When you start an addiction rehab program at our Raleigh recovery center, you believe that this is the end of your unfortunate struggle with addiction. In reality, it is just a step – a major step, indeed – in a long and complex journey.
Today, we will explain all the steps in this journey and why it is important to go through all of them. Let us get started on your journey to sobriety!
Step 1: Admitting That You Have a Problem
This is a truth that all families need to understand: rehab works only if the patient admits that they have a problem and asks for help. Most of the people our doctors treated realized that they had an addiction problem after a severe episode, such as:
- An overdose
- Losing their job
- Losing a romantic relationship.
Whatever it is, the admission must come directly from the person who needs rehabilitation.
Step 2: Find a Support Group
When people think of support groups, they imagine formal organizations like Alcoholics Anonymous. They may be helpful later on in the journey to sobriety. But at the very beginning, addicts must find people they can trust in their inner circle.
It can be challenging since many people are enabled to use drugs by the group of people they spend a lot of time with. At the same time, their behavior alienates family members. However, once a person has reached out for help, there are many friends and family members who will be happy to help.
At the same time, the doctors at our Raleigh recovery center can provide the initial support both to the future patient and the family members who want to help them.
Step 3: Go Through the Addiction Rehab Program
Each patient at our center receives a personalized recovery program, depending on the type of addiction, how long they have been using drugs or alcohol, and how much it has affected them at physical and mental levels.
Our goal is to:
- Help the patient’s body function without drugs
- Eliminate cravings and withdrawal symptoms
- Identify the patient’s addiction triggers
- Teaching the patient effective coping mechanisms.
Step 4: Early Sobriety and Its Challenges
After completing a rehab program, the patient has to overcome a difficult period: the days and weeks of sobriety. Many people experience Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS).
The most common symptoms of PAWS are:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Irritability
- Difficulty with cognitive tasks: problem-solving, learning, recalling events, etc.
- Sleep disturbances
- Increased sensitivity to stress.
Step 5: Creating New Routines
As a newly sober person, you will find that you need to find new hobbies, a new friend group, and to build a healthy daily routine. This can be extremely difficult, especially after years of addiction.
However, you are not alone in figuring this out. Our specialists will guide you and offer you helpful tips. Your family and friends will support you and invite you to join in their activities. Little by little, you will find new routines and keep yourself busy.
Step 6: Resisting Relapse
As a former addict, you must be aware that temptations will not cease to occur. Triggers can come in many forms: people, places, events, or emotions. Plus, people in your old entourage (including your former dealers) will try to approach you and draw you back into their circle.
This is why you must continually practice your coping mechanism and talk to your therapist when you feel vulnerable. You must not be afraid or ashamed – the people who want to help you won’t judge you. Instead, they will form a tighter circle around you in order to keep you safe.
Step 7: Enjoy a Long and Happy, Drug-Free Life
At a certain point, you will reach the end of the journey to complete sobriety. You will have a reliable circle of friends, healthy and satisfying habits, and no desire to relapse.
It may seem impossible at the beginning, but there is a moment when you will find fulfillment and joy, away from your dark past.
Our Raleigh Recovery Center Is Here for You!
Fighting addiction and embracing a drug-free life is not easy, but with the right support system around you, you can make it. At our Raleigh recovery center, we use evidence-based treatments for various types of addiction.
We are here for you at every step of the journey, so call us at 984-223-5341! We are available 24/7.
