The Complete Guide to the Best Addiction Recovery Apps
Last Updated: February 2026 | App features, pricing, and availability change frequently. Always verify details directly with the app provider before downloading.
🆘 Need Help Right Now?
If you’re in crisis, don’t scroll—act:
📞 SAMHSA National Helpline: 1-800-662-4357 (24/7, free, confidential)
💬 Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
🚨 Emergency: Call 911
These resources are always free and always available. Everything else can wait.
Let’s be honest—your smartphone is probably one of the few things you have with you during the hardest moments. When cravings hit at 2 AM, when you’re sitting in your car trying to decide whether to walk into that bar, when you need to hear another human voice who actually gets it—your phone is right there in your pocket.
That’s what makes recovery apps so powerful. They meet you exactly where you are, whenever you need support.
Right now, there are dozens of apps designed to help people in recovery from alcohol addiction, drug addiction, and other substance use disorders. Some focus on tracking your sobriety milestones. Others connect you with a community of people who understand. A few bring evidence-based therapy techniques right to your fingertips.
Here’s what I want you to understand from the start: these apps aren’t replacements for treatment programs, therapy, or 12-step meetings. They’re tools that complement your recovery journey—digital support that fills the gaps between counselor appointments, AA meetings, or outpatient sessions.
Let’s find the apps that can actually help you.
About This Guide
This guide was created by the nRecovery team after extensive research into digital recovery tools, behavioral health resources, and real-world recovery needs. We’ve personally tested these apps, consulted with addiction counselors, and gathered feedback from people in recovery.
Our focus: Tools that support—not replace—evidence-based recovery. We don’t accept payment for app placement, and we update this guide regularly as the digital health landscape changes.
Want personalized guidance? Our AI Confidence Coach can help you identify which tools match your specific recovery stage and needs.
Quick Navigation: Find What You Need
🆘 In crisis right now? → Crisis & Emergency Resources
📱 Need community support? → Peer Connection Apps
🧘 Want meditation & mindfulness? → Mindfulness & Mental Health Apps
📊 Looking to track progress? → Sobriety Trackers & Calculators
📍 Need to find meetings? → Meeting Locators
📚 Want 12-step resources? → 12-Step Program Apps
🧠 Need therapy-based tools? → Evidence-Based Treatment Apps
🛡️ Seeking harm reduction? → Harm Reduction Resources
Not Sure Where to Start?
Feeling overwhelmed by options is normal. Here’s a quick guide based on what you need most right now:
| If You’re Feeling… | Start With… | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Isolated and alone | Sober Grid | Find your people, 24/7 community support |
| Early recovery (first 90 days) | I Am Sober | Daily pledges create structure and accountability |
| Anxious with racing thoughts | Headspace or Woebot | Evidence-based tools for managing cravings |
| Need to find a meeting NOW | Meeting Guide (AA) or In The Rooms | Fastest path to in-person or online support |
| Still using, want safer practices | Harm Reduction Apps | Meet yourself where you are |
| In crisis | SAMHSA (1-800-662-4357) or Crisis Text Line | Immediate human support |
| Want treatment options | nRecovery Assessment | Personalized guidance for next steps |
Remember: You don’t need five apps. You need one or two that you’ll actually use.
Why Recovery Apps Actually Matter
Here’s the reality: addiction doesn’t keep business hours. Cravings don’t wait until your next therapy appointment. That moment of vulnerability hits when you’re alone, when it’s late, when everyone else is asleep.
Recovery apps help bridge these gaps. They put support in your pocket for the moments between—between meetings, between sessions, between phone calls with your sponsor.
What These Apps Offer:
✅ 24/7 availability when human support isn’t accessible
✅ Anonymity for those not ready to share publicly
✅ Community connection with people who truly understand
✅ Progress tracking that makes your recovery visible
✅ Evidence-based tools like CBT and mindfulness exercises
✅ Meeting locators to find AA, NA, and other support nearby
✅ Motivational reminders when your resolve wavers
Breaking Through Common Barriers:
| Recovery Challenge | How Apps Help |
|---|---|
| Isolation and loneliness | Connect with others in recovery anytime |
| Shame about seeking help | Private, anonymous support options |
| Limited access to meetings | Find 12-step meetings anywhere |
| Gaps between therapy sessions | Daily tools and check-ins |
| Tracking progress feels abstract | Visual sobriety counters and milestones |
| Cravings hit unexpectedly | Immediate coping tools and distractions |
Look, these apps won’t cure your addiction. But they might help you get through the next hour. And sometimes, that’s exactly what you need.
How to Choose the Right Recovery App
Before you download every addiction recovery app you can find, let’s talk about what might actually serve you best right now.
