Addiction is a difficult thing to overcome, as it can take a tremendous amount of personal willpower and determination to finally break the bonds of dependency. If you or someone you know is dealing with any type of addiction, whether it is substances or behavior-related, the following information will outline the road to recovery.
The first step to completely recovering from addiction is to recognize that the behavior or substance use has become problematic. It is dangerous to continue partaking in the addictive behavior, and instead, the person needs to confront the issue and face their addiction head-on in order to make any progress.
The next step is to create a plan of action to get through the addiction. This plan should involve a combination of therapies, determined by a specialist. For example, a physician may recommend 12-step programs, which involve attending support group meetings. This is designed to provide guidance and a sense of community among fellow addicts, as well as advice and guidance on how to lead a healthy, abstinent life. Other forms of therapy can include cognitive behavioral therapy, which focuses on identifying patterns of destructive thinking and behavior and altering them, or contingency management where rewards are given for positive progress.
It is also important to find an experienced and qualified medical professional who is experienced in treating addiction to help guide and support you through the recovery process. This doctor should be certified in treating addiction, as well as have a specialty in the type of addiction you are facing. It is important to also find an individual professional whom you can trust to be your emotional support through the process. The doctor, social worker, or therapist should understand and respect the emotional pain that addiction can bring and help you to find effective ways to manage and work through any emotional distress.
Next, the person who is attempting to recover from addiction should focus on overall health and wellness, in order to create positive coping skills and a dependable support system. This begins with adequate nutrition, eating healthy and staying hydrated. Exercise is also important to improve physical and mental health, mood, and overall well-being. Regular sleep and rest are also important to maintain long-term health.
It is also important to build a support system of family and friends who are understanding and supportive of the addictive individual. Having a network of support can help your friend or loved one stay on track, as it is often difficult to abstain from addictive behaviors and substances without the help and encouragement of trusted family members and friends. Additionally, it is beneficial to find mentors and role models who have already recovered from addiction themselves, as it can show the recovering individual that recovery is possible.
Finally, the person must set goals that involve abstaining from the addictive behavior. Small and achievable goals can be set, such as attending a support group meeting on a daily or weekly basis or refraining from substance use for an entire week. Setting goals and achieving them can be a positive self-esteem booster and boost motivation to reach even greater achievement and goals.
Complete recovery from addiction takes time and dedication, but with a combination of the right resources, lifelong abstention is achievable. By forming a treatment plan with the help of a professional, and creating a strong support system with family, friends, mentors and role models, someone struggling with addiction can build the confidence and determination necessary to stay the course. With patience, understanding and a newfound sense of hope, a person can eventually turn the tide of addiction and rise to the challenge of sobriety and recovery.