While addiction has recently been revealed in the national conversation with its true nature as a medical condition, the intense feelings of shame amongst addicts remain and often hinder their ability to get help. Addiction to drugs can feel overpowering, and quitting is an uphill battle with too many sadly quitting before they can come clean. However, there is light at the end of the tunnel. If you or a loved one are struggling, the following are a few key ways to help you begin the recovery process.
Consider Change
It is often said in drug counseling that the first step to recovering is to admit that you have a problem and are willing to make some major lifestyle changes. This is easier said than done. For one, most people simply cannot abide by the idea that they are bonafide addicts; they will hide behind the facade of someone who simply uses drugs to occasionally let loose or to deal with physical pain. In many instances, a life-altering situation has to happen for anyone to acknowledge that they aren’t doing well. However, once they hit rock bottom and decide that they need to rid themselves of the specter of addiction, they need to commit to some serious changes in their daily routines.
This will most likely include cutting off toxic people in their lives, or “friends,” who have helped lead them on this path. It is also important for them to consider what is important in their life and latch onto it so they can begin making the necessary changes. This could be deciding to change for their children or partner, holding onto a job they love or becoming a happier, stronger individual.
Treatment Options
The next step is to begin thinking about different treatment options available and which ones could be useful to them. Enrolling in a drug rehab program that offers different rehab modules is one way to go. There is also detoxification which entails purging the body of drugs and wagering a painful war with withdrawal. Also, behavioral counseling, medication, or both can be an option. Oftentimes, taking drugs begins as a way to cope with an ailment, either physical or emotional. However, it quickly turns into a full-blown addiction for those who don’t have the means or awareness to learn to handle different issues in a healthy manner. Residential treatments or outpatient programs remain the most popular, but sober living communities are another viable option for those who have struggled for a long while and need a community to rally behind them.
Against One Size Fits All
It is important to note in the journey to recovery that there is no one size fits all approach for recovery from drug addiction. In most cases, people start, fail, then start again while trying different approaches till one finally works. It is a tiring and arduous journey, but the fact that this is a long-term commitment shouldn’t be forgotten. For many, a hybrid of treatment options may work best, and while they may fail the first time, they are primed for success through continued tries.
Above all else, a strong support network helps many people to weather the storm and emerge on the other side of addiction triumphant. It is important to lean on help from family and friends and to limit the amount of shame felt from having to ask for support. Also, attending counseling and meetings, and learning healthy ways of coping with stress should help in any long-term recovery plan.
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