Ask Yourself:
1. Where are you in your recovery journey?
- Early recovery might need intensive daily support and community
- Long-term sobriety might benefit from milestone tracking and maintenance tools
- Still using might need harm reduction approaches and treatment locators
- Supporting a loved one needs family resources and education
2. What type of support resonates with you?
- Peer community and connection
- Structured programs like 12-step
- Therapy-based approaches (CBT, mindfulness)
- Simple tracking and accountability
- Professional treatment resources
3. What’s your comfort level with technology?
- Some apps are simple sobriety counters
- Others have extensive features and social networks
- Consider what you’ll actually use consistently
4. What can you afford?
- Many quality apps are completely free
- Some offer premium features worth paying for
- Insurance sometimes covers digital health tools
🚩 Red Flags to Watch For:
🚩 Apps promising to “cure” addiction with no effort
🚩 Excessive data collection without clear privacy policies
🚩 Pressure to share personal information publicly
🚩 No professional oversight or evidence-based approaches
🚩 Aggressive in-app purchases preying on vulnerability
🚩 Unmoderated communities where triggering content appears
✅ What Makes a Great Recovery App:
✅ Clear privacy protections for sensitive health data
✅ Evidence-based approaches or connection to established programs
✅ Moderated communities that feel safe and supportive
✅ Free core features with optional premium upgrades
✅ Regular updates and responsive developers
✅ Positive reviews from actual people in recovery
Setting Healthy Digital Boundaries
Recovery apps can be incredibly helpful—but like any tool, they work best when used intentionally. Here’s how to keep your digital recovery support healthy:
Signs You Might Need a Break:
⚠️ Constantly checking sobriety counters creates anxiety rather than motivation
⚠️ Comparing your journey to others’ posts leaves you feeling worse
⚠️ App notifications trigger stress instead of support
⚠️ Scrolling recovery content has become a form of avoidance
⚠️ You’re using apps instead of reaching out to real people
Healthy App Habits:
✅ Set specific check-in times rather than constant monitoring
✅ Turn off notifications that don’t serve you—you control the app, not vice versa
✅ Curate your feed by unfollowing or muting accounts that trigger comparison
✅ Use apps as bridges to real-world connection, not replacements for it
✅ Delete apps that aren’t helping—digital clutter is still clutter
✅ Notice your patterns: Does scrolling at night help you sleep or keep you awake?
The goal isn’t to optimize your app stack. It’s to stay sober and build a life worth living.
Peer Connection & Community Apps
Recovery doesn’t happen in isolation. These apps help you connect with others who understand what you’re going through—people in recovery who can offer support, share their experiences, and remind you that you’re not alone.
Quick Comparison: Community Apps
| App Name | Cost | Best Feature | Account Required? | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sober Grid | Free (premium available) | Location-based peer support | Yes | Finding sober community |
| Loosid | Free | Sober social events | Yes | Building alcohol-free social life |
| I Am Sober | Free (premium available) | Daily pledges + community | Yes (optional for basic features) | Daily motivation + accountability |
| Tempest | Subscription ($79-99/month) | Structured program + community | Yes | Alcohol recovery with coaching |
1. Sober Grid — Your Recovery Community in Your Pocket
💰 Cost: Free with optional premium features
📱 Platform: iOS and Android
⭐ Rating: 4.5/5 on app stores
🔐 Privacy: Account required; location sharing optional
Sober Grid is one of the most popular apps to help people in recovery connect with others. Think of it as a social network built specifically for those navigating sobriety—a place where everyone gets it.
What It Offers:
Location-Based Peer Support
The app’s signature feature helps you find other sober people nearby. Whether you’re traveling, in a new city, or just want to know someone understands in your area, Sober Grid shows you that you’re not alone. You can connect with others in recovery right where you are.
The “Burning Desire” Button
When cravings hit hard, this feature alerts your network that you need immediate support. Other members can reach out, offering messages of encouragement exactly when you need them most. It’s like having a sponsor on call 24/7.
Community Feed
Share updates, ask questions, and engage with others’ posts in a supportive environment. The community understands the challenges of staying sober without needing explanation. Moderators work to keep the space safe and recovery-focused.
Sobriety Tracking
Built-in tracker counts your days and celebrates milestones with the community. There’s something powerful about marking progress publicly among people who genuinely celebrate with you.
Best For:
People who thrive on community connection and want to feel less isolated in recovery. Particularly valuable if you’re new to an area, don’t have local sober friends, or need support outside regular meeting hours. The location feature helps you build real-world connections with people nearby.
Keep in Mind:
Like any social network, quality of interactions varies. Some users report occasional inappropriate messages, though moderation has improved. The community skews toward alcohol addiction, though people recovering from drugs are welcome. Premium features require subscription for full access.
2. Loosid — Sober Social Life Made Easy
💰 Cost: Free
📱 Platform: iOS and Android
⭐ Rating: 4.6/5 on app stores
🔐 Privacy: Account required; profile can be limited
Loosid tackles one of recovery’s biggest challenges: rebuilding your social life without alcohol or drugs. The app helps you find sober events, connect with others who don’t drink, and discover that fun doesn’t require substances.
What Makes It Work:
Sober Event Discovery
Find alcohol-free events in your area—from fitness classes to concerts to dinner meetups. Loosid partners with venues and organizers to highlight activities where you won’t feel pressured to drink. This solves the “what do sober people do for fun?” question.
