Anyone who has struggled with addiction knows how challenging it is to recover. When done right, this process transforms every aspect of the individual’s life. People often assume it means nothing more than that the person no longer uses their drug of choice, but recovery is about building a lifestyle that is meaningful and sustainable.
The process begins with drug and alcohol detox, but it doesn’t end there. The individual needs to undergo structured treatment to increase their odds of success and participate in aftercare programs. Men and women who do so find it easier to maintain long-term sobriety.
Detoxification
A person begins their recovery journey by eliminating all harmful substances from the body. They must complete this step to allow the body to adjust to life without the substance it depends on. The addict needs medical supervision throughout the detox process to help with withdrawal symptoms. The symptoms can be physically and emotionally challenging, leading the person to use again if they don’t have help. Nausea, insomnia, and anxiety are common withdrawal symptoms, but there are many others, and they are often severe.
The detox process eliminates physical dependence on the drug so the person can move forward with recovery. It reduces withdrawal risks like severe dehydration and seizures, which is why medical supervision is needed. Doctors can act quickly if the addict has severe symptoms. Once the drug is out of the body, the individual can focus on the emotional and mental aspects of recovering.
Structured Treatment
Treatment begins once the drug is out of the addict’s body. The focus turns to determining the underlying causes of addiction and equipping the addict with tools for a sober life. Addicts find they have several choices for obtaining this treatment.
Inpatient treatment is the preferred choice of many because they are in a highly structured environment and can receive around-the-clock care. Individuals with dual diagnoses and those with severe addictions benefit from this treatment option. The treatment team may use cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, or trauma-informed therapy during treatment, and the structured routine helps the individual stabilize and begin building healthy habits.
Outpatient treatment is an option for addicts who must work and take care of their families or attend school. Therapy sessions and support groups are offered, but the addict doesn’t live in a residential treatment setting. They remain at home. Those considering outpatient treatment should consider partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient programs.
Specialized programs may also be offered. Veterans who struggle with addiction may benefit from specialized treatment to address the trauma and PTSD associated with their service. First responders have high-pressure careers and benefit from specialized treatment, while executives and professionals need treatment options that will allow them to balance their careers with recovery.
Aftercare
When the treatment phase of recovery is complete, the addict must transition to independence. They aren’t alone as they work to sustain long-term sobriety. They benefit from aftercare programs and support groups to help them reintegrate into society and use the skills they learned during treatment. These life skills may include time and financial management and building and maintaining healthy relationships with others. They must learn how to deal with triggers and manage stress while overcoming their relapse fears.
Addicts must recognize recovery is a lifelong journey. The urge to use again may always be present, so they need a holistic approach that addresses each stage of the process. With the right care and support, they can achieve meaningful, long-term recovery even if they slip up occasionally. They will know where to turn to get back on track, which is the most important thing they can do.
