If you or a loved one struggles with addiction, you know how taxing this illness can be. It makes it hard for sufferers to maintain relationships and live normal lives.
There is hope for those dealing with drug or alcohol problems. By working towards sobriety and getting a good support system, an addict can get their life back on track.
Accept the Reality
First and foremost, addicts must accept their illness. This is often one of the hardest parts.
When you have a drug or alcohol problem, you are forced to constantly lie. You lie to your family and allow them to be enablers. You lie to your friends to cover up your issues.
All of this dishonesty makes it easier for you to be dishonest with yourself. People have a difficult time coming to terms with their addiction.
Recognizing your problems is the first step towards recovery. Understanding your disease will allow you to find the help you need.
It will also give you a sense of hope. Addiction is chronic, and while there is no cure, it can be managed with treatment. Countless people have stayed on the road to recovery after they got help.
Get the Help You Need
Once you recognize your illness, you should seek out help. There are few instances where one overcomes their addiction on their own.
The course of action you should take depends on the severity of your problems. Some people might want to think about medical detox. This allows you to come off the substance you’re using in a safe, controlled environment. Others might benefit more from rehab centers.
Yet another treatment option is sober living facilities. People live together in an alcohol- and drug-free community. Members learn how to overcome addiction and lead productive lives. Many facilities focus on a particular type of addict to form a sense of community. At New Life House, for instance, the program is made up of entirely young men. This focus allows residents to have a support system made of peers who understand each other’s struggles.
Regardless of the type of treatment you go with, you should have a support system in place. You want to be surrounded by friends and family that understand your struggle. They should be there to encourage you on your path to recovery.
Staying Sober
Once medical detox or a rehab program is complete, the fight isn’t over. You’ll have to cope with addiction every day. Depending on your situation, there is always the temptation to resort to back to substance abuse.
There are ways you can avoid falling off the wagon. Some effective strategies include:
Continuing to Be Honest with Yourself
Accept the reality that the fight isn’t over. Know that you will be tempted again. Reminding yourself of this will help you keep your addiction in check. Your thoughts are powerful, and by staying in control, you’ll have reign over your sobriety.
Avoiding Temptation
Practice what you preach. Avoid putting yourself in situations where you may be tempted. Find other, healthy ways to cope with the stresses of everyday life.
Maintain a Sense of Community
Be careful who you surround yourself with. People are easily influenced by others. Associate with people who are supportive and won’t pressure you into drug or alcohol use.
Continue to be involved with AA meetings or rehab programs. The sense of community you find there often lasts a lifetime. You’ll need the support to remain sober.
Don’t Give Up
Addiction is a hard battle to fight. Keep in mind that you are not alone. With a strong desire to get better, you can become and stay sober.