Dating for Sober People
The app includes dating features specifically for people who don’t drink. No awkward conversations about why you’re not ordering alcohol, no wondering if your date will understand—everyone on the platform shares your lifestyle choice.
Travel Features
Planning a sober vacation? Loosid helps you find recovery-friendly destinations, alcohol-free activities, and connections in cities you’re visiting. Travel can be triggering; having a sober network wherever you go helps.
Resource Directory
Beyond social features, the app connects you with treatment resources, therapists who specialize in addiction, and other professional support. It’s a locator for more than just events.
Best For:
People in stable recovery who are ready to build an active, alcohol-free social life. Perfect if you’ve stopped drinking but struggle with FOMO or feeling left out of social activities. Great for those in relationships with non-alcoholics who want to find couple activities that don’t center on drinking.
Worth Noting:
Loosid is more lifestyle-focused than recovery-focused. It’s best as a complement to serious recovery work, not a substitute. Event availability varies significantly by location—major cities have more options. The dating feature receives mixed reviews, as with most dating apps.
3. I Am Sober — Daily Pledges and Milestone Motivation
💰 Cost: Free with premium option (subscription pricing varies)
📱 Platform: iOS and Android
⭐ Rating: 4.8/5 on app stores
🔐 Privacy: Basic tracking works without account; community features require sign-up
I Am Sober combines sobriety tracking with daily commitment rituals and a supportive community. The daily pledge feature creates accountability, while milestone celebrations keep you motivated.
What It Does:
Morning and Evening Pledges
Each day, you make a pledge to stay sober. At night, you reflect on whether you kept it. This simple ritual creates structure and intentionality around your recovery. Many people find this daily check-in more impactful than just counting days.
Detailed Sobriety Tracking
Beyond counting days, the app tracks money saved, time reclaimed, and health improvements based on your substance and usage patterns. Seeing the calculator tally up concrete benefits makes abstract progress feel real.
Personal Motivation Storage
Record why you decided to get sober—your reasons, your goals, the people you’re doing this for. When cravings hit, revisit these reminders. Hearing your own voice explain why you chose sobriety can be powerfully grounding.
Community Milestones
Share achievements with others in recovery. See people celebrating their first day, their first month, their fifth year. This community aspect reminds you that people at every stage are fighting the same fight.
Best For:
People who respond well to daily rituals and structured accountability. Excellent for early recovery when each day feels like a mountain. The pledge system helps those who need to take recovery “one day at a time” literally. Great for visual people who want to see their progress charted.
Reality Check:
The free version is functional but limited. Some users find the daily pledge notifications annoying if they’re not in that headspace. The community is supportive but less active than larger platforms like Sober Grid. Works best when paired with other recovery support rather than as a standalone tool.
Mindfulness and Mental Health Apps
Addiction and mental health are deeply intertwined. These apps address the anxiety, depression, and stress that often fuel substance use—offering evidence-based techniques for managing difficult emotions without reaching for drugs or alcohol.
Quick Comparison: Mindfulness Apps
| App Name | Cost | Approach | Account Required? | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Calm | Free trial, then subscription | Guided meditation | Yes | Sleep and anxiety |
| Headspace | Free trial, then subscription | Meditation training | Yes | Beginners to mindfulness |
| Insight Timer | Free (premium available) | Vast meditation library | Optional for basic use | Variety and customization |
| Woebot | Free | AI-powered CBT | Yes | Depression and anxiety |
Note: Subscription apps like Calm and Headspace typically cost $60-80/year but frequently offer discounts. Check current pricing directly.
4. Calm — Meditation for Restless Minds
💰 Cost: 7-day free trial, then subscription (verify current pricing)
📱 Platform: iOS and Android
⭐ Rating: 4.8/5 on app stores
🔐 Privacy: Account required
Calm has become one of the most popular meditation apps globally, and for good reason. Its approach to mindfulness is accessible, non-intimidating, and genuinely helpful for managing the anxiety that often accompanies recovery.
How It Helps Recovery:
Sleep Stories
Insomnia is brutal in early recovery. Calm’s sleep stories—soothing narratives read by various voices—help quiet racing minds at bedtime. Getting proper rest is foundational to staying sober.
Guided Meditation Programs
Multi-day programs teach meditation from scratch, no experience necessary. Sessions address anxiety, stress, self-esteem, and emotional regulation—all relevant to people recovering from substance use disorders.
Daily Calm
A new 10-minute guided meditation every day gives you a consistent mindfulness practice. This daily ritual can replace the ritual of using, filling time with something nourishing rather than destructive.
Emergency Calm
Quick sessions for moments of acute stress. When you’re about to pick up, a 3-minute breathing exercise might get you through the craving. It’s not a cure, but it’s a tool.
Best For:
People dealing with anxiety, sleep problems, or stress who want to develop a meditation practice alongside their recovery work. Great for beginners who find meditation intimidating. Particularly helpful if you’ve been using substances to manage stress and need healthier coping mechanisms.
Consider This:
The subscription cost is significant, though often discounted. Some content feels too gentle or “wellness-y” for people who prefer direct approaches. Meditation alone won’t address addiction—it’s one tool among many. If you can’t afford it, Insight Timer offers similar content for free.
