About 35 million people worldwide are suffering from drug use disorders. Not everyone receives the treatment they need, though. In fact, the road to recovery isn’t always a linear process, either.
Here are the four main steps you’ll need to complete for effective substance abuse recovery. Following these steps could save your life. You can seek substance abuse help before your health deteriorates further.
Knowing when to admit you need help is the first step.
Read on to discover how to begin substance abuse therapy today.
1. Precontemplation
People in the first stage of substance abuse recovery aren’t ready for a treatment program yet.
Rather, they tend to act defensive about their substance abuse. They might not recognize the effects of substance abuse on their life and health yet. Most people lack any insight into the negative impact drug or alcohol use is having.
For example, drug and alcohol use can cause people to:
- Make reckless decisions (like drug driving)
- Abandon responsibilities (like work or school)
- Push people away
- Spend all their time and money on drugs/alcohol
Since they lack information about the effects and signs of substance abuse, they fail to recognize there’s a problem. People in this stage also believe they don’t need substance abuse help.
2. Contemplation
During the contemplation stage, people are ready to make a change. People in this stage have become more aware of the effects of substance abuse. They’re usually aware of the benefits of seeking treatment, too.
Friends and family members are most likely to make an impact when someone is in this stage.
During this stage, an individual might ask themselves, “Should I go to rehab?” Seeking professional help will ensure they begin their road to recovery.
3. Preparation
During the preparation stage, an individual is more likely to experience a sense of urgency about becoming sober. They might even make an effort to improve their health. For example, they might admit they need help or start going to the gym.
However, triggers could send someone in this stage back to the contemplation or contemplation stages.
4. Action
Only one in 10 people (2.6 million) ever receive treatment for substance abuse. That’s a gap of over 20 million Americans. During the action stage, people are committed to starting their substance abuse recovery.
This stage involves prolonged periods of abstinence. It involves turning to professionals for help, too.
After taking action and beginning treatment, maintenance is necessary as well. Individuals will need to work to prevent a potential relapse. They’ll also need to make necessary lifestyle changes.
For example, they might use recreational activities or begin exercising. They could attend support groups or improve their sleep hygiene. A few small lifestyle changes can have a major impact.
4 Steps to Success: Your Guide to Substance Abuse Recovery
Ending substance abuse and maintaining sobriety doesn’t have to feel stressful. Instead, start making a change by following these steps. Beginning the substance abuse recovery process could save your life or a loved one’s.
Make a change with these tips today.
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