Four Things That Can Help A Recovering Addict

Addiction is a problem that requires constant vigilance and a great deal of patience to successfully overcome. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, over 23 million people require some form of treatment for drug and alcohol abuse. For many addicts, the urge to use never goes away. It is simply managed through positive reinforcement and targeted treatment methods.

One Day At A Time

That phrase might sound cliche, but it can really help recovering addicts make a lasting change in their lives. Addiction is a disease and can affect a person mentally, physically and emotionally. A person in recovery shouldn’t think too far ahead. By taking it one day at a time, a person suffering from addiction can celebrate a new victory over drugs and alcohol every single day.

Avoid Triggers

For many people suffering from addiction, certain things remind them of using. This could be a type of music, the smell of their drug of choice or even the sound of bottles clinking together. These triggers can be different for each individual. One way to avoid a relapse is to avoid things that remind you of using. That’s why many addicts in recovery check themselves into a controlled facility. Trained rehab professionals can help identify triggers and give addicts techniques to avoid them all together.

Get Support

Addiction isn’t something that should be tackled alone. That’s why many people struggling through recovery join support groups such as AA or SMART recovery. Many churches also offer regularly scheduled meetings where addicts can talk about their situation and seek encouragement from their peers.

New Activities

When people are in the grips of addiction, it completely takes over their lives. They often lose the will to engage in normal activities. The Phoenix Recovery Center, a drug rehab center in Utah, points out that there is a direct correlation between mental and physical health. When undergoing a long term recovery, it helps to find new activities to stimulate both your mind and body. This can take the form of a new hobby, physical exercise or some type of sober social interaction. If you’ve always wanted to take salsa lessons, now is the time to start. The goal is to replace bad habits with healthier ones.

Recovery is a lifelong journey. Long-term treatment options partner with families and patients to make rehabilitation more permanent. With the help of skilled professionals, a sustainable recovery is possible. A person addicted to drugs or alcohol may never be fully cured, but they can still live a happy and well-adjusted life without relapsing.