5. Headspace — Learn to Meditate Properly
💰 Cost: 7-day free trial, then subscription (verify current pricing)
📱 Platform: iOS and Android
⭐ Rating: 4.8/5 on app stores
🔐 Privacy: Account required
Headspace focuses on actually teaching you how to meditate, with structured courses that build skills progressively. The approach is friendly and contemporary, making mindfulness feel accessible rather than mystical.
What Makes It Different:
Meditation Courses
Unlike apps that offer random sessions, Headspace teaches meditation systematically. Their basics course builds skills over 30 sessions, and specialized courses address specific issues like managing cravings, dealing with anxiety, or improving focus.
Addiction-Specific Content
Headspace has developed content specifically for people dealing with addictive behaviors. Sessions address cravings, urges, and the underlying emotional patterns that drive substance use. This targeted approach feels more relevant than generic meditation.
Animations and Education
Short animated videos explain the science behind meditation and its benefits for the brain. Understanding why mindfulness works can motivate practice, especially for skeptical minds.
SOS Sessions
Emergency sessions for moments of crisis—panic attacks, overwhelming emotions, acute cravings. When you’re in distress, a calm voice guiding you through breathing can be lifesaving.
Best For:
People who want to understand meditation, not just do it. Excellent for analytical minds that need to know the “why.” Great for those specifically wanting mindfulness techniques for managing cravings and emotional regulation in recovery. The structured approach suits people who prefer progressive learning.
Keep in Mind:
Similar pricing concerns as Calm—it’s expensive, though worth it for many. Some find the presenter’s style soothing; others find it grating. Like all meditation apps, it requires consistent practice to be effective. Works best as part of comprehensive recovery approach, not as replacement for treatment.
6. Woebot — AI Therapy for Your Pocket
💰 Cost: Free
📱 Platform: iOS and Android
⭐ Rating: 4.6/5 on app stores
🔐 Privacy: Account required; data used to improve AI (review privacy policy)
Woebot uses artificial intelligence to deliver cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques through chat-based conversations. It’s like having a supportive, knowledgeable friend available 24/7 who actually knows evidence-based mental health strategies.
What It Does:
CBT-Based Conversations
Woebot engages you in daily check-ins about your mood and teaches cognitive behavioral therapy techniques through conversation. You’ll learn to identify negative thought patterns, challenge distorted thinking, and develop healthier responses to stress.
Mood Tracking
Daily emotional check-ins help you notice patterns in how you feel. Over time, you might see connections between certain situations and difficult emotions—insight that can prevent relapse by addressing triggers proactively.
Coping Tool Delivery
When you’re struggling, Woebot offers specific exercises—thought reframing, breathing techniques, grounding exercises. It’s not the same as human therapy, but it delivers legitimate therapeutic techniques when you need them.
Evidence-Based Approach
The app was developed by psychologists at Stanford and is backed by actual research. This isn’t pop psychology—it’s legitimate CBT delivered through technology.
Best For:
People who want mental health support but can’t access or afford a therapist. Great for those who find it easier to open up to an AI than a human (no judgment). Excellent for learning CBT techniques between counselor appointments. Helpful for addressing the anxiety and depression that often underlie addiction.
Reality Check:
Woebot is not a replacement for human therapy, especially for serious mental health conditions. The AI, while sophisticated, has limitations—it can’t handle complex situations or genuine crises. Some find the chatbot format annoying or impersonal. Best used as supplement to, not substitute for, professional mental health services and addiction treatment.
Sobriety Trackers and Calculators
Sometimes recovery feels abstract—endless days stretching into an uncertain future. These apps make progress concrete, tracking your time sober, money saved, and health improvements. That visible evidence of growth can be powerfully motivating.
Quick Comparison: Tracking Apps
| App Name | Cost | Special Features | Account Required? | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nomo | Free (premium available) | Multiple addiction tracking | Optional | Poly-substance recovery |
| Days Since | Free | Simple, clean interface | No | Minimalists |
| Quit That! | $4.99 (one-time) | Money/time saved calculator | No | Motivation through numbers |
| EasyQuit | Free | Health recovery timeline | No | Health-focused recovery |
7. Nomo — Track Multiple Sobriety Clocks
💰 Cost: Free with premium option (subscription pricing varies)
📱 Platform: iOS and Android
⭐ Rating: 4.7/5 on app stores
🔐 Privacy: Basic tracking works without account
Nomo stands out for allowing you to track multiple sobriety clocks simultaneously. If you’re recovering from more than one substance or behavior, this flexibility is invaluable.
What It Offers:
Multiple Clocks
Track alcohol sobriety, drug abstinence, and behavioral addictions (gambling, shopping, etc.) separately. Each clock runs independently, acknowledging that recovery from different substances might have different timelines.
Accountability Partners
Share specific clocks with sponsors, counselors, or trusted friends. They can see your progress and receive alerts if you reset. This accountability feature brings external support into your daily tracking.
Savings Calculator
Input what you were spending on your addiction, and watch the money saved accumulate. Seeing “$2,457 saved” makes the financial impact of sobriety visceral. For people who spent heavily on drugs or alcohol, this feature is eye-opening.
