Headlines about substance abuse and addiction cases tend to be grim. Stories of severe addiction and relapse are everywhere, which could make the idea of addiction recovery sound hopeless.
In reality, though, tens of millions of adults have successfully managed to recover from drug addiction.
Are you or a loved one battling addiction? Is it possible to fully recover and regain control of your life?
Keep reading below as we discuss this vital subject.
Addiction Recovery: Fast Facts
Experts estimate that one in 10 Americans has battled addiction at some point in their lives. The good news is that three in four people will eventually recover from drug addiction.
Of course, the victory doesn’t happen overnight. Relapses are part of the recovery journey for many. One study found that the average person needs five attempts before achieving success.
The path to full recovery depends on a number of factors, including the types of drugs you used and how long you used them. For example, studies have found it can take 18 months or longer to heal brain damage caused by ecstasy or cocaine.
How to Recover from Drug Addiction
You’ve heard it before, but we’ll say it again: The first step in recovery is admitting you have a problem.
Once you can honestly do that, you can begin the journey to addiction recovery. You’ll need professional support from a detox and rehab center like Hope Rising Recovery. Treatment options could include:
- Detox and Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)
- Chemical dependence counseling
- Inpatient rehab
- Peer support groups
- A 12-step program like AA or NA
- Individual therapy
- Group therapy
- Family therapy
Getting through the initial detox stage is only the beginning. To maintain sobriety, you’ll need to make some serious, lifelong lifestyle changes.
This includes identifying your triggers — the people, places, and situations that give you the urge to use or drink again. Part of rehab includes giving you healthy coping skills to avoid your triggers (or avoid relapse if you face a trigger). You’ll learn how to better deal with stress and how to repair relationships that were damaged as a result of your addiction.
Next, you’ll need to adopt some healthy routines and habits to shape your “new” life without addiction. This might include a better diet, an exercise routine, and new hobbies that won’t bring you into contact with your triggers. Chances are you’ll also need to change your social circle to avoid dealers, drinking buddies, or other people who could lead you into relapse.
A final (and very important) step is to accept your past and make amends with yourself and others. Only then will you be fully capable of moving forward with your brighter future.
You Can Overcome Severe Addiction
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, take heart. With the right help, it is possible to recover from drug addiction and lead a healthy, fulfilling life.
Use the information presented above to start your journey into addiction recovery — and a happier you.
Looking for more helpful articles like this one? Stay right here and keep browsing our site!
