Overcoming an addiction isn't just a matter of quitting cold turkey. Sobriety is a process that involves dual treatment of both medical and mental health. Recovery is a process and the pathway to the other side isn't paved perfectly. Clients sometimes trip and stumble along the way, but with a plan, you can find success.
If you're serious about recovery, there are several things you can do that will strengthen your chances and help you escape the lifestyle of addiction for good.
Getting better is often more like becoming a new person. If you go back to hanging out with the same people or going to the places you used to go when you weren't sober, you are much more likely to relapse. Instead, create new traditions with positive influences. Spend time with family or make new friends by volunteering for a charity. Your goal is creating a new life where using isn't easy and substances aren't accessible.
Once you are out of an inpatient treatment center, keeping up with meetings becomes even more crucial. Find a sponsor so you have accountability. Attend any follow-up group therapy or connect with an individual therapist who specializes in both mental and physical aspects of addiction. Make a commitment to attend as often as you need to stay on track.
You may need to go to two meetings a day for a while, or you may only need to go once a week. Talk to your doctors about what would work best for your individual circumstances.
Know what your treatment options are. What detox programs are available? Do you need dual therapy that addresses mental and physical issues at the same time? Be aware of the different types of therapy and the signs that you need to head back into treatment before you relapse into old habits. It's better to get help promptly than to spiral into addiction again.
Finding a stable job serves two purposes. First, you'll have less time to think about your old life. Second, you'll remove the stress of money woes. If you worry about what you'll do in your free time, you may even want to take on a part-time job so there aren't surplus hours in your day. Staying productive is a great way to embrace lasting recovery and boost your self-confidence.
Are there certain people or situations that trigger your addiction? Stay away from conditions that might cause you to stumble. Some emotions might also impact your recovery, such as if you are angry, hungry or lonely. Learn to acknowledge these triggers and work through them in a healthy way.
Overcoming your addiction impacts your life and those who know you. To succeed in your new life, you need to take the first step toward recovery. Contact Diamond House Detox online or give us a call for the best personalized treatment options. Reach out today at (800) 205-6107 and we'll get you into our program immediately.
This content was medically reviewed by Vicky Magobet PMHNP-BC, on January 17th, 2020.