Milestone Celebrations
Mark significant achievements—30 days, 90 days, 1 year. The app celebrates these moments, and you can share with accountability partners who celebrate with you.
Best For:
People recovering from multiple substances or behaviors who need to track them separately. Excellent for those who respond to concrete numbers and want to see their progress in multiple dimensions. Great for people who want accountability partner integration without sharing everything publicly.
Worth Noting:
Some features require premium subscription. The interface, while functional, isn’t the most polished. Community features are minimal compared to apps like Sober Grid. Works best when you actually use the accountability partner features rather than tracking solo.
8. Quit That! — See What Recovery Is Worth
💰 Cost: $4.99 one-time purchase
📱 Platform: iOS only
⭐ Rating: 4.8/5 on app stores
🔐 Privacy: No account required; data stays on device
Quit That! focuses on making the benefits of sobriety tangible through detailed tracking of time and money saved. It’s simple, beautiful, and motivational without being complicated.
How It Works:
Time Since Tracker
Clean, attractive display shows exactly how long you’ve been sober—down to the second if you want that level of detail. The visual design makes opening the app feel good rather than obligatory.
Money Saved Calculator
Input your old spending (drinks per week, drugs purchased, etc.), and watch savings accumulate in real-time. This isn’t abstract—it’s the vacation you could take, the debt you could pay, the life you’re building.
Multiple Habits
Track several things you’re quitting simultaneously. Alcohol, cigarettes, gambling—all in one clean interface without overwhelming complexity.
Clean Design
The app is genuinely beautiful, which matters more than you might think. Opening an attractive, well-designed app feels different than opening something clunky. That small pleasure can reinforce the habit of checking in.
Best For:
People who need to see concrete benefits of their sobriety to stay motivated. Great for visual people who appreciate good design. Excellent for those whose addiction had significant financial impact—seeing the money saved is powerful. iOS users who want a one-time purchase rather than subscription.
Keep in Mind:
iOS only—Android users need alternatives. The one-time cost, while reasonable, might deter some when free options exist. No community features, so it’s solo tracking only. Limited functionality beyond basic tracking and calculating—no therapy tools or connection features.
Meeting Locators and 12-Step Resources
Finding AA meetings, NA meetings, or other 12-step gatherings has never been easier. These apps help you locate meetings anywhere—crucial when you’re traveling, new to an area, or just need to find a meeting right now.
Quick Comparison: Meeting Locator Apps
| App Name | Fellowship | Cost | Account Required? | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Meeting Guide | AA (Alcoholics Anonymous) | Free | No | Official AA app, most reliable |
| NA Meeting Search | NA (Narcotics Anonymous) | Free | No | Narcotics Anonymous meetings |
| In The Rooms | Multiple fellowships | Free | Yes | Online meetings + community |
| 12 Steps Companion | AA | Free | No | Big Book + meeting finder |
9. Meeting Guide — Official AA Meeting Locator
💰 Cost: Free
📱 Platform: iOS and Android
⭐ Rating: 4.8/5 on app stores
🔐 Privacy: No account required; anonymous use
The official app from Alcoholics Anonymous provides the most reliable, comprehensive database of AA meetings. If you’re in a 12-step program for alcohol addiction, this is essential.
What It Provides:
Comprehensive Meeting Database
Find AA meetings anywhere—over 100,000 meetings in the database. Search by location, time, day, or meeting type (speaker, discussion, Big Book study, etc.). The data comes directly from local AA intergroups, ensuring accuracy.
Detailed Meeting Information
Each listing includes address, time, accessibility information, and meeting format. Know whether meetings are open or closed, wheelchair accessible, or offer childcare before you arrive.
Online Meeting Options
The app now includes virtual meetings, dramatically expanding access. If you can’t get to an in-person meeting, find online gatherings happening right now. This addition has been invaluable for people in recovery during times when travel is difficult.
No Registration Required
In keeping with AA traditions, no account or personal information required. Just download and search—anonymity preserved.
Best For:
Anyone in AA or considering AA who needs to find meetings. Essential for people who travel and need meetings in unfamiliar cities. Great for newcomers exploring what AA meetings are like in their area. Perfect for those who value anonymity and don’t want to create accounts.
Reality Check:
Only covers Alcoholics Anonymous—not NA or other fellowships. Database accuracy depends on local intergroups updating information, so occasional outdated listings exist. No community features or sobriety tracking—purely a meeting locator. Some users report the search function could be more intuitive.
10. In The Rooms — Online Meetings and Global Community
💰 Cost: Free
📱 Platform: iOS, Android, and web
⭐ Rating: 4.5/5 on app stores
🔐 Privacy: Account required for meeting access
In The Rooms hosts online meetings for multiple fellowships and creates a global recovery community. If you can’t get to in-person meetings or want the convenience of virtual support, this platform delivers.
What It Offers:
Multiple Fellowship Meetings
Online meetings for AA, NA, Al-Anon, and other 12-step programs—all in one place. If you’re recovering from drug and alcohol addiction simultaneously, find meetings for both without separate apps.
