An individual who is struggling with addiction goes through an extensive internal dialog long before they actually seek treatment. Alcohol and drug addiction is a mental, emotion and physical condition that must be treated on multiple fronts. This includes an extensive internal process to work through the various stages of recovery.
Five Internal Stages Of Addiction Recovery
Find out the internal process of the journey of recovery from drugs and alcohol through 5 unique stages.
1. Denial
Nearly every addict has a phase when they try and convince themselves that their use of drugs or alcohol is perfectly normal and not a problem. This initial phase can go on for a significant amount of time, especially for functioning addicts who are able to somewhat balance the responsibilities of everyday life, while their addiction grows. This stage of denial often comes to an abrupt end when there is a specific event such as a DUI, a problem at work because of the abuse or a breakup of a relationship.
2. Acceptance And Letting Go
When denial is no longer possible, there is a shift to acceptance of the addiction and a letting go of covering up or hiding the problem. This is a critical time in addiction recovery, because it is when the individual is willing to finally discuss the problem and be persuaded to get the help they need.
3. Seeking Treatment
Getting help is both an external and an internal process. Many addicts reflect on how they got to this place and decide that there must be a better option than continuing down the dead-end road of drug or alcohol abuse.
During this phase, professional addiction treatment can be especially important to assure the individual that they are making the right choice and to stay focused on the positive journey ahead.
4. Mental Clarity
During those first weeks of recovery, the fog of addiction begins to lift. With increased mental clarity, recovering addicts begin to truly understand the damage that alcohol or drugs have caused and can see the profound benefits of recovery. As the healing continues, the brain goes through a healing process that can dramatically improve mental and emotional well-being.
5. Commitment To Recovery And Ongoing Counseling
The internal conversation will continue throughout the life of a recovering addict. There is always the risk of a relapse. This is why it’s important to stay committed to recovery such as ongoing counseling or a group therapy or relapse prevention program.
Heal Your Whole Self
Recovery requires healing of your entire being – your mind, body, and soul. Start today by calling an addiction specialist. Listen to your inner-self and get the help you know you need. At Summit Behavioral Health, we’re committed to your recovery.
Call Us Now To Learn More About Our Customized And Holistic Treatment Plans.
Continue To Part 2: 5 Stages Of Addiction Recovery As An External Process
