Addicts will often state that date at the beginning of meetings and celebrate milestones such as the number of years passed in sobriety.