Live Video Meetings
Real-time video meetings with people worldwide. Participate in speaker meetings, discussion groups, and step studies from your living room. The connection feels more personal than you might expect from virtual meetings.
On-Demand Content
Can’t make a live meeting? Access recorded speakers, guided meditations, and recovery content anytime. This library provides support at 3 AM when live meetings aren’t happening.
Global Community
Connect with people in recovery worldwide. The community aspect extends beyond meetings—forums, messaging, and social features help build relationships.
Best For:
People who can’t easily attend in-person meetings due to location, mobility, work schedule, or other constraints. Great for those who want to try 12-step meetings before attending in person. Excellent for building connections with people worldwide who share your experience. Perfect for supplementing in-person meetings with additional virtual support.
Consider This:
Video quality depends on your internet connection. Virtual meetings lack some benefits of in-person gatherings. The platform requires account creation, which some find off-putting. The community features can feel overwhelming—you can engage as much or little as you want.
12-Step Program Companion Apps
For people working 12-step programs, these apps provide essential resources—the Big Book of AA, step work guides, speaker recordings, and daily meditations that support your program work.
11. 12 Steps Companion — Big Book in Your Pocket
💰 Cost: Free
📱 Platform: iOS
⭐ Rating: 4.8/5 on app stores
🔐 Privacy: No account required
This app puts the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous and other essential AA literature right on your phone. When you need to look up a passage, share with a newcomer, or read during lunch break, it’s always there.
What’s Included:
Complete Big Book
The full text of Alcoholics Anonymous searchable on your phone. Highlight passages, add notes, and bookmark favorites. Having the Big Book always available removes the excuse of not having it handy.
Daily Reflections
Daily readings to start or end your day with recovery content. These brief meditations connect you to the program daily, reinforcing principles between meetings.
Meeting Finder
Integrated meeting locator helps you find AA gatherings nearby. Not as comprehensive as the official Meeting Guide app, but convenient to have in the same app as your literature.
Step Work Tools
Worksheets and guides for working the 12 steps. While not replacing work with a sponsor, these tools provide structure for step work and questions to consider.
Best For:
AA members who want literature always accessible. Perfect for people who prefer digital reading or don’t want to carry physical books. Great for newcomers learning the program who benefit from having resources instantly available. Excellent for those who use daily readings as part of their routine.
Keep in Mind:
iOS only—Android users need alternatives. Some traditional AA members prefer physical books. The app can’t replace working with a sponsor or attending actual meetings. Step worksheets are guidance, not the official way to work steps.
12. Joe & Charlie Big Book Study — Learn the Program
💰 Cost: Free
📱 Platform: iOS and Android
⭐ Rating: 4.8/5 on app stores
🔐 Privacy: No account required
Joe & Charlie’s Big Book Study has been helping people understand AA’s foundational text for decades. These recordings break down the Big Book chapter by chapter, offering insights that transform how you read and apply the program.
What It Provides:
Complete Audio Series
Hours of recorded sessions where Joe McQ. and Charlie P. explain the Big Book in depth. Their conversational style makes complex concepts accessible, and their humor keeps you engaged.
Chapter-by-Chapter Breakdown
Each chapter of the Big Book gets thorough treatment. You’ll understand passages you’ve read dozens of times in new ways. The historical context and practical application they provide deepen comprehension.
Offline Listening
Download sessions to listen without internet. Perfect for commutes, walks, or travel. Make your dead time into recovery time.
Supplemental Materials
Some versions include printed guides that accompany the recordings. Following along with materials enhances the learning experience.
Best For:
AA members wanting deeper understanding of the Big Book. Excellent for people who learn better through listening than reading. Great for those who’ve read the Big Book many times but feel they’re missing something. Perfect for long drives or commutes when you can’t read but can listen.
Reality Check:
These are older recordings—audio quality reflects their age. Joe and Charlie’s interpretation, while respected, is one perspective among many in AA. Some find their style dated. Listening requires time commitment—this is a substantial study, not quick tips.
Evidence-Based Treatment Apps
These apps bring therapeutic approaches—cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and other evidence-based treatments—to your smartphone. While they don’t replace professional treatment, they extend its impact into daily life.
13. rTribe — Recovery Support with Professional Backing
💰 Cost: Free (premium available)
📱 Platform: iOS and Android
⭐ Rating: 4.5/5 on app stores
🔐 Privacy: Account required
rTribe combines community support with evidence-based recovery tools, creating a hybrid that addresses both connection needs and skill-building. It’s designed specifically for addiction recovery rather than general wellness.
What It Offers:
Triggering Situation Tracking
Log situations that trigger cravings, and the app helps identify patterns. Over time, you’ll see which people, places, or emotions create risk—insight that helps you plan protective strategies.
Coping Tool Library
Evidence-based techniques for managing cravings, including grounding exercises, distraction tools, and cognitive reframing. When you need help right now, access proven strategies immediately.
Private Recovery Groups
Create or join small groups for mutual support. These might be people from your treatment program, meeting friends, or others you trust. The group features allow real accountability relationships.
