HOW TO ENSURE RECOVERY FROM SUBSTANCE ABUSE

Substance abuse is a vice that affects people of all ages and from all walks of life. As humans, we are quick to blame it on social immorality, peer pressure, and bad upbringing. However, some factors that lead people into substance abuse are beyond anyone’s control. What’s even more depressing is the fact that recovering from substance abuse, without proper guidance, is difficult.

So, how can you beat substance abuse?

• It all starts in the mind

The road to sobriety is a tough one. As such, you need to do away with negativity. Feelings of self-loathing and negative self-labeling are some of the things that might lead to anxiety and depression, all of which might trigger substance abuse. Additionally, drug users need to understand that sobriety does not require special skills or willpower.

• Seek help

One of the best ways to ensure recovery is through rehabilitation. Fortunately, rehabilitation comes in various forms, including inpatient and outpatient rehab programs . In both these programs, people are given medication to keep withdrawal symptoms at a minimum, behavioral counseling, as well as treatment for underlying mental health issues. For successful treatment of drug addiction, rehabilitation centers advise patients in the inpatient programs to follow through with an outpatient program. Through daily group therapy, individual psychotherapy, counseling, and psychiatry services, a recovering addict gains much-needed support to ensure their long-term sobriety.

• Adopt a new lifestyle

Adoption of a new lifestyle is vital if long-term sobriety is the ultimate goal. It is no secret that habits are instrumental in overall physical and mental wellness. Addiction is, mostly, developed by a set of harmful routines.  As such, recovering addicts need to break all attachments with past habits that were detrimental and adopt new ones that allow healthier behaviors. For instance, people recovering from substance abuse might refrain from hanging out with friends who still engage in their unhealthy habits, and engage in more productive things like sports and hobbies.

• Practice honesty

One of the signs of addiction involves lying to your friends and family about your addiction. Some people try as hard as they can to keep it a secret while others go to the extent of stealing to acquire money to buy drugs.

It is the sole reason why the road to recovery insists on cultivating a habit of being honest. This means being honest with yourself and every one playing a crucial role in your recovery. That way, you improve your chances of recovering even after a relapse. Your recovery circle can guide you better and give you the support you need during such a crucial time.

• Love yourself

To achieve recovery from drug addiction, practice self care. For instance, try to adopt healthy eating habits, have adequate sleep, and practice mind-body relaxation. The importance of celebrating small victories should not be underestimated. It is that level of self appreciation that will keep you going even in the toughest times.