Addiction Recovery is a Journey, Not a Destination

For those struggling with drug or alcohol addiction, the road to recovery may seem like an endless path to nowhere. What addicts need to realize, however, is that recovery is a lifelong journey. And, the true test of getting well begins once rehab is over and the individual re-enters society with a sober frame of mind.

Many people have the false notion that once a person admits that he has a problem and agrees to treatment that that person will be magically transformed. But, rehabilitation treatment is only the beginning. It helps the addict see clearly how their addiction has taken over their life and, with time, how they can regain that control.

Relapse does not have to be the norm. Some people believe that relapse is likely to occur, but it doesn’t have to. It depends on the sheer willpower and determination of each person. But certain things need to be relearned so that addicts know how to cope in normal life without the crutch of alcohol or drugs to see them through.

As a supplement to rehab, many experts recommend that addicts, especially those with severe addictions, enter sober living facilities after completing treatment. Sober living facilities serve as a structured living environment that helps the addict transition back into real life. Rehab provides a very safe, sheltered setting where access to drugs and alcohol is almost impossible. But, what happens when the addict goes back to his friends and family who might be enablers and again is tempted and forced to face triggers that might send him spiraling back into addiction? That’s where sober living facilities are able to help.

Outpatient programs are also a great supplement post rehab. Many addicts struggle with maintaining healthy interpersonal relationships after getting clean, and these programs can help with that as well as other issues that come up after treatment. Outpatient programs offer a number of different therapy sessions that are aimed at preventing relapse. The support network provided by these programs is especially important as addicts realize that they are not alone and have a safe place to turn when they don’t know how to cope.

Outpatient programs have many other benefits as well. They can help addicts form a plan of how they are going to 1) avoid triggers that make them want to use, and 2) deal with the temptations of addiction once they arise. Outpatient programs are flexible and will work around special individual needs. Many outpatient programs can also assign case managers to someone struggling with addiction. These case managers serve as accountability and responsibility partners and help addicts design short and long-term goals for their life.

The main issue addicts face after treatment is filling the void left by addiction. Alcohol and drugs are no longer the driving force in their lives. They must find purpose and meaning in something else. Some find that comfort and strength in God and a renewed sense of spirituality. Loved ones such as family and friends can also help form a firm foundation. Whatever the case, addicts should maintain an active lifestyle to leave little opportunity for idle hands. Having a plan for one’s life and maintaining structure are also important keys to success.