Progress Tracking
Track sobriety, moods, and trigger patterns. The analytics show your progress over time and help identify risk factors you might not notice otherwise.
Best For:
People wanting evidence-based tools alongside community features. Great for those who’ve completed treatment programs and need ongoing support tools. Excellent for analytical people who want to understand their patterns. Perfect for those who want small-group accountability rather than large public communities.
Worth Noting:
Some advanced features require premium subscription. Community size is smaller than apps like Sober Grid—less activity but sometimes more intimacy. The app works best with consistent use over time; sporadic engagement yields limited benefit.
14. The State of Prescription Digital Therapeutics
An Important Note on FDA-Cleared Apps
You may have heard of prescription digital therapeutics (PDTs)—apps that are FDA-cleared as actual medical treatments, prescribed by doctors alongside traditional care. This represented a promising frontier in addiction treatment.
What Happened:
Pear Therapeutics, the pioneer in this space, developed reSET and reSET-O—the first FDA-cleared prescription apps for substance use disorder and opioid use disorder. These apps delivered cognitive behavioral therapy as part of comprehensive treatment plans.
However, Pear Therapeutics filed for bankruptcy in April 2023, and their products are no longer widely available. This was a significant setback for the digital therapeutics field.
What This Means for You:
- If you were using reSET or reSET-O, talk to your healthcare provider about alternative treatment options
- Other companies are developing similar products, but the landscape is still evolving
- For now, the apps in this guide offer evidence-based support, but none are FDA-cleared treatments
Current Alternatives for Opioid Use Disorder:
If you’re seeking treatment for opioid addiction, consider:
- Telehealth MAT providers like Bicycle Health or Boulder Care offer medication-assisted treatment with counseling via telehealth
- SAMHSA’s treatment locator (findtreatment.gov) helps find local buprenorphine providers
- In The Rooms provides online meetings specifically for people recovering from opioid addiction
- Our nRecovery treatment finder can help match you with appropriate care
The apps in this guide support recovery, but they work best alongside professional treatment—especially for opioid use disorder, where medication-assisted treatment significantly improves outcomes.
Harm Reduction Resources
Not everyone is ready for abstinence—and that’s okay. Harm reduction meets people where they are, focusing on reducing the negative consequences of substance use while respecting individual autonomy. These resources can save lives.
Important: Harm reduction doesn’t mean giving up on recovery. Many people move from harm reduction to moderation to abstinence over time. Meeting yourself where you are is a valid starting point.
Essential Harm Reduction Tools:
Naloxone (Narcan) Locators:
- NEXT Distro (nextdistro.org): Free mail-order naloxone in many states
- GetNaloxone.org: Find local naloxone distribution near you
- Many pharmacies now carry naloxone without prescription—ask your pharmacist
Fentanyl Test Strips:
- DanceSafe (dancesafe.org): Sells fentanyl test strips and provides drug checking services
- Many harm reduction organizations distribute free test strips—search for local programs
Safe Use Information:
- Harm Reduction Guide app: Provides drug interaction information and safer use practices
- Never Use Alone (1-800-484-3731): Stays on the line while you use and calls for help if you become unresponsive
Syringe Services:
- NASEN (North American Syringe Exchange Network): Locator for syringe service programs
- These programs provide clean supplies, naloxone, and connections to treatment without judgment
Why Harm Reduction Matters:
✅ Reduces overdose deaths
✅ Prevents disease transmission
✅ Builds trust that can lead to treatment
✅ Keeps people alive until they’re ready for next steps
✅ Acknowledges that recovery isn’t linear
If someone you love is still using: Carrying naloxone and knowing how to use it can save their life. You don’t have to approve of drug use to prevent a death.
Crisis and Emergency Resources
Sometimes you need help right now—not tomorrow, not after a meeting, but immediately. These resources provide crisis support when you’re in danger or struggling acutely.
⚠️ If You’re in Immediate Danger, Call 911
15. SAMHSA National Helpline
💰 Cost: Free
📞 Phone: 1-800-662-4357
🌐 Online: findtreatment.gov
⏰ Available: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration operates a 24/7 helpline for people facing mental health and substance use crises. This is often the best first call if you don’t know where to start.
What It Provides:
24/7 Crisis Support
Call 1-800-662-4357 any time, any day. Trained counselors provide immediate support for substance use crises. If you’re about to relapse, considering using, or need help finding treatment, they’re there.
Treatment Referrals
Counselors help you find treatment programs, detox facilities, and mental health services in your area. If you’re ready for help, they connect you with resources. The locator function helps you find treatment that fits your situation.
Multilingual Services
Services available in English and Spanish. Additional language support through interpretation services. Substance abuse and mental health services are accessible regardless of primary language.
Free and Confidential
No cost, no insurance required, and your call is private. The barrier to calling is simply making the call—they’ll help with everything else.
When to Call:
Call if you’re in immediate crisis, considering using after a period of sobriety, looking for treatment options, or just need to talk to someone who understands addiction. There’s no wrong reason to call.
