If you ask anyone about the steps of addiction recovery, they often assume you’re talking about the 12 steps that were made prominent by Alcoholics Anonymous. While the 12-step program works in different treatment settings, there are also additional steps to consider when working toward recovery.
Steps of Addiction Recovery: Detox
Depending on the substance you’ve been using, you’ll need to cleanse the chemical from your body before going through rehab. Most substances drastically change your brain structure. Therefore, if the substance is still in your system, you might not be able to make logical decisions.
Many experts agree that psychological treatment must follow the detox process. Simply quitting usually isn’t enough. Overall, the withdrawal experience can be lonely, painful, and frightening.
One of the easiest ways to ease the discomfort of detox is to use again. However, this is one of the worst things to do if you want to permanently stop abusing drugs.
It’s important to understand that during the detox stage of recovery, you might feel worse before you feel better. For example, your emotions might seem unmanageable and confusing. However, working with a professional to support you during this process can help prevent relapse.
Steps of Addiction Recovery: Rehab
The rehab stage of drug recovery is different for everyone. The best rehab centers must address the needs of the individual instead of offering a one-size-fits-all treatment.
However, studies prove that certain methods are effective for treating substance abuse disorders. Therefore, you might find similar approaches at different rehab centers.
The services that are most rehab centers offer include:
- Psychotherapy
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Individual, group and family counseling
- Dual diagnosis treatment
- Sober living
When you go to rehab, you’ll be surrounded by peer support. Developing a new community of peers is essential for many people who struggle with substance abuse.
In addition, you may not be able to go back home and hang out with your old friends without having the desire to use again. Learning how to make new friends who encourage you to stay sober can help you transition build a positive life without drugs.
Some rehab facilities offer a multitude of amenities. It can be hard to decide which center is best for you. Ultimately, many people thrive in an environment that is comfortable, encouraging, and compassionate.
Steps Of Addiction Recovery: Transition
Although the drug and alcohol rehab environment may be motivating, educational and nourishing, you can’t stay at a facility forever. Eventually, you’ll need to return to your personal obligations. This can be a daunting task for those who have struggled with drug abuse.
Getting the right help during the transition can help you stay sober as you move into the next stage of your life. At a sober living facility, you’ll be able to live with other people who are in recovery as you explore your individual journeys together.
Overall, addiction is a chronic disease that requires continual support. Being with people who understand helps you stay strong as you rebuild your relationship with family, colleagues, your community and yourself.
Steps to Recovery Supports Your Recovery
At Steps to Recovery, we focus on giving you individualized care during rehab and afterward. We offer a variety of addiction recovery services, including:
- Partial hospitalization program
- Intensive outpatient program
- Transitional living
- 12-step support groups
Our aim is to help you achieve and maintain sobriety as you develop the necessary skills to live a fulfilling life. If you’re tired of letting drugs control you, call us at 866-488-8684 to learn how to take the first step toward lasting change.