16. Crisis Text Line
💰 Cost: Free
💬 Text: HOME to 741741
⏰ Available: 24/7
If you can’t or don’t want to call, Crisis Text Line provides support via text message. For many people—especially younger generations—texting feels more natural and less intimidating than phone calls.
What It Offers:
Text-Based Crisis Support
Text HOME to 741741 and connect with a trained crisis counselor. Conversations happen via text, allowing private support even when you can’t speak aloud. Perfect if you’re in a situation where making a call isn’t possible.
Trained Counselors
Volunteers undergo extensive training in crisis intervention. They’re equipped to help with substance use crises, suicidal thoughts, anxiety attacks, and other acute situations. This isn’t amateur support—it’s structured crisis intervention.
Available 24/7
Like the SAMHSA helpline, Crisis Text Line operates continuously. 3 AM craving? They’re there. Struggling at a family dinner? Text under the table. The accessibility removes barriers to seeking help.
Connection to Resources
Counselors can help you identify next steps, whether that’s calling a sponsor, going to a meeting, entering treatment, or simply getting through the next hour.
Best For:
People who prefer texting to phone calls. Great for those who can’t make voice calls due to their situation. Excellent for younger people who are more comfortable with text-based communication. Perfect for crises where speaking aloud isn’t possible.
Reality Check:
Text-based communication has limitations—counselors can’t hear your voice or assess your immediate safety as easily. Response times vary based on demand; you might wait during high-volume periods. Not a substitute for emergency services if you’re in immediate danger—call 911 if life-threatening.
Additional Crisis Resources:
| Resource | Contact | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline | Call or text 988 | Suicidal thoughts, emotional distress |
| Veterans Crisis Line | 1-800-273-8255, Press 1 | Veterans and service members |
| Never Use Alone | 1-800-484-3731 | Staying on line during use to prevent overdose death |
| Trans Lifeline | 1-877-565-8860 | Trans people in crisis |
| The Trevor Project | 1-866-488-7386 | LGBTQ+ young people |
nRecovery: Your Next Step
You’ve made it through this guide—that takes real commitment. Whether you download one app or five, the fact that you’re researching recovery tools means something. You’re taking your recovery seriously.
But we know a list of apps isn’t enough.
That’s why we built nRecovery: to provide personalized guidance that meets you exactly where you are in your journey.
What We Offer:
🤖 AI Confidence Coach
Not sure which tools are right for you? Our AI coach asks the right questions and provides personalized recommendations based on your specific situation, recovery stage, and preferences. No judgment, no pressure—just guidance.
📋 Recovery Self-Assessment
Understanding where you are is the first step to figuring out where to go. Our confidential assessment helps you clarify your relationship with substances and identify what kind of support might help.
💬 Community Forums
Connect with others who understand. Our moderated forums provide peer support without the noise of larger social networks. Share experiences, ask questions, and find your people.
🎯 Personalized Tool Matching
Beyond this guide, we can help you build a complete recovery toolkit—matching you with the right combination of apps, meetings, treatment options, and support resources.
Final Thoughts: Apps as Tools, Not Solutions
Look, here’s the truth about recovery apps—they’re tools in your toolbox, not the toolbox itself. The best app in the world won’t keep you sober if you’re not doing the work. But the right apps can make that work easier, more accessible, and less lonely.
Using These Apps Effectively:
✅ Start with one or two apps rather than downloading everything
✅ Give each app an honest trial period before deciding it doesn’t work
✅ Use apps to supplement, not replace, human connection and treatment
✅ Share your app use with sponsors or counselors for accountability
✅ Adjust your app toolkit as your recovery needs change
✅ Delete apps that aren’t serving you—digital clutter doesn’t help
✅ Set boundaries around notifications and screen time
✅ Notice when scrolling becomes avoidance rather than support
Beyond the Apps:
These tools work best alongside actual recovery work. They complement therapy, support groups, and medical treatment—they don’t replace them. Use these apps for support between sessions, for community when you’re alone, and for tools when you’re struggling. But don’t rely on them as your entire recovery plan.
If you’re struggling right now, put down the phone and call someone. Your sponsor, your counselor, SAMHSA at 1-800-662-4357, a friend in recovery. Apps can wait. Your life can’t.
Where to Go from Here:
If you’ve found yourself in these pages—whether you’re early in recovery, supporting a loved one, or just beginning to consider that you might have a problem—know that help exists. These apps prove that people are building tools specifically to support you. Treatment programs are available. People in recovery want to help you.
You’re not alone in this. Your smartphone can connect you to thousands of people who understand exactly what you’re going through. That’s not nothing. That’s actually pretty remarkable.
Take the next step. Download an app. Find a meeting. Reach out to someone. Your recovery journey is waiting, and these tools are here to help you walk it.
This guide was last updated in June 2025. App features, pricing, and availability change frequently—always verify details directly with the app provider. If you notice outdated information, please contact us so we can update this resource.
nRecovery is committed to providing accurate, evidence-based recovery resources. We don’t accept payment for app placement in this guide. Our recommendations are based on research, user feedback, and consultation with addiction professionals